Since we saw the prototypes at Eurobike 2016, the Onza Aquila has seen a few tweaks to help get it through manufacturing. It’s been in gestation for a year, their longest development cycle for a tire ever. That’s partially because it needed a few small design tweaks to make it easier to produce, and partially because it’s their new Aaron Gwin signature tire…and Gwin was hands on with development.
The Aquila is a 1325g, wire bead 27.5×2.4 tire with their DH Casing your choice of super soft GRP 40a or RC2 45a/55a dual compound rubber. Those are the two versions (for now), with only the rubber compound differentiating the two.
Retail is $80-$85, and they’re tube type, but Aaron is riding them tubeless with sealant. They can’t officially recommend that, but if your race is only lasting a few minutes, well, go for it.
They’re testing a folding bead version with a either the RC2 or a slightly harder rubber for “everyday” gravity riding but not sure if they’ll produce that. Also working on a 29er version because, based on many conversations we’ve heard over the past few months, 29er DH is progressing.
The Svelt XC/marathon tire was another one they showed us as an early stage tire last year, and now it’s shipping in both black and skinwall options. Weights range from 640g to 725g depending on size (27.5 and 29ers are available, both in 2.25 widths), and options include 120tpi and 60tpi casings, with the skinwall only being available in 60tpi.
