Maxxis Launch the New DHX Tire Alongside Their New Downhill Casing

It’s not every day we see an all new gravity tire from Maxxis, so the new DHX is quite an exciting prospect for us here! 

Maxxis already have some of the very best front tires ever made for gravity riding in their line up, with both the Assegai and High Roller adorning enduro and downhill bikes of everyone from world cup pros to casual riders alike. Both those tires give incredible grip levels in their ideal conditions (hardpack for the Assegai and soft for the High Roller) but neither is ideal at the opposite and both do roll relatively slowly.

Maxxis have of course always also had a fast rolling tire that could handle a bit of mud in the form of the Minion DHF. It was a benchmark tire back when it was new and was raced to massive success by Sam Hill in the noughties but it could also be tricky to ride for mortals with a big gap between the centre and side knobs and in recent times it has somewhat faded away, outdone by the predictable grip of the new models.

 Now, after twenty odd years, we finally have what looks to be very much its modern replacement in the form of the brand new DHX. Born from direct feedback from the world cup DH circuit and already raced to world cup wins by both Jackson Goldstone and Luca Shaw, the DHX is the next generation of dry tire, designed to roll fast and give massive grip and support for high speed, high load riding. 

A simple 2-2 pattern, the DHX combines massive, wide and ramped centre knobs with large and very well supported side knobs, to create a stable tread that won’t fold under side loads with a smooth transition from the centre tread to the side. Those large knobs with wide bases will also enhance durability and resist tearing and detachment better than a tall and narrow knob can, which should lead to more days of riding before retirement.

Alongside the new tread pattern, the DHX also debuts a new DH casing based around a dual ply 120tpi construction. With progressive stiffness levels throughout the sidewall, there is more rim protection than ever, while keeping the top of the tire supple enough to supply grip and comfort. Maxxis think the new casing should allow riders to get away with 2-3 psi less than previously; with the drop in pressure letting the tire rebound slower, improving grip and control. Weight is much the same as the previous DH tires, so there’s no penalty there for the improved performance. Needless to say, given the levels of support on offer, the DHX is also E50 E-Bike rated. 

At the moment the DHX is only available in MaxxGrip and the new DH casing, with the first tires expected to become available in the UK in September, and other options to follow later. We’ll have stock coming in the very first batch so keep your eyes out for them if you fancy one.