Riding the (sticky) bandwagon! Maxxis tire review

I’ve been riding Maxxis tires on a few of my mountain bikes for three months now, and in a pretty good variety of trail conditions, which lead me to posting this review. I used to work at Wilderness Trail Bikes, also referred to as WTB, and still enjoy many of their tires. However, Maxxis has the largest share of the bicycle market, and their tires are much more common in the field. Since I’m not officially affiliated with WTB, this has been a great chance to spend some time sampling some of the best tires from Maxxis.
In front, I’ve been using the grippy Assegai 29x2.5WT Double Down with MaxxTerra rubber: bit.ly/MaxxisA... (affiliate link)
In rear, I’ve enjoyed the fast rolling Aggressor 29x2.5WT Double Down in most conditions:
bit.ly/MaxxisA... (affiliate link)
A more aggressive rear tire option that I’ve liked a lot in the wet is the Minion DHR II 29x2.4WT Double Down MaxxTerra: bit.ly/MaxxisD... (affiliate link)
As for bikes I’m riding here, there are a few sneak peaks of the Ripmo V2 that I’ve been really enjoying this fall. Learn more about the Ripmo V2 here: bit.ly/RipmoAF... (affiliate link)
The Yeti SB130LR absolutely blew away my expectations away this year, and I’ve made a couple rad changes to it that I’m excited to share in an upcoming video. To learn more about the SB130 hit the link! bit.ly/YetiSB1... (affiliate link)
The fancy Endura clothes I'm wearing:
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bit.ly/EnduraB...
bit.ly/EnduraS...
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The Orbea Occam is an amazing bike, and I’m currently dialing this bike in for a longer term review in the winter: bit.ly/OrbeaOc...
Big shout to my sponsors! Thanks to Jenson USA, PNW Components, Industry Nine, and Shimano- and any purchases from the below links to Jenson USA will help support my channel:
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How to levitate out of corners: / 55607066
Three simple cornering tips: / 54371316
How (and when) to rock roll or drop: / 53126562
How to jump with fluidity- and not DEAD SAILER! / 51914476
How to Lanual: / 50695443
How to climb ledges without a bunny hop: / 49476021
Which brake to use when: / which-brake-to-48108425
Different bikes, different riding techniques: / 46925782
How to ride FLAT PEDALS through the ROCKS: / how-to-ride-flat-45662347
How to ride wet roots and steep chutes: / 44507851
How to ride with style: / how-to-ride-with-43349450
How to jump for height vs distance: / 42202183
Common manual questions answered: / 41006264
How to land jumps: / 39928153
My 3 favorite skills drills: / if-i-could-only-38809964
How to manual: / how-to-manual-37684861
Cutty: / 36579859
Manual a berm: / 35496772
How to ride in Sedona: / 34436065
Switchbacks: / 3-ways-to-33345804
Nosewheelie: / 32742504
Bump jump: / 31881231
Trials basics for trail riders: / 31145344
Tight berms: / 30389457
Aggressive braking: / 29579507
Confidence for mountain biking: / 28817411
Cornering: / 27981205
Flowing/pumping down the trail: / 27288868
Stoppie through turns: / 26296762
Technical climbing: / 25234847
Boost jumps: / 24161821
Bunnyhop: / 23396959
Utilizing the wheelie on the trail: / 23017910
How to wheelie: / 21879606
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[@flyman_0]

Would definitely recommend giving the Dissector a try when the dirt dries up again. It doesn't hook up quite as well as the DHR2 in the wet, but it rolls basically on par with the aggressor with a bit more weight. Assegai+Dissector has done really well for me in nor-cal dirt.

[@SamMose]

Run this set up on my DH rig, best set up I’ve found.

[@SpencerBaum]

Dissector is a fantastic rear tire! The only issue I've found with it is how fast it disintegrates, especially the Maxx grip version. My dissector lasted me About 4 months

[@marcelknop1]

I tried the Dissector once - runs well but the side knobs were tearing after 3 rides. Never bought one again. I think I got 150km out of the tyre

[@tyk9204]

Love the dissector but it wears out in 30-60 days in AZ, this included the 'long wearing' DC version. I moved on to something else that lasts longer and is cheaper than $95 a pop.

[@dirteatinggrin]

I second this. Dissector is my go-to rear instead of DHR nowadays. I ride in the Okanagan and all over BC. I only run Double Down though, definitely don't have the wear issues others are complaining about below you.

