WTB’s new "toughest yet" SG1 protection and updated compounds make tyres grip better and last longer | BikeRadar

WTB has released its new SG1 tyre protection, which features increased under-tread puncture protection and Inner Peace + technology to protect the tyre bead, while bolstering the sidewall structure.

The new casing will be available on WTB's Trail Boss, Vigilante, Judge and Verdict mountain bike tyres, with the brand saying it's designed to withstand enduro riding on full-fat electric bikes.

WTB has also updated its Fast Rolling and High Grip compounds, with the changes said to result in greater tread longevity as well as improved grip.

The SG1 casing is available with both compounds, with tyres in the range starting at £80 / $89.95 / €74.50.

WTB says the new SG1 casing is its toughest to date, with the dual-ply Tough option providing more protection than ever.

The new protection is only available on mountain bike tyres and sees puncture protection running beneath the entirety of the tread cap, increasing resilience to sharp objects such as rocks and roots.

The new Inner Peace + (IP+) technology adds more structure to the sidewall and shields the tyre bead from damage on blunt impacts.

WTB says its athletes and testers have found this allows for lower tyre pressures to be run, increasing comfort without sacrificing stability and support on compressions or take-offs.

The SG1 tyres also feature WTB's TriTec compound, which combines three strategically placed rubber compounds within the tread. This allows for firmer rubber to be used where efficiency and longevity are desired, and softer rubber where traction is a priority.

The tyres are heavier than before, with the brand saying it prefers to think about not getting punctures rather than those extra grams.

Alongside the SG1 casing, WTB has updated its Fast Rolling and High Grip tyre compounds.

The brand says it has increased tread longevity and grip levels, especially in wet conditions.

WTB says it has focused on creating the right ratio of natural and synthetic rubber, while fine-tuning the amount of carbon black vs silica within the compound itself.

By increasing the use of natural rubber, WTB says it has made a compound that's less slippery in wet conditions and more durable by increasing the amount of silica.

In a nod to the environment, the brand says zero plastic is used in the packaging for the new tyres, with the cardboard cartons made from 100 per cent recycled materials.