Overview: Schwalbe ADDIX MTB rubber compounds
If you’ve asked yourself about Schwalbe’s new compounds, then ask no more and read our post to get an explanation.
Since the spring of 2017, all of Schwalbe’s MTB tyres have a coloured stripe and the word ADDIX written on their sidewalls. At bc, we often get questions from our customers about what this means. First and foremost, ADDIX refers to four new rubber compounds made for specific types of use, whether that be Cross Country, All Mountain, Trail, Enduro, or Downhill.
Their new compounds hit the mark when it comes to finding the perfect compromise between grip, rolling resistance and wear. While the tread of legendary tyres like the Nobby Nic, Magic Mary and others have remained the same, their compounds have been revamped to up their performance. Below the four new rubbers, Speed, Speedgrip, Soft and Ultra Soft are explained.
Schwalbe has updated their whole MTB tyre line-up with the new ADDIX compound, included the tried and proven Nobby Nic.
Benny has tested the new Nobby Nic ADDIX in the Alps and was not disappointed.
Looks just the same, the Schwalbe Nobby Nic, ADDIX inside!
Speed
The new Speed rubber compound is made for Cross Country race tyres. The idea behind it was to increase the rider’s speed and shave off precious seconds on the course. The table below compares Schwalbe’s previous Cross Country compound, PaceStar, to ADDIX speed.
| Rubber Compound | Rolling Properties | Damping | Grip | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADDIX Speed | 110 % | 105 % | 115 % | 125 % |
| PaceStar Compound | 100 % | 100 % | 100 % | 100 % |
Speedgrip
The Speedgrip compound is another development of the PaceStar Compound. It is designed to be the perfect all-round rubber and works for the majority of applications. It’s great for Cross Country, All Mountain, and Trail riders.
| Rubber Compound | Rolling Properties | Damping | Grip | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADDIX Speedgrip | 94 % | 115 % | 135 % | 162 % |
| PaceStar Compound | 100 % | 100 % | 100 % | 100 % |
Overview, each Schwalbe ADDIX compound fits a different style of riding.
The ADDIX colour code, always visible on the tyre.
Soft
The Soft compound is also made for a wide range of applications. As a development of the TrailStar Compound it is perfect for Downhill and Enduro use. It makes sense on technical All-Mountain and Trail rides as well.
| Rubber Compound | Rolling Properties | Damping | Grip | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADDIX Soft | 120 % | 104 % | 112 % | 149 % |
| TrailStar Compound | 100 % | 100 % | 100 % | 100 % |
Ultra Soft
The Ultra Soft compound has two functions, hardcore Downhill and Enduro use. Compared to the old VertStar Compound it works better in the cold, has increased grip and damps better.
| Rubber Compound | Rolling Properties | Damping | Grip | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADDIX Ultra Soft | 110 % | 105 % | 106 % | 112 % |
| VertStar Compound | 100 % | 100 % | 100 % | 100 % |
Schwalbe ADDIX advantages
The biggest advantage to the ADDIX rubber compounds is their increased durability, without sacrificing on grip or rolling resistance. Many of Schwalbe’s MTB tyres are now offered in more than one type of rubber compound to give riders the widest range of choice, depending on their riding style.
Better riding
For those who have asked themselves, what is it with these new compounds, I hope I was able to help. Overall, Schwalbe has bettered their rubber compounds with ADDIX and made riding all the more fun.