[@Coolcmsc]

Great vid! Agree with DHR at the rear and MaxTerra front and back. I find the Assegai at front fantastic, but it’s more sticky than the DHF (30%??? when I did a simple roll to stop comparison). Yes, the DHF doesn’t have quite the outright performance of the Assegai up front, but I’m 65 and still riding hard and the arthritis is making me less limber and I simply not as strong or fit as I was, however hard I try. My point, well, some of us can’t exploit the Assegai fully and if our athleticism is waning a bit too, then the DHF is a fantastic companion to the DHR out back. And DD casing every time. MaxTerra vs MaxGrip? I’d make the same case as the Assegai vs the DHF: if you’re really fit and your front is slipping because you’re skilled and simply ripping the trail fast, then go MaxGrip. But if you need some coaching, to stop the front slipping and maybe not that fit, then go for the Terra and a subscription to Kendall’s Patreon! 😊

[@ryanbuchan3158]

Hey Jeff, I ride the shore all the time in all seasons and use DHF maxxgrip exo 2.5 front and DHR2 maxxterra exo+ 2.4 (with cushcore f+r) and love that combo. I also love to ride really aggressively on trail and push hard into turns while learning the bike over but don't feel like the DHF slides out ever. I really think you need to try the maxxgrip compound on the front it's totally different.

[@spuddo123]

I'm certainly no expert, but I believe that your TPI explanation is incorrect. The reason that 120TPI is weaker than 60TPI is because the individual threads in 120TPI are smaller (and therefore weaker, but lighter and more flexible) to be able to fit more of them in the same space. The nylon threads are the strong part of the casing and the rubber just holds them together and gives them durability.

[@edouble0325]

Actually no. The 120 TPI tire is weaker and the threaded are weaker than 60TPI. The reason why 120 is weaker is it acts like a barrier between the rubber layers without much rubber pass through (also why it’s lighter (more rubber can get squeezed out. The 60TPI let’s the rubber flow through it creating a stronger matrix. The rubber is actually a lot tougher than is realized. It’s a ticker layer of both materials. Nylon on its own pretty weak

[@spuddo123]

@@edouble0325 That makes a lot of sense!

[@TheyForcedMyHandLE]

I think the issue is people are using "strong" when they may mean "tough", and "tough" when they may mean "strong". Buffalo muscle is though and strong when overcooked.

[@jamieshebubakar5110]

If you wanted fast rolling and loose upright and with tipped over on rails grip you should have tried the Dissector on the rear. Assegai + Dissector ftw. Also EXO+ up front and DD casing in the rear. FYI the Dissector also works up front I use this on my trail bike with the Aggressor on the rear. For a fast rolling combo.

[@GD-gj6mn]

I run Vigilantes front and rear. I have left and gone back to this combo many times but cant seem to find a better tire combo for my personal style. Oddly WTB tires in general don't seem to have the same popularity as Maxxis I wonder ow much of this is marketing and that obscene yellow hot patch.

[@chadson5244]

Maxxis is way overrated

[@rrolleman4879]

@@chadson5244 I've run Kenda and Specialized tires in various combos, and I'm definitely not a follow-the-crowd type guy. But in the PNW/North Shore/Squamish areas I simply have not found better than Maxxis. I run DHR2's front and rear. I have an Assegai that I'll try for this winter just to give me a bit more traction in the wet. The DHR2 in exo+ (I like it a bit lighter) with MaxTerra is just an awesome tire.

[@chadson5244]

@@rrolleman4879 totally respectful choice,at least you tried different brands. But maybe if you had tried some Schwalbe or Michelin you wouldn't think alike.

[@SpencerBaum]

@@chadson5244 Michelin for the win! The Wild enduros just grip no matter what

[@NoBrakes23]

I hate that gross hot patch. I wish they'd offer their aftermarket tires with the OEM white/gray patch.

[@ilionatroya7129]

I agree about the DHF giving up traction in an unpredictable way. My favorite combo right now is 2.4 dhr2 front and 2.4 dissector rear. Assegai was just too damn slow rolling and it also was less nimble feeling. Dhr2 front and rear may be the best do it all combo.

[@Lockoman2100]

Totally with you in this. Assegai Front - DHRII Rear is one of the best combos if you want to lean your bike!

[@jonnysnakes5417]

Im normally a schwalbe guy but my latest bike came with assegais front and back, they felt great in pretty much every situation until weather turned and i was riding in a lot more proper mud so now ive got a pair of magic marys on the way for winter but will maybe put the assegais back on when it drys up a bit. Also really loved the wtb tyres i had on my nukeproof mega

[@shanetrammell]

I know this is old, and i havent even finished the vid, but i gotta say i love the squeak-overs you did for the brakes, and there is no way you think that tire name is pronounced ass-guy lollllll. Ok i will finish the vid now😂

[@kayakutah]

Regarding the DHF Vs the Assegai, I'm surprised at your analysis. I'm not the expert you are, for sure, but at least I'm also not a great rider, but with the DHF, you must lean the bike over more to press in the side knobs to corner. With the Assegai you can be more upright. I have to concentrate on the DHF to get body-bike separation to get enough lean on the tires. When I do, it's amazing. I can definitely be lazier and more upright on the Assegai.

