The Nobby Nic was the pioneer of big grippy tyes that were light enough to race. It’s been tweaked to be tougher and grippier, while losing weight.
The knobs have been moved slightly to clump them together and increased in height for more bite on loose or damp trails. The bigger blocks are less prone to squirming when you really work the tyre hard.
Both tyres are now fitted ‘front way round’, which most Nic users do anyway. The result of these changes is a slightly slower feel but overall traction is noticeably better, and acceleration and agility is still excellent.
While all versions get tougher sidewalls, the Snakeskin version is extra protected so you can tackle rocky trails with confidence rather than tiptoeing through them. Its increased longevity also offsets its high price.