The original High Roller was a legendary hardcore tyre so a new version was always going to be heavily scrutinised. Maxxis hasn't let its legions of loyal fans down though.
The evolved, ramped tread rolls noticeably quicker and with less growl than the previous version. This top-spec triple compound version is particularly quick on firmer surfaces and weight is OK for a 650b tyre (26 and 29in versions are also available).
There's none of the old High Roller lurch between centre and edge, just a consistent amount of traction as you bank on to the regular, robustly supported side knobs. It's stable under braking despite the lateral tread arrangement and paddles really well in sloppy mud. Teaming it with a Maxxis Minion up front adds a bit more rudder effect if it's really grim.
Either way, the new tubeless-ready carcass and supportive harder rubber underneath keeps the new generation Maxxis tyres impressively stable even at lower pressures.
The 2.35in versions are a proper size compared to their skinny predecessors so they shrug off damage well, and pricing has reduced to 'still spendy but competitive' levels. There's also a single compound, tubeless-ready version for £39.99.
This article was originally published in Mountain Biking UK magazine, available on Apple Newsstand and Zinio.
