Mountain biking is all about control, confidence, and speed—and your tyres play a crucial role in all three. With new advancements in rubber compounds, tread patterns, and sidewall technology, choosing the right MTB tyres in 2025 can be overwhelming. The wrong choice could mean slipping on loose gravel, struggling on muddy climbs, or sacrificing speed on hardpack trails.
That’s why we’ve put together this expert guide. Whether you're an enduro racer looking for maximum grip, a cross-country rider chasing efficiency, or an all-mountain adventurer tackling diverse terrain, we’ve tested and reviewed the best MTB tyres for every situation. Read on to find the perfect rubber for your ride.
How to Choose the Best MTB Tyres
Before diving into our top picks, it’s important to understand what makes a great MTB tyre. Here are the key factors to consider:
- Tread Pattern – Aggressive knobs for mud and downhill, lower-profile treads for speed.
- Rubber Compound – Softer rubber provides better grip but wears faster; harder compounds roll quicker and last longer.
- Casing & Sidewalls – Reinforced sidewalls add durability, while lighter casings improve efficiency.
- Tubeless vs. Tubed – Most modern riders go tubeless for better puncture resistance and lower pressures.
- Width & Diameter – Wider tyres (2.4"-2.6") offer more grip, while narrower ones (2.2"-2.3") roll faster.
Now, let’s explore the best MTB tyres of 2025 based on different riding styles and terrains.
Best MTB Tyres of 2025
Size Tested: 29" x 2.5" WT | Weight: 954 grams
Reasons to Buy
- Excellent cornering grip – Delivers remarkable traction in aggressive turns.
- Versatile use – Works effectively both as a front or rear tire.
- Dual compound construction – Increases tire longevity for extended use.
- EXO casing – Durable and lightweight for added protection without compromising performance.
Reasons to Avoid
- Not the best on hardpack – Tread design is optimized for loose or muddy conditions.
- Moderately high rolling resistance – Can feel sluggish on smoother terrain.
- Rewards good technique – The tire's performance is maximized with precise handling skills.
The Maxxis Minion DHF is widely regarded as one of the best tires for aggressive cornering, making it a top pick for riders who push their bikes through technical, tight turns. With its large side knobs, the DHF locks into corners, offering incredible confidence and stability. While it might take some time to get used to its unique feel, once you’ve experienced its grip in a turn, switching to another tire may feel like a step back.
The tire’s EXO casing enhances durability while keeping the weight low, making it a great choice for riders who need both protection and performance. The dual-compound construction ensures that the tire lasts longer without compromising traction. Additionally, the relatively square profile and squared-off edges help maximize stability, while the sidewall’s robustness adds to its overall reliability, even when running at lower pressures.
Though the Minion DHF excels in more technical, loose, and challenging terrain, it may feel a bit sluggish on hardpack or smoother trails. Its high rolling resistance is something to keep in mind if speed is your top priority. That said, it’s a great all-rounder for trail and enduro riders who value braking power and pedaling traction.
The Minion DHF is available in a wide range of sizes (20" to 29") and comes in various widths, casings, and rubber compounds, offering riders flexibility to find the ideal setup for their bike and riding style. For those prioritizing a faster-rolling tire, Michelin Force AM2 2.4 is another excellent choice.
Size Tested: 29" x 2.6" | Weight: 1,123 grams
Reasons to Buy
- Affordable – One of the most budget-friendly options for great performance.
- Super damp ride quality – Offers a smooth and connected feel to the trail.
- Great cornering traction when braking – Large shoulder knobs deliver exceptional grip during turns.
Reasons to Avoid
- Moderate weight – At 1,123 grams, it’s on the heavier side.
- Not the fastest-rolling – High rolling resistance due to aggressive tread pattern and T9 rubber compound.
The Specialized Butcher GRID Trail T9 shines with its T9 rubber compound, offering outstanding grip without being overly soft. This tire provides a well-dampened ride, absorbing trail chatter and ensuring solid control, particularly in aggressive braking and cornering. The GRID Trail casing adds durability, making it resistant to punctures while offering a supportive feel.
Weighing in at 1,123 grams, it’s not the lightest option, and its aggressive tread does contribute to moderate rolling resistance. However, it excels in providing excellent traction, especially in challenging conditions, making it ideal for trail and all-mountain riders.
