We have On-Test two sets of the new WTB Ranger Plus tire in 27.5×3.0 and in 29×3.0. JeffJ will be running the 29+ version on his Trek Stache 9 on the stock Mulefut rims which are 45mm internal and I will be running a set of the 27.5s on a Specialized 6Fattie with carbon Roval wheels in a 29mm internal width, so we have it all covered except for the 2.8 folks.
Let’s take a look at what we have here. From the WTB website:
Searching for the ultimate do-all tire to satisfy your plus-size needs? Meet the Ranger…you’re welcome. Exposed outer lugs devour corners and shed muck with ease while the tight, supportive centerline tread pattern delivers a fast yet supple plus-size tire that excels in all conditions. Completing the package, multi-directional siping assures the Ranger will grab hold whether tackling technical climbs or roosting into corners. Weight optimized to outperform in all conditions, wet or dry, hardpack or loam. Limitless traction, increased confidence and multiple usages make the plus-size Ranger ready for any challenge. Trail ready, bikepacking approved….the Ranger isn’t intimidated.
USAGE: Trail / All-Mountain / Bikepacking
CONDITIONS: Dry to Wet / Hardpack to Loam
| Wheel Size | Level | Weight | Compound | Casing | Bead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27.5″ x2.8 | TCS Light (fast rolling) |
803g | Dual DNA |
Lightweight | TCS |
| 27.5″ x2.8 | TCS Light (high grip) | TBD | Gravity DNA | Lightweight | TCS |
| 27.5″ x2.8 | TCS Tough (fast rolling) | TBD | Dual DNA | Enduro | TCS |
| 27.5″ x3.0 | TCS Light (fast rolling) | 835g | Dual DNA | Lightweight | TCS |
| 27.5 x3.0 | TCS Light (high grip) | TBD | Gravity DNA | Lightweight | TCS |
| 27.5″ x3.0 | TCS Tough(fast rolling) | TBD | Dual DNA | Enduro | TCS |
| 29″ x 3.0 | TCS Light (fast rolling) | 902g | Dual DNA | Lightweight | TCS |
Both of the sets we have are of the WTB Ranger Plus are of the TCS Light version, so that fits what we are doing with them. Plus tires are still searching for their soul a bit, so what is best as far as tread design, compounds, sidewalls…even casing size…is still very much in the infant stage.
I weighed the WTB Ranger Plus samples we had. I weighed the 29+ versions and shot some pics, then gave them to JeffJ who had them mounted before he even went to bed. Of course I promptly lost the weight numbers. Lastima! But I also weighed the 27.5 tires and found them to be at 855g and 821g (including the big zip tie holding them rolled up like some rubber armadillo). It is so odd, holding Plus tires in your hands…they just look huge. In any case, the 27.5s were right in the zone as compared to the claimed weight, so I will assume the 29+ versions are as well. And that is a decent weight, right at what Trek claims for a 3.0 Chupacabra (never weighed one of those) but the cost of the Rangers are quite a bit less. Chups go for an MSRP of $94.99 so at $67.95 for the Ranger, that is a good price difference.
Looking at the 27.5×3.0, that weight is around 170g-200g lighter, allowing for variances, over the Purgatory Control 3.0s I am running now. That is a lot of savings in weight, although the Purg is a much more aggressive tire.
The tread is a bit more angry then the Chupracabras and the tire is a bit peakier as well. We will get them get all settled to size (tubeless of course) and we will take width measurements. JeffJ reports that they feel very fast on his typical trails, so we shall see how that goes.
Note: The products shown here were provided at no cost to Twenty Nine Inches for test and review. We are not being paid, nor bribed for these reviews and we will strive to give our honest thoughts and opinions throughout.
GG,
I’m running the 27.5×3.00 WTB Rangers on my Fuse HT Comp. Great tire with a grip between the GC and Purg for me. Fast rolling tire and has held up well(after 30 rides+). Like all Plus tires very sensitive to pressure changes. I can feel a 1# difference, maybe even 1/2# Difference(could be in my head).
Running tubeless with 4oz of Orange seal at 15/16 front & rear at 195#s plus gear. Bend OR and Tahoe trails.
Have fun
@Gary…wow…great feedback. Last night JeffJ was on my six all the way down several miles of trail and his uphill times were faster as well. He is very impressed so far. My turn is coming up.
Yes..we better all be carrying digital PSI gauges these days.
gg
I know it’s something like sacrilege to ask on this site, but what about the 26+ version I’ve seen on some Jamis bikes and elsewhere? Will those be available aftermarket?
Great start to the review. I am interested in the 29 x 3 size for my Stache. I anxiously await to see what Jeff has to say. When you guys do get your final report together would it be possible to include some notes on tubeless setup (I am assuming you will set these tires up tubeless). The prices in this mountain bike game are getting crazy stupid so it is really refreshing to see WTB bring 29+ tires in at this price.
Thanks for all the great product reviews ….. Marco.
@Marco…so far there have been no negatives and all thumbs up for the WTB tires as compared to the Chups. We need to measure them, but they do look to be a good size. We have been in dry dirt so far. Big time summer here in So Cal.
JeffJ did not mention any tubeless set up issues, so I assume that is a good sign.
gg
@Tim…sorry, no idea. I would check with WTB as all my contacts are likely at EU Bike.
gg
I’m a former 29er, now a 27.5+ convert. I tried the “Light and Fast” 27.5×2.8″ Ranger (because it was available) and ended up cutting the casing on a pinch flat. My main issue was obviously not enough psi (too used to running 3.0″ tires) but the ‘Light’ casings are pretty thin…I now have a 3.0 “Tough” casing Ranger on the Rear (3.0 Trail Boss up front) and feel much more confident. Glad to hear you are liking the SJ FSR 6Fattie !
Interested to hear how your 27.5×3 works on the narrower rim. I just ordered a set of mid wheels to run small plus tires on my 29 camp bike, and the 2.8 Ranger is at the head of the pack for tires. I don’t have a ton of clearance so I’m hoping the 2.8 on a 28mm rim will keep the size in check, give me some cush, and still not ride badly.
Hello everyone,
Has anybody measured the height of the WTB Ranger 29×3.0 tyre?
Is it lower than the height of the Bontrager Chupacabra 29×3.0 tyre?
Thank you.