When it comes to mountain bike tires, few names carry as much weight as Maxxis—and even fewer spark as much debate as the Minion DHF and Assegai. Both are legends in their own right, dominating World Cup podiums and weekend trail rides alike. But when it’s time to choose a front tire, which one really comes out on top?
Let’s break it down.
The Classics Never Die — The Minion DHF
The Maxxis Minion DHF has been around forever, and there’s a reason it’s still the go-to front tire for so many riders. Designed for loose to medium conditions, the DHF delivers predictable grip and fast rolling.
What it does best:
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Cornering: The iconic ramped center knobs transition smoothly into tall side lugs, giving tons of confidence when leaning the bike over.
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Rolling Speed: Despite the big knobs, the DHF rolls surprisingly fast—especially compared to more aggressive options like the Assegai.
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Versatility: From trail to DH bikes, the DHF just works. It’s the safe, proven pick when you ride a bit of everything.
When it shows limits:
The DHF can feel sketchy in really loose or muddy conditions. The center knobs don’t dig quite as deep, and it can lose traction when things get sloppy.
The New-School Gripper — The Assegai
The Assegai was designed by Greg Minnaar—so yeah, it’s basically engineered for the edge of control. The tread is deeper, more squared-off, and made to hold a line when most tires would let go.
What it does best:
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Maximum Grip: Every knob is placed to bite into the dirt. The Assegai offers unreal traction, especially in soft or mixed terrain.
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Cornering Stability: With almost no dead zone between center and side knobs, transitions are buttery smooth. You can lean it way over without the sketchy “in-between” feeling.
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Confidence in the Wet: The tighter, more aggressive tread pattern clears mud decently and grips roots and rocks like glue.
When it falls short:
That insane grip comes at a price—it’s slower rolling and a bit heavier. If you’re riding smoother or pedally trails, it can feel draggy compared to the DHF.
Compound & Casing Options
Both tires are available in MaxxTerra, MaxxGrip, and Dual Compound versions, as well as a range of casings (EXO, EXO+, DH, DD).
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DHF MaxxTerra EXO: Great trail setup—fast rolling, grippy, and light.
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Assegai MaxxGrip DH: The gravity beast—tons of traction, full control, minimal speed concerns.
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For enduro riders: Assegai up front + DHR II or Dissector rear = perfection.
Which One Should You Run?
Final Thoughts
If you want speed, predictability, and versatility, go with the DHF.
If you want absolute control, traction, and confidence, pick the Assegai.
You really can’t lose—both are benchmark front tires that dominate the trails.
But if you spend more time railing corners than pedaling climbs, the Assegai might just ruin you for anything else.
Shop Maxxis Tires at TBS Bike Parts
👉 Shop Maxxis Minion DHF
👉 Shop Maxxis Assegai
If you are looking for mountain bike tires you can shop our full selection here. Remember that we offer free shipping on all orders over $149CAD. Orders are all processed and shipped within 24 business hours as well.
Spend less and ride the best with TBS Bike Parts.
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