Maxxis Aspen AT 32" review: The perfect 32-inch tyre?

We were one of the first specialist media platforms in the world to test the Maxxis Aspen AT 32”. But hang on a minute: at the moment, a test of a 32-inch tyre is likely to be of practical relevance to only a handful of mountain bikers out there. According to rumours, however, that could change as early as next year. Industry insiders predict that 2027 will see a host of new MTB and gravel models featuring the new wheel standard. Our test provides an early indication of whether the Maxxis Aspen AT could be a top pick for 32-inch bikes.

Conclusion

Admittedly, the Maxxis Aspen AT 32” The competitive landscape. Apart from the wheel size, however, the souped-up Aspen is an extremely exciting tyre for a wide range of uses. The AT is likely to win over many fans, particularly amongst riders of race and downcountry bikes. The tyre we tested offers all the benefits of large 32-inch tyres without becoming too heavy. Exciting times! - Jan Timmermann, BIKE editor

The Maxxis Aspen AT 32” in detail

• Test model: Maxxis Aspen AT MaxxSpeed Exo TR
• Intended use: Cross-country / Down-country
• Dimensions: 29 x 2.4”
• Weight: 913 g (BIKE measurement)
• Price: 74.90 euros >> Available here at a reduced price

All-terrain tread pattern

The Maxxis Aspen was the world’s first 32-inch tyre to be presented to the public as a production-ready model. Initially, only a minuscule number were available. The 32-inch format wasn’t even in its infancy, and the first tyres were trickling into Europe only very slowly. As more and more manufacturers began experimenting with 32-inch mountain bikes, demand suddenly rose from zero to the dozens and eventually to the hundreds. Maxxis responded by adding both an ST and an AT variant to the classic Aspen tread pattern. BIKE managed to get hold of a Maxxis Aspen AT 32” early on and carry out initial tests. Customers can, of course, purchase the tyre in 29-inch size, but the 32-inch version is already available for purchase as standard.

Maxxis itself describes the Aspen AT as the logical evolution of one of the most successful cross-country tyres ever. Indeed, a striking number of World Cup pro bikes are fitted with the classic Aspen. The tread pattern of the new AT version has been adapted for technically demanding routes to give the bike a little more confidence. As a result, the Aspen AT is already venturing into the territory of lightweight trail and downcountry bikes, whilst remaining true to its racing DNA and continuing to roll efficiently. This means the tyre could also be suitable for versatile touring use away from the race track. The Aspen AT is also approved for 32-inch e-bikes. Whether this offers a glimpse into the future remains to be seen.

The next big thing: 32-inch downcountry

Compared to a standard Aspen of the same dimensions, a Maxxis Aspen AT in 29 by 2.4 inches weighs exactly 77 grams more, according to our measurements. That isn’t much, bearing in mind that the knobs play a more decisive role in the weight the larger the tyre diameter becomes. Cross-country racers are nevertheless unlikely to opt for the extra 154 grams of weight that an AT tyre would add to both the front and rear. They’ll do just fine with a classic 32-inch Aspen – at least as long as the route isn’t littered with wet roots. Visually, the AT differs fundamentally from its sister tyre.

The superior roll-over characteristics and minor shortcomings in terms of wheel inertia have already been discussed at length in the context of the 32-inch debate. Naturally, the 32-inch Maxxis Aspen AT also comes with these advantages and disadvantages. The larger size improves grip and traction. In practice, the AT 32” offers even more potential than one might expect. Compared to the standard Aspen, its knobs are also well suited to deeper terrain. In wet conditions, the tyre has decent self-cleaning properties. Overall, the grip is impressive and makes for an enjoyable ride, even on the trails.

So far, the 32-inch tyre has primarily been intended for cross-country use. However, our tests confirm that the large Maxxis Aspen AT is suitable for use well beyond the XC circuit. We particularly appreciated the combination of rolling efficiency, reasonable weight and traction on varied routes over gravel, forest tracks and trails. For all non-racers, the Aspen AT is currently likely to be one of the most versatile – and therefore perhaps the best – 32-inch tyres on the market. We can also recommend the combination of an AT at the front and a standard Aspen at the rear. The extra grip is most welcome on the trail and makes the tyre ideal for varied downcountry riding.

Strengths and weaknesses

Pro

• a successful combination of grip, traction and efficiency
• wide range of applications
• a manageable increase in weight compared with the Aspen

Cons

• wheels, forks and frames that have so far been largely incompatible

What do you think: which of the 32-inch tyres currently available would you fit to your bike? Let us know in the comments!