Maxxis Carnage Tires Review - Traction for Extreme Off-Road Wheeling

Exploring the Maxxis Carnage on Off-Road Wheels

Off-roading is an exhilarating experience that allows adventure seekers to traverse rugged terrains and natural obstacles. However, this extreme sport requires highly durable wheels and tires that can withstand punishing conditions. That's where Maxxis Tires' Carnage line shines - offering hardcore strength for conquering rocky trails, muddy pits, and more.

An Introduction to Maxxis Tires

Maxxis is a leading worldwide manufacturer of high-performance tires catered specifically for ATVs, dirt bikes, utility vehicles, and more. The company was founded in 1967 and has grown into one of the largest tire suppliers for powersports vehicles. Maxxis offers an extensive selection of off-road, mud, and sand tread designs engineered for traction, grip, and durability.

The Maxxis Carnage tire line was introduced in 2013 and has since become popular amongst off-roading enthusiasts. These tires are specially designed for aggressive riding over harsh landscapes thanks to their sturdy 6-ply rated radial construction. They utilize an intermediate tread pattern that provides an ideal balance of traction and steering control. An added sidewall ply boosts lateral stability as well.

Key Features and Benefits of Maxxis Carnage Tires

Here are some of the notable features and advantages of choosing Maxxis Carnage tires for off-road activities:

• Reinforced carcass - The 6-ply rated carcass uses a rugged material that resists cuts, chips, and abrasions from rocks or debris.
• Intermediate tread pattern - With a 0.75" tread depth, the pattern is suited for various terrains including dirt, gravel, sand, and mud.
• Sidewall protection - An extra ply along the sidewalls prevents punctures or damage from impacts.
• Sturdy shoulder lugs - The aggressive shoulder tread provides extra biting edges for increased traction during cornering or side-hilling.
• Long tread life - Computer-optimized rubber compounds allow for long mileage before needing replacement.
• All-terrain performance - An versatile on- and off-road tire suitable for UTVs, ATVs, side-by-sides, dune buggies, and trucks.

Reviewing the Ride Quality

I had the opportunity to test out a set of Maxxis Carnage tires on my Can-Am side-by-side for some intense night wheeling. Our riding group explored miles of treacherous terrain littered with large rocks, deep craters, and slippery inclines. The Carnage tires really proved their might in this punishing environment.

Right from the start, I noticed the tires provided substantial forward bite and momentum to climb over big boulders and logs with ease. The shoulder tread wrapped around edges impressively to deliver constant traction. When descending steep hills, the tires maintained control and stability to keep us centered. The most surprising performance came in the muddy pits where the Carnage tires slung thick glop and kept charging forward.

While these tires aced the muddy and rocky trails, they did have some limitations in the deepest sugar sand pits. Since they are rated as intermediate tires, their paddling push wasn't quite as strong as a dedicated sand tread. But for all other surfaces, the Carnage design provided excellent acceleration, braking, and cornering grip.

Ideal Uses for Maxxis Carnage Tires

Based on my experience, here are the best applications for Maxxis Carnage tires:

• Rock crawling - The durable 6-ply construction withstands rocky abuse while the tread pattern claws over loose boulders.
• All-purpose trails - A versatile intermediate design works well across most dirt, gravel, sand, and mud conditions.
• Mixed terrain - Conquers a combination of surfaces from muddy ruts to dusty hard-pack trails.
• Front tires - Provides precise steering feedback and traction for the front wheels.
• Rear tires - Generates drive and braking grip when installed on rear positions.

While specialized sand or mud tires may be better suited for those particular terrains, the Carnage is an excellent all-around choice for tackling a variety of environments. They're at their best when traversing unpredictable off-road conditions.

Choosing the Right Size

Maxxis Carnage tires are produced in a range of sizes to fit multiple off-road vehicle applications. Common options include:

• 25x8-12
• 25x10-12
• 27x9-14
• 27x11-14
• 30x9-14
• 30x10-14

Larger width-to-height ratios generally provide more traction by placing a larger tread contact patch on the ground. Just make sure to choose a size that aligns with your vehicle's wheel width and recommended tire sizing.

Pairing with Wheels

Choosing the right set of wheels is also important when running Carnage tires. Some top-rated wheel brands for off-roading include:

• Method Race Wheels - forged alloy rims that are ultra-durable
• Walker Evans Racing - lightweight beads with curved styling
• SSR Wheels - economical aluminum wheels in various finishes
• Fuel Wheels - eye-catching customizable off-road wheels
• KMC Wheels - rigid steel-stamped wheels for intense applications

I suggest pairing Carnage tires with strong wheels featuring at least a 12mm beadlock design. The added beadlock ring mechanically fastens the tire bead to the rim for a super-secure mount. It prevents the tire from de-seating under hard impacts or extreme angles.

Final Impressions on the Maxxis Carnage

After relentlessly testing these tires over harsh terrain, I'm thoroughly impressed with the Maxxis Carnage. The durable construction and versatile tread pattern powered my side-by-side through a gauntlet of mud, rocks, ruts, and more. This tire achieves an ideal balance of traction, control, and durability.

While it isn't a specialized sand or mud tire, the Carnage excels as a do-it-all option for mixed off-road conditions. It's an all-terrain beast ready for your next rock crawling, trail riding, or backcountry adventure. Just be prepared for the carnage this tire leaves in its wake!

FAQs

What types of vehicles are Maxxis Carnage tires designed for?

Carnage tires work for ATVs, UTVs, side-by-sides, rock crawlers, dune buggies, light trucks, and other off-road vehicles. They are built to withstand punishing conditions.

How do Carnage tires perform in mud and sand?

As an intermediate all-terrain tire, the Carnage is suitable for mud but specialized mud tires work best for deep mud. In loose sand, paddling traction is decent but a dedicated sand tire is better.

What is the tread life expectancy for Maxxis Carnage tires?

The sturdy construction and tread compound enable an extended tread life. Depending on use, Carnage tires can last anywhere from 3,000 to 6,000 miles before needing replacement.

Can Carnage tires work for daily street driving?

While designed for off-road use, Carnage tires can work on streets as well. However, their aggressive tread produces more road noise and slightly less grip than an all-season tire.

Do Carnage tires require special wheels?

Carnage tires pair best with durable beadlock wheels from 12mm to 14mm wide. Brands like Method, Walker Evans, KMC, Fuel, and SSR make quality off-road wheels.