Ardent Race

XC (Cross Country)
Trail

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The Maxxis Ardent Race shares many features with the Ikon – small, ramped center tread – but offers improved cornering performance with more substantial side knobs.

Rubber:
- Dual compound
- 3C MaxxSpeed compound
Casings:
- 60 TPI + EXO (general XC use)
- 120 TPI + EXO (race use)
Tubeless Ready specs are denoted with a “TR” in the tables below
Bicycle technology explainer

Category: XC Race and XC

Recommended use: Dry to mixed XC trail conditions

Recommended installation: Front or Rear

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Performance Ratings

Rolling Speed

Cornering Control

Braking Traction

Specs

Available Technologies

3C MaxxSpeed

Used primarily in cross country (XC) tires, the two compounds in the outer layer are specially formulated to reduce rolling resistance and optimize treadwear and traction.

*Note that the 3C MaxxSpeed compound is being phased out for the new MaxxSpeed launched in April 2023.

Diagram of Maxxis 3C MaxxSpeed compound construction.

EXO

EXO is a cut- and abrasion-resistant material added to the sidewalls of many Maxxis mountain bike and gravel tires. This densely woven fabric is lightweight and highly flexible, ensuring that the performance of the tire remains unaffected. Choose EXO Protection for enhanced durability for gravel, XC, and light-duty trail riding.

Tubeless Ready

Tubeless ready tires provide the rider with many benefits: the ability to run lower air pressures, which improves traction; lower rolling resistance when compared to a tube-type tire; and less chance of flatting because there is no tube. Tubeless ready tires are denoted by the letters “TR” on the sidewall.

Tubeless ready tires must be mounted to tubeless compatible rims and require the use of a liquid sealant to maintain pressure. Liquid sealants have the added benefit of sealing small punctures. Be sure to check your sealant regularly and refresh as needed as it will dry out over time.

Liquid sealants should only be used in the following types of tires: tubeless road, tubular, and tubeless ready. The use of liquid sealants in any other Maxxis tire will void the warranty.