What is the new Radial Tire Technology?
With the launch of its Radial tires, Schwalbe has introduced a real game-changer in the MTB world. Unlike traditional bias-ply construction (fabric at about 45° to the rolling direction), radial tires have casing threads that run straighter across the tire. The results are clear:
- Increased contact patch with the ground
- Better adaptation to terrain, delivering more grip and control
- Greater comfort thanks to improved damping characteristics
- All this without sacrificing puncture protection, since Schwalbe maintains robust materials and casing strength (schwalbe.com).
The New Gravity Benchmark: Magic Mary Radial
The Magic Mary Radial is Schwalbe’s flagship in this new technology and sets the tone for what’s to come. Key features:
- Aggressive, open tread pattern, strong side knobs for braking traction and cornering grip – even in deep mud (schwalbetires.com).
- V-grooves in each knob for improved bite into loose terrain; center knobs are ramped for better rolling efficiency.
- Available sizes:
- 29×2.50” (63-622) with ADDIX Ultra Soft compound, GRAVITY PRO casing, tubeless-ready, foldable, E-50 (ECE-R75 certified for e-bikes), max. 2.6 bar / 38 psi, up to 115 kg load capacity.
- 27.5×2.50” (63-584) with ADDIX Soft compound, otherwise comparable (schwalbetires.com).
Real-World Performance
- According to Pinkbike, the Magic Mary Radial delivers outstanding traction and predictability under almost any conditions – a major leap forward (pinkbike.com).
- NSMB.com highlights surprisingly high comfort and traction, even on wet wood or slick surfaces, with riders noting a slightly softer feel that can be balanced by running slightly higher pressure (nsmb.com).
Which Radial Tires are Coming in 2026?
1. Albert Radial
Schwalbe’s own LAB page mentions not just the Magic Mary but also the Albert Radial as a future candidate:
“…we have developed two new MTB tires with Radial technology…” (schwalbe.com)
The Albert, traditionally known as a versatile trail or enduro tire with medium tread depth, is expected to bring radial construction to less extreme use cases – a perfect complement to Magic Mary.
2. Shredda Radial (and other Gravity models)
Though not officially confirmed, it makes sense that Schwalbe will expand Radial technology deeper into the gravity segment – possibly with a Shredda Radial. Rider discussions already mention mixing Magic Mary fronts with Albert or Shredda rears, suggesting natural evolution of the lineup (reddit.com).
3. XC or Light-Trail Radial Tires?
If radial design proves successful beyond gravity/enduro, we may also see lighter trail or even XC models. The benefits – more comfort, more grip, no loss in durability – would be especially attractive to marathon and race-oriented riders.
Takeaway for Radical Life Studios Readers
For gravity and enduro riders, this means more powerful options. For trail and all-mountain enthusiasts, it promises a new level of confidence and ride feel.
Magic Mary Radial is the spearhead of a new era in MTB tires.
Radial construction delivers more grip, comfort, and control without losing puncture resistance.
By 2026 we can expect to see the Albert Radial and possibly Shredda Radial, with future expansions into Trail and XC likely.
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