MAXXIS Minion DHR II – 3C MaxxTerra DH, EXO+, DD, EXO – E50

Product Overview

The Maxxis Minion DHR II is a high-performance mountain bike tire engineered for riders who demand confidence on steep, technical, and unpredictable terrain. Built with input from professional downhill and enduro athletes, this tire delivers legendary cornering grip and reliable braking performance in demanding conditions. Featuring an advanced tread design inspired by the iconic Minion DHF—but optimized for enhanced stability—the DHR II strikes a perfect balance between aggressive traction and smooth rolling efficiency.

At its core lies the versatile 3C MaxxTerra compound, which provides more grip than MaxxSpeed while offering significantly better durability and lower rolling resistance than MaxxGrip. This makes the Minion DHR II exceptionally well-suited for all-day trail sessions where performance consistency is crucial. Whether you’re carving through loose gravel, navigating root-strewn descents, or tackling rocky switchbacks, this tire maintains predictable handling across changing surfaces.

Further enhancing its ruggedness, the EXO+ casing includes a reinforced butyl bead insert that improves sidewall strength and resistance to cuts and punctures—ideal for moderately technical trails with rocks, roots, and debris. The Wide Trail (WT) optimized profile ensures seamless integration with today’s wider rims, improving contact patch and stability without compromising speed.

Designed as a tubeless-ready tire, the Minion DHR II offers improved puncture protection and lower rolling resistance when used with proper sealant and inflation techniques. With an E25 e-bike rating, it also supports pedal-assist systems up to 16.1 MPH, making it a smart choice for electric mountain bikers seeking dependable performance on steep climbs and fast descents alike.

Key Features

• Legendary Cornering Performance: Side knobs are directly inspired by the proven Minion DHF design but widened to deliver greater support and lateral grip during high-speed turns. This gives riders increased confidence when leaning into tight corners on steep or loose terrain.
• Enhanced Braking Traction: A dual-sidewall tread pattern ensures strong bite during hard stops, critical for maintaining control on challenging descents where sudden deceleration can make the difference between control and catastrophe.
• 3C MaxxTerra Compound: This intermediate triple compound balances traction, wear resistance, and rolling efficiency. It outperforms MaxxSpeed in grip while lasting longer and rolling faster than MaxxGrip—making it ideal for mixed-condition trail riding.
• EXO+ Protection: An upgraded version of standard EXO, this feature adds a small butyl insert around the bead for extra structural integrity. It’s specifically designed to resist cuts and abrasions in moderately rocky and rooty environments and is also compatible with lighter e-bikes.
• Wide Trail (WT) Design: Optimized for modern wheel widths, the WT variant matches tires to rims ranging from 19mm to 35mm internal width. For best results across XC to gravity applications, a 30mm internal rim width is recommended.
• E25 E-Bike Compatibility: Rated for use on e-bikes with pedal assist up to 16.1 MPH, allowing riders to confidently explore steep trails powered by mid-power electric assistance.
• Tubeless Ready: Compatible with tubeless setups for improved ride quality, reduced flats, and easier maintenance—provided proper sealant and installation techniques are followed.

Technical Specifications

• Tire Model: Minion DHR II
• Compound: 3C MaxxTerra
• Carcass Technology: EXO+
• Wide Trail (WT): Yes
• E-Bike Rating: E25 (up to 16.1 MPH)
• Bead Type: Tubeless Ready
• Recommended Rim Width: 30mm internal (compatible with 19mm–35mm)
• Warranty: 1-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty

Benefits & Use Cases

The Minion DHR II shines in trail and enduro settings where control, predictability, and durability are non-negotiable. Its wide side knobs and reinforced shoulder blocks offer exceptional grip on steep, loose, or rocky descents, enabling riders to push harder without losing composure. The 3C MaxxTerra compound ensures consistent performance whether the trail is dry, wet, muddy, or mixed—eliminating the need for frequent pressure adjustments throughout the day.

Thanks to EXO+ protection, this tire resists abrasion from common trail hazards like roots, rocks, and sharp debris found on technical singletrack. It’s engineered to handle moderately aggressive terrain without sacrificing longevity, making it a reliable choice for multi-hour rides or race days.

The Wide Trail optimization improves stability and cornering precision when paired with contemporary 27.5″ or 29″ wheels featuring internal widths between 28mm and 35mm. While 30mm provides the ideal platform for most riders, the DHR II remains flexible enough to perform well even on narrower rims down to 19mm.

For electric mountain bikers, the E25 rating opens new possibilities: you can confidently use this tire on mid-powered e-bikes with assist speeds up to 16.1 MPH. This extends its usability beyond traditional mountain bikes, offering a durable solution for riders exploring steep climbs and fast descents with pedal help.

Important Notes

• This product comes with a 1-Year Manufacturer’s Warranty from Maxxis, ensuring peace of mind regarding build quality and material integrity.
• Always verify your rim’s internal width before installation—optimal performance is achieved at 30mm internal width, though the tire is compatible with rims from 19mm to 35mm.
• While tubeless ready, successful tubeless setup requires appropriate sealant, correct inflation, and careful seating procedures to achieve full benefits such as reduced rolling resistance and improved puncture resistance.
• Not rated for heavy-duty e-bike use exceeding 16.1 MPH assist levels; ensure your e-bike system falls within the E25 classification for safe operation.
• Proper tire pressure should be adjusted based on terrain, rider weight, and personal preference—consult Maxxis guidelines or your local bike shop for recommendations.

Riders seeking a proven, versatile, and dependable trail tire that doesn’t compromise on either grip or durability will find the Minion DHR II to be a standout choice. From epic backcountry descents to technical enduro courses, this tire has earned its reputation as one of the most trusted options in modern mountain biking.