[@fernandooliveira5852]

You should try the maxxis high roller, it’s a great rear tire, it has a lot of traction and corners really well when you lean the bike. It also let’s you slide the rear around corners (not skidding), which is one of my favorite things to do.

[@charlesrobinson6444]

Agree - I've got the HighRollerII (stock) up front and Aggressor out back on my Orbea Occam - rolls so well and not had grip issues. That said, heading into my first winter with this bike and combo, so let's see...

[@TheBlutark34]

Agreed, 3 of my group ended up on the old high roller II rear simply due to what was available in double down. As long as you're leaning the bike it goes well!

[@JoshuaCussins]

What Front Tire Should I Pick? (40mm Inner rim width) Assegai 27.5" x 2.6" exo+ (vs) DHR II 27.5"x2.8 exo ? Hello, thank you for the informative video. I just recently got a Yamaha YDX Moro. It came stock with CST 27.5"x2.8" tires on 40mm inner rim size front and rear. The bike is 53lbs and with all my gear, I'm around 137lbs. I am interested in the Assegai double down, but its not offered in 2.8" width, they do have a 2.6" but that only comes in exo+ (no double down for 2.6"). I believe I could run the 2.6" with my 40mm inner rim size? For example: I noticed the new Yamaha's moro 05 & 07 have the same 40mm rims but 2.6" tires. It seems there is no double down option for my rim width. I agree with your tire style. Im thinking of cramming a pool noodle in the tire if I can't find DD or DH. Lol Thanks again, nice shredding!

[@Subodai_1]

Assegai front and back for me. 👍

[@AHappyZeebra]

Life is short, treat yourself to a fresh set of tires. Kinda funny seeing this video given I just did that this morning. Good review 👌🏼

[@scottflowers8601]

DHR2 in front, aggressor in back for dry. DHR2 moved to the back with Assegai on front during winter. Good video, would like ur comparison of Maxxis and the Michelin enduros

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Thanks Scott, the Michelins have quite A few recommendations!

[@OliCM3]

Assegai 2.6 front, DHR2 2.5 rear, all year round.

[@anthonyteichroeb917]

what I found really interesting about this is I don't lean in corners anything like Jeff and I love the DHF.. cornering is also one of my weakest skills. could it be possible the DHF is better suited to an outdated upright riding style? would also like to hear your perspective on Conti/ Michelin tires.

[@laurynasjagelo5075]

A lot of people ride the Wild Enduros here in rocky-sloppy scotland. They really shine where the terrain is on the loser-side. 2.4 is more like 2.3 tho.

[@TheJofrica]

I've found the DHF actually easiest to lean in to corners with. It's the Dissector for me that is harder to lean over and probably lends itself better to a more upright riding style.

[@pieterdorrestein9286]

I tried the Assagai on two of my bikes but went back to DHF. The Assagai is great on soft forest dirt, hardpack but floats on loose sand with rocks and pebbles and cannot dig in well enough especially going fast.

[@thmsvd]

Would like to hear your opinion about the schwalbe line-up as well! Switched to magic mary/big betty combo lately (always rode maxxis stuff) and they've treated me really well!

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Right on Thomas, I've wanted to try Schwalbe as the Magic and Muddy get rave reviews.

[@th_js]

@@JeffKendallWeed The Magic Mary is absolutely amazing.

[@marcelknop1]

Was riding Maxxis. Had OEM Schwalbe on my Meta TR in 2019. Quickly switched to MAXXIS due to the Schwalbe side knobs tearing off after three rides on the rear. The front tyre grip was also useless in hindsight. Did not give Schwalbe another look until three months ago. I bought a new bike and they came with Schwalbe Magic Mary front and Big Betty rear. I am now a convert. The grip is amazing, have good rolling characteristics for the amount of grip available, and so far the side knobs seem to be holding out well. This compared to the DHR front Aggressor rear combo on my trail bike.

[@th_js]

@@marcelknop1 Did the side-knobs actually tear off literally, or did the bases just develop cracks?

[@th_js]

@@marcelknop1 And which tyres were they?

[@alejandronovelo1265]

Both are great tires. I enjoy both. Maybe it comes down to style and specific terrain when choosing brands and the best combos. I'll buy WTB over Maxxis. Things I also consider: They're a local company, are less expensive than Maxxis, and are more readily available. The best ability is availability.

[@danjelvantijnintellijel756]

Based on your advice about not using two of the same tire, why did Ibis spec the Ripmo v2 with dual Assegai? I noticed a lot of the Rocky Mountain 2022 line up now comes with Assegai front and DHR II rear.

[@LastAphelion]

Yeah annoyed seeing this as I'm considering getting a Ripmo AF and sounds like I'd rather have the DHR II out back and am already too budget constrained to be getting upgrades

[@tofarrell42107]

I was running a Trailboss in back and a Vigilante up front. I really liked that combination but they weren’t tubeless ready when I bought the bike. Switched to Maxxis just to try something new. I run an Ardent in the back and DHF in front. The Ardent rolls well but the Trailboss has more grip. I would say the DHF has a little more grip than the Vigilante.

