2026 Specialized Ground Control Control 2Bliss Ready T5

Ground Control Control 2Bliss Ready T5Ground Control Control T5XC / Trail 2Bliss Ready Control Casing 670g+DescriptionKey FeaturesSpecifications

The Ground Control Control 2Bliss Ready T5 uses an extremely versatile tread pattern that can be used from cross country race to trail it rolls fast with exceptional amounts of confidence and grip. The Block-In-Block design uses a taller adaptable inner block to pierce the ground and claw for traction, supported by a larger outer structure for additional speed, traction, support, and stable handling. The Control casing is the light and durable do-it-all XC construction, topped off with the fastest rolling, race-ready T5 compound with excellent wear and tear protection.

• Block-In-Block Tread: Tall inner block pierces ground and claws for traction; outer structure adds speed, support, and stable handling.
• GRIPTON T5 Compound: Fastest rolling race-ready compound with excellent wear protection.
• Control Casing (60 TPI): Light and durable do-it-all XC construction.
• 2Bliss Ready: Butyl-wrapped bead for tubeless compatibility with reliable setup.
• Versatile Use: Cross country race to trail one tire that handles a range of conditions.
• Black & Tan Options: Available in both black and tan sidewall.

Use: Cross country race, trail riding, all-day adventures. The Control casing is lighter than Grid Trail, making this better for XC racing and rides where weight matters. Pair with a burlier rear tire for a balanced setup, or run front and rear for a fast-rolling trail bike build.

Block-In-Block Confidence EverywhereThe Block-In-Block design is what makes the Ground Control handle so well across varied terrain. The tall inner block deforms into the ground and claws for traction it adapts to the terrain rather than fighting it. The larger outer structure supports the inner block, adding speed and stability so you don’t sacrifice rolling efficiency for grip. The result is a tire that hooks up in corners, tracks straight on loose surfaces, and still rolls fast on hardpack.T5 Fastest Rolling Race CompoundGRIPTON T5 is Specialized’s fastest rolling compound the choice for XC racers and riders who prioritize speed above all else. It has excellent wear protection so it lasts beyond a few races, and still delivers confident grip for a fast compound. The tradeoff vs T7 or T9 is less traction in the absolute worst conditions, but for most trail and XC riding, T5 is the efficiency choice. One reviewer noted the T5 compound felt softer than Maxxis MaxxTerra when comparing side by side so don’t assume “fast compound” means “slick.”Control Casing Light XC DurabilityThe Control casing is Specialized’s light and durable do-it-all XC construction at 60 TPI. It’s lighter than the Grid options (Grid Trail, Grid Gravity) but still offers solid puncture protection for trail and XC riding. At 670-845g depending on size, it’s significantly lighter than the Grid Trail version of Ground Control. One reviewer who weighs 185lbs got 1,600+ miles from their set and still had plenty of life left suggesting the Control casing holds up well for the weight.GeneralModelGround Control Control 2Bliss Ready T5PositionFront & RearUseCross country race to trail fast rolling, confident gripTerrainHardpack to loose versatile XC/trail conditionsType2Bliss Ready (Tubeless-compatible Clincher)ColorsBlack, Tan SidewallTread & CompoundCompoundGRIPTON T5 fastest rolling race compound with excellent wear protectionTread DesignBlock-In-Block adaptable inner block (traction) + supporting outer structure (speed + stability)CasingControl 60 TPI light and durable do-it-all XC constructionBeadFoldable butyl-wrapped bead = 2Bliss ReadyWeights & Pressure26 x 2.35″670g27.5 x 2.35″720g29 x 2.2″800g29 x 2.35″845gPSI Range25-50 psi run lower for more tractionfunction showPanel(id, btn) { document.querySelectorAll(‘.spur-panel’).forEach(p => p.classList.remove(‘active’)); document.querySelectorAll(‘.spur-tab’).forEach(t => t.classList.remove(‘active’)); document.getElementById(‘panel-‘ + id).classList.add(‘active’); btn.classList.add(‘active’);}