Over here in the colonies (AKA Australia), the Johnny Watts are currently unavailable with little/no stock in the country and the supplier waiting on a backorder. Looking at international sources suggest that the shortage is worldwide (I did find a UK seller with stock of the JWs, however). Does this imply that Schwalbe is letting the stock run down in lieu of a soon-to-be released, updated version of the Johnny Watts or is it just the dreaded 'supply chain' issues that seem to be still prevalent across many industries? I don't want to order a pair if there is an updated version of the tyre in the works. Rumours? Opinions?
Backstory: I am looking at a 2022 Focus Thron 2 6.9 (non EQP version) and ideally have the JWs fitted ASAP at purchase (and have the OEM tyres for when I want to go on a long trail trip). I want the bike as an all-rounder but mostly for bikeways/roads and occasional trail riding. The tyres that come with the bike (Hans Dampf and Nobby Nic) are off-road oriented. I could go for the Smart Sam, but reading this thread and the blurb from Schwalbe makes me think the Johnny Watts is the perfect tyre for my requirements. I've had a test ride of the Thron 6.9 with the Hans Dampf and Nobby Nic combo and it makes riding on the roads/paths feel like you are piloting a tractor. I have the Smart Sam on my Focus Aventura and they are quite good on the roads/paths, but are fairly noisy and also squirm when the bike is leaned over while cornering. They are, however, a good all-rounder for use on the trails. The 6.9 (non EQP) comes with provision for a Focus kick stand and rear rack and the wiring is there for an after market light/s. The EQP version is kitted out these accessories but misses out on quality wheels, running gear, and the Fox shocks.
