Pirelli Scorpion Mountain Bike XC Tyre Reviews
Scorpion XC M Pro-WALL 29×2.4 & Scorpion XC RC LITE 29×2.4
By Alex Sabin – Pro Racer and Writer
Scorpion XC M & XC RC – my choice for racing setup
Choosing a race-ready, fast and stable tyre for XC mountain biking can be tricky. You need to find that balance between a tyre that flows and maximises your effort, against one that holds you firm and rides effortlessly on technical terrain. Looking at the recent the release from Italian brand, Pirelli is always interesting, with their heritage and attention to detail.
Both tyre in this test belong to Pirelli’s Cross-Country (XC) line, and are redesigned and manufactured in their new Italian factory using a new Race Compound, focused on high grip, durability, and rolling efficiency – all of those key ingredients that I’m generally looking for. So, how do they stack up. Let’s get the technical data out of the way first, shall we.
Key features of 29×2.4 XC tyres:
- Wider profile for improved comfort and traction on varied terrain
- Tubeless-ready construction for easy setup and reduced punctures
- Two casing options:
- Pro-WALL – reinforced sidewalls for increased protection
- LITE – lightweight casing for maximum speed and efficiency
Pirelli Scorpion XC M Pro-WALL – Versatility and control
Okay then, it’s time to focus on the Pirelli Scorpion XC M Pro Wall. It’s a tyre tested on the uCI world cup by the Trek and Pirelli team riders, and is generally well respected. It features a more open tread pattern, with aggressive knobs that dig into the trail when you ask it of them, delivering excellent cornering control and stability when required. Technical terrain is what they’re all about, with the Pro Wall casing doing its job and providing a strong sidewall protection against bumps and bushes, making it ideal for lower pressures and rocky and root-filled trails – of which we have plenty here in the forested mountains of Romania and Transylvania.
How do they perform generally though, when the going gets tough… and fast.
Performance
• Excellent balance between grip and rolling efficiency, suitable for mixed terrain (dry and slightly wet conditions)
• Slightly heavier than the LITE version, but much more resistant to punctures
• Works well both front and rear, especially appreciated for cornering stability
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons then, because after all, these are a premium tyre and you need to know what I think of them in action. Generally, they’re easy to fit, and they remain stable and keep the bike rolling as intended.
Pros
- Excellent sidewall protection
- Strong grip and control on mixed terrain
- Ideal for technical XC and marathon riding
Cons
- Heavier than the LITE version
- Slightly slower on very fast, hard-packed surfaces
Weight is a key issue on tyre choice when racing. However, this has to be balanced against staying upright when moving fast over technical terrain, and the bike staying on line where I aim it. The tread patten and firm sidewalls ensure that this is the case with these tyres, giving me the necessary grip on mixed terrain. Yes, they are slightly slower on hard-packed surfaces; but when used on technical terrain they come into their own and have proved themselves to be a grin-inducing XC tyre choice for me.
Pirelli Scorpion XC RC LITE – Speed and agility
Looking finally at the Pirelli XC RC Lite tyre, it’s a tyre designed for speed and agility, and so as a pro racer I wanted to see if it matched its hype. It has a thinner casing, and this does bring some risks on certain trails, but this also gives you that lighter weight for hard-packed and fast flowing terrain.
It’s a tyre that is clearly orientated towards speed and acceleration, which I’ve found myself, minimising rolling resistance and keeping the power on as I race and train. The tread pattern is minimal and closely packed, producing a somewhat risky ride in the wet and in rough conditions. However, this also ensures that speed over hard-packed trails – which is the overall purpose of this tyre.
Performance
This is an excellent choice of tyre for XC races or fast, compact trails where efficiency is key. Yes, it has less sidewall protection than Pro-WALL, but is significantly lighter and more responsive when asked of it – which is a key requirement for XC racing.
Pros
- Low weight & fast acceleration
- Excellent rolling efficiency on hardpack
- Ideal for racing and fast XC riding
Cons
- Reduced sidewall protection ? more vulnerable to cuts and punctures
- Slightly less grip in very rough or wet conditions
Conclusion
My conclusions then are this: the Pirelli Scorpion XC M Pro-WALL is definitely recommended if you want a robust, versatile tire that performs well on technical terrain, offers excellent cornering grip, and provides strong puncture protection.
Looking at the Scorpion XC RC LITE, it’s the lighter and faster option, and is ideal for riders focused on XC racing and fast, compact trails where low weight and rolling efficiency matter more than maximum durability.
My own choice of a front M + rear RC combo is one of the most balanced setups for XC riders who enjoy a mix of terrain — from fast rolling climbs and fire roads, to twisty singletrack with roots and rocks. It gives you confidence at the front and efficiency at the rear, which translates to better control, faster average speed, and less rider fatigue on long rides.
Pirelli have used of their expertise and experience with the UCI World Cup events and teams in creating this rage of XC tyres. Each has a specific role play and does it as Pirelli intended. And, if that fits your own style of riding and local trails, then the Pirelli Scorpion XC range is definitely a good tyre choice.
