Maxxis has added a gravel race-specific tire to its range, the Reaver, which features a lightweight construction and unique tread pattern that has been designed to be fast rolling while still offering plenty of traction.
The Reaver will be the Maxxis' best gravel tire for racing and has already proven itself in competition. Andrew L’Esperance (Maxxis Factory Racing) won at Blue Mountains Gravel Fondo in June followed by Keegan Swenson (Santa Cruz htSQD) setting a new course record on the Reaver at the Crusher in the Tushar in July.
Maxxis says the Reaver has an all-new design with a tread pattern that isn't like anything we have seen on any of Maxxis' other gravel or MTB tires. The tires feature a shallow diamond pattern in the center which are said to roll quickly while still gripping in dusty or loose conditions. These are supplemented with horizontal paddle knobs which will help with acceleration and braking grip. Cornering is handled by larger side knobs which are staggered and sipped to improve traction.
Maxxis says that the Reaver is faster rolling, lighter, and has higher puncture resistance in the tread area than Maxxis' existing all-rounder option, the Rambler. However, the Rambler is still a preferable option if you are looking for grip in deeper gravel and mixed conditions rather than all-out off-road speed.
As the Reaver is a race-specific tire it comes in a single configuration. Measuring 700x40mm the tire features a 120tpi tubeless-ready casing with EXO sidewall protection. Riders will have the option of either all-black or tan sidewalls. Maxxis has confirmed that a 700x45c size will be available in the coming months too.
The Maxxis Reaver will be available in Autumn and will retail for $70.00 / £54.99.
