Something you don't see a lot of these days is a followup report on products, so I thought I'd post this in case someone is doing tire research. This is a mini review of sorts on the Maxxis MaxxCross IT and having come to the "flipping point", I'm ready to report what know about this tire so far.
First of all, given that I plan on changing tires about twice a year, I'm not overly concerned with the mileage factor...but I have exactly 135 miles on this tire and it's ready to be flipped. For those familiar with the East TN trail, I ride mostly Winrock on the Lake City side and I've seen mostly mud, loam, and creek-type rocks this season so far.
COST: $42 at rockymountainatv.com
SIZE: 110X100X18
PERFORMANCE: The tire is very sure footed in this terrain and I have yet to spin excessively going up some pretty long hills that could be classified as "four stroke" hills; you know, the type where you can't really get out of 2nd gear. In crossing creeks on slippery rocks, the tire, once again is sure footed. I've also had to cross several downed trees and logs and this tire will negotiate the obstacle well without simply "sliding" down or following the log.
The tire does, however slip a bit in very loamy conditions where an all out soft terrain tire would be better.
WEAR/LIFE: It looks like this tire will be thru at just about 200 miles, which ain't half bad. That includes flipping the tire at 135 miles. Also, about 25 miles so far has been on either paved or graveled road. There has been not noticeable chunking so far.
CONCLUSION: A very good tire for the money and I would definitely recommend it! (Although I plan on trying the SurCross next.)