Find your perfect tread for the most iconic backcountry race in the Sierra
The Downieville Classic 2025 is calling, and if you’re planning to tackle the legendary trails, river crossings, and rugged descents of the Lost Sierra, you’ll need more than just fitness and guts—you’ll need the right tires.
At WTB, we’ve designed tires that thrive in demanding terrain like Downieville. From loose-over-hard corners to high-speed rock gardens, the right tread and casing can be the difference between surviving and charging. Below are our top picks for the best mountain bike tires for Downieville .
WTB Macro – For Cross-Country Speed with Aggressive Bite
New for 2025, the WTB Macro redefines what it means to race XC in the modern era. Built for speed without sacrificing traction, the Macro is perfect for Downieville’s unique mix of flow and fury.
Why it’s perfect for Downieville:
• Low-profile center knobs for maximum rolling efficiency on the fire road climbs
• Aggressive shoulder lugs give you cornering control when descending Third Divide
• TCS Light/Fast Rolling + SG2 Puncture protection adds sidewall protection without weight penalty
About SG2 Technology:
SG2 is our lightweight puncture protection layer that extends bead-to-bead, protecting both sidewalls and the tread area from cuts and abrasions. It’s perfect for fast, technical terrain where every gram—and every line—counts.
Ideal for: Racers looking to maximize efficiency on the climb while staying confident on the descent.
WTB Peacekeeper – For Gravity-Fueled Control and Durability
If you’re coming to Downieville with enduro intentions, the WTB Peacekeeper is your tire. With stout knobs and a robust casing, it’s designed for big-mountain descents and gnarly, technical terrain.
Why it’s perfect for Downieville:
• Tall, widely spaced knobs dig into loose and rocky soil on trails like Butcher Ranch
• Tough casing options (including TCS Tough/High Grip + SG) deliver unbeatable durability
• Optimized for front or rear use, giving you freedom to build a setup based on your riding style
About SG Protection:
SG provides an additional layer of protection on the sidewalls, increasing durability and pinch-flat resistance in high-impact zones—perfect for the rough, fast descents of the Downieville Classic.
Ideal for: Riders who want full control and max traction from start to finish—especially those aiming to push the pace on the timed downhill.
Suggested Setups for Downieville Classic 2025:
• XC Race Focused Setup:
Macro front + Macro rear (TCS Light/Fast Rolling w/ SG2)
Fast, light, and race-ready for strong climbers and skilled descenders.
• Downcountry/Enduro Focused Setup:
Peacekeeper HIGH GRIP front (SG2) + Macro FAST ROLLING rear (SG2)
More bite and protection up front for control, paired with fast-rolling Macro efficiency in the rear.
If you are doing the AMC, remember you can't change your set-up on your bike. One set-up to rule them all.
Ready to Ride?
The Downieville Classic 2025 isn’t just a race—it’s a rite of passage. Whether you’re climbing Sunrise Trail or charging down the Third Divide(Mark Weir has been clocked going 52 down that), make sure your tires are ready. WTB’s Macro and Peacekeeper tires, paired with SG2 and SG protection, are battle-tested and rider-approved for the Lost Sierra.
Shop the full line of WTB tires here, and we’ll see you on the start line.