Rimpact Components, a manufacturer of mountain bike tire inserts, has introduced its new Race Edition inserts, developed with feedback from World Cup Downhill and Enduro teams over the past three seasons.
Collaborating with top riders from mountain bike racing teams such as Commencal/Muc-Off, YT Mob and Nukeproof, Rimpact has created these inserts specifically for high-performance racing and is releasing them in limited batches to celebrate these teams’ success.
The Race Edition inserts have a 27% weight reduction, minimizing the weight penalty compared to traditional tubeless setups, according to the company.
Featuring a new lower profile, the inserts are also designed to retain more air in the tubeless setup. The inserts still provide some damping and support to the tire but with a larger air volume. This design aims to ensure that the tire retains its natural characteristics, which is beneficial when using DH casing tires and high pressures for better rolling speed and support.
Rimpact says the inserts can be used as a viable run-flat solution in case of a puncture, ensuring that riders can finish their race.
Adapted from the World Cup-winning Pro and Original V2 Inserts, the Race Edition is available in two options. The Pro V2 variant is a lightweight protective dual-density insert providing greater impact protection and sidewall support, weighing 130g for a 29in wheel. The Original Race variant is an ultra-lightweight single-density insert offering rim and pinch puncture protection, weighing 80g for a 29in wheel.
The lower profile of the Race Edition Inserts is designed for easier fitting during last-minute wheel or tire swaps between race runs. In multistage races, the inserts can be ridden to the end of the stage following a puncture and then easily removed and refitted later.
Compared to the Pro V2, the Race Edition has similar benefits while improving on weight and ease of fitting.
