Opting to run my Mojo HDR as a 650b meant I had to find new tyres fast as my favorite combo to date wasn’t yet available in 27.5″. Schwalbe though are already running full steam ahead with 650b tyres so when it came to finding an alternative front tire to my much loved Specialized Purgatory 2.3 and 2.4, I didn’t need to look any further than Schwalbe’s Hans Dampf 27.5×2.35″.
The first thing I noticed about the 650b Hans Dampf 2.35 was its massive size! It looks much more like 2.5″ when inflated on the ZTR Flow EX rims! It’s definitely confidence inspiring in that regard.
Unlike other tyres I’ve tested in the past I immediately felt comfortable with the Hans out front. Like the Purgatory you can really lean on the outer knobs of the Hans Dampf through a turn and be confident they’ll hold or worst case give you ample warning when they begin to let go. With its massive volume the tyre offers a supple ride at lower pressures, and thanks to the Snakeskin protection I’ve yet to have any problems with sharp rocks damaging the sidewalls.
One difference I have noticed with the Dampf is that due to the deep and reasonably tight tread pattern it picks up and flicks far more small stones vs the Purgatory. Hardly a deal breaker but noticeable. More importantly the tire rolls incredibly well despite its weight of 795grams which really is its only negative attribute I can think of.
All up I’ve been super happy with Hans Dampf 2.35 out front on the Ibis Mojo HDR 650b.
