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Goodyear Newton EN Ultimate MTB Tyre

In this review, we are going to be taking a look at the Goodyear Newton EN Ultimate 29r MTB Tyres. This is the En Ultimate edition which features a fast-rolling centre tread and larger firmer side knobs as well as utilising advanced compounds the tyre is intended to provide traction in a wide range of conditions.

The tyre perhaps named after the famous scientist is a good choice as the Newton is aimed directly at Enduro and Downhill riders who also take on the laws of motion and gravity.

The tyres are available in two models. The EN Casing with R/T rubber compound is a lightweight tyre with firm tread blocks. The DH version uses Goodyears most robust casing with their softest RS/T rubber compound for durability and traction. There is also a front tyre specific version which is the ST version. I wasn’t sent the ST tyre so I am using the same tyre on both front and back.

Fitments available are:

27.5-29×2.4″ based on 29mm inner rim.
27.5-29×2.6″ based on 35mm inner rim.

Goodyear Newton En Ultimate Review

I will be the first to admit that I’ve always been a big fan of MTB tyres with big tread knobs for gripping into all the mud, loam and even occasionally dust that my local trails have to offer. I will leave these tyres on no matter what I’m riding because it’s what I’m used to and most comfortable. Tyres such as the Specialized Hillbilly and butcher as well as the Michelin Enduro certainly come to mind, however, this fast-rolling tyre from Goodyear may have changed all of that.

The tyre features low-profile knobs in the centre for fast rolling speed and slightly more aggressive knobs along the edge to dig in when it really counts. The tyres also have a tough sidewall that is textured.

Fitting the tyres was a breeze. Following my usual technique of pushing the bead into the centre of the rim to work it all the way around meant a barely needed to use any tools to get the tyres on. Paired with a set of Stan’s flow rims I had both my wheels booted in under 15 mins including setting them up as tubeless.

First Impressions

First impressions of these are that boy do they ride fast. After riding draggy tyres for so long these are a breath of fresh air and the extra speed from reducing drag was thrilling.

I was anticipating less grip on dusty and loam trails but the tyres just bite onto everything I’ve thrown at them and I feel I can push the limits riding aggressively without washing out.

At this time of year when my local trails are hard pack these are a great tyre choice!

Now I must admit I have not been able to test these tyres in the wet as the last few months have been bone dry. However, I have decided to keep these tyres on for a long term test so will do an update once I’ve been able to test them out in the slop. Goodyear claims that:-

Newton provides surefooted traction in a wide range of conditions

So we shall see if this is just marketing talk or a genuine fact. So far I have no reason to believe that it wouldn’t be true as these tyres have been nothing but confidence-inspiring to ride.

Summary

A fast-rolling tyre that has plenty of grip when it counts. Quick and easy to fit and set up as tubeless with minimal tools. The tyre is confidence-inspiring even with the speed boost you get if switching from a more draggy tyre setup.

Although I haven’t been able to test the tyre in wet conditions yet I will be keeping the tyres on for a long term test this summer. I will add to the article as I go.

Originally priced at £60 per boot these premium tyres came with a premium price tag to match. This makes them a direct competitor to Maxxis’ tyre range. These tyres can now easily be found for around £36 making them a far more competitive tyre and well worth a try. especially during the summer months.

4 / 5 Reviewer
Pros
Fast Rolling, Grip where it counts, Strong Side Walls
Cons
Expensive when bought new, Confusing product names (EN, ST etc)
Rating
Will Brett-Atkin

Will Brett-Atkin

Will (@willbrettbikes) is the founder and creator of One Track Mind Mag. He is an award-winning Digital Product Designer and has worked with some of the biggest brands in the world. When not behind a computer screen Will likes to be out in nature riding natural trails with friends. He also likes to dabble in a bit of Enduro racing and has had some great results racing in the UK

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