[@evo5349]

EXO tyres are spec as they save battery on new e/bikes. DD tyres are harder on the battery life, but give great grip and 10 times better on no punctures I find.

[@Dempsey222]

Switched to exact same Maxxis setup Jeff has and will stick with Maxxis. Schwalbe is great tires. But Maxxis just offers more to the ride.

[@dzastafahrai]

My current setup is Assegai DD/DHR2 DD and for winter I swap front tire to WTB Verdict Tough. This works very well even on snow. On the casing topic, wouldn’t want to run anything below DD, it really helps suspension and prevent flats. Rolling resistance, don’t care as I prioritize grip and comfort more. You can be fast when you are confident. Heavy tires gives me that

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Right on man, thanks for the feedback!

[@BFD_Bike_Frames]

Jeff, have you ever tried the Continental Der Barrons? I was using Assegai up front until I tied the Barrons.

[@icacoroiu2507]

Don,t forget DerKaiser

[@marcelknop1]

I tried Assegai on the front once. I used the 2.6 DD Max Grip. I put this on the front without any change to the rear and found the rolling resistance terrible, so much so that I got rid of it after the third ride. The grip benefits gained were outweighed by the extra pedalling required, even on down hills. I found that where I was previously able to accelerate and overtake my friends on the downhill without having to pedal, I would need to pedal to simply keep up with them. I do like the Aggressor for its rolling resistance and grip, and the side knobs do not deteriorate as quickly as on some other tyres I have used. I am still using this tyre on my Trail bike on the rear, together with DHF on the front. My new enduro bike came OEM with Schwalbe Magic Mary front and Big Betty rear and I must say, after 600km of riding on them, I love those tyres. Good grip and so far they have held up well. Even the casings have held up and are not weeping any sealant, so much better than my MAXXIS which are now weeping after 300km of riding. I did not experience the weeping this quick before with the Maxxis and am starting to wonder if their materials have changed as the quality seems to have deteriorated.

[@JeffKendallWeed]

And thats why I'm glad we have comments! What works great for me in the steep PNW might not be the best somewhere else. Where are you located? Here we can't really pedal on our descents since they are so steep and rutted/rooty.

[@marcelknop1]

@@JeffKendallWeed I am in Tasmania, Australia. You should put it on your list to visit. We are developing quite a few trails here which you may have heard of before.

[@jamesc6876]

maxxgrip is too grippy for u, shud try Maxterra instead and maybe a lighter casing up front if rolling speed is more important than puncturing. assegai are still great in traction in maxterra over dhf maxxgrip. in wet dunno as much but in dry loose over hard it’s faster rolling and better overall traction than dhf mg

[@derekcote2686]

I just got a new YT Jeffsy (Love it!) that came with Maxxis Minion DHR 2.4 WT on front and back. I have noticed considerable front drift compared to my old ride with DHR/DHF set up. The DHF was way better on the front but I have been considering the Assegai for my new ride. Thanks, Jeff, for confirming my doubts about the DHR on the front.

[@mgoo1713]

The DHRII is a fantastic front tire. It's more predictable on off camber loose over hard compared to the DHF...

[@nickzarnetske9994]

I don't like following the bandwagon and always like trying something new but it's so hard to sort tires from the millions of options there are currently! I bought a new bike last year and it had a DHF/DHR tires and they've been awesome. I ended up needing another new set this summer and with the supply issues, and Maxxis' great tan wall color I just pulled the trigger on another DHF/DHR combo. Hoping next year to try out a DHR/Dissector combo to be honest.

[@micheandmikey]

This is the exact combo I just quit riding. I'm going to give you a set of Michelin Wild Enduro's to give a try Jeff..... you might never go back. ;)

[@scotty-sb1403]

I had the enduros on my yeti sb140 and now I’m on maxxis dhf/dhr2 combo and it’s an ideal combo

[@larsweibel6192]

@@scotty-sb1403 I ride the DHR 2 front and rear, works great

[@257sombra]

@@larsweibel6192 me too and i love it.

[@Perception_]

I've been looking at their tires recently but most of them have no 2.4 offering that would suit a 30mm rim best. I will have room for 2.5 in the frame, but I'm just uncertain if the shape of the tire will be wonky or not if mounted on a 30mm instead of 35mm rim.

[@offroadrepairman]

DHF is surprisingly good as a rear tire, and the only position I run it after assegai was released. It’s fast rolling, better traction than aggressor but lasts much longer than dissector. If I was in Sedona, moab, or galby doing unemployment line laps I would run aggressor most of the time. I was extremely pleased with wtb judge tough fast rolling as a rear tire. Then couldn’t find any more for sale and returned to a dhr2 max tera DD as primary rear tire for Colorado front range.

