Ben racing in RaceDaySetup kit at altitude

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 β€” 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 β€” so nothing gets missed.

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Featured Gear

Current standouts from recent testing and races.

Kenda Rush Pro 2.4 SCT (120 TPI)

Kenda Rush Pro 2.4 SCT (120 TPI)

Fast-rolling XC tire with ample grip, superb handling, and SCT protection for rocky, technical terrain.

Read my review β†’
Lezyne Multi Chain Pliers

Lezyne Multi Chain Pliers

Compact, bombproof multi-tool with chain breaker, quick link storage, and more.

Read my review β†’
Silca Chain Waxing System

Silca Chain Waxing System

Efficient wax heating pot for dipping chains in hot melt wax.

Read my review β†’
SRAM AXS XO Transmission

SRAM AXS XO Transmission

Cutting-edge wireless drivetrain for elite XC racing.

Read my review β†’
Hyperice Normatec Recovery Boots

Hyperice Normatec Recovery Boots

Compression boots that help keep your legs fresh through big training blocks and back-to-back race days.

Read my review β†’
Shimano XTR Pedals

Shimano XTR Pedals

Lightweight, reliable clipless pedals for XC.

Read my review β†’
Kenda Booster Pro 2.4 SCT (120 TPI)

Kenda Booster Pro 2.4 SCT (120 TPI)

XC race tire with aggressive knobs and SCT protection β€” a lighter, confident alternative to the Maxxis Ikon.

Read my review β†’
Maxxis Aspen ST 2.4 MaxxSpeed

Maxxis Aspen ST 2.4 MaxxSpeed

Semi-slick version of the Aspen. Ideal for hardpack and short track.

Read my review β†’
Air-Liner Light XC Tire Insert

Air-Liner Light XC Tire Insert

Insert system for rim protection and lower pressure confidence.

Read my review β†’

About Me

Ben Steger

I'm Ben β€” 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.

β€” Ben