Maxxis Highroad SL test: New top tyre attacks the established competition

Maxxis tyres are extremely popular on mountain bikes, where the Taiwanese tyre brand is well ahead in terms of market share. On road bikes, they have so far been more of a marginal phenomenon, with Continental, Schwalbe and Vittoria setting the pace. A new compound for the top model Highroad in the second generation, recognisable by the suffix "SL", could now change this. The new product appeared last summer and has attracted little attention so far.

Focus on competition

In contrast to the classic Highroad, the SL version is more focussed on race use. This means: less weight and less rolling resistance should get the tyre to the finish line faster. This optimisation is usually accompanied by disadvantages in terms of puncture protection and durability. We have determined how well the new balancing act works with our elaborate test procedures. We had the new tyre in the tubeless version tested in our Comparison of 30-millimetre tyres out of competition. Because Maxxis does not offer this size, but only 25 and 28 millimetres, it would not have fitted into the test field of wider tyres.

Fast, grippy, cut-resistant

Our tests provided a big surprise: as a 28-millimetre version, the delicate pellet can keep up with the fastest competitors from Conti, Schwalbe and Pirelli in the rolling resistance test; the Highroad SL shines particularly well on rough roads and is only just behind the class leader Continental Grandprix 5000 S TR. The very good puncture protection, also on the sidewalls, plenty of grip on wet roads and safe, predictable handling in fast bends round off a package that is right up there with the long-term test winner. The impression of comfort can be finely adjusted with the air pressure, and the tyre remains stable even at low air pressure. The tyres were also easy to fit and provided excellent sealing.

In close contact with test winners

Overall, the tyre earns a "very good" rating. Even if it doesn't come out on top in any discipline, the overall package is a success. The question arises as to why the classic Highroad is still needed? It weighs just under 40 grams more and should therefore last longer. In addition, the SL costs 10 euros more (tubeless: 80, clincher: 70 euros), but in our opinion this is worth the extra performance.

Good news for touring cyclists: a more comfortable 32-millimetre version of the Highroad SL is due to be launched in the course of next year. In 25 or 28 millimetre widths, the tubeless tyre costs just under 80 euros RRP. The clincher version is 10 euros cheaper.

+ Top for rolling resistance, grip, puncture protection and handling

• Widths: 25, 28 millimetres
• Weight: 282 grams (28 millimetres)
• Price: 80 Euro