[@nkmtb]

I've noticed that Maxxterra compond gets quite slippery when the temperature gets closer to 0C and it's wet. Would be great to hear your thoughts about that if it gets that cold where you ride.

[@SuperEarplugs]

My DHR2 developed cracks last winter lol. Had very little grip too, they were absolutely useless compared to anything else I've ever ridden. Definitely getting something else for this winter.

[@nkmtb]

@@SuperEarplugs Schwalbes Soft compound has been pretty good in lower temperatures in the wet. I replaced my DHR2 with The new 2022 Nobby Nic Soft and it's been impressive so far. Now I need a new tire to the front as well.

[@nunyabiznes32]

Thanks for another great video Jeff! I was running a set of Specialized Eskar tires several summers ago and had the front wash out at Galbraith on the bottom section of Evolution. Slid headfirst into a tree. Thankfully was wearing a full face, but still injured my lower spine. Thought I might have paralyzed myself, but was able to ride out. Threw those tires in the trash and went back to Maxxis High Rollers (at the time).

[@charpayn1915]

I have spent time on tires from Specialized, Kenda, Michilen and Continental. I had braking issues with Specialized butchers and with the Kenda Pinners. Michilen was awesome for braking and rocks but I didn't like the wild enduro as a rear tire. Connintental was awesome and they worked well but lacked in dusty conditions. I switched to Maxxis a few months ago and they are amazing. In socal the dirt is dusty and the Assagai and aggressor are perfect. They handle great in braking and cornering. I have had trouble with climbing traction in the rear with an aggressor.

[@jamesc6876]

u ever try Kenda Regolith SCT 2.4 on the rear? i really like them as a faster lighter rolling dhr2 MT exo/exo+ for so cal with a lot of performance similarities

[@charpayn1915]

@@jamesc6876 I’ll look into te

[@TKn0eZ]

I’m running the same set up with the Assegai up front and the DHR II in the rear. Love it! I was running a DHF up front and I kept washing out on corners. So I completely agree with you. Great video!

[@gary6361]

Regardless of brand, go for a sticky/tacky compound for the front tyre. Makes a big difference in the way the bike handles. Gives you more confidence in the wet or when it’s loose.

[@lewisyang91]

Double maxxgrip Assegai all day; cardio needs work

[@ww8wv1]

The front washing out (as I call it) is terrifying to me because it’s the one time that you have zero control.

[@xav_1029]

Bontrager SE4 rear, Maxxis Assegai front for me. Great for pedally trails.

[@wessimpson2544]

Well my last bike a Canyon Strive - i rode 29’er maxxis minnion DHR II’s front and back. I now have a Trek Rail ebike the stock Bontrager brand tires very knobby but not working for my north GA trails mostly packed dirt some rocks and tons of roots. I just ordered 2 - 29x2.5 Assegail, terra, exo+. I just had washout 2 weeks ago on wet roots where the front wash out throwing me on my right shoulder breaking my collar bone. I was going to ride these stock tires until the wore out. Now I’m not sure that was such a wise choice since I’m down 6-8 weeks. I mean i could have crashed on any tires but i knew these were no Maxxis. So, i just ordered them the Maxxis which i wanted theDHR II for the rear but not in stock. So, when i recover it will give me more confidence.

[@257sombra]

i run maxxis dhr 2 29inch 2.6 front and rear all year around and it works great. but yes once again it all come down to the rider style of riding and tire pressure and terrain. great video man. hopefully in the future more videos comparing other brands. nice work.

[@spuddo123]

Assegai F and Dissector R (both Exo casing and rear with cushcore). Banger trail combo

[@oliverhauser436]

Hi Jeff, great vid. Appreciate your perspective. I tend to lean my bike a lot too. I’ve been running an assegai / dhr2 combo for sometime now. I’ve been considering going dhr2 front n rear. Curious to get your thoughts on assegai vs dhr2 up front. Have you run the dhr2 up front and if so how did it compare to the assegai up front? Thanks!

[@ichewtoast111]

2.6 trail bosses are low key amazing. I run mine 20PSI in the front and 22PSI in the rear.

[@berniestebar5004]

Tried wtb here in VT last summer and just couldn't jive with them. Cornering knobs rolled on me to much. Love my maxxis tires. What I really want to know is what's up with the ohlins fork? Hope to see a review on some more ohlins stuff soon. Thanks for the rad videos.

[@patrickkatzmair]

Exactly my tire setup. Assagai always in the front, DHR for Winter and Aggressor for Summer. And Dual Compound 60tpi on the rear, especially for Winter (front and rear)! 👌

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Right on Patrick! My Assegais are all MaxxGrip, and the Aggressors I have are the dual compound.

