Maxxis . TB00333400

Next time you're out on your local trail system, keep an eye peeled and you'll notice way more than your fair share of Maxxis Ardent Tires on trail and XC bikes. That's not an accident. The Ardent is Maxxis' most versatile, and arguably most popular, tire, with two widths to suit all riding styles and a design that's equal parts fast rolling, grippy, and durable. All-mountain riders looking for extra traction would do well to mount up the 2. 4in option, while those who want more rolling speed should go for the 2. 25in width. Don't get confused, though; both options boast ramped center knobs to decrease rolling resistance and improve braking, and both have blocky side knobs that serve up tons of grip when you lay your bike over into a turn. The Ardent also uses Maxxis' EXO sidewall protection to fight off pinch flats and punctures, and it features Lightweight Ultimate Sidewall Technology (LUST), an extra rubber compound that makes the tire less permeable and therefore less susceptible to leaks. It's also set up to run tubeless, so you can ditch the annoying tubes and run lower pressures, which equates to better grip.