Maxxis Ardent Tyres

P-Jay

Anyone run them?

I've run highrollers for YEARS (I run 2.35's Maxpro rear, supertacky front) on a 6" FS bike.

I pretty much always ride trail centres so used to little or no mud in any weather so highrollers have been great.

But want to try some more XC style riding in Brecon and need a more all rounder tyre.

Fancy Ardent, like to keep in the Maxxis 'family' as I have trust issues and they haven't let me down yet.

What are they like in normal muddy conditions? I know they're no swampthing / wetscream.

Also they come in 2.2 and 2.4 flavours, what's nearest the 2.35 currently run? I know 2.4 seems obvious but I've been told they sit wide and 2.2 might be closer. I run Mavic EN521 rims so can't run 1.9's 2.1's etc.

MarkLG

The 2.25" Ardent comes up a touch bigger than the High Roller 2.35" - HR's are well know for being small for quoted size.
I've been running a UST pair this summer and have been pretty happy with them. They roll well and offer a decent amount of grip in the dry. The few times I've used them in the mud I've found them to be a little bit sketchy.
I had Maxxis Advantage 2.1's before and I thought they dug in a bit better in soft conditions. There definitely seemed to be more traction on steep climbs compared to the Ardents.
The 2.1 Advantage is about the same volume as the 2.35 High Roller, but they also do a 2.4".

stubs

Got an Ardent 2.25 on the front of my Commencal super 4 and I have found it to be a good all round tyre rolls well and grips in most conditions. I find its not too bad in mud because the mud clears off really quickly it doesnt get stuck between the treads. When I first started using it I thought I had made a mistake it felt a bit like it was going to slide but it never let go. I quickly found it works better if you lay the bike down hard and really get on the edge of the tyre. Takes a couple of rides to get the hang of it if your used to a tyre with loads of grip. Mines getting a bit shot now the edges are going I will buy another very soon.

airbusboy

I was recommended the Ardent when in scotland last week. I now ride it on the front; great traction, low resistance etc. I either ride a spesh eskar or an Advantge on the rear.

The only problem with the Ardent is the £39.99 price tag..... I do like it though!!

xtreem

P-Jay wrote:

I run Mavic EN521 rims so can't run 1.9's 2.1's etc.

I have EN321 on the front and run Highroller 2.1.
They have the same internal width so if someday you decide to go with 2.1 tyres you won't have any problems.