Overview: Wrangler MTF and MTR bring Goodyear back to bikes with purpose
Goodyear has a storied history in automotive tires, and its return to mountain biking with the Wrangler MTF and MTR marks a clear intent to compete at the gravity end of the market. The two tires share a family look—tall, blocky knobs and aggressive tread—but Goodyear has tuned each model to fit front or rear duties, offering a balanced, confidence-inspiring package across a range of conditions.
Design and construction: Enduro casing, Grip3S, and smart tread
The Wrangler MTR is the rear-specific tire, featuring a 2-3-2 tread pattern. The three‑knob row sits close to well-spaced side lugs, with an alternating two-knob row providing debris clearance and a touch of surface conformity. The MTF front tire switches to a 2-2-3 pattern, which opens up the center and improves mud clearance while keeping solid bite from the abundant center and side lugs. This thoughtful asymmetry helps the tires adapt to changing terrain without sacrificing grip.
Goodyear’s Enduro casing delivers notable sidewall support, a boon for riders who want protection without resorting to inserts. The company’s Grip3S compound remains tacky in rocky, rooty conditions, offering confidence on greasy surfaces where some tires fade. This combination—sturdy casing, large square lugs, and a cohesive tread-to-lug transition—gives Goodyear a distinct feel on the trail.
Tire specs, sizes, and options
Mounting options provide versatility for different bikes and riding styles. The Wrangler MTF is available in 29″ only, with widths of 2.4″ or 2.6″. The Wrangler MTR comes in 27.5×2.6″ or 29×2.4″ sizes. An interesting variant is the Downhill casing for extra rugged construction and the ElectricDrive option, which adds reinforcement for heavier eMTBs. As tested, weights ranged from about 1,095 g (MTF, 29×2.4) to 1,315 g (MTR, 29×2.4). In Canada, each tire is priced at CAD 124.99.
Real-world performance: traction, stability, and predictable handling
Riding the Wranglers through fall and winter conditions showcased their broad competence. In open, fast trails with loose dirt and dry rocks, the tires’ supportive casing kept the bike planted and confident through fast line choices. The center and side lug combination provided solid bite in corners while still maintaining a stable feel when the trail dropped into tighter sections with roots and rocks.
Transitioning into tree cover introduced a different challenge: wet, greasy roots and damp rock faces. The Wranglers stayed composed, with enough grip to brake later and avoid washing out, even at speeds that would have unsettled less aggressive treads. The tires aren’t the lightest or the fastest rolling in a straight line, but the weight is offset by sidewall support and controlled handling—traits that matter far more in enduro and all-mountain riding where precision and confidence win races and rides alike.
From a performance standpoint, the Wranglers excel in a dual role: you can push the pace on rough, dry sections and still feel secure on damp, root-filled climbs. The large, square knobs offer predictable transitions between straight lines and turns, and the near-continuous tread coverage helps with stability when changing lines mid-descent. In short, these tires are built for when seconds count and grip is non-negotiable.
Who should consider the Goodyear Wrangler MTF/MTR?
If you regularly ride aggressive trails that swing between dry, dusty sections and slick, rooty sections, the Wrangler MTF and MTR are compelling choices. They provide a reliable front/rear pairing with a focus on grip, controlled braking, and predictable handling. Riders using heavier eMTBs will appreciate the available ElectricDrive option and the reinforced Downhill casing, though even standard setups feel sturdy and capable without an insert.
Verdict: a strong addition to the gravity tire market
Goodyear’s Wrangler MTF/MTR line demonstrates that the brand can translate automotive tire expertise into credible mountain bike performance. They aren’t the lightest or the fastest rolling tires on the straightaways, but they deliver solid traction, confident cornering, and enduro-ready durability. For riders who want a go-to tire that handles a wide variety of terrain and maintains composure under pressure, the Wrangler MTF and MTR are worth considering as a dependable, all-around option.