[@jgaytan91]

Jeff my local trails are pretty rocky and loose similar to Arizona terrain, would you recomend the combo trail boss tough fast rolling rear and vigilante light case in front? I'm and average trail/enduro biker looking for better grip in rocky terrain (climbing) and long last tires Thanks :)

[@steamtrac]

Hi, I am running the Kryptotal FR and RE at the moment and my front is washing out all the time... The transition is really soft, so this makes them easy to control, but I am not sure if the basic setup should be like this...

[@HeidiFegles]

Ya slid out and broke my fall with my collar bone, that was like 15 years ago, I always run a bigger tire or more aggressive tire up front but it’s all tread base. If I can run 2.5 front and rear but the rear is max terra so it breaks free. But it’s all feel and conditions.

[@leeseoWestport]

I could comment, but my biking skills are very mortal. My front always washes out before the back, but it’s most likely technique.

[@benferguson1762]

If your front tyre is washing out way ahead of your rear there are two things that are often over looked. 1 is your rebound speed too slow. The faster your rebound the more front end grip you will get....to a point. 2. Body position. Often having your weight too far back can let your front tire loose traction dew to a weight unbalance over the tyres. Try weighting your front in flat loose turns and se what happens. It can take quite a lot of confidence to try this but sometimes it helps

[@ThatPNWlyfe]

I’m looking at the Assegai front & DHRii for my Rocky Mtn Growler (hard tail). Glad to hear you endorse them for PNW winters.

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Totally. Though I will say I prefer the 2.8 front/2.6 rear on my 27.5 Stylus, as the extra traction and cush of the 2.6 rear has been nice. About to do some width tests soon, should be interesting! Jealous of your Growler, those are hard to get!!!!

[@amandapeine6745]

Every time I've gotten a bike with Maxxis I've broken a thumb. And I've pretty much bought a bike every year for 7 years.

[@trentvlak]

You can't judge their tires like that. A 2.5 Assegai with Maxx Terra Exo+ is a completely different tire than a DD MaxxGrip which is different than a Downhill MaxxGrip. All 2.5 Assegai. All completely different in feel and grip.

[@drewziraldo5407]

Nice, Assagai Front Dissector Rear is what I run in Sedona after trying the same ones as you.

[@bikingwithryan5968]

Can you do a vittoria mazza review

[@Cassienope]

I have been on a Mazza 2.6 for the last year. It's solid. Feels like a better DHF. But it is for sure on the DHF side. Just switched to a Tioga edge 22. Will be interesting to see how they performs.

[@vic62cu]

Wow you are a amazing individual! You ride crazy 😂 i dont ever think i can get to that level.. other than that i agree with everything you say on maxxis tires... 😮

[@LostBoyLA]

I just ordered an assagai dd front and rear last night. I didn't know that running the same wheel front and rear would cause the front wheel to slip out. Thinking about changing it now.

[@i.biker0016]

Hi Jeff, would u try maxxis highroller sometime?I would really like to know your opinion on that tire

[@jesrobles6405]

What town is this trail ? What is the trail name?? When I vacation in Washington I'm interested in riding it. My son and I prefer fast and flowy trails. Thanks for the contents u share

[@jaworq]

I like to ride 29x2.60 both front and rear : Scott Ransom

[@Jerrythill]

Bro, it’s all about the director rear.

[@haruo10]

With your rim comparison. Visually you ride more aggressively with narrow rim and more cruising easy riding with rider rim.

[@dman5703]

Dissector is my favorite now over the assagei simple assagei winter wall dissector summer

[@pseudomugilidae5897]

front wheel drift is a great way to make very close acquaintances with the ground. 0/10

[@matt-g-recovers]

I have 19mm ID rims. Can I run an Asagai or should I get a DHF? Similar terrain as you.

[@HeidiFegles]

Assegai replaced the dhf sorry fellas, now they are working on the ultimate rear.

[@VoltaDoMar]

Just switched to a DHR II 2.4 in the rear and Assegai 2.5 in the front

[@ChronoCard]

I've run DHF 2.3 /DHR 2.3, Vig 2.3/Vig 2.3, and am currently Vig 2.5/Trail Boss 2.4. Riding mostly in the Salt Lake Valley in Utah. I think the biggest problem with the Vig 2.3 is that there's a little...dead spot, I guess, where it feels that it's not going to hook up. I didn't get that with the DHF at all, but I did also notice that the DHF didn't like to be leaned over as much as the Vig. I do actually love the DHR as a rear tire. I feel like it's a very predictable and, dare I say, safe feeling tire. Did this entire season on the Vig 2.5/TB 2.4 and this combo really speaks to me. The TB looks really beat, but it somehow still finds grip. I also like to let the rear end dance a bit and feel like I have a better time with it over the DHR because of that. I think the Vig 2.5 up front is stupidly good. It doesn't have that same flat spot as the 2.3, but that could also be because I am now on 33mm ID rims. As I'm starting to lean the bike more and more, I think I may end up sticking the Vig up front. I'm curious about throwing a Judge in the rear would be out.

