Maxxis Minion DHR II

I recently had the opportunity to test the Maxxis Minion DHR II, and overall, it left a strong impression on me. Here’s a brief review covering key aspects:

Cornering:
The Minion DHR II’s cornering capabilities are truly impressive. The tall and stout side knobs, reminiscent of its Minion predecessors, deliver outstanding grip when leaning into turns. The round-ish profile ensures a seamless transition when shifting from center to side knobs, providing a confident and predictable feel. The supportive sidewalls add to the tire’s stability during aggressive cornering, even at lower pressures.

Pedal Traction:
Designed primarily as a rear tire, the DHR II excels in providing ample pedaling traction. The large, widely spaced center tread with paddle-shaped knobs offers a strong bite, especially on hard dirt and smooth rock. The 3C MAXX TERRA rubber compound enhances traction on various surfaces, making it a reliable choice for demanding climbs.

Braking Traction:
The braking traction of the Minion DHR II is exceptional. The large, widely spaced center tread knobs, with their paddle-like design and a soft rubber compound, effectively dig into surfaces, ensuring reliable stopping power. Whether on loose and sandy terrain or hard-packed dirt, this tire inspires confidence in its braking performance.

Rolling Resistance:
Considering its aggressive tread, the Minion DHR II surprisingly manages rolling resistance quite well. On paved and hard surfaces, it rolls relatively quietly, and the ramped front edges of the center tread knobs contribute to efficient movement on the trail. While there are faster rolling tires available, the DHR II strikes a good balance between traction and rolling efficiency.

Ease of Installation:
Installing the Minion DHR II is reasonably straightforward. While it may not be the easiest in the test, it can be mounted mostly by hand, with a tire lever needed for the final bead. Seating the bead is easily accomplished with a floor pump, making it manageable for home tire swaps.

Price:
The Maxxis Minion DHR II is priced at a premium, but its performance justifies the cost. For those seeking a rear tire for aggressive trail riding, the combination of traction, cornering confidence, and durability makes it a worthwhile investment.