Originally Posted by
ba-ba
I'm a fair descender and can definitely tell the difference between good and bad grip, although this is mainly due to how worn the tread is. I rate mudclaw classics and X-talons, when looked after. I don't rate 'normal' mudclaws since they shaved the grip off. I should probably try Walsh at some point - last worn for year 7 XC in 2001 - but I have a stock of xtalons bought on the cheap.
Of course the best way to gain a bit is to go the right way and feel ace - last year 2 very good runners i was with took the 3 shires line off Blisco, unfortunatly (for them) this was during Langdale so I managed to sneak a champs race top 10!