Specialized Ground Control
A fast-rolling trail/XC tire that blends stability, braking traction, and reliable cornering support across varied terrain and conditions.
Why I like it
The Ground Control hits a sweet spot for riders who want an aggressive, capable tire without totally giving up speed. I ran one in the rear at Breck Epic, where the mixed terrain and gnarly descents really tested everything — it rolled well, gripped hard, and felt secure on wet, loose, and rocky days.
Quick Specs
- 29 x 2.35” size (GRID casing, T7 compound recommended)
- 870 grams
- All-around XC/trail tread pattern
- Great durability with puncture protection
- Confident grip on loose and wet surfaces
In My Setup
- I’ve primarily run it as a rear tire.
- At Chequamegon, I ran Ground Control front and rear — it gave me the confidence to stay on the bike during loose climbs like Firetower when others were walking.
- The GRID casing has been super reliable for me — I raced Breck Epic with it and didn’t suffer a single flat.
- Rolls a bit slower than something ultra-slick like an Aspen ST, but the grip makes it worthwhile for tricky or mixed terrain.
- If you’re racing on a course that’s mostly fast but has some rough sections, I’d consider this against something like a Rekon Race if mixed conditions are anticipated.
Not sure if the Ground Control is the right tire?
Use the RaceDaySetup Tire Selector to get personalized recommendations based on terrain, riding style, and your goals.
Try the Tire Selector →Recommended Pressures
- I use the SILCA Pro Tire Pressure Calculator to dial in my pressures — it’s a game changer.
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Notes
- I’ve run it without tire inserts and had great success.
- Orange Seal endurance sealant is always a good call.
- It’s a great tire for riders who want a little more aggression and grip without completely sacrificing rolling speed.
- On pavement or super smooth hardpack, it won’t feel as fast as pure race-focused XC tires — but for anything remotely gnarly, it’s awesome.
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