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Maxxis Raze Cyclocross tyreMaxxis Raze Cyclocross tyre 2

Maxxis Raze Cyclocross tyre

8
by Iwein Dekoninck
UPDATED Thu, Oct 15, 2015 04:24

First Published Nov 19, 2012

0
£23.99

VERDICT:

8
10
If you're looking to stick with one tyre for the cyclo-cross race season, the Maxxis Raze comes recommended
Weight: 
810g
Contact: 
www.maxxis.co.uk
How we test

At road.cc every product is thoroughly tested for as long as it takes to get a proper insight into how well it works. Our reviewers are experienced cyclists that we trust to be objective. While we strive to ensure that opinions expressed are backed up by facts, reviews are by their nature an informed opinion, not a definitive verdict. We don't intentionally try to break anything (except locks) but we do try to look for weak points in any design. The overall score is not just an average of the other scores: it reflects both a product's function and value – with value determined by how a product compares with items of similar spec, quality, and price.

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The Maxxis Raze is a cyclo-cross tyre billed by Maxxis as the "solution to the diverse terrain a cyclo-cross race requires". Weight-wise, the folding version sits in the middle between the Mud Wrestler and the Mimo CX, both of which are billed by Maxxis as more suitable for wet terrain, while the Raze's selling point, according to Maxxis, is its versatility.

The tread design features a central ridge of closely spaced square knobs for reduced rolling resistance on harder terrain, while the square side knobs are spaced wider apart.

Like most Maxxis tyres I've used they mount really well - I tried them on Mavic tn719 and on Alex XD rims. I like that fixing punctures does not require tyre levers.

According to Maxxis, the Raze uses a slightly softer compound (though they don't state compared to what), which no doubt contributes to the grippy feel. They are quite happy being thrown into tight corners at speed, and track nicely on off camber sections - no issues with side-slipping. The spacing of the side lugs keeps any build-up of mud at bay, which helps keep the traction turned on.

The tighter spacing on the central ridge comes into play when the course hits a Tarmac section, where the tyres don't feel draggy at all.

As anyone who's raced off-road will know, tyre pressure can make the difference between hitting the corners at full speed, or hitting the trees at full speed. I found 35 psi to be about right for wetter conditions (I weigh 80kg), and just on the right side of pinch punctures (I didn't get any), while for drier conditions I'd stick a bit more air in. Certainly worth experimenting to get it right.

Verdict

If you're looking to stick with one tyre for the cyclo-cross race season, the Maxxis Raze comes recommended.

road.cc test report

Make and model: Maxxis Raze Cyclocross tyre

Size tested: 700x33c

Tell us what the product is for, and who it's aimed at. What do the manufacturers say about it? How does that compare to your own feelings about it?

The diverse terrain of a Cross race requires a unique solution: the Raze. Fast-rolling center ridge, widely spaced side lugs to shed mud, slightly softer compound remains pliable in cold conditions, and improved casing maintains integrity at low pressures.

Tell us some more about the technical aspects of the product?

o Most versatile tread design

o Mud, snow and hardpack performance

o UCI compliant

We tested the folding 700x33 version, which Maxxis claim weighs 355 grams, although our scales said they were 405g each.

Rate the product for quality of construction:
 
8/10
Rate the product for performance:
 
9/10

I was impressed how well they work in a variety of race condition - from dry, bumpy courses to 2 inches of water on the grass turning into slurry type affairs.

Rate the product for durability:
 
8/10

They have stood up well.

Rate the product for weight, if applicable:
 
7/10
Rate the product for comfort, if applicable:
 
8/10

Comfort isn't the right word, but they certainly kept me going forward, on the bike.

Rate the product for value:
 
7/10

Tell us how the product performed overall when used for its designed purpose

It worked well in all but the most muddiest conditions.

Tell us what you particularly liked about the product

Its grip.

Tell us what you particularly disliked about the product

No dislikes

Did you enjoy using the product? Yes.

Would you consider buying the product? Yes.

Would you recommend the product to a friend? Yes, for cross racing.

Anything further to say about the product in conclusion?

Highly recommended for one-tyre-for-all conditions cyclo-cross racers.

Overall rating: 8/10

About the tester

Age: 32  Height: 1.78m  Weight: 76kg

I usually ride: All of them!  My best bike is: Cervelo Dual

I've been riding for: Over 20 years  I ride: Every day  I would class myself as: Expert

I regularly do the following types of riding: time trialling, commuting, touring, club rides, fixed/singlespeed, Audax

 

tyres
Maxxis Raze Cyclocross tyre
Cyclocross
cyclo-cross
cross tyres

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