[@irnifilms]

Thanks for the debrief on those! What kind of casing are you running on the Vigilante? I too run a Vig(F)/TB(R) but both in 2.6 on a 27.5 wheel. Been looking at lighter, faster rolling alternatives from Maxxis but don't want to give up the traction and durability of WTB. They really take some abuse!

[@ChronoCard]

@@irnifilms I never got a notification about this! Front is a light/high grip and rear is light/high grip. I'm replacing the set this year. The knobs on the Vigilante still look good while the Trail Boss is lookin' pretty flat. The real reason though is that the sidewalls have gotten chewed up from the last few rides in Moab. Seriously, there's huge rubber patches missing, and I can see the woven nylon that forms the Slash Guard barrier, which probably means that I've come across many a sharp rock that would have ended a lesser tire. Overall very impressed with the traction and durability.

[@123109100]

I have Velociraptor on my mountain bike front and rear so much gripp its insane

[@franbelta1533]

Exo works for me and I ride a lot of rocky trails

[@msafirimhehe]

Great! Just installed new Maxxis Aggressor EXO 29 X 2.3 on my Scott hard tail both front and rear toady! I am curious how these gonna feel! Never used Maxxis before... Lol.. Thank you for the great review.

[@winjones8552]

Loving my Assegai front Highroller II rear combo right now, I think I prefer the high roller over the dhr

[@JeffKendallWeed]

Man I haven't ridden a HighRoller in a while but remember it fondly!

[@rogerjordan4460]

Could you try DHR front Dissector rear review?

[@bikenband]

I just installed that combo on my Ripley after running Assegai’s front and rear. The Dissector works great for me on the rear. The side knobs grip like the Assegai when leaned over and it rolls fast. The DHR on the front rolls REALLY fast and has has good grip when pushing hard in turns. That being said, I’m pretty happy with it, definitely worth trying. Really depends on how you ride. I lean the bike over alot and I weight the front when entering turns. I switched because I like to climb as well as descend which brings me back to the Assegai’s. If you’re looking to go downhill as fast as possible, the Ass’s grip like no other, but they are a handful on the climbs. Just my 2 cents.

[@NoOne56488]

I've washed out so many damn times on the DHF, Assegai not an issue at all.

[@mattturnerbikingmtb9359]

Not sure it’s been mentioned or not but your thumbnail looks to have the tagging for the Aggressor and Assegai flipped. At least that’s how I’m seeing it 🤷‍♂️. Liked the video!

[@chrisgravel7157]

Assegai Front, DHR2 rear is the most promenent combo in BC Sea to sky and most of the province where it gets at all wet. Agree 100% re conering and predictabilty of the Assegai. Its rare if ever it does anything wierd and if it does slide or break loose it recovers better than any other Maxxis tire I've tried. I'm going to move my maxx terra Assegai out back and put a Super tacky front as soon as it warms up a bit. The other tires I like are the Bontrager SE4, 5, 6 all made in same factory as Maxxis. Over DHF/DHR they offer better and more preditable cornering and faster rolling with only a slight loss in all out traction.

[@devinbyrnes8058]

The bike I bought came with DHF in front and DHR rear. I don't enjoy either. The DHF has poor spacing; I do not like the skittish feeling I get when I am going to the side knobs. And even full on the side knobs, I have had more washouts of the front than expected. Assegai are too knobby, I think DHF is the right amount of beef, but I will need to shop another brands entry in that category. The DHR 2.5 is a fine tire, but rolls too slow. Great braking power for a rear. My next tire will be the Dissector for some faster rolling. My trails have mostly slab and barren rock, with some loose dirt and rocky and rooty areas everywhere else.

[@AdellManey-c9j]

Lopez Donna Lopez Kimberly Thompson Kenneth

[@danytheunicorn95]

I agree, the DHF washes out too soon and feels unpredictable; I use the shorty´s now and much much better, but not as good as the vigilantes imo.

[@kingrat738]

Hearing you about dual ply being the way to go... Out back on my longer travel rig I'm running a Specialized Eliminator 2.6 Grid Gravity tire - which I suspect is basically their DH casing. Up front I'm running a 2.6 Magic Mary Super Trail, which is a misnomer as it's got all sorts of extra layers/protection in it... Somewhere between a DD & DH. For the bike and purpose, both tires do great 👍

[@Monkeyseemonkey79]

Lately I've been running an Maxxis Aggressor in rear, and (as Jeff suggests) the DHR II in the front - and I'm really liking the balance of grip and rolling speed. I'm not a fan of the DHF (it gets sketchy when leaning the bike), yet I find the DHR II hooks up in the wet and the dry. It's a little heavy/slow, but thus far my front end us been much more predictable in loose conditions and when leaning. The Aggressor feels much heavier than the Rekon I typically run, but it's more confidence inspiring in the wet and the braking performance is far superior. It's incredible how much difference tires make to the ride quality and handling of your bike.

