Not all ATV tires are created equal. If you’ve got an ATV or quad and you really want to push the envelope when it comes to performance and traction in mud and rough terrain, you need a tire that’s up to the task and not one that’s going to leave you stranded with a blown tire or bogged down in soupy mud.

Maxxis has a great lineup of ATV tires for all kinds of terrains and conditions, and the MU01 Zilla is the tire you’re looking for if you want to traverse those kinds of offroad conditions with confidence. It’s designed for nimble and responsive handling as well as durability and tenacious grip, but don’t just take our word for it – let’s get in there for a closer look with this Maxxis MU01 Zilla, Front review:

Features and Benefits

Here are just a few of the features of the Maxxis MU01 Zilla that make it such a great performer and a great value in an ATV tire:

• Durable 6-ply construction for a longer service life
• Bias-ply design
• Predictable handling, steering response, cornering even at higher speeds
• Can be used aired-down for rock crawling
• Lightweight construction cuts unsprung weight
• The continuous center tread is designed for a smoother ride and better control on rough trails
• Widest range of sizes in all of the Maxxis Zilla lineup
• Designed to be paired with MU01 Zilla rear tire
• The directional tread with angled lugs and a high void ratio quickly shed mud and dirt so there’s always a clear section of the tire to dig in as the wheel turns
• Tread depth 23/32”
• Excellent performance in mud, sand, hardpack, or soft dirt
• Good choice for smaller, lighter machines

Pros and Cons

So, is this Maxxis tire the right choice for your ride and budget? Before you decide, let’s take a look at the tire’s pros and cons:

PROS:

• Handling is capable and responsive
• Exceptional ride quality
• Durable 6-ply bias construction
• Lightweight design

CONS:

• The tire is not a good choice for heavier, more powerful ATVs
• Not DOT-approved for street use
• Puncture resistance could be better
• Some riders report that gravel and debris can get embedded in the lug design

SimpleTire’s view on Maxxis MU01 Zilla, Front tires

Unsprung weight is a concept that goes into the suspension design of all kinds of vehicles. It refers to the entire weight of a vehicle’s rims and tires, and whatever else (if anything ) isn’t supported by the vehicle’s suspension. A lighter-weight tire and rim means improved braking and acceleration performance since there’s less rotating mass to bring to a stop and less weight and mass that a vehicle’s drivetrain has to get moving again when it accelerates. The Maxxis MU01 Zilla’s lightweight construction means lower unsprung weight, and a real edge in performance when it comes to braking, acceleration, and handling.

The lug design and 7 psi inflation of the Maxxis MU01 Zilla helps deliver a surprisingly soft and refined ride even on rough terrain. Its directional angled-lug pattern enhances traction in mud and sand (although some riders note that it could use more lateral traction for ruts and cornering). It’s available in a wide range of sizes with tread depth up to 38/32”, although some reviews note that the larger sizes can rub on the frames and bodies of some machines. Handling and cornering with this tire are surprisingly light, responsive, and nimble without being overly sensitive or touchy. Traction in mud, sand, loose dirt, and snow are dependable, although the softer rubber compound might wear prematurely on pavement or hardpack.

The Maxxis MU01 Zilla (Front) does have a couple of downsides, though. It’s a great choice for smaller, more lightweight ATVs but isn’t really designed for bigger, heavier quads. The soft rubber compound is great in terms of ride quality and aired-down performance for rock crawling, but its resistance to punctures from sharp rocks, broken glass, and other debris might be an issue. Still, as an all-around performer tire for your ATV or quad, the Maxxis MU01 Zilla (Front) is an excellent option, especially when it’s paired with the MU01 Zilla (Rear) as it’s designed to do.

Vehicles the Maxxis MU01 Zilla, Front is a good replacement tire for

Here’s a lot of quads and ATVs that would be a good fit for the Maxxis MU01 Zilla, Front:

• Yamaha YFZ450
• KTM 450X
• Honda TRX250R
• Honda TRX450R
• Suzuki LTR450
• Can-Am DS450
• Kawasaki KFX450R
• Kawasaki Mule
• Honda TRX400
• Suzuki Quad Sport LTZ400
• Yamaha Raptor 700R
• Yamaha Banshee
• Kawasaki Tecate
• Polaris Outlaw 525 IRS
• Can-Am Outlander
• Can-Am Renegade
• Honda Fourtrax Rancher
• Yamaha Kodiak 450
• CF Moto CForce 400