The Maxxis Crossmark II 29 is a high-performance cross-country (XC) tire designed for riders seeking speed and efficiency in hardpack and dry trail conditions. Building upon the success of the original Crossmark, the updated version features an improved tread pattern that enhances cornering grip and braking while maintaining the fast-rolling centerline that made its predecessor a favorite among XC racers. Whether you’re competing in a race or tackling a long day on the trails, the Crossmark II balances efficiency and reliability to meet the demands of modern riders.
Key Takeaways:
- Exceptional Rolling Efficiency: The Crossmark II’s tightly spaced center ridge is engineered for low rolling resistance, making it a standout choice for hardpack trails and XC racing. Riders benefit from faster speeds on straightaways and smoother power transfers, helping to conserve energy over long distances.
- Improved Cornering and Braking: While the original Crossmark was sometimes criticized for its cornering grip, the updated side knobs on the Crossmark II offer better traction and stability when leaning into turns. Additionally, the redesigned tread pattern improves braking performance, giving riders more confidence on descents or technical sections.
- Versatility with Tubeless-Ready Technology: The Crossmark II 29 is tubeless-ready, allowing riders to enjoy the benefits of lower tire pressure without worrying about pinch flats. This feature enhances grip and comfort and reduces overall weight, making it ideal for competitive XC and trail riders.
Key Features of Maxxis Crossmark II 29
Tread Design and Rubber Compound
The Maxxis Crossmark II retains the iconic center ridge of its predecessor but refines the side knob design for improved grip in corners and on uneven terrain. The centerline is tightly packed for minimal rolling resistance, while the slightly raised side knobs provide better traction during cornering and braking. The tire is made with Maxxis’s dual-compound rubber, combining a more complex center for durability and speed with softer edges for enhanced grip.
Performance in Various Terrains
- Hardpack: The Crossmark II excels on hardpack trails, where its fast-rolling centerline delivers maximum efficiency.
- Loose-over-hard: The added grip from the side knobs improves performance on loose-over-hard surfaces, giving riders more control during cornering.
- Wet Conditions: While the Crossmark II can handle light moisture, it is not explicitly designed for damp or muddy conditions. The closely spaced tread tends to pack with mud, reducing its effectiveness in such terrains.
Tubeless-Ready Technology
The Crossmark II 29 is tubeless-ready, a feature that allows riders to run lower tire pressures for enhanced traction and comfort. Tubeless setups also reduce the risk of punctures and save weight compared to traditional tube systems. This technology makes the Crossmark II versatile and performance-oriented for XC and trail riders.
Weight and Casing Options
- Weight: Depending on the casing, the 29-inch version of the Crossmark II typically weighs between 700 and 800 grams, making it a lightweight option for XC racers.
- Casing Options: The tire is available in EXO casing for added sidewall protection, making it more durable for rocky or technical terrain.
Sizing Options (29-inch Specifics)
The Crossmark II comes in various widths to accommodate different riding styles and preferences:
- Standard options include 29×2.1″ and 29×2.25″.
- The narrower 2.1″ size is ideal for pure XC racing, while the wider 2.25″ option provides more grip and stability for technical trails.
Performance Analysis
Rolling Efficiency on Flat Trails
The Crossmark II is designed with speed in mind, and its tightly packed center tread ridge provides exceptional rolling efficiency. On flat trails and hardpack terrain, this tire excels by minimizing resistance, allowing riders to maintain speed with less effort. This makes it a favorite for XC racers and riders looking for a competitive edge on smooth trails.
Cornering Grip and Stability
The updated side knobs on the Crossmark II enhance cornering performance, addressing a key criticism of the original Crossmark. The knobs provide a more secure grip during aggressive turns, particularly on loose-over-hard terrain. However, on loose or very technical trails, the cornering performance may not match that of tires with more pronounced and widely spaced knobs.
Braking Performance
The improved tread pattern also enhances braking. The tire provides reliable stopping power on dry trails and hardpack, but its braking performance diminishes in wet or muddy conditions due to limited mud-shedding capability. Riders tackling predominantly dry environments will effectively maintain control during descents or technical sections.
Durability and Puncture Resistance
Maxxis tires are known for their durability, and the Crossmark II lives up to this reputation. With the EXO casing option, the tire gains additional sidewall protection against cuts and abrasions, making it suitable for rocky terrain. While it holds up well to wear and tear, riders who prioritize extreme durability for rough trails might find the sidewalls slightly less robust than more downhill-oriented tires.
