Maxxis Torch

CITY

Last updated 13 Nov 2025

★★★★☆
4.4 / 5.0 · 3 reviews

Product Description

The Maxxis Torch is a versatile tubeless-ready mountain bike tire designed for trail and cross-country riders seeking a balance of speed and grip. Featuring EXO sidewall protection and a dual-compound rubber, it offers excellent puncture resistance and durability on rocky or rooty terrain. Its fast-rolling center tread provides efficient pedaling on climbs and flats, while aggressive side knobs ensure confident cornering and traction in loose conditions. Ideal for all-day adventures or competitive XC racing, the Torch excels in dry to mixed weather but may underperform in deep mud due to its semi-aggressive pattern. At this value, it's a reliable choice for performance-oriented cyclists.

✅ Pros
  • ✓ Lightweight design boosts acceleration and climbing efficiency on trails.
  • ✓ Fast-rolling center tread enhances speed during cross-country rides.
  • ✓ Dual compound provides balanced grip on varied dry terrain.
  • ✓ Tubeless-ready setup allows lower pressures for better comfort.
  • ✓ EXO casing offers decent puncture resistance without added bulk.
❌ Cons
  • ✕ Thin sidewall lacks protection against sharp rocks and roots.
  • ✕ Tread wears quickly on abrasive or loose gravel surfaces.
  • ✕ Limited traction performance in wet or muddy conditions.
  • ✕ Premium materials increase overall cost for casual riders.
  • ✕ Not ideal for aggressive downhill or enduro trail demands.

Performance Metrics

Grip

82

Wear

75

Speed

88

Weight

90

Fitment

90

Comfort

80

Value

85

Reliability

82

Road Conditions

Dry Tarmac

82

Wet Tarmac

68

Pavement

78

Gravel

72

Hardpack

88

Loose

65

Mud

48

Ice/Snow

32

Real Rider Reviews

4.7 / 5
★★★★★
Based on 3 rider reviews
5 star
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EC
E**** C******* April 12, 2025
★★★★★
5 / 5
Outstanding grip and durability

I've been riding the Maxxis Torch tires for over 500 miles now on various trails, and they hold up incredibly well. The traction in wet conditions is impressive, and they roll smoothly on pavement too. Highly recommend for cross-country enthusiasts.

LV
L*** V***** July 28, 2025
★★★★☆
4 / 5
Solid performance but a bit noisy

These tires are great for speed and lightweight feel during my road races. They corner nicely, but I notice a slight hum on smoother surfaces. Overall, a good upgrade from my old setup.

MH
M***** H*** February 19, 2025
★★★★★
5 / 5
Best tires I've used yet

Switched to Maxxis Torch and haven't looked back. Excellent puncture resistance and they grip like glue on loose gravel. Perfect for my daily commutes and weekend adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Maxxis Torch is designed primarily for cross-country (XC) and trail riding, offering a balance of speed and grip on varied terrain. It excels on dry to mixed conditions with its fast-rolling center tread and responsive side knobs for cornering. Riders appreciate its versatility for both recreational and competitive use without sacrificing too much durability.

Yes, the Maxxis Torch is tubeless-ready, allowing for easier setup and lower running pressures to enhance traction and comfort. It comes with a sealant-compatible bead and is optimized for use with tubeless systems to reduce punctures. This feature makes it a popular choice for modern mountain bikes seeking lightweight performance.

The Maxxis Torch provides reliable grip in wet conditions thanks to its siping pattern on the knobs, which helps channel water away and maintain traction. While it's not specifically a mud tyre, it handles light rain and damp trails effectively without excessive drag. For heavier wet riding, pairing it with a more aggressive compound can enhance its capabilities.

The Maxxis Torch is offered in common mountain bike sizes, such as 27.5-inch and 29-inch diameters, with widths typically around 2.25 to 2.4 inches for optimal fit on most XC frames. These sizes ensure compatibility with a wide range of modern bikes. Check your rim width to select the best option for your setup.

The Maxxis Torch features a 60 TPI casing with EXO sidewall protection, making it durable enough for regular trail use while keeping weight low. It resists cuts and abrasions well on rocky paths but may wear faster on very aggressive terrain. Overall, it offers good longevity for its performance-oriented design, providing excellent value for frequent riders.

The Maxxis Torch weighs approximately 600-700 grams per tyre, depending on the size and casing variant, which contributes to its agile feel on climbs and accelerations. This lightweight construction doesn't compromise too much on protection, making it ideal for XC enthusiasts. Compared to heavier trail tyres, it helps maintain bike efficiency without feeling underbuilt.

Yes, the Maxxis Torch includes options like the EXO casing for added sidewall reinforcement and basic puncture resistance in the tread area. While it's not the most fortified for extreme enduro, it performs well against thorns and small rocks in typical XC scenarios. For higher protection needs, consider the MaxxShield version if available.

Installing the Maxxis Torch is straightforward, especially for tubeless setups, as it seats easily on most rims with standard tools and a floor pump. The supple casing allows for quick mounting without excessive force, though using tire levers can help for clincher versions. Once installed, it holds air well, reducing maintenance hassles for everyday use.