PIRELI SCORPION XC RC LITE TEAM 29 X 2.40
The World Cup Proven Speed Specialist.
The Pirelli Scorpion XC RC Lite Team is a high-performance cross-country tyre designed for one thing: pure, unadulterated speed.Developed in collaboration with World Cup athletes, the "RC" (Racing) tread pattern is optimized for modern XC courses that demand a blend of lightning-fast rolling on the straights and reliable mechanical grip in technical, man-made rock gardens and berms.
This "Lite" version is the ultimate choice for weight-conscious racers. By removing the sidewall reinforcement layers found in the "ProWall" version, Pirelli has created a tyre with a more supple casing that conforms better to terrain imperfections. The 2.40 width is the modern racing standard, allowing for lower tyre pressures which increase the contact patch and improve traction on the loose-over-hardpack conditions frequently encountered on Western Australian trails.
Advanced Compound & Construction
SmartGRIP Compound: A single-compound formulation that provides consistent high-grip performance in both wet and dry conditions. Unlike multi-layer compounds, SmartGRIP maintains its properties even as the tread wears down.
120 TPI Lite Casing: Features a high-thread-count nylon fabric that offers maximum suppleness and minimum weight, allowing the tyre to "wrap" around obstacles for better momentum.
Team Edition Branding: Features the iconic yellow Pirelli logos, identifying this as the same spec used by professional racing teams globally.
XC RC Tread Design: Low-profile, tightly spaced center knobs for minimal rolling resistance, paired with aggressive side lugs for confident cornering at high speeds.
Tubeless Ready: Specifically designed for easy seating and reliable air retention on modern wide-internal XC rims (25mm–30mm).
Key Features
Ultra-Low Rolling Resistance: The center tread is almost continuous, making this one of the fastest-rolling 2.40 tyres on the market for marathons and XC races.
Maximum Weight Savings: The "Lite" casing is significantly lighter than the ProWall version, reducing rotational mass for snappier acceleration and easier climbing.
High-Volume Comfort: The 2.40 width provides a massive air volume that damps trail chatter, reducing rider fatigue over long-distance events like the Cape to Cape.
Supple Terrain Feedback: Without the stiffening sidewall inserts, the tyre provides superior "feel" and feedback through the handlebars when pushing the limits of traction.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Size | 29 x 2.40 |
| Casing | 120 TPI Lite |
| Compound | SmartGRIP |
| Weight | ~650g - 670g |
| Type | Tubeless Ready (TR) |
| Recommended Rim | 30mm Internal Width |
✅ Why This IS For You
The XC Racer: If you are lining up for a State Round or a XCO event and want the absolute lightest, fastest tyre setup available.
Weight Weenies: Perfect for those building a sub-10kg race rig where every gram of rotational weight matters.
Smooth Trail Specialists: Ideal for riders who primarily ride groomed, flowing singletrack where the risk of sidewall cuts is low.
❌ Why This May NOT be for you
Sharp Rock & Shale Riders: Because this is the "Lite" version, it lacks sidewall protection. If you ride in areas with sharp, jagged rocks (like some sections of the Perth Hills), the Scorpion XC RC ProWall is a safer bet.
Aggressive Trail/Enduro: This is a dedicated XC race tyre; the lightweight casing will likely flex too much under the high G-loads of aggressive downhill berms or jumps.
BFC Pro Tip
To get the most out of the 2.40 Lite casing, tyre pressure is everything. For a 75kg rider on 30mm rims, we recommend starting at 18-20 PSI. The supple 120 TPI casing allows you to run lower pressures without the tyre feeling "squirmy," which is the secret to finding grip on dusty, pea-gravel climbs. Just be mindful—since there is no ProWall reinforcement, avoid "hucking" into rock gardens with low pressure to prevent rim strikes and pinch flats!










