MAXXIS ASSEGAI

Tester: Ryan Walsch

Casing: Double Down

Compound: MaxxGrip 3C

Weight: 1348g

Size: 29x2.5” (27.5” and 2.6” also available) Width on DT Swiss 30mm rim: 59mm

PSI for testing: 24/26.5 front/rear

RRP: $134.95 kwtimports.com.au

The Maxxis Assegai was developed with the GOAT, Greg Minnaar. His signature tyre needs little introduction having been wildly popular for a few seasons. Its aggressive tread pattern finds traction at all lean angles on a broad spectrum of surfaces making it an exceptional choice on both front or rear. All this tractions does come at a cost of rolling resistance and pedalling efficiency.

The Double Down Casing we have on review is obviously a stiffer and more robust casing than the EXO and EXO+ casing we often see installed by manufacturers on complete bikes. The added strength has become more of a requirement for the capable bikes we charge on today. They’re still easy to fit and inflated easily with a track pump.

Thanks to deep tread, the Assegai manages to claw its way into most surfaces, clings to rocks and with its many multidirectional edges and siping even finds purchase on loose over hardpack with predictability. I am always impressed how uneventful rides around Canberra are with the Assegai. However I prefer it as a front tyre as we don’t have the vert or steeps required to need such an aggressive tyre on the rear of a bike – you’ll struggle to get this to slide into corners, it may even stand up under braking as it finds too much traction.

Braking and directions changes are really where the Assegai stands out, the steeper and faster the better, especially in the MaxxGrip 3C compound tested. Regardless of lean angle, there does always feel like there is enough grip on all surfaces I tested it on, wet or dry.

The Double Down casing adds a fair bit of heft over the EXO+ but it really does add security and surefootedness when the going gets rough, fending off sharp rocks and squirm easily without the ride feeling dead and sluggish like a DH tyre can. I find when pairing the Assegai with a Maxxis DHR II or even a Dissector a predictable slide can be encouraged more easily and it made the ride feel more lively than just turning on rails.

The Maxxis Assegai DD 3C MaxxGrip is a tough and predictable allrounder that will hang onto to almost any surface regardless of the conditions. Be mindful that all this grip comes at a cost, and a faster rolling rear may be required to keep your speed up.