Protagonist

While it is designed for aggressive gravity riding, the Protagonist is best suited for enduro and downhill courses. At 1310g, it is quite heavy for general trail riding, so you might find it sluggish on long climbs or flatter terrain.

The DualWall casing is quite robust, which can make the initial installation a bit tighter than standard trail tires. Using a tire lever and ensuring the bead is seated in the center channel of your rim will make the process much easier.

Yes, although they are tubeless-ready, you can certainly run them with inner tubes if you prefer. However, you will lose the puncture protection and traction benefits that come with running lower pressures in a tubeless setup.

The Smart EVO DH compound is engineered for high-speed grip and predictable handling across varied terrain. It performs exceptionally well in mixed conditions, offering a tacky feel that holds lines confidently even when the trail gets slick.

Yes, this size is compatible with most modern 29-inch rims. However, check your frame and fork clearance first, as the robust DualWall casing creates a tire profile that may be wider than standard cross-country tires.