[@markmoreno7295]

I too have used WTBs before. I think they roll better but the Maxxis tires go on and off so much easier. I run a Dissector rear and the DHR II up front. I am thinking of trying the Assegai on snow- probably front and rear. Won't ride fast so if rolling resistance is slower it won't matter. I am not an aggressive rider, (least wise not even close to you) so mostly I am looking for grip. On the flip side I want to try the Maxxis Ikon for asphalt. So far I have used Maxxis tyres with the Exo casing but the DD sounds interesting.

[@nrmrvrk]

Great video. Thanks for your honest opinions. I'd love to see you try a couple of other not-quite-as-popular (i.e.: not OEM'd) makes/models of tires as well. specifically... Vittoria (Mazza, Mota, Martello) and Schwalbe (Big Betty, Magic Mary, Hans Dampf)

[@RiderDon]

Assegai in the front and dhr2 at the back both in DD casing perfect combo for my enduro bike. I also run the same combo for my dh bike but in dh casing perfect for the north shore and Whistler bike park..cheers 🤘🏼

[@jacobflores6479]

In the car community, losing grip on the front tires and keeping grip in the rear is called UNDERSTEER. Which is just as scary if not way scarier than on my MTB 😂. You can turn your steering wheel all you want but with under steer you’re going straight into that wall you’re trying to avoid

[@jordanstewart987]

What width rear agressor paired with 2.5 width assegei front?

[@Hawkblitz1]

My SB130 came with the DHF/Aggressor Combo. Like you I haven't been a huge fan of the DHF, but am running it until it wears out and then sounds like I need to try the Assegai. I found the Aggressor to be a great tire in dry to "damp" conditions, but not to be a good tire in the PNW in the really wet winter months. I changed it out to a 2.4 Ardent I had laying around from ~Nov-March. That tire does a much better job on the slimy roots and rocks that develop in that timeframe. I would really like to hear how a Dissector works in the wet months as that may be by next rear tire. I also ran a DHR2 (front) with High Roller (Rear) on a Transition Smuggler I used to have. I thought that was a really good winter combo for a trail bike where you want something a little faster rolling but will shed mud good.

[@bikingwithryan5968]

Why tire would you recommend for east coast riding? Wtb vigilante/trail boss or maxxis assegai/aggressor? Thanks

[@Rockyrjas]

I stand by the Assegai 200% ! I have one in the front 2.6 and one in the rear 2.5 with DD for the South Florida trails. I never got a flat or bent my rims with them on there. I'm trying out the aggressor on the rear. I don't really like it as much. Especially now that I moved up to NC

[@stardustgirl1061]

My bike came with DHF 2.5 front and rear. Like you I just did not get along with the DHF. I went to Vittoria Mazza front and rear and it is amazing for PNW riding.

[@asafcohen3272]

FWIW, I had an aggressor 2.3 at the back and honestly I hated it. Felt like I was driving a tractor. Way inferior to dhr2. Aggressor 2.5 @front, on the other hand, serves me just fine.

[@tommycooperfish]

I find Maxxis give up real easy in the wet which is not a problem on the back but the front seems to wash in saturated conditions (shorty not included, but is too mud only specific). Cant find a decent front in the range that likes really slippy roots and rock gardens but have used other tyre brands (Schwalbe and Michelin) that feel like sandpaper to rubber levels of grip in the same conditions. I guess it helps getting regional specific tyres. I agree with the exo casing though I have to over-inflate by about 5-8 psi compared to a really well constructed DH casing to avoid sealant coming out on big hits.

[@hldedrick]

Hey Jeff... dhf/aggressor...this what I started with but like you said... front washed way too much rear fast but braking was a bit lacking... I rememer you suggesting the judge for braking and bite... then came dissector which in rear felt as fast as aggressor but rear corner knobs hook so good, but wears really fast imo the bite is awesome too. I also love it in front never washes out. Very fast. Look fwd to more content. Thanks for the awesome videos. Howard

[@yzlvr]

Try the newer Specialized Butcher T9 front and Eliminator T7 or T7/T9 rears.. I really like them on my ebike.. How about a review on the Ohlin's fork??

[@josemorenoporras7506]

Totally agree about the DHF,not for me...Those L shape knobs made the tire chatter at full lean,that made the fine edge of the grip very blurry. In the DHR2 it is not so noticeable if you use it in the rear... Assegai for the win, it is the best overall tire for Enduro/DH. Dead easy to ride.

[@scotttuttle1478]

Anyone try a Dual Compound Assegai in the rear?

[@ragged9242]

Let us know about the ohlins fork ✌🏻

[@SpeedBoosted136]

Great review !! I also suffering sometimes with front getting washed, but it's probably because of the rider :) Because i have Assagai MaxxGrip in the front, the grippiest tire