After years of teasing, Maxxis finally releases its fastest XC tyre

After years of teasing, you can now buy the Maxxis Aspen ST

By Jack Luke

Published: Saturday, 20 April 2024 at 20:42 PM

The Maxxis Aspen ST is a new ultra-low-profile mountain bike tyre for short-track cross-country racing.

The tyres’ low-profile central tread pairs staggered patches of file-like tread and low-profile chevrons. The cornering knobs are the same as seen on the regular Aspen. 

The ultra low-profile tyre is designed for fast racing in bone-dry condition. – Jack Luke / Our Media

Spotted for years on pro bikes and favoured by Nino Schuter, the specialist tyre has been on show at Sea Otter Classic and is now available for public purchase.

Maxxis Aspen ST - Team Spec hot patch
The limited-edition Team Spec tyre has a 170 TPI casing. – Jack Luke / Our Media

The Aspen ST is available in 120 TPI or 170 TPI casing options.

The 170 TPI option is a limited-edition run and is pitched by Maxxis as a high-performing option only suitable for race days.

Both versions are available in 2.25 in and 2.4 in wide options.

Maxxis Aspen ST - Team Spec hot patch
The side knobs are the same as the regular Aspen. – Jack Luke / Our Media

All Aspen ST tyres use Maxxis’s recently updated MaxxSpeed compound.

Maxxis expects riders will use the Aspen ST front and rear in bone-dry conditions, pairing it with a regular Aspen front tyre in wet weather. 

The limited-edition 170 TPI tyre costs $101 and the 120 TPI version $93.

Adding to the tyres already impressive palmares, Santa Cruz – HTSQD rider Keegan Swenson won the Fuego XL 100 XC marathon race at Sea Otter on board the new tyres.