Tread Maxxis bills the Assegai as the tyre that’s “built to go fast everywhere”. Delivering huge traction and predictability in a wide range of trail conditions, it’s easy to see why the Assegai has very quickly become such a favourite with riders in the Tweed Valley. A centre based on the Minion DHF and DHR II give great braking performance and High Roller II derived side knobs deliver great cornering traction. A row of smaller ‘intermediate’ teeth between the centre and cornering knobs gives the Assegai an incredibly consistent feel at all lean angles. Casing The newly updated EXO+ sidewall is a step-up in puncture protection from the EXO, but not as protective as the heavier DoubleDown casing. Giving a good balance between weight and rigidity it’s a popular choice for Trail and Enduro Riders. Compounds MaxxTerra Maxxis’ MaxxTerra compound set gives a good blend between longevity and traction. While not as soft as the full traction but fast wearing MaxxGrip, a MaxxTerra tyre will last longer and roll slightly faster while still providing good levels of traction. MaxxGrip MaxxGrip is Maxxis’ softest, tackiest rubber compound set and as the name suggests, provides the maximum amount of grip. However, a soft, grippier, tyre typically won’t last as long as something with a slightly harder compound.