maxxis ikon gravel bike Ikon Tire – Thunder Mountain Bikes

• Dual compound, 3C MaxxSpeed, MaxxSpeed (2023) or 3C MaxxTerra
• 60 TPI or 120 TPI casing
• EXO puncture protection
• Tubeless Ready

Used primarily in cross-country (XC) tires, the two compounds in the outer layer are specially formulated to reduce rolling resistance and optimize treadwear and traction.

The new MaxxSpeed (2023) is the top-shelf rubber compound for XC racing. It’s a high-silica content compound that reduces rolling resistance while also enhancing wet traction. Compared to the previous 3C MaxxSpeed, the new compound has approximately 25% less rolling resistance in a lab setting (using the same tread pattern, construction, and tire pressure). In a real-world setting, testing shows the new compound can save up to a minute over the course of a 90-minute race.

EXO is a cut- and abrasion-resistant material added to the sidewalls of many Maxxis mountain bike and gravel tires. This densely woven fabric is lightweight and highly flexible, ensuring that the tire's performance remains unaffected. Choose EXO Protection for enhanced durability for gravel, XC, and light-duty trail riding.

Tubeless-ready tires provide the rider with many benefits: the ability to run lower air pressures, which improves traction; lower rolling resistance when compared to a tube-type tire; and less chance of flatting because there is no tube. Tubeless-ready tires are denoted by the letters “TR” on the sidewall.

Tubeless-ready tires must be mounted to tubeless compatible rims and require the use of a liquid sealant to maintain pressure. Liquid sealants have the added benefit of sealing small punctures. Be sure to check your sealant regularly and refresh as needed, as it will dry out over time. Pick up an extra bottle of sealant here. 

Liquid sealants should only be used in the following types of tires: tubeless road, tubular, and tubeless-ready. Using liquid sealants in any other Maxxis tire will void the warranty.