Hi Melanie,

I think I have decided on tires for Maui, I'm going to try a Crossmark UST front and Ranchero UST rear (if I can get some Ranchero's - they are backordered everywhere but supposedly my local shop has found some; if not I'll go with both Crossmarks). I rode Crossmarks in the Cheakamus Challenge and really liked them. The question I have is tire pressure, normally here I run a lower pressure, but am thinking in Maui that a higher pressure would be better for the loose rock as well as possibly losing some air through small punctures before the sealant gets it. What is your experience with tire pressure for Maui?

Also, congrats on sticking it out in Tahoe.

Hi Fish,

First off, I would STRONGLY advise reversing that setup for Maui. The Ranchero will corner on the front much better than the Crossmark and the Crossmark will give you much better traction on the rear for climbing than the Ranchero.

Running them tubeless I would probably go with that setup and 30 psi for Maui. I find you don't get any traction anyway, you are monster truck riding on boulders.

Cheers!

Mel

Thanks for the advice. I have to admit I'm getting stressed about this whole tire thing! Usually I love thinking about gear, set-up, etc, but it's hard for a course I'm not familiar with at all - or anything like it. My instincts are saying go with Crossmarks and forget the Ranchero - I've ridden Crossmarks and like them and have never ridden a Ranchero. A couple of friends that have done Maui (and have a lot of experience) have suggested them but in the end I should probably go with what I know works for me. Thanks for continuing to provide advice, I really appreciate it! I'm also thinking there's a certain amount of luck to getting through it without a flat, so que sera sera and I'll do what I can to prepare then go with the flow!
Cheers,
Alison