CushCore XC

The two biggest complaints about the traditional CushCore (now known as the “Pro”) are that it’s hard to install and it’s heavy. This XC version mitigates those issues while still offering most of the advantages of the older model. I run it on the rear of both my XC-oriented hardtail and my 160mm travel trail/enduro bike. To me, the advantages are most pronounced on the rear wheel, so I skip it on the front. Installation is a couple added steps compared with a normal tubeless setup, but it’s not really any more difficult if you follow the instructions. Indeed, the insert actually helps new tires seal on the rim so you’re less likely to require a compressor to seat the tire. The rim protection enables me to drop PSI from 28 to 23 (I weigh around 100kg). As we get into the muddier riding months I may even take it lower. A super underrated feature of CushCore is it acts as a volume spacer inside your tire. So while you get the small-bump compliance of low PSI, if your tire takes a big hit the pressure will ramp up quicker and keep the ledge or root or whatever from impacting your rim. If you still manage to bottom out, the foam itself will protect your rim and reduce the likelihood and severity of pinch flats. The ~150g added weight (about as much as a traditional tube) is offset because I feel much more comfortable running a lighter tire and lighter rim than I would otherwise. Lower pressure yields enhanced traction. So yeah, I’m drinking the kool-aid on this one.

The product is great after installation and works as expected. Please make sure you have extra tools for application as my normal tools tore up my hands trying to get the tires over the cush core.

I mainly purchased these for rim protection. Descending and cornering feels a lot more stable and grippy. I do feel the extra weight on the climbs but the added traction and being able to roll over rocks and roots is a nice benefit. I also like that I am able to lower the psi by a little over 2 psi on both front and rear. Not 100% sold on these inserts but will continue to run them for a little longer to see if my view changes. I wish I would’ve know about the Tannus tubeless inserts before purchasing these. They are lighter and from what I’ve read riders like them. We shall see...

Specialized Epic Evo Riding in Phoenix so super rocky I am only running it in my rear and sadly wish it was in the front as I damage my rim I do think they could be cheaper ? 25 inside width rim and running 2.4 tires in the rear where its mounted (at this moment a reckon) WOW WOW WOW love how you can drop the pressure and get a touch less burp roll feel really made the bike so much better and with a XC and less travel it really helped and where I ride that made a HUGE difference Ya can kinda notice the weight if ya think about it ? but not racing just riding so its OK plan on getting some lighter carbon wheels anyway so will be a touch less than my base stock wheels in the end and since I am running a more aggressive tire on the XC I am not looking at weight weenie stuff just making a good fun fast bike a bit better and it did the job :) I read quite a bit so I knew going in its more than flat/pinch protection but truly does help the handling out by being able to run lower pressure and improve traction because of that

This works great once you get it installed. Installation is really difficult, it takes patience and time. There are a ton of videos on youtube that show how to do it. I did have issue the first time I went tubeless with leaking air. Since I installed these I haven't had any issues. Hopefully it's saving my rim too from pinch flats.

Product works as advertised, you really don’t feel the additional rotational weight. Improves traction and provides a softer ride quality

I got the xc , but I really ride pretty rocky, chunky stuff. I didn't think I needed the pro version and don't want the weight if I don't need it. Running with 2.4" Rekons and haven't had any issues. I've played with the air pressure some, but can't really find a pressure that seems to be the sweet spot (been a lot of wet rides lately too, so that hasn't helped). I mainly got these for rim protection and they have done great at that. I actually smacked my back wheel into the square edge of a concrete storm drain box hopping up onto it. Hit going about 15mph and hard enough I needed to apologize to my bike, but no damage at all. Can't give a good comment on side wall stability, but can't complain either. I think it got better, but I just spent money on inserts, so I want to believe it's better.

Installed with minimal effort, gave me the confidence that my tires wouldn't burp the bead.