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ExternalProduct Review

Long-term Cushcore Review

What is Cushcore?

Cushcore is a mountain bike tyre insert that claims to offer multiple benefits but maybe most importantly it protects your rim in the event of a puncture.

It is a closed cell foam ring that fits tightly between your tyre and wheel rim.

What Cushcore claim

  1. CushCore transforms your tubeless tire into a suspension system with a tune-able air spring and foam damper.
  2. A proprietary closed-cell, polyolefin foam controls compression and rebound forces. Its lightweight, ultra durable and impervious to  sealant.
  3. CushCore’s patented profile applies constant pressure on the tire sidewalls. This provides protection and stability even at low tire pressures.
  4. CushCore is designed to fit tight on the rim. This radial tension locks the bead to the rim while maintaining a supple tread patch.
How Cushcore works

My Thoughts

I’ve been using Cushcore for over a year now. The product was supplied by my sponsor Enduro Tyres.

First thing I noticed is that this product is insanely hard to fit. I probably spent an hour trying to fit it before resorting to reading the instructions which made it marginally easier. As it was a really cold day I decided to heat it up a bit with a hair dryer and this did make getting it onto the rim a bit easier. Next you need to get the tyre on. I’d suggest not putting the tubeless sealant in until the tyre is fully on and put the sealant in through the valve as you will want to put the wheel down flat on a bin or old tyre to be able to use enough force to get the tyre bead on.

When you’ve finally gotten both of them on with tyres seated and sealant inserted you can go for a test ride.

I quickly noticed that the Cushcore does add some noticeable weight to the bike. However once you’re rolling you don’t notice it.

Straight away I found that the tyre deformed less in the corners and I was comfortable letting more pressure out of my tyres for extra grip. The tyres feel more supportive in the corners and the extra grip from lower pressures also give you extra confidence.

I’ve only once had a puncture with Cushcore and it was during a race run. Thankfully the Cushcore allowed me to finish the run (Although not quickly) so I was able to carry on with the race.

In summary I would highly recommend the Cushcore. Even with the high price tag and nightmare fitting they are so worth it. I’ve since tried other brands offering similar products and they just don’t come close. If you are after tyre inserts just get the best and don’t bother with the rest. I will continue to use Cushcore for the foreseeable future.

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