**RACING RAY AND RACING RALPH: THE NEW CROSS COUNTRY BROTHERS**
Two new tires combine their strengths to meet the challenges of modern cross country trails: with Racing Ray on the front wheel and the new version of Racing Ralph on the rear wheel, Schwalbe presents this combination as a new reference for cross country.
Cross country has evolved rapidly in recent years. Jumps, fast direction changes, and large surface roots follow each other quickly; the tracks are becoming increasingly demanding and faster in technical terms.
“The tires for these modern trails must roll extremely lightly while also being reliable and durable. The tread must perform flawlessly on various surfaces and in all weather conditions. Cornering, acceleration, grip, rolling resistance, and braking performance are functions that must be perfectly balanced,” says Markus Hachmeyer, Senior Product Manager MTB Tires. “The ultimate solution was only possible through the development of specific front and rear tires.”
The benefits of these new tires become apparent only when used together: Racing Ray is a front tire with excellent steering properties, while Racing Ralph on the rear wheel ensures speed and traction. Although the new Cross Country brothers have very different tread patterns, Schwalbe has equipped both with new, rounded knobs, which have also made the Fat Albert duo successful. The special thing about them is that they convert forces from all directions into a continuous ride and make the tires extremely predictable. “Mistakes while riding are well absorbed by the tires. Even if they break out, they are quickly corrected,” explains Markus Hachmeyer.
**Racing Ray on the Front: Aggressive Tread and Good Steering Properties**
As a true front tire, the Racing Ray provides precise steering, reliable cornering, and grip that inspires confidence even at the edge of performance. At the same time, this tire allows for controlled braking under all conditions. The firm, nearly unchangeable shoulder blocks support a direct riding style even in extreme corners.
Despite its aggressive tread, the tire rolls smoothly, quickly, and quietly—thanks to the almost closed center section with alternating center blocks. With a lot of grip in the direction of travel, the tire constantly finds the right balance between light rolling and grip. The transition knobs between the center and shoulder, which should not be underestimated, provide continuous grip edges. The open tread ensures good self-cleaning. Racing Ray is exclusively available with Addix Speedgrip Compound—to create a front tire with the optimal combination of grip, speed, and durability.
**Racing Ralph on the Rear: Fast and Versatile**
The new Racing Ralph is more powerful than its predecessor and still rolls lighter. The
