Maxxis has repurposed its Forekaster tyre for downcountry by reducing rolling resistance while maintaining grip, according to the brand.
The original Forekaster was a “wet weather option for XC” with what Maxxis called “wide middle knobs”.
Launched at Eurobike 2022, the new Forekaster is designed to have a closely grouped centre tread, taller side knobs for “cornering grip” and mud-shedding ridges on the tyre casing.
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As a result, Maxxis now recommends the Forekaster for “modern short travel (100mm-130mm) trail bikes”. Read: downcountry bikes.
With that, Maxxis describes the Forekaster as a “perfect companion for long, pedally rides in a variety of terrain”.
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The tyre fits between the brand’s cross-country tyres and more downhill-focused models, such as the Assegai.
Maxxis’ repositioning of the Forekaster is reflective of a wider trend towards downcountry tyres, with similar models including the Vittoria Syerra, Michelin Wild XC and Schwalbe Wicked Will.
Bigger and burlier
Maxxis adds that the Forekaster’s casing width has increased without specifying by how much.
The tyre is available in bigger volumes: up from 29×2.35in to 29×2.4in or 29×2.6in. There is no longer a 27.5in option.
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There are also two rubber compound options in each width – dual or 3C MaxxTerra.
The 29×2.4in Forekaster weighs a claimed 945g, while the 29×2.6in size is a claimed 1,035g.
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All size options have EXO sidewall protection and casings are tubeless-ready, according to Maxxis.
The Maxxis Forekaster starts at £59.99 with the 29×2.4in Dual Compound. The 29×2.4in MaxxTerra rises to £69.99.
The 29×2.6in Dual Compound costs £66.99.
Neither the 29×2.6in MaxxTerra price nor international pricing were available at the time of writing.