The MAXXIS Minion DHX Is Here: Can It Beat the DHR II?

Robert Wilson · 2026-07-29

From secret World Cup prototype to production tire, the new MAXXIS Minion DHX is built to be the ultimate gravity tire for dry conditions. But can this much-hyped newcomer live up to its race-winning reputation away from the tape? We put it through an extensive trail test to find out. **MAXXIS Minion DHX** | DH Casing | 2 x 120 TPI | 3C MaxxGrip | 1,549 g (29 x 2.5") | $86.00 | Manufacturer's website ### The Backstory: A World Cup Winner in Disguise The tire first appeared on the World Cup circuit in June 2025, fitted to Jackson Goldstone's Santa Cruz V10. At the time, it was an unnamed MAXXIS prototype, but its distinctive tread pattern quickly fueled speculation throughout the pits. What followed could hardly have gone better for MAXXIS. Goldstone delivered a phenomenal season, winning the overall UCI Downhill World Cup title before adding the World Championship to his tally. As of today, the mystery is over: the successful prototype has become the new Minion DHX. It expands one of the most iconic tire families in gravity riding, giving the long-standing Minion DHF and DHR II their first serious sibling in years. But is the DHX more than a cleverly marketed World Cup race tire? Or does it have what it takes to impress on everyday trails too? ### What Makes the DHX Tick? MAXXIS positions the new Minion DHX as a no-compromise gravity tire for dry conditions, the roughest trails, and maximum speed. One look at the tread tells you exactly what it's built for. Huge center knobs, heavily supported shoulder knobs, and plenty of siping define the tread pattern. The large knobs are designed to deliver outstanding braking traction and cornering stability, while the sipes allow the tread blocks to flex more freely. This helps them conform better to roots, rocks, and uneven terrain, generating extra mechanical grip. The DHX also occupies an interesting position within the MAXXIS MTB tire range. Rather than being designed exclusively as a front or rear tire, it's intended to perform equally well on both ends of the bike. MAXXIS is equally broad in its intended use. Whether you're racing downhill, lapping bike parks, or riding a heavy e-mountain bike, the DHX is designed to excel wherever dry conditions and maximum grip are the priority. ### On the Trail: Where the DHX Shines According to MAXXIS, the DHX matches the Minion DHR II for both rolling resistance and braking performance. In the corners, though, the new tire is said to offer even more in reserves, delivering a more precise and predictable feel at high lean angles. MAXXIS also claims that the transition from the center knobs to the shoulder knobs is exceptionally smooth, making turn-in more consistent and predictable. That said, the DHX isn't intended to be an all-round tire. Once conditions turn wet and muddy, MAXXIS believes the ASSEGAI remains the better choice thanks to its superior self-cleaning tread pattern. - **Braking:** The center knobs bite hard, giving you the confidence to brake late into corners. - **Cornering:** The shoulder knobs provide a solid platform, even at extreme lean angles. - **Transition:** The smooth ramp between center and shoulder knobs makes direction changes feel seamless. ### Casing and Compound: Built for the Rough Stuff At launch, the DHX will only be available with the new DH casing. With its progressively reinforced sidewalls, it's designed to cope with the tire's high cornering and braking loads while allowing riders to run pressures up to 3 psi lower. The tire is also exclusively available with the soft 3C MaxxGrip compound, underlining its gravity-focused intentions. MAXXIS is planning to expand the DHX range significantly later this year and during the first quarter of 2027. Upcoming versions will feature the updated MaxxTerra compound, along with the lighter DoubleDown and EXO+ casings. That should make a suitable DHX available for almost every type of riding and riding style. ### Verdict: Is the Hype Justified? After putting the DHX through its paces on everything from loose-over-hardpack to rocky, root-strewn descents, we can say this: it's not just a race-day special. The grip is phenomenal, and the predictability at the limit is something you have to feel to believe. If you're a gravity rider who prioritizes dry-weather performance above all else, the DHX is a worthy addition to your quiver. Just don't expect it to save you when the trail turns slick. The Minion DHX is available in both 27.5" and 29" sizes, so there's a version for most modern mountain bikes. Whether you're chasing podiums or just want the best possible traction on your weekend shred, this tire deserves a spot on your shortlist.