The Complete Guide to Maxxis Mountain Bike Tires 12

The guide was originally launched in 2018 and we've updated the information in early 2025. Since then, new tire models have been released, some of Maxxis' technologies have been updated and tire sizes have changed too. Maxxis mountain bike tires are offered in sizes as small as 20 inches in diameter all the way up to 29 inches with 24, 26 and 27.5-inch options in between. Width and constructions vary depending on model. When choosing the best tires for your ability, riding conditions and performance goals, many factors come into play. Take your time, do your research and don't hesitate to ask any questions in our forum. The Vital MTB community is a great resource with experienced, knowledgeable riders and industry folk.

Pricing & Availability

The price list for all Maxxis MTB tires is pretty darn massive with many sizes, compounds and construction options. To give you a ballpark, here are some MSRP prices in 2025 on the Maxxis Assegai, an extremely popular front tire for trail, enduro or downhill use:

Maxxis tires that are tubeless-ready are denoted by the letters “TR” on the sidewall.

Tubeless ready tires must be mounted to tubeless compatible rims which are taped to be air tight and require a liquid sealant to maintain aire pressure. Liquid sealants not only keep the system air-tight but they seal small punctures from thorns and debris. Sealant will dry out over time, so it is necessary to inspect and refresh it as needed. It is ok to use tubes in tubeless-ready tires.

Liquid sealants should only be used in the following types of tires: tubeless road, tubular, and tubeless ready. The use of liquid sealants in any other Maxxis tire will void the warranty.

Maxxis MTB Rubber Compounds - Single, Dual, Bikepark, Maxxspeed, 3C Maxxterra and 3C Maxxgrip

Maxxis overs a variety of rubber compounds throughout their tire range. Some models, like a Minion DHF are offered in almost every rubber compound available. Other tires like the Aspen ST or the High Roller are only offered in use-specific configuration. In conjunction with the tread pattern and casing, the rubber compound will determine the tire's rolling speed and traction levels. Generally speaking, for trail and enduro riding,  3C MaxxTerra or MaxxGrip tires are used most often. A MaxxTerra in the rear will last longer with a MaxxGrip up front for the most traction. Vital forum members have indicated that a dual compound tire may be a great choice for repeated flow trail laps at bikeparks (like A-Line at Whistler), where ultimate traction is less important than rolling speed and durability.  

SINGLE

• One compound throughout the tread, optimized for longevity and performance.

DUAL

• Two compounds used within the tread of select tires to offer lower rolling resistance and increased cornering grip.

BIKEPARK

• Harder rubber for maximum wear resistance for endless flow trail laps at the bike park, offered on very few models.

MaxxSpeed

• The new MaxxSpeed is Maxxis' top-shelf rubber compound for XC racing. The high-silica content compound reduces rolling resistance while enhancing wet traction. Compared to the previous 3C MaxxSpeed, the new compound has approximately 25% less rolling resistance in a lab setting (same tread pattern, constructions, and tire pressures). Maxxis claims the new compound can save up to a minute over the course of a 90-minute race in real-world settings.

3C MaxxTerra

• An intermediate compound configuration used in many Maxxis mountain bike tires. 3C MaxxTerra is softer and offers more traction than MaxxSpeed, yet provides better tread wear and faster rolling speed than MaxxGrip.

3C MaxxGrip

• 3C MaxxGrip offers the most grip and slow rebound properties for maximum traction in gravity scenarios. What was once reserved for downhill or enduro racers has trickled down to everyday use for many riders on trail bikes, too. A MaxxGrip up front with a MaxxTerra in the rear is found on many bikes due to its solid combination of traction, speed and durability.

Which Maxxis MTB Tire is Best For You? Terrain and Riding Type Guide

(Graphic is from 2018, some models may no longer be available and some newer models may be missing)

Maxxis Mountain Bike Tires for XC Riding

Ardent, Ardent Race, Aspen, Aspen TT, Crossmark II, Forekaster, Ikon, Pace, Rekon, Rekon Race, Severe

Maxxis Mountain Bike Tires for Trail Riding

Aggressor, Ardent, Ardent Race, Assegai, Dissector, Forekaster, High Roller II, Minion DHF, Minion DHR II, Minion FBF, Minion SS, Rekon, Shorty, Snyper

Maxxis Mountain Bike Tires for Enduro Riding

Aggressor, Assegai, Dissector, High Roller II, Minion DHF, Minion DHR II, Minion SS, Shorty

Maxxis Mountain Bike Tires for Downhill Riding

Assegai, Dissector, High Roller, High Roller II, Minion DHF, Minion DHR II, Shorty, Wetscream

Maxxis Tires Comprehensive Guide

(Information, names and offerings subject to change)

For up-to-date sales on Maxxis Tires,
visit the Vital MTB Deals page.

Vital MTB Gravity Tire Shootout in Whistler

Vital MTB Front Tire Round-Up Test

Tire Discussion in the Vital MTB Forums