Maxxis MTB Tire Models – Which One is Right For You?
Maxxis is one of the most popular brands for mountain bike tires, and they offer a wide variety of models for different riding styles and terrain types. With so many models and options, it can be confusing and overwhelming when trying to decide which one is the best option. That is why we have decided to do an overview of the main Maxxis mountain bike tire models so you can make the most informed decision when choosing your next tire.
Minion DHF
The Maxxis Minion DHF (Downhill Front) is primarily designed for downhill mountain biking. It is a high-volume tire with a large, aggressive tread pattern that provides excellent traction and control in loose and muddy terrain, as well as on technical and rocky trails. The Minion DHF is known for its cornering ability and braking performance, making it a popular choice for aggressive riders who want a tire that can handle the demands of downhill racing, freeriding, and all-mountain riding. Maxxis has made the Minion DHF available in a range of sizes and configurations, including tubeless-ready options that can be set up without an inner tube. It is often paired with the Maxxis Minion DHR II as a rear tire for a balanced and predictable ride on technical terrain.
Shop our full selection of Maxxis Minion DHF tires.
Minion DHR II
The Maxxis Minion DHR II (Downhill Rear) tire is a popular choice for aggressive riding on steep and technical terrain. It has a directional tread pattern with ramped knobs and wide paddle-shaped center knobs, providing excellent traction and control on loose and unpredictable surfaces. The Minion DHR II is available in a range of sizes and configurations, including tubeless-ready options that can be set up without an inner tube. It is often paired with the Maxxis Minion DHF as a front tire for a balanced and predictable ride on technical terrain. Overall, the Maxxis Minion DHR II is an excellent choice for aggressive riders who demand high performance and durability from their tires.
Shop our full selection of Maxxis Minion DHR II tires.
Assegai
The Maxxis Assegai tire is a collaboration between Maxxis and downhill legend Greg Minnaar. It has a directional tread pattern with tall, ramped knobs and wide channels between the knobs, providing excellent traction and control in all conditions. It is available in a range of sizes and configurations, including tubeless-ready options that can be set up without an inner tube. The Maxxis Assegai tire has quickly become a favorite among downhill and enduro riders looking for a tire that can handle the most challenging terrain types and conditions. Overall, the Maxxis Assegai is an excellent choice for aggressive downhill and enduro riders who demand high levels of traction, control, and durability from their tires. It is not as well-suited for cross-country or general trail riding, as its aggressive tread pattern and heavy-duty construction can result in increased rolling resistance and slower speeds on less technical terrain.
Shop our full selection of Maxxis Assegai tires.
Aggressor
The Maxxis Aggressor tire is a versatile tire designed for a wide range of riding styles and terrain types. It has a semi-slick tread pattern with aggressive side knobs, providing excellent traction and control on loose and rocky surfaces while still maintaining fast rolling speed on hardpack terrain. The Aggressor is designed to be a rear-specific tire, making it ideal for use as a rear tire in combination with a more aggressive front tire such as the Maxxis Minion DHF. The aggressive tread pattern on the Aggressor provides excellent braking traction and cornering grip, while the center tread provides fast-rolling speed and good straight-line traction. The Aggressor is available in a range of sizes and configurations, including tubeless-ready options that can be set up without an inner tube. Overall, the Maxxis Aggressor is an excellent choice for riders who want a tire that can handle a variety of trail conditions and is suitable for both cross-country and aggressive trail riding. It is a popular choice for all-mountain and enduro riders looking for a tire that can handle a variety of terrain types and conditions.
Shop our full selection of Maxxis Aggressor tires.
Forekaster
The Maxxis Forekaster is a tire that is specifically designed for use in wet and loose trail conditions, making it an excellent choice for riders who frequently encounter muddy or loose terrain. It features a combination of widely spaced and staggered knobs that provide excellent traction in loose and muddy conditions, while also offering good rolling resistance on hard-packed trails. The Forekaster is suitable for use in a variety of trail riding conditions, but it excels in wet and slippery conditions. Its aggressive tread pattern and robust construction make it an ideal choice for enduro racers and aggressive trail riders who demand high levels of grip and durability. The Forekaster is available in a range of sizes and configurations, including tubeless-ready options that can be set up without an inner tube. Overall, the Maxxis Forekaster is an excellent choice for riders who frequently ride in wet and muddy conditions, as well as those who demand high levels of traction and durability from their tires. It is suitable for a range of riding styles, including cross-country, enduro, and aggressive trail riding.
Shop our full selection of Maxxis Forekaster tires.
Ikon
The Maxxis Ikon tire is a lightweight and fast-rolling tire designed for cross-country riding and racing. It has a low-profile tread pattern with tightly packed center knobs and slightly larger side knobs, providing fast rolling speed on hardpack terrain while still maintaining some traction and control on loose terrain. The Ikon features a lightweight and supple casing for improved ride quality and reduced rolling resistance. The Ikon is available in a range of sizes and configurations, including tubeless-ready options that can be set up without an inner tube. It is a popular choice for cross-country racers looking for a fast and efficient tire that can handle a variety of terrain types.
Shop our full selection of Maxxis Ikon tires.
High Roller II
The Maxxis High Roller II tire is a versatile tire designed for aggressive riding on a variety of terrain types. It has a directional tread pattern with ramped center knobs and larger side knobs, providing excellent traction and control on loose and unpredictable surfaces. The High Roller II is available in a range of sizes and configurations, including tubeless-ready options that can be set up without an inner tube. It is a popular choice for all-mountain and enduro riders looking for a tire that can handle aggressive riding on a variety of terrain types and conditions. It is often paired with the Maxxis Minion DHF as a front tire for a balanced and predictable ride on technical terrain.
Shop our full selection of Maxxis High Roller II tires.
Rekon
The Maxxis Rekon tire is a versatile tire designed for cross-country and trail riding. It has a low-profile tread pattern with ramped center knobs and larger side knobs, providing fast rolling speed on hardpack terrain while still maintaining traction and control on loose terrain. The Rekon is available in a range of sizes and configurations, including tubeless-ready options that can be set up without an inner tube. It is a popular choice for cross-country and trail riders looking for a fast and efficient tire that can handle a variety of terrain types. It can also be used as a rear tire in combination with a more aggressive front tire like the Maxxis Minion DHF or DHR II.
Shop our full selection of Maxxis Rekon tires.
Shorty
The Maxxis Shorty tire is a versatile tire designed for aggressive riding in muddy and wet conditions. It has a directional tread pattern with widely spaced knobs and deep channels, allowing for maximum mud-shedding and improved traction on loose and slippery terrain. The Shorty is available in a range of sizes and configurations, including tubeless-ready options that can be set up without an inner tube. It is a popular choice for downhill and enduro riders who frequently encounter muddy and wet conditions on their rides. It is often used as a front tire in combination with the Maxxis Minion DHF or DHR II for a balanced ride on technical terrain.
Shop our full selection of Maxxis Shorty tires.
Ultimately, the best Maxxis MTB tire for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the terrain you'll be riding on, your riding style, budget, and any specific features you're looking for in a tire, such as puncture resistance or tubeless compatibility. Shop our full selection of Maxxis mountain bike tires here. Remember that we offer free shipping on all orders over $149CAD and all orders are processed within 24 business hours.
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