Let's get to know the Scorpion model by Pirelli, the Gravity model which includes various versions: from Enduro to DH. Similar designs but differences in compounds, shoulder and structure.
MODELS
The Scorpion is divided into 2 categories: Enduro and Downhill. Naturally, as the typology dictates, the enduro models have a softer shoulder and slightly lower weights, while the DH tires have a heavier structure and, indirectly, a stiffer shoulder.
In addition to this EN and DH subdivision, we find a further subdivision into RACE models (with yellow stickers) e STANDARD models (white stickers). Differences? The compounds used are naturally softer and more refined in the Race models. And we only find this subdivision in the Enduro models because the DH are only offered in the RACE version.
SCORPION ENDURO
ALL MODELS TO THE OFFICIAL SITE
SCORPION DH
RESPONSE OF THE TEST
Scorpion™ Race Enduro M in TEST it is the most versatile model of the Race Enduro range: its design is described as dedicated to mixed terrain, from trails with harder surfaces to medium-soft sections of undergrowth. Available in both 27,5″ and 29″ with a size of 2,5″.
TECHNOLOGIES
DualWALL is the special structure dedicated to enduro racing. The 120tpi double-ply carcass is coupled with a rubber insert that reinforces the bead area, the most prone to pinching. The DualWALL structure is the choice of enduro racers looking for maximum feeling with the ground without giving up the reliability typical of a double-ply construction.
The SmartEVO DH compound is the specific formulation for enduro and downhill racing, developed in Pirelli's motorsport compounding department thanks to the experience gained in the motocross and rally world championships.
- racing compound
- developed and approved by professional athletes
- supersoft (42 Shore A), stable at any temperature
SmartEVO DH is the most advanced Pirelli gravity compound, chosen by the best PRO athletes Downhill and Enduro.
The first aspect that catches the eye is the softness of the structure but, above all, of the blocks without however affecting the stability of the shoulder too much. This aspect shouldn't be scary, given that at a first (static) approach, I had evaluated them as the usual enduro tires that could bulge if used at low pressure or with aggressive riding. But no: the Scorpion Enduro M, especially on the front, excel and are among the tires that have given me the most feeling in recent years. The shoulder is soft and manages to convey the right sensations from the ground, without muffling everything too much, a sensation that often occurs with tires with a DH casing.
The weight, in the 29" format, is 1260g and we did not have any problems with punctures in the various Maxi Avalanches in which we participated: a convincing test for those who know this race format where you often find yourself off the line in difficult trail situations. clean. They give their best in undergrowth situations, where the tire must bite the ground and grip: the block is substantial and it is not at all easy to break the bead or have situations of drift, unless we ride with too low/wrong pressures. For information, I found my ideal pressure around 1.4bar at the front (without inserts). My weight is 77kg.
On compact and banked paths, typical of bike parks, they are less performing due to their soft knobs: they give the very first sensation of drift, if used aggressively, and then regain control. Simply put, the Scorpion Enduro are perfect for natural trails. In Bike Parks, it is better to foresee the use of the version Downhill.
REAR USE
All the sensations described previously refer to the front, the preferred area of use for this type of tire or, better said, compound. This tire is not recommended for the rear, unless the objective is maximum grip in extreme/steep (or wet) situations without the need to pedal it uphill. At the rear, as with any other tire brand, we recommend harder compounds: both for reasons of feeling and for consumption. At the rear it is preferable to have a harder compound in order to have a more precise ride and better smoothness, which turns into a tire that we do not have to change every month in case of intense use (in fact the Scorpion Race Enduro M at the rear, after a month of intense use, it is very worn and close to replacement). For info, in the Pirelli catalogue, we find the Scorpion R (rear) proposed in standard compound (non-RACE).
If, however, we are PRO Riders, or bourgeois enduro riders, no problem... let's use the soft compound on the rear too.
Mirco Montagni also had the opportunity to test it on his home soil (Riva del Garda): we had the same sensations on the front, that is, a soft but substantial tyre.
PRICE
The price of the Pirelli Scorpion Race is around €90 (€89,90 to be precise. The DH models, in the Race version, have the same price while they drop to €74,90 in the Standard (non-race) models.
