Minion DHF vs. Butcher
Lee,
Do you prefer the Maxxis Minion DHF over the Specialized Butcher when it comes to dry, roots, pine needles? This is for 29×2.6 on the new Specialized Levo Expert 2019 model that just came out. (I remember you had a 2012 Expert Stumpjumper just like mine.)
I want to keep the weight of the new LEVO low and the Butcher weight is about 200 grams per tire lighter than the Minion. I like the Maxxis High Rollers better than the Specialized tires I tried. Is Maxxis worth the the weight from Butcher to Minion?
Jason
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Jason,
Thanks for reaching out.
The Minion and Butcher are both excellent all-around shred tires. I’ve spent a lot of time on both models, in a variety of sizes, compounds and casings. Right now my Fuse has a 27.5×2.6 DHF on the front, and my Enduro has 29×2.6 Butchers front and rear.
My opinion:
The Butcher has more ultimate grip. I think that’s because the tread pattern is more open, and the side knobs are more exposed.
The Minion might roll a bit faster, and it feels more mellow and consistent from edge to edge — especially on hardpack.
Neither is better. They are different. For dry, loose conditions the Butcher might be more grippy. The fact it comes on your new bike makes it even better.
Ride the stock Butchers.
I’m sure other folks have opinions.
Lee
Thanks Lee, I was just thinking I might ride both, and your answer is great. I am 6’2 and choose the XL Levo. Let me know if you think thats the right size, it must me because its on their chart. My L stumpjumper worked great, I hope the XL is right, seems like its good to be within the bike and not on top of it and basically since I am 6’2, its like someone 5’11 choosing to ride a Large. Let me know any thoughts, it’s appreciated…
Jason,
The best way for you to determine your ideal bike size is to use the bike fitting method detailed in the book Dialed
http://www.llbmtb.com/product/dialed-the-secret-math-of-a-perfect-mountain-bike-setup/
or on the http://www.llbmtb.com site.
Lee