Maxxis Reaver and Rambler test: Whether you use them for different track conditions or as a pairing like on an MTB: The two Maxxis tires impress with easy mounting, good rolling properties and smooth running thanks to a new rubber compound.
Those transitioning from mountain biking to gravel riding often transfer the established practices to drop-bar bikes. This means that, as a rule, different tires are used on the front and rear wheels. The more aggressive tire is used at the front for maximum lateral grip; at the rear, where over two-thirds of the rider's weight is borne, maximum grip is less critical. Instead, optimal rolling resistance is the priority.
Maxxis Reaver and Rambler: Tire pairing as on a mountain bike
Can this principle be applied to gravel bikes? Anyone wanting to try it should take a look at the combination of the Reaver and Rambler in Maxxis's portfolio. The manufacturer markets the Rambler as an all-rounder for medium to firm surfaces, where the flat tread blocks on the contact patch also roll well on asphalt. It's not officially a mud tire – Maxxis offers the Ravager for that. However, the Rambler's more open tread pattern on the sides should clear mud well, so damp surfaces shouldn't pose a problem.
The Maxxis Reaver is a significantly different model, positioned as a fast tire for 50% asphalt and 50% off-road use. It fills the gap between the Rambler and the Receptor (slick-type tires with shoulder knobs), featuring transversely oriented, fine tread blocks in the center, a diamond-patterned intermediate zone, and longitudinally oriented shoulder knobs. This design provides considerable grip on loose surfaces, depending on the pressure, and also delivers excellent cornering traction.
Smoother running thanks to HYPR-X compound
Furthermore, the Reaver is the first tire with a new rubber compound called HYPR-X and a 120 tpi carcass. According to measurements on the website... Bicyclerollingresistance.com These measures have resulted in a reduction of rolling resistance by around 20%, putting this tire on par with many proven fast competitors. And you don't need to worry about puncture protection either – it's excellent, and gravel bikes are generally run tubeless anyway.
Mounting both tires works well, even though they fit rather snugly on the rim. They seal so well that sealant is really only needed as a puncture protection measure – theoretically, you could even ride them "dry." On the trail, the combination of a Rambler up front and a Reaver in the rear proves quite functional, although the former is clearly recognizable as a knobby tire on asphalt sections. Meanwhile, the Reaver's lateral grip off-road is so good that there's little reason not to run it on the front as well. On a gravel bike – especially a more race-oriented one like the Specialized Crux DSW – the weight distribution is somewhat more balanced than on a mountain bike.
When purchasing, please pay attention to the new model!
An important note: We also tested the Rambler in its new version with HYPR-X compound. When purchasing, you should definitely make sure to get this model, as the difference in roll-through (ROW) is approximately 10 watts. In the 45 mm width, the Rambler weighs just under 550 grams, while the Reaver weighs 500 grams – about the same as some competitors in the 40 mm width. Both models are available in black with a tanwall; the price is €59,90 each.