Maxxis Reaver Review | A Speedy 40c Gravel Tyre

With the gravel bike market exponentially booming at the moment, Maxxis has expanded its gravel-specific tyre range, introducing the new Maxxis Reaver, plugging a gap in their already extensive lineup.

Maxxis have already developed gravel tyres to suit most types of riders, with anything from the aggressive Maxxis Ravager all the way through to the slick Receptor. However, they were missing one; that’s where the Maxxis Reaver comes in. Essentially a blend between the Rambler and the Receptor, the Reaver features a semi-slick centre tread pattern that is less chunky than the Rambler but toothier than the Receptor; its side knobs are also in-between the two tyres. The tyre is Tubeless Ready and features Maxxis’ EXO sidewall protection.

The Reaver features thin paddles across the top, with low-profile side knobs.

The Reaver is available in 700x40c, with a larger 45c option coming soon. Choose between black or tan wall colours to suit your vibe.

We experimented with the Reaver on the rear and a Ravager up front for more bite on looser gravel roads.

We put an article together on the Maxxis gravel tyre range, from the chunkiest to the slickest; check that out here.

Riding the Maxxis Reaver

We’ve had these tyres fitted to a Trek Checkpoint SL 6 gravel bike for a couple of months and have been pleasantly surprised by how they ride. Installation was a breeze; no tyre levers were needed, and they seated the rim on the first go using a floor pump and a splash of sealant. A sleek centreline tread pattern makes the Reaver a smooth, fast-rolling tyre that excels on rough roads and compact gravel. The side knobs provide sufficient traction when cornering; however, it’s difficult to judge when they’ll break loose in looser gravel, making us a bit timid to corner confidentially. We treat the shallow side knobs as a little bit of insurance for when you need a safety net.

It’s easy to see where the Reaver fits in with the complete Maxxis gravel tyre range, from left to right; the scale of options is great.

Fast gravel rides are a great match for the new Reaver. Speedy, with some extra assurance when turning.

To suit our testing ground, we opted to put a slightly meatier Maxxis Ravager 700x40c up front. By doing so, we will have the fast-rolling rear tyre with a more aggressive tread pattern up front, assisting with traction under brakes and turns on looser surfaces. We’re used to mixing up tyre combinations on our mountain bikes, so why not?

Overall, this tyre is an excellent choice for the rider who predominately sticks to rough roads or hard-packed gravel surfaces, where surfaces are predictable and fast.