First impressions: Maxxis Dissector – Canadian Cycling Magazine

Sometimes it takes two tries to get it right. When Maxxis first launched the Dissector, back in 2019, it promised to close a gap in the behemoth tire brand’s line between its XC tires and more aggressive, DH treads. That tire had potential, but a couple shortcomings that prevented it from gaining a huge following. Now, six years on (a relatively short time in the world of tire design) Maxxis is back with a new Dissector.

At first glance, and after a few weeks on trail, it looks like the new Dissector delivers on the promise of the original. It’s a more versatile tire with a very appealing mix of traction and rolling speed that rounds out Maxxis line nicely.

Dissectors

The center row of three splits apart and spreads out

The OG (left) versus the 2025 Dissector (right)

Maxxis Dissector: What’s new? And why?

When first launched, the Dissector was a Troy Brosnan signature tire. It had two purposes: a rear-specific DH tire and a more general use trail tire. The new Dissector is more squarely focused on trail riding. Focusing on that more general use pays off in a more well rounded performance.

There are two main changes to the Dissector. First, the side knobs are re-shaped to provide more support. Second, the trio of center knobs in the 2-3-2 tread pattern have split into three separate knobs. That gives it a quite similar appearance to Maxxis’ instant-classic Assegai, earning it the nickname “lil’ baby Assegai.” Cute.

Both of these changes make the Dissector more consistent, especially when being used as a front tire. On the OG Dissector, they were connected to form a sort of paddle for stronger braking. Separating the knobs allows Maxxis to spread the trio apart more. This gives them each better bite, as they are more free to flex and conform with the ground. It also significantly improves the tires traction as you transition from center knobs to side knobs while cornering, which was a weak point in the original tire. Maxxis also claims this will improve tread life, another problem with the OG Dissector, but we haven’t had enough time on the tire to confirm that yet.

First Impressions: Maxxis Dissector

I was honestly excited to see the new Dissector and, after a few weeks with the tire, am impressed with its initial performance. I was keen when the first version came out, only to be a little disappointed with how it performed as a front tire. There was a big need for an aggressive tire in…