Race smarter. Ride faster.
XC race-driven tire picks, setups, and gear reviews.
Built for XC & endurance racing Gear that performs and lasts Efficiency when it counts
Tire Picks by Race
Event-specific recommendations for XC & marathon courses.
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Gear Index
Everything tested and recommended — filter, search, compare.
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Guides
Bike setup, pressures, inserts, waxing, and race-day strategy.
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Checklists
Pre-race, travel, tools, and spares — so nothing gets missed.
Open checklistsFeatured Gear
Current standouts from recent testing and races.
Giro Aries Spherical Helmet
Lightweight, highly ventilated helmet with top-tier MIPS protection.
Read my review →
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Maxxis Aspen ST 2.4 MaxxSpeed
Semi-slick version of the Aspen. Ideal for hardpack and short track.
Read my review →
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Maxxis Ikon 2.4 MaxxSpeed
Lightweight XC tire with predictable grip and low rolling resistance.
Read my review →
Lezyne Multi Chain Pliers
Compact, bombproof multi-tool with chain breaker, quick link storage, and more.
Read my review →
Topeak SmartGauge D2 Tire Pressure Gauge
A pocket-sized digital gauge that nails MTB pressures with 1psi precision.
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Buy Now 
FR-C Pro Cargo Bib Short
A game-changing bib for long days in the saddle — breathable, secure, and zero chafing.
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Maxxis Rekon Race 2.4 MaxxSpeed
Review – fast rolling XC tire for dry trails. The Maxxis Rekon Race is my go-to front tire for dry, rough XC courses. See how it performs and why it’s in my rotation.
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Air-Liner Light XC Tire Insert
Insert system for rim protection and lower pressure confidence.
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Skratch Recovery Drink Mix
Go-to recovery shake after hard workouts and races. Carb + protein in the right ratio, mixes fast, and actually tastes good when you're cooked.
Read my review →About Me
I'm Ben — a full-time XC and endurance mountain bike racer with a deep obsession for optimizing race-day setups. Every recommendation you find here comes straight from real-world experience racing across some of the toughest XC courses in North America.
Follow more of the racing at BSracing.us .
Whether you're chasing your first finish or a new PR, my goal is to help riders choose gear that maximizes confidence on race day.
— Ben