Ben racing in RaceDaySetup kit at altitude

Race smarter. Ride faster.

XC race-driven tire picks, setups, and gear reviews.

Built for XC & endurance racing Gear that performs and lasts Efficiency when it counts

Tire Picks by Race

Event-specific recommendations for XC & marathon courses.

Browse picks

Gear Index

Everything tested and recommended β€” filter, search, compare.

See all gear

Guides

Bike setup, pressures, inserts, waxing, and race-day strategy.

Read guides

Checklists

Pre-race, travel, tools, and spares β€” so nothing gets missed.

Open checklists

Featured Gear

Current standouts from recent testing and races.

Kenda Booster Pro 2.4 SCT (120 TPI)

Kenda Booster Pro 2.4 SCT (120 TPI)

XC race tire with aggressive knobs and SCT protection β€” a lighter, confident alternative to the Maxxis Ikon.

Read my review β†’
Maxxis Aspen 2.4 MaxxSpeed

Maxxis Aspen 2.4 MaxxSpeed

Fast dry to slightly mixed course XC tire. Lightweight and race-proven.

Read my review β†’
Specialized Epic 8 EVO Pro – Flight Attendant vs. Stock

Specialized Epic 8 EVO Pro – Flight Attendant vs. Stock

Full breakdown of the Specialized Epic 8 EVO Pro in both its stock 120/130mm configuration and a custom 120/120mm RockShox Flight Attendant setup.

Read my review β†’
Precision Hydration PH 1500 Tablets

Precision Hydration PH 1500 Tablets

A no-nonsense sodium boost that pairs perfectly with high-carb mixes. Easy to travel with, race-tested, and essential for hydration strategy.

Read my review β†’
Shimano XTR Pedals

Shimano XTR Pedals

Lightweight, reliable clipless pedals for XC.

Read my review β†’
SRAM AXS XO Transmission

SRAM AXS XO Transmission

Cutting-edge wireless drivetrain for elite XC racing.

Read my review β†’
FR-C Pro Cargo Bib Short

FR-C Pro Cargo Bib Short

A game-changing bib for long days in the saddle β€” breathable, secure, and zero chafing.

Read my review β†’
Orange Seal Endurance Sealant

Orange Seal Endurance Sealant

Top-rated tire sealant with long-lasting formula.

Read my review β†’
Maxxis Aspen ST 2.4 MaxxSpeed

Maxxis Aspen ST 2.4 MaxxSpeed

Semi-slick version of the Aspen. Ideal for hardpack and short track.

Read my review β†’

About Me

Ben Steger

I'm Ben β€” a full-time XC and endurance mountain bike racer with a deep obsession for optimizing race-day setups. Every recommendation you find here comes straight from real-world experience racing across some of the toughest XC courses in North America.

Follow more of the racing at BSracing.us .

Whether you're chasing your first finish or a new PR, my goal is to help riders choose gear that maximizes confidence on race day.

β€” Ben