For those looking for a lighter, faster-rolling tire, consider the Maxxis Aggressor 2.3 EXO. But for a budget-friendly, reliable option that delivers superb grip and durability, the Butcher GRID Trail T9 remains a top choice.
Size Tested: 29" x 2.5" WT | Weight: 950 grams
Reasons to Buy
- Versatile – Performs well across a variety of conditions.
- Affordable – Great value for a high-performance tire.
- Great all-around performance – Offers a balanced mix of grip, rolling resistance, and durability.
- Relatively fast rolling – Efficient on smoother trails with minimal drag.
Reasons to Avoid
- Outperformed in super loose conditions – Struggles in deep mud or sand.
- Not the best braking traction – Doesn't excel in loose or wet conditions when you need quick stopping power.
The Maxxis Aggressor 2.3 EXO is a highly versatile rear tire that shines in a variety of conditions. Its medium-height knobs are designed with sharp, unramped front edges to provide solid grip without slowing you down. The tire’s tread pattern strikes a great balance between traction and low rolling resistance, making it an ideal choice for riders who value both performance and efficiency.
The EXO casing adds durability while maintaining a flexible ride, allowing for good cornering stability. With a weight of 950 grams, the Aggressor is relatively lightweight for its size, making it an excellent option for riders who want to reduce bike weight without compromising on performance. It’s available in multiple versions with stronger casings for added protection, making it adaptable for more demanding trails.
While the Aggressor performs excellently in most conditions, it does have some limitations. In super loose or wet terrain, it may not provide the same level of traction as more aggressive tires like the Maxxis Minion DHR II. Its braking performance also isn't the best in such conditions, as the medium-height knobs can struggle to grip in deep mud or sand.
For riders who need a budget-friendly, all-around tire that performs well in a variety of environments, the Aggressor is an excellent choice. However, if you’re riding in more extreme conditions, a more aggressive tire might be worth considering.
Size Tested: 29" x 2.3" | Weight: 945 grams
Reasons to Buy
- Affordable – A great value for a quality tire.
- Semi-aggressive, versatile tread – Works well in a range of conditions.
- Relatively fast-rolling – Efficient on trails without compromising too much on grip.
- Good, predictable performance as a rear tire – Consistent in various trail conditions.
Reasons to Avoid
- The casing may be too supple for some riders – May not provide enough support for aggressive cornering.
- Moderate braking traction – Struggles with braking in loose or wet conditions.
The Specialized Eliminator GRID Trail T7 is a semi-aggressive rear tire that strikes a solid balance between speed and grip, making it a great option for trail riders. Featuring Specialized’s T7 rubber, it focuses on rolling speed and longevity over pure grip. The medium-height center tread, with moderate spacing, minimizes rolling resistance, allowing you to maintain speed without sacrificing too much traction.
When it comes to braking and cornering, the sharp edges of the tread knobs provide a good grip on firm to moderately loose surfaces, making it predictable on most trails. The higher shoulder lugs improve cornering traction, offering a stable feel during turns. The Grid Trail casing provides durability, with the rubber showing minimal wear over time, making it a long-lasting option for rear use.
However, the Eliminator T7 does have some drawbacks. In very loose conditions, the tire can struggle with braking traction, sometimes causing it to skid or drift through corners. Additionally, the Grid Trail casing feels a bit too supple for aggressive riders, lacking the support needed for hard cornering. Riders may need to adjust tire pressure carefully to avoid burping during aggressive turns.
If you’re looking for an affordable, versatile rear tire, the Eliminator T7 is a solid option, especially when paired with a more aggressive tire like the Specialized Butcher up front. However, for superior braking performance in loose conditions, the Vittoria Mazza may be a better alternative.
Size Tested: 27.5" x 2.4" | Weight: 1,012 grams
Reasons to Buy
- Unrivaled cornering performance – Exceptional grip and control in tight turns.
- Great braking traction – Provides excellent stopping power in various conditions.
Reasons to Avoid
- Heavy-ish – At 1,012 grams, it’s on the heavier side.
- Difficult installation process – Can be tricky to mount and inflate.
The Continental Kryptotal Front 2.4 is a front tire that stands out for its incredible cornering grip and superb braking traction, making it a top choice for aggressive trail riding. Its tall, stout side knobs and aggressive center tread design ensure that it holds firmly in corners and provides powerful braking performance in a variety of trail conditions. Whether you're navigating tight corners or steep descents, this tire inspires confidence with its unmatched traction.
