CushCore Tire Inserts [Rider Review]

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We all know that dreaded "ding" sound when we're blasting through the rock gardens. We all hate it... And there's one good way to eliminate it, which is with CushCore. Our friend, Joe, has been running them. See what they think! 

Overview

I purchased the Cushcore inserts after a recent trip to Bend Or where I had a day-ending carbon rim destroying incident with a pointed rock. Figured I needed a little more cushion.

Bought the pair and figured I would use one on the rear of both my bikes (Mojo HD3 and RSD hardtail).

First off, let me talk about the install. Its not horrible, but it isn’t a cakewalk.

I think it actually has a lot to do with the wheel/tire combo you are installing on. My hardtail has 45mm wide rims. Much more room to move stuff around and get the tire on once the cushcore is on. My HD3 has a 29mm rim and I found that one much tougher with lots more soapy water and time working the tire bead under the cushcore to get things to fit. So is it a pain, yes. Is it worth it, yes!

These things are great! I found I am able to run much lower air pressure without any risk of burping air as these things seem to lock the tire bead against the rim. It could be in my head of course, but it feels like the sidewalls of the tire are stiffened up improving cornering.

I really like the improved tire feel having the insert in. There is a dampening or “cush”ioning sensation is felt on big hits.

Final Thoughts

Overall, would I buy these again? In a heartbeat. I am saving up for a set to do the front wheels. After my rim destroying drop-on-a-rock, I was a tad gunshy the next few rides when it came to big drops. Not anymore once I rode with the cushcore installed. Confidence restored! As long as you are ok, with the added weight, and don’t mind a little time/mess on the install, go for it!