Earlier this year Maxxis released an updated version of its Minion DHR, a rear-specific tyre popular with downhillers and all-mountain riders. We needed a tyre that would survive a week of blasting down Alpine trails so we needed something wide, with dual-ply toughness and a good reputation.

The new Minion DHR2 ticks those boxes. When Maxxis redesigned this tyre they sought to improve it in every way, so we’re looking at better performance under braking, cornering ability and better grip. Lots of people preferred to run the Minion DHF on the rear so one step in the process was to borrow the side knobs from that tyre.

Maxxis combined new shoulder knobs with a new central tread section. Alternating large single blocks and pairs of smaller knobs, placed closer to the centre than the previous tyre, gives the tyre much improved braking and acceleration performance. There’s much siping in evidence across the knobs to allow them to conform to the trail.

I tested the 2.4-inch, wire bead, two-ply 60a durometer version of the tyre, paired with a current Minion DHF up front. The new tread provides loads of grip, with a noticeable improvement in straight line braking. It feels like there’s a lot more traction on offer. You really have to wring this tyre hard to get it to feel squirrelly under braking into corners. It’s pretty damn good.

The Maxxis Minion DHR II rolls fast too, for a tyre of this size and weight. It picks up grip out of corners well, allowing you to get on the power and pile on the speed. Finding traction over all manner of terrain, from loose rocks to slippery mud and tangled roots, the Minion lets you push hard.

With its dual-ply casing it’s no lightweight, but choose a single-ply Kevlar-beaded version (when it’s available) and you should have a great all-mountain tyre for the rider wholikes to hammer the trails and doesn’t want to compromise.

If you don’t mind the little extra weight, it’s a great tyre for riders who hammer the hell out of their bikes and kit and want the best possible performing tyre.

The Minion DHR II is now a worthy rear tyre to match the awesome Minion DHF. Good work Maxxis.

Verdict

Maxxis deliver on their promise with the all-new Minion DHR II, grip, braking, acceleration and all-round hammering potential are greatly improved.

Price: £47.99
Weight: 1,265g
UK supplier: ONE Industries Europe
More information: Maxxis’ Minion DHR II page