Geax carcasses have always been impressively supple but tough, and the Gato can be run soft enough to regularly bump the rim without tearing, rolling or feeling unstable.
Smooth surface moulding also amplifies the traction and roll-over performance of the big wheel format. The low tread rolls better than expected on hardpack and absolutely flies on rougher trails. Fast, smooth-rolling manners meant we only occasionally noticed the 806g weight accelerating out of slow corners.
The Aramid Racing 3D rubber is just a simple, single 60-durometer compound with Kevlar snippets for tear/puncture resistance. The open tread grips well enough to push hard in all conditions though and the centre line clears quickly even in clay. Given the likely lifespan it’s good value too.
This article was originally published in Mountain Biking UK magazine, available on Apple Newsstand and Zinio.
