I dedicated part of my June outings to testing the new CST Patrol. A cover designed for XC with an aggressive soul and excellent for the roughest tracks
As always, my approach to testing is to push the envelope beyond their intended context of use, so as to truly understand where the limits – and surprises – of each model lie.
Technical features: construction and mix
The CST Patrol is presented on the manufacturer's website as a versatile rubber, designed for those who pedal on mixed terrain, with a good balance between efficiency and grip.
Here are the salient specifications:
- Central pieces medium height, close together and staggered, to promote smoothness and contain rolling resistance;
- Side gussets more pronounced and aggressive, to offer stability and grip when cornering;
- Triple density mix, designed to combine durability and grip;
- 120 TPI casing, with an internal insert to protect against cuts and punctures;
- Tubeless ready setup, compatible with modern tubeless wheels.
From a technical point of view, the tire winks at trail riding, but its small size and slim structure make it very attractive for advanced XC use or marathon, especially in natural and uneven contexts.
Assembly and first impressions
It must be said right away: Assembly requires a bit of patience. The carcass tends not to come off the bead on the first try. I had to work harder than usual to get it to settle, but once mounted, the tire proved to be stable, reliable and well planted on the rim.
After the first inflation, I have not noticed any more air leaks or pressure drops: perfect sealing and no extra maintenance for over a month. A good starting point, considering I mounted it on my Commencal AM Enduro, so on a bike that really puts the tires to the test, especially downhill.
Climbing behaviour: surprising
Rotolamento
Despite being a tire with an aggressive tread, the CST Patrol it flows smoothly and quickly, both on asphalt and dirt. Rolling efficiency is remarkable, thanks to the dense arrangement of the central blocks, which create a sort of “continuous line” on the ground.
On transfer sections and climbs on compact dirt roads, cruising speed is comparable – if not superior – to that of more famous XC tires.
The real surprise comes on the bumpy climbs: roots, rocks, loose surfaces. The grip is continuous and progressive, with a traction that inspires confidence even when you push hard on the pedals while standing. I never had the sensation of “unpredictable slippage”: each push is returned with stability and the only limit is linked to the strength of the legs
This is a crucial point for modern XC, where courses are becoming increasingly technical and Uphill traction makes as much difference as lightness.
Comfort and absorption
Finally, do not underestimate the ability to absorb vibrations and small impacts, which translate into smoother pedaling and less fatigue when climbing. The 120 TPI carcass and well-calibrated compound allow it to “copy” the terrain well, maintaining smoothness and comfort.
Descent: Reliable and predictable
When it comes to XC tires, downhill performance is often the Achilles heel. Not this time.
In this case, the use of a MTB for extreme enduro could have created some stability and grip problems, instead the CST Patrol, despite not having gravity ambitions, It also performs well on technical sections. The continuous lateral tread pattern is key: it offers solid and predictable support when cornering, even at high speeds.
On the roughest descents, the carcass maintains its shape and does not break down, ensuring good shock absorption and a ride that is always “under control”. Obviously, You can't expect the responsiveness and grip of a DH tire, but for an XC-trail coverage the result is clearly above average.
Braking
The braking response is also excellent: the bike stops decisively, without skidding or suddenly losing grip. During braking or setting up tight curves the rubber provides stability and safety, allowing you to set the trajectory as you prefer and at the desired speed. This was also true on mixed surfaces, with passages on gravel, wet roots and smooth stones.
Conclusions: promoted (even beyond expectations)
La CST Patrol It's a tire that can surprise: smooth as an XC, stable as a Trail tire, excellent for those who tackle natural, technical routes and love to pedal hard with a good safety margin, is one of the most convincing solutions I've tried this year.
I recommend it to:
- bikers who love long and technical climbs;
- who is looking for an XC tire sturdy but smooth;
- Who does long alpine tours or marathon in natural environments;
- who wants coverage versatile and long-lasting, without spending crazy amounts of money.
The range also includes a version from 2.4 ", which could prove to be the perfect companion for the more challenging rides at altitude, where grip and comfort become even more important.
Price: 49.00 VAT included
