Higher, faster, further – MTB racing knows only one direction. Whether it’s more powerful motors, more capable suspension systems or more extreme trails. This is particularly evident in downhill racing. The speeds at which the World Cup pros hurtle through the terrain seem out of this world. It goes without saying that even the equipment will eventually reach its limits.
It’s not uncommon for the point of contact between the bike and the ground to be the first to take the hit: tyres that burst on rocky ledges like firecrackers. Tyre casings that buckle in bends like George Foreman did after Muhammad Ali’s left-right combination in the ‘Rumble in the Jungle’.
Maxxis is no longer content to just take it on the chin. The Taiwanese tyre giant is launching a counter-attack. But rather than dipping its knobbly ‘fists’ into gummy bears or love beads like Topper Harley in Hot Shots 2, it’s wrapping its toughest tyres in a brand-new DH carcass – ready to take on even the most gruelling trails.
Progressive carcass stiffness as the key
At the heart of the new development is a so-called progressive carcass stiffness . What on earth is that supposed to mean? Behind this lies an approach designed to combine two seemingly contradictory characteristics. On small bumps and rough terrain, the tyre is intended to perform comparatively smoothly, thereby providing grip and comfort. When the load increases due to high cornering speeds, hard compressions or impacts, the support provided by the sidewalls increases significantly – following a similar principle to that of suspension forks. Maxxis promises that this delivers a combination of traction and stability without having to make any compromises.
Lower pressures for greater control
One key benefit of the new design is the increased sidewall stability. According to Maxxis, riders can reduce the tyre pressure by around Reduce by 0.2 bar, without having to compromise on stability.
Lower tyre pressures are considered an effective way of generating more grip and control. The tyre can adapt better to uneven surfaces and creates a larger contact patch. At the same time, traction is improved on roots, rocky sections and loose terrain. The result is said to be a smoother ride, greater shock absorption and better control on technically demanding sections.
Greater protection without adding weight?
A look at the cross-section of the new DH casing shows how Maxxis intends to achieve its ambitious goals. In addition to a stiffer butyl insert, the new DH casing features additional sidewall protection. The individual layers overlap right into the shoulder area, which is designed to improve stability accordingly. Maxxis cites improved puncture resistance, which is intended to enhance reliability on tough trails. At the same time, the weight is set to remain at a similar level to that of the previous DH casing.
Maxxis DH Casing – Information
- Progressive carcass stiffness for the perfect balance between comfort and support
- Lower tyre pressure (around 0.2 bar) for better traction and a smoother ride
- Improved puncture protection for greater reliability
- Similar weight to the previous DH carcass
- Dual-ply 120 TPI carcass
- MaxxGrip rubber compound
- Tubeless Ready
- E25 or E50 certified
Conclusion from the editor’s perspective
If Maxxis delivers on its promises – namely greater stability whilst maintaining lower air pressures – then the upgraded DH carcass could well become the new star of the downhill scene. More traction, more stability, better puncture protection and greater riding comfort whilst maintaining the same weight? It almost sounds too good to be true.
Riders of heavy e-bikes could also benefit enormously from this development. This makes the new DH carcass a clear challenge to Schwalbe’s range of radial tyres. Is the competition already on the back foot before the first lap has even begun? Only the first tests will tell. In any case, bets are still being taken.
Stefan Frey
Editor