Maxxis

This tire works very well on the front for my loose over hard trail riding in CO, and it rolls noticeably faster than the burlier tires I had been using recently, like the DHR, DHF, Dissector.... The first thing I noticed was the smoother ride quality over those heavier tires. Next was less of a floaty vague feeling over deeper loose sections. Around here it can be like riding through an endless box of kitty litter. Then it was the lower rolling resistance, which was very evident on long shallow declines where the bike picks up speed more quickly. I was disappointed that the 2.4" tire only measured 2.2" on my 30mm inner width rims, but I can't argue with how well it works.

Purchased the 45mm 60 TPI version for a specific gravel race that was "chunky" gravel so I was concerned about durability and thus the 60 TPI/SilkShield version. I was told these would not be as fast and/or supple as some of the other Maxxis Rambler versions but compared to the tires they replaced (set of Panaracer Gravel Kings that came with the bike) they seemed to be absolutely grippier and more supple. Mounted and inflated normally and have held air about as good as anything else I have on a bike...I am running them tubeless. And FWIW, I have suffered no punctures to date.

I had the first gen Reavers and really liked the traction and ride quality. They didn't feel overly slow but drum and real-world Chung testing both indicated the original compound wasn't the fastest rolling vs the crop of fast gravel tires. Enter the new HYPR-X compound. All of the same traction and ride quality is maintained, but in a much faster compound that also lasts a bit longer and has better wet traction. So far I am very impressed with the new compound. I like the knurled tread design down the middle, similar to an Aspen ST it provides more traction that one would think looking at it, especially on dust-over-hardpack conditions. The cornering knobs are also solid and predictable in cornering performance, and are at just the right angle to contact the ground on gravel and dirt to give you reassuring cornering performance where other tires start to slide. With the new compound, this is among the best gravel tires on the market. Only knock is that if ridden on pavement a significant percentage of the time the wear of the center knurled tread can be significant and quick.

I just completed my second Unbound. Previously, I rode Schwalbe G-1s and prior to that, GravelKings. Both were OK - but I've had punctures and fortunately, it self sealed and I could keep racing. My riding buddies convinced me to try Maxxis Ramblers - so, Unbound was the debut. I went with 40mm given it had rained heavily two nights prior. They performed well in fast loose terrain and were comfortable on the long race. I just came home and cleaned my bike - to my surprise, there were literally zero cuts, gashes etc. None. Tires look brand new. I have never seen this after Unbound. I am a convert.