Michelin Wild Enduro Rear, Gum-X, 2.4in tyre review

Michelin’s Wild Enduro Rear tyre has a noticeably thicker sidewall than its front-end counterpart for added puncture protection. It also has a smaller, tighter-spaced centre tread and a faster rolling speed.

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While the Wild Enduro front is available in the Gum-X and Magi-X compounds, the rear is available with the slightly harder-wearing and (theoretically) longer-lasting Gum-X compound.

Despite this, it was among the slowest rolling of the aggressive rear tyres I’ve tested, so it’s not ideal for fast trail-centre spins. I’ve also found the shoulder tread has started to show signs of wear on the tall shoulder lugs after a relatively short time on the bike.

However, it’s one of the grippiest rear tyre options when it comes to soft-conditions cornering grip, where the tall, spaced-out shoulder tread ensures a secure hold in mud, loam and dirt.

The tyre blows up square on a 30mm rim thanks to those tall shoulders, but this doesn’t lead to unpredictable handling. It makes an audible indication when it’s about to break free, letting you know you’re pushing your luck, and the shoulder blocks are well-supported by the sidewall so don’t fold when pushed hard into a hardpack turn.

Compared to similarly slow-rolling tyres, it locks up easier than most under heavy braking, especially on muddy ground. But there’s plenty of damping to provide a predictable feel in rocky terrain and the GUM-X compound is sticky on wet rocks and roots.

It’s on slippery, muddy and loose tracks where this tyre really excels, particularly if cornering and off-camber line holding are your priorities.