I got a super deal on line to buy the American elites. I had American elites before and loved them but wore them out too far on a ride to Moab. I went into Grand junction to get new rubber and they didn't have elites, but did have the MCII's on sale so I had those put on with the balance beads inside. The MCII's provided wonderful ride and good handling and like I said, well over 20 k on them when I traded the bike last week.