Rubber Compound:

• MaxxSpeed Compound (New 2023 Version): This is Maxxis’ top-shelf rubber compound for XC racing, replacing the older 3C MaxxSpeed.

• It is a single, high-silica content compound that significantly reduces rolling resistance (claimed to be over 25% lower than the previous version) and enhances wet traction.

Casing/Carcass:

• 120 TPI (Threads Per Inch): The tire uses a high-density casing.

• This provides a flexible, lightweight, and supple carcass that conforms well to the terrain.

• Folding Bead: The tire uses a flexible aramid fiber (often referred to as Kevlar) bead, which is lighter weight and easily transported.

• Single-Ply Construction: The casing is made of one layer of nylon wrapped from bead-to-bead, contributing to its light weight.

Protection:

• EXO Protection: This is a material added to the sidewalls.

• The densely woven, lightweight, and highly flexible fabric provides extreme cut- and abrasion-resistance, ensuring durability on treacherous XC trails without affecting performance.

Rubber Compound:

• Dual Compound: Two different compounds are used in the tread to offer lower rolling resistance and increased cornering grip. This configuration is generally best suited for dry, hard conditions.

• (Note: The Ikon is also available in 3C MaxxSpeed, which uses three compounds, but the “Dual” compound is one of the standard options for this specification).

Puncture Protection/Sidewall:

• EXO Protection: This is a densely woven, lightweight, and highly flexible fabric material added to the sidewalls.

• It is extremely cut- and abrasion-resistant, enhancing durability for gravel, XC, and light-duty trail riding without affecting tire performance.

Casing/Carcass:

• 60 TPI (Threads Per Inch): This casing density is commonly used in this version and offers a balance between low weight and durability.

• Folding Bead: It uses a foldable bead, which saves weight and allows the tire to be folded for transport.

Tubeless Technology:

• Tubeless Ready (TR): The tire bead is designed to securely lock to a tubeless-compatible rim.

• This allows riders to use lower air pressure for improved traction and reduced rolling resistance, significantly lowering the risk of pinch flats (flats from an inner tube).

Rubber Compound:

• Dual Compound: Two different rubber compounds are integrated into the tread.

• This features a firmer rubber at the base of the knobs and a slightly softer rubber on the top of both the center and side knobs for a simple construction that balances rolling efficiency and grip.

Casing/Carcass:

• 60 TPI (Threads Per Inch): The tire uses a single-ply casing with a 60 TPI density.

• Folding Bead: It uses a flexible, foldable bead, which is lighter than a wire bead.

Protection:

• EXO Protection: An extremely cut- and abrasion-resistant material (a densely woven, lightweight, and flexible fabric) is added to the sidewalls.

• This provides enhanced resistance against punctures and abrasions on rocky, treacherous trails.

Rubber Compound:

• 3C MaxxSpeed Technology: This uses three distinct rubber compounds within the tread.

• The primary compound (beneath the tread) is the hardest, while a medium compound is used for the side knobs to enhance grip, and the hardest compound is used for the center knobs to minimize rolling resistance and maximize longevity.

• This combination is Maxxis’ fastest compound recipe for Cross Country (XC) racing.

Casing/Carcass:

• Single-Ply Casing: The tire uses a single layer of casing material.

• 60 TPI (Threads Per Inch): This casing density offers a good balance of low weight, flexibility, and durability for XC applications.

• Folding Bead: The tire uses a flexible, foldable bead, which saves weight and allows for easier installation and transport.

Protection:

• EXO Protection: This is a material added to the sidewalls that is extremely cut- and abrasion-resistant.

• This densely woven, lightweight, and flexible fabric enhances the tire’s durability without significantly affecting the weight or performance.