There was a lot to do not only for the component manufacturers this year. The introduction of the 27.5 inch wheel size involved some new developments. The tire manufacturers quickly followed suit and within a few months brought almost their entire range of tires onto the market for 650B wheels as well.
The Schwalbe has been one of the most popular tires for the all-mountain and enduro sector for years Nobby Nick. In the test we had the Schwalbe Nobby Nic Evo in a width of 2.35 inches. With the SnakeSkin-side wall and the PaceStarcompound, the tire weighs 685 grams and is therefore in the midfield. A slightly lighter, comparable tire is the Mountain King by Continental. But it is doubtful whether the almost 50 grams of extra weight have a major impact on handling.
The Nobby Nick is quite voluminous and makes a reliable impression with its bulbous silhouette. The folding tire is mounted quickly and easily. The lugs are arranged openly so that dirt cannot accumulate too quickly. After several departures with the Nobby Nick one is amazed at how well the tire rolls despite its rather coarse profile. It always offers enough grip, even in the wet. What we particularly liked was the good controllability. If you feel your way to the driver's limit with the tire, the tire does not break away unintentionally. With enough sensitivity, for example, the rear wheel can be controlled very well.
In the uphill shows the Nobby Nick as expected some weaknesses. Here he seems a bit sluggish. But for an all-mountain and enduro tire this is tolerable. Due to its low weight, you might initially be a little critical of the puncture protection - but we didn't record a flat tire during our entire test phase.
//Conclusion
By and large, the 650B version of the Nobby Nick a good all-rounder, just like its namesake in the other two inch classes, 26 and 29. We particularly liked the control that the tire guarantees. Even at the limit he is good-natured. For just under 55 euros you get with the Nobby Nic 650B a reliable tire, but you have to accept compromises in terms of rolling resistance.
//Product highlights
- good grip
- easy to control
- good cushioning
//price and web
- EUR 54,90
- www.schwalbe.com