Maxxis High Roller II

MTB

Last updated 9 Nov 2025

★★★★☆
4.5 / 5.0 · 2 reviews

Product Description

The Maxxis High Roller II is a versatile mountain bike tire renowned for its aggressive, open tread pattern that excels in loose and technical terrain. Featuring a dual-compound rubber for balanced grip and durability, EXO sidewall protection against cuts, and tubeless-ready compatibility, it comes in 2.3-2.5 inch widths for 26", 27.5", and 29" wheels. Performance shines in cornering and braking on dirt, sand, or mud, providing confident traction for enduro, downhill, and aggressive trail riding. However, its knobby design leads to higher rolling resistance on pavement or hardpack, and faster wear in dry conditions, making it less ideal for XC racing.

✅ Pros
  • ✓ Excellent traction on loose, technical terrain.
  • ✓ Aggressive knobs for superior cornering grip.
  • ✓ Durable 3C MaxxTerra compound option.
  • ✓ Effective braking and acceleration performance.
  • ✓ Versatile for trail and enduro riding.
❌ Cons
  • ✕ Higher rolling resistance on hardpack.
  • ✕ Noisy ride on paved surfaces.
  • ✕ Faster wear in dry, abrasive conditions.
  • ✕ Heavier weight impacts climbing efficiency.
  • ✕ Premium price compared to competitors.

Performance Metrics

Grip

92

Wear

85

Speed

58

Weight

72

Fitment

90

Comfort

55

Value

84

Reliability

88

Road Conditions

Dry Tarmac

45

Wet Tarmac

35

Pavement

42

Gravel

78

Hardpack

92

Loose

95

Mud

68

Ice/Snow

22

Real Rider Reviews

5.0 / 5
★★★★★
Based on 2 rider reviews
5 star
2
4 star
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MH
M***** H*** March 15, 2025
★★★★★
5 / 5
Unmatched Grip in Loose Conditions

The Maxxis High Roller II has transformed my trail rides. Exceptional traction on loose dirt and rocky descents, with predictable handling that boosts confidence. Wears well for the aggressive tread—highly recommend for enduro enthusiasts.

LV
L*** V*** July 22, 2025
★★★★★
5 / 5
Perfect for Aggressive Riding

I've put hundreds of miles on these tires and they're still going strong. The knobby pattern hooks up amazingly on climbs and corners, even in mud. A bit noisy on pavement, but that's expected for MTB tires.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Maxxis High Roller II is designed primarily for aggressive trail and downhill mountain biking, excelling in loose, rocky, and technical terrain where maximum traction is needed. Its ramped center knobs provide fast rolling speed on straights, while the tall side lugs offer superior cornering grip. Riders often pair it with a less aggressive rear tire for balanced performance on varied trails.

Yes, the Maxxis High Roller II is available in a tubeless-ready (TR) version, which features a sealant-compatible bead and casing for easy setup without an inner tube. This allows for lower tire pressures to improve traction and ride comfort while reducing the risk of flats. If you're running tubeless, ensure you use a compatible sealant and follow Maxxis's installation guidelines for optimal performance.

The Maxxis High Roller II is offered in various sizes to fit different wheel diameters, including 26-inch, 27.5-inch, and 29-inch options, with widths typically ranging from 2.3 to 2.8 inches. Common configurations include 27.5x2.4 for all-around trail use and 29x2.5 for larger bikes. Check the specific model for availability, as sizes may vary by compound and casing type.

The Maxxis High Roller II features a robust EXO or Double Down casing for enhanced puncture resistance, making it suitable for rough trails without sacrificing too much weight. Depending on the compound—3C MaxxTerra for grip or Dual Compound for longevity—it can last 500-1,000 miles with moderate use. To maximize durability, rotate tires regularly and avoid overly low pressures that could lead to sidewall cuts.

The weight of the Maxxis High Roller II varies by size and casing, but a typical 27.5x2.4-inch EXO version weighs around 950-1,050 grams. Lighter options like the 3C MaxxSpeed compound can shave off some weight for faster rolling, while heavier Double Down casings add protection for enduro riding. Always verify the exact weight on the product specs, as it impacts overall bike handling and acceleration.

Recommended tire pressure for the Maxxis High Roller II depends on rider weight, terrain, and whether it's tubeless, but generally ranges from 20-30 PSI for the front and 22-35 PSI for the rear on a 150-200 lb rider. Lower pressures enhance grip on loose surfaces, while higher ones improve rolling efficiency on hardpack. Start with the manufacturer's guidelines and adjust based on feel to avoid pinch flats or excessive wear.

The Maxxis High Roller II performs well in wet conditions thanks to its widely spaced knobs that shed mud and maintain traction on slick roots and rocks. The 3C MaxxTerra compound provides excellent grip in damp environments without packing up like some denser treads. For very muddy trails, consider pairing it with a more open tread like the Maxxis Shorty for even better mud clearance.