NEW: Schwalbe Hans Dampf Tyres

Schwalbe has launched its new mountain bike tire, Hans Dampf, just in time for the Sea Otter Classic. The German tire specialist's new creation is versatile and suitable for all kinds of trail riding. The English translation of 'Hans Dampf' is "Jack of all trades" - an all-rounder capable of everything. With its strong lugs, grippy TrailStar Compound and extra sidewall protection, this tire performs safely on any terrain. In addition, it is tubeless ready, so can easily be converted into a tubeless tire with just the small addition of sealant. "Schwalbe specifically designed the tire for American trails, which are generally drier, more rocky and dustier than European trails," explained Schwalbe head technician Markus Hachmeyer. The tire features the new TrailStar Compound, a triple compound specially developed to enhance trail ride performance. The three compounds are; an easy rolling base layer; a grippy center tread and even grippier shoulders. And at just 750 grams it rolls quickly and is not too heavy for climbing. The tread design is sharply focused on control. Hans Dampf has big lugs, which result in a large contact area. This provides the rider a feeling of assurance in any conditions or situations, while its abrasion resistance results in less tire wear. Hans Dampf is protected by a Snakeskin sidewall, an additional tough layer of rubberized nylon fabric. This accounts for 40 grams of the tire's weight, but is extremely efficient protection against rocks and other sharp objects that can easily cut thin sidewalls. Hans Dampf has another brand new feature, it's tubeless ready. Even without the addition of sealant, the system is already airtight due to the rubberized, SnakeSkin sidewall. Nevertheless, for bulletproof riding, sealant is recommended and properly prepared in this way Hans Dampf performs like a tubeless tire with all the known advantages, like better performance, lower rolling resistance, increased snake-bite protection and more comfort, since the tire can be used at lower pressure. "Also 2.35" is the classic trail riding size for best performance", added Markus Hachmeyer. 'Dampf' is German for steam and an extra twist is that it is packed in a typical Bavarian Alps style. Hans Dampf will be available from specialist retailers starting in Mid April. www.schwalbetires.com