We tested the 2.4" Trail casing version, which offers a good balance of durability and performance. It excels in mixed-terrain riding, making it a versatile choice for aggressive trail and enduro riders. Its tread is designed to perform in varied conditions, from rocky trails to looser dirt surfaces.
However, one downside to the Kryptotal is its heavy weight at 1,012 grams, which may add bulk to your bike. Additionally, the installation process is challenging, as the tire is notoriously difficult to mount and inflate, which might deter riders who prioritize convenience. If you’re looking for a similarly aggressive tire with a simpler installation, the Vittoria Mazza could be a good alternative.
Overall, if you’re seeking superior cornering and braking performance and don’t mind a bit of installation hassle, the Continental Kryptotal Front 2.4 is a fantastic choice for aggressive riders who demand the best.
Size Tested: 29" x 2.5" WT | Weight: 1,109 grams
Reasons to Buy
- Incredible cornering traction – Provides legendary grip through tight turns.
- Braking traction – Offers superior control when braking.
- Durable, supportive sidewalls – Built for aggressive riding with excellent durability.
Reasons to Avoid
- Heavier weight – At 1,109 grams, it’s on the heavier side.
- High rolling resistance – The aggressive tread can create drag on smoother terrain.
- Expensive – Higher price point compared to other options.
The Maxxis Assegai is a gravity-oriented tire that delivers outstanding cornering and braking traction, designed with input from World Cup DH legend Greg Minaar. This tire is built to provide incredible grip, especially on the front wheel, with a tall row of burly side knobs that hook up aggressively through corners. The square profile ensures easy entry into turns, offering legendary cornering performance that few tires can match.
Tested with both front and rear configurations, the Assegai provides superior control and braking traction, making it an excellent choice for riders who demand the best control while descending or riding in loose conditions. Additionally, the durable sidewalls ensure the tire holds up well to rough, aggressive riding.
However, this level of traction and performance comes at a cost. The Assegai is heavy, weighing in at 1,109 grams, which can add significant weight to your bike. Additionally, the tacky rubber and tall knobs create high rolling resistance, making it less efficient on smooth terrain. The tire also falls on the pricier side, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious riders.
If you're looking for a tire that excels in cornering and braking traction and don't mind a weight penalty, the Maxxis Assegai is an excellent option. For those seeking a more balanced tire with less rolling resistance, the Specialized Ground Control Grid T7 offers a great alternative.
Why Choose Tianjin Jiuyu for Your Bicycle Tires?
At Tianjin Jiuyu, we specialize in producing high-quality bicycle tires that cater to a wide range of riders and biking needs. Whether you're looking for performance-driven tires for competitive races or durable and reliable options for daily rides, we’ve got you covered. Here's why Tianjin Jiuyu stands out:
- Premium Materials & Manufacturing – We use top-tier rubber compounds and advanced production techniques to create tires that are durable, reliable, and optimized for performance.
- Customizable Options – We offer a variety of tire sizes, tread patterns, and casings to suit different biking styles, including road, mountain, and e-bike tires.
- Industry-Leading Durability – Our tires are designed to last, offering excellent wear resistance, superior grip, and strong sidewalls for all-terrain riding.
- OEM Services – We provide flexible OEM solutions to ensure our clients get the right tires tailored to their specific needs, whether for individual cyclists or mass-market applications.
- Competitive Pricing – We strive to offer high-quality tires at affordable prices, ensuring you get the best value without compromising on performance.
If you're looking for reliable, durable, and high-performance bicycle tires, Tianjin Jiuyu is your trusted partner.
Our Wider Tires
Conclusion
Choosing the right mountain bike tire is crucial for enhancing your riding experience. Whether you prioritize cornering traction, braking power, or durability, there’s a tire on the market for every rider. From the Maxxis Minion DHF’s aggressive grip to the Specialized Butcher’s budget-friendly performance, each tire has its unique advantages.
When selecting a tire, consider your riding style, terrain conditions, and performance needs. For those seeking top-tier performance with a focus on cornering and braking, the Maxxis Assegai and Continental Kryptotal stand out. If you're on a budget, the Specialized Butcher GRID Trail T9 offers great value without sacrificing too much performance.
At Tianjin Jiuyu, we understand the importance of choosing the right tire for your bike. Our wide range of high-quality, customizable tires ensures that every rider gets the perfect fit for their needs. Reach out to us today for the best in tire technology and customer service, and make your next ride the best one yet!
