Thrashed: Maxxis Bighorn 2.0

Utility ATVs require certain modifications that are just plain and simply necessary for protecting your ride from the rigors and damage inflicted by harsh off-road conditions. The problem is the additional protective gear adds unwanted weight to machinery that's already tipping the scales off the showroom floor. After bolting on aluminum skid plates, bumpers, beadlock wheels, a winch or any of the other hundreds of aftermarket components available, an appointment with Jenny Craig seems like a more responsible decision than hitting the trails. Too much weight can be the worst enemy to the performance and handling of your machine. When the stock tires on my Can-Am Outlander 800 began balding, I started researching a tire that would have the same or similar weight as the stockers, additional puncture-resistance qualities and a more aggressive trail-grabbing style of tread. At first glance, the Bighorn 2.0 appeared to be what I was looking for. The tread has great all-terrain styling with large lugs that are spaced well for propelling through and cleaning out mud. This Bighorn 2.0 is almost identical to the original Bighorn with the exception of a Weight Watchers diet and slight modifications to the tread.

Bighorn 2.0's diet was successful as it shaved off more than a pound of weight compared to the original Bighorn and its radial construction created a comfortable ride. In tight trails its cornering ability is precise with very little pushing. Its six-ply construction makes it durable, and it looks to me that the engineers at Maxxis thinned out the lugs (even adding a few) while maintaining good lug height. Traction is perfect for the trail, and the tires have held up with very little wear. Overall, the 2.0 version of a national championship-winning tire is very positive and worth the coin, which runs approximately $115-$135 for fronts and $125-$150 for rears. -Rick Sosebee

Bottom Line: This tire is light, durable, performs incredibly well and is a well-rounded all-terrain performance meat!

Maxxis Tires: www.maxxis.com