Pros and Cons
Key Advantages
- Exceptional Speed: The tightly packed center tread ensures fast rolling on hardpack and dry trails, perfect for XC racing.
- Improved Cornering: Enhanced side knobs offer better grip and stability during turns.
- Tubeless-Ready Design: Enables lower tire pressures for increased traction and reduced puncture risk.
- Lightweight: The tire’s weight (700-800 grams) makes it an ideal choice for competitive riders.
- Durable Options: EXO casing adds extra protection for demanding terrain.
Areas for Improvement
- Performance in Wet Conditions: The closely spaced tread can clog with mud, reducing grip and performance in wet or muddy environments.
- Cornering on Loose Terrain: While improved over the original, the tire still needs to be improved in models specifically designed for loose or soft conditions.
- Limited Versatility: Riders seeking an all-around tire for varied conditions might find the Crossmark II more terrain-specific, excelling in dry, hardpack environments but less adaptable to others.
Comparison Table with Competitors
| Tire | Key Strengths | Ideal Terrain | Weight (29-inch) | Tubeless-Ready | Price (Approx.) |
| Maxxis Crossmark II | Fast-rolling, improved cornering, durable | Hardpack, loose-over-hard | 700-800g | Yes | $60-$75 |
| Maxxis Ikon | Versatility, firm grip, lightweight | Mixed XC trails, dry/wet | 670-750g | Yes | $65-$80 |
| Schwalbe Racing Ralph | Aggressive cornering, excellent mud-shedding | Loose, soft, and wet conditions | 700-760g | Yes | $70-$85 |
| Specialized Fast Trak | Balanced rolling and grip, affordable | XC trails, mixed terrains | 670-710g | Yes | $55-$70 |
User Feedback and Reviews
Common Praises
- Rolling Speed: Riders frequently highlight the Crossmark II’s exceptional rolling efficiency on hardpack trails and flat sections, making it a go-to for XC races.
- Cornering Improvements: Many users note significant improvements in cornering grip and stability compared to the original Crossmark.
- Durability: The tire’s durability and puncture resistance are widely appreciated, particularly for long-distance rides.
Common Criticisms
- Limited Wet Performance: Riders often point out that the tire struggles to maintain grip in muddy or wet conditions due to its closely spaced tread.
- Specific Terrain Focus: Some users feel the tire needs to be more specialized for hardpack and dry trails, offering limited versatility for mixed terrains.
Ideal Use Case Scenarios
- Cross-country racing: The tire’s speed and efficiency are ideal for competitive XC racing on dry, hardpack trails.
- Dry Trail Riding: The Crossmark II offers excellent performance and reliability for riders in arid climates or predominantly dry conditions.
FAQs
What terrain is the Maxxis Crossmark II best suited for?
The Crossmark II is optimized for hardpack and loose-over-hard terrain, with good rolling efficiency on dry trails.
Is the Maxxis Crossmark II 29 tubeless-ready?
The tire is tubeless-ready, allowing riders to reduce weight and improve puncture resistance.
How does the Crossmark II perform in wet conditions?
While the tire performs well in dry conditions, its closely spaced center tread may cause it to struggle with grip on wet or muddy trails.
How does the Crossmark II compare to the Maxxis Ikon?
The Crossmark II offers slightly better rolling efficiency for XC racing, while the Ikon provides better overall grip and versatility.
What is the weight of the Maxxis Crossmark II in the 29-inch size?
The weight varies depending on the casing, but it typically ranges between 700 and 800 grams for the 29-inch version.
Conclusion
The Maxxis Crossmark II 29 is a standout XC tire for riders prioritizing speed, rolling efficiency, and reliable performance on hardpack and loose-over-hard terrain. Its refined design improves cornering grip and braking, addressing the limitations of its predecessor while maintaining its lightweight and durable build. While it excels in dry conditions, its performance in wet or muddy terrains is less impressive, making it more suited for specialized use rather than as an all-around tire.
The Crossmark II is an excellent choice for an XC rider or racer focusing on speed and efficiency in dry conditions. However, if you frequently encounter mixed or wet terrain, a more versatile option like the Maxxis Ikon or Schwalbe Racing Ralph better suits your needs.