Not all Plus tyres are the same. While the normal 27.5-inch tyre from both manufacturers is the weakest in terms of traction, the differences between the Schwalbe Plus with a width of 2.8 inches and the Schwalbe 29-inch tyre are marginal. With the much heavier Specialized Plus tyre, the grip level is much more distinct from the normal 29er. The reasons for this could be Schwalbe's smaller tyre width, lower weight and the less damping PaceStar rubber compound.
CurveThe light 27.5-inch tyres are the most nervous on loose gravel corners. In contrast to Schwalbe, the difference between the 29ers and the Plus tyres is greatest with Specialized. While the traction of the Specialized 29er tends to break off abruptly at the limit, the Plus tyre starts to float a little earlier, but doesn't suddenly break away and is therefore easy to control. On forest terrain, the gaps between the tyres are much smaller.
UphillHere, too, the 27.5 tyres are at the rear, while Schwalbe's 29er and Plus tyres hardly stand out from each other. You can feel the higher mass of the Specialized Plus tyres on steep climbs, but the sluggish wheels smooth out power peaks, which means that the extensive interlocking with the ground never breaks off, even with little sensitivity on the cranks. Beginners in particular benefit from the better propulsion and braking behaviour on loose terrain with Plus.
Downhill/sloping slope: Due to the lower air pressure and the resulting larger contact area, the plus tyres can adapt better to the terrain. Compared to 27.5 and 29 inch tyres, steep passages can therefore be mastered in a more controlled manner. When braking, 27.5" and 29" tyres skid faster. Obstacles such as stones and roots are also better absorbed by the tyre when rolling over plus tyres. You bounce off them less.
Traction: 27,5+: 2 | 27,5: 0 | 29: 1
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