With its medium-height tread, the Ardent Race bridges the gap between the XC-oriented Ikon and the trail-oriented Ardent. The centre knobs are ramped to reduce rolling resistance, and the side knobs are angled and stepped to provide great biting traction in corners. Choose the Ardent Race for your next demanding XC race or epic trail ride. Maxxis 3C Triple Compound mountain technology uses a harder, longer lasting base layer and two progressively softer top layers in order to optimise traction and stability. Maxxis offers three different configurations of their 3C Triple Compound mountain technology; Maxx Speed, Maxx Terra and Maxx Grip. 3C Maxx Speed Maxx Speed is used primarily in cross country and endure tyres. The two compounds in the outer layer are specially formulated to reduce rolling resistance and optimise treadwear and traction. EXO Protection An extremely cut and abrasion-resistant material added to the sidewalls of select mountain tyres. This densely woven material is also lightweight and highly flexible, ensuring that the performance of the tyre remains unaffected. Exception Series (EXC) The EXCeption series of tyres is a combination of their 62a compound and their 120 TPI casing. This not only makes for a lighter model tyre, it also enhances cornering, braking, and acceleration. These tyres are recommended for race use only.