Kenda and Maxxis unveil new mountain‑bike tires for cross‑country and downhill

Kenda launched the Dagger tyre, an evolution of its Booster XC model aimed at modern cross‑country racing. The Dagger adds more grip through a lower‑profile central knob layout, higher‑volume aggressive side knobs and a tread design that improves mud evacuation while retaining low rolling resistance. It is positioned between the low‑drag Rush and the aggressive Karma 2, with variants for XC, XCM and light trail use, and has been recognised at the Taipei Cycle d&i Awards. The tyre is now available across Europe.

Maxxis introduced a new downhill (DH) carcass and the Minion DHX tyre, developed over two years with World Cup riders. The DH carcass features progressive rigidity that stays supple on small impacts while providing extra lateral support in corners, allowing pressures 2–3 psi lower than previous versions. The Minion DHX is tuned for dry conditions, with reinforced shoulder knobs for high‑intensity support, comparable rolling speed and braking to the Minion DHR II, and can be used on both front and rear wheels for aggressive downhill, bike‑park and e‑MTB riding.