Sizes: 1.8 and 2.1in (tested) / Compound: 62a / Bead: folding / Tread: non-directional / Weight: 495g
Contact: www.mmasports.com

Maxxis originally designed the Medusa for its European XC racers and it is basically a slimmed down version of the Swampthing DH mud tyre.
Even in its 2.1in guise, the Medusa is not a tall tyre and we wouldn’t recommend the lighter 1.8in version unless you really are a genuine XC whippet.
The open tread pattern sheds well and, because the centre knobs are low, they are very stable, offering good power transfer and low rolling resistance. The trade-off is that the Medusa doesn’t hook up as well as the Panaracer or the Michelin in deep mud or mulch.
Lay the Medusa over, though, and taller side knobs come into play, offering much better cornering performance than the Michelin. In fact, it takes a bit of time to get used to how hard you can actually push the Medusa round corners before it breaks away.
If weight and rolling speed are your primary concern in mud-tyre choice, then the Medusa has to be top of your list.

MBR RATING: 9/10