road trip adventure tyres

Road raiders | The best tarmac-biased tyres for adventure bikes tested in the real world

This test was performed by the team at our sister title RiDE Magazine – the biker’s champion that guarantees useful advice on buying a new or used motorbike, thorough testing and tips on which bits of gear to buy, from helmets to suits and gloves to boots and more. You can find them on Facebook , Instagram , and in print .

Adventure bike tyres have a tough job. As bikes of this type have become faster and more sophisticated their tyres now need to cope with more power, ever-increasing angles of lean and resist the inevitable wear of being fitted to heavy, torquey bikes. And they’re also required to offer a modicum of off-road ability.

Here, we’ve tested six of the best-selling adventure motorbike tyres on the market (except Avon, who declined to participate). All are 19-inch front, 17-inch rear fitment – a format popular with everything from the BMW GS to Honda’s CB500X . And all are multi-compound, designed to work across a wide range of situations.

Apart from the Michelin rubber, all the tyres here fall into the 90/10 category, meaning that they’re designed for 90% on-road use, 10% off road, though the reality is that few sets will ever see dirt. But which is best for your bike? Let’s find out.

Pirelli Scorpion Trail II

Will bring out the best in your adventure bike

Each rider gave marks out of ten for each set of tyres, rating steering, confidence, stability, ride quality and feel. We also measured operating temperature and emergency-stop braking distances. Conditions on the test route were dry, 22°C and we used the manufacturer’s recommended cold pressures throughout the test.

A 22-mile ride taking in fast, flowing A-roads, bumpy B-roads, a motorway stint, plus urban, over a variety of coarse and polished surfaces.

We chose RiDE’s long-term Suzuki V-Strom 1000 because its OE tyres are merely OK, plus it lacks sophisticated traction control and fancy suspension that can skew feedback. The bike was set on minimal traction control levels.

The Logistics

Tests were on the same day and conditions. Support and prices provided by Mark at www.mobile-bike-tyres.co.uk . They don’t include fitting and will vary between different suppliers. They’re a guide.

Cut through the jargon with MCN’s tyre explainer video:

- Just so you know, whilst we may receive a commission or other compensation from the links on this page, we never allow this to influence product selections - read why you should trust us .

By Matt Wildee

Former MCN Senior Editor and current Editor of sister title RiDE Magazine

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8 Adventure Motorcycle Tires That Will Get You Through Anything

Adventure motorcycle tires are always a hotly debated issue. 

There are endless pages of forums, YouTube comment sections, and articles debating the merits of what sort of tire is best for different riders on different bikes. Don’t even get me started on tire pressures. 

True 50/50 tires are what we run on the majority of our rental fleet because true 50/50 riding is what we do here at Ride Adventures.  

That doesn’t mean we don’t like to have a good time when the pavement ends, nor does it mean we don’t drag a peg or two on twisty pavement sections.  

The difference between the best 50/50 adventure motorcycle tires and the rest of them is that a great tire won’t put serious limitations on either type of riding.  

50/50 Adventure Motorcycle Tire Quick List:

What Is A 50/50 Adventure Motorcycle Tire?

Is there anything more exhausting than listening to people split hairs over what makes a tire 40/60 rather than 60/40?

There will be none of that here, this much I can promise you.  

As far as we’re concerned at RIDE Adventures, a true 50/50 adventure motorcycle tire does three things well. It will:

• Provide enough traction off-road to get you through anything
• Provide enough traction on pavement to be safe and enjoyable 
• Provide an outrageous amount of tread life

Note that we say they’ll get you through anything , but we don’t say they’ll get you through anything gracefully.  

Some of the tires below are better in specific situations than others. None of them are the best at anything, and that’s ok.  

ADV tires get better every year. Maybe, just maybe, one day in the future we’ll get a tire like the Continental TKC 80 that lasts for 15,000 miles.  

Until then, there’s really no substitute for a knobby tire in the dirt, or a sport/touring tire on the pavement.  

A 50/50 tire, however, isn’t making either claim. Running a 50/50 just means all roads are open for you to explore.

Spoon a set of these on, and go anywhere you want for as long as you please. Whether you spend 50, 60, or even 90% of your time on the pavement really doesn’t matter. Your tires are ready for anything whenever you are.  

Who Needs a 50/50 ADV Tire?

Honestly, about 95% of adventure riders would be best suited with a 50/50 tire, but far fewer actually run one.  

See, adventure riders often fall into one of two categories: Riders who don’t trust knobs on pavement, and riders who don’t trust anything but knobs in the dirt.  

Honestly it’s a shame, because both riders are making huge tradeoffs whether they know it or not.  

To all my hard-core knobby-only adventure riders: Unless your name is Toni Bou , you’ll be fine trying anything on this list.  

I tend to be more of a strictly knobby guy on dual sport bikes, but those bikes are typically WELL under 500 pounds and don’t have any business going over 70 mph on the highway anyways.  

I’ll be the first to tell you, even if I’m managing 3,000+ miles out of a knobby tire, the second half of that tread isn’t exactly “confidence inspiring” on or off road. I’d consider these “dual sport” tires, and that’s a separate discussion anyways. 

Adventure motorcycle tires truly bring us the best of both worlds, and none so well as the 50/50 tire. At 3,000 miles, any of the tires below are just getting warmed up.

Best Adventure Motorcycle Tires For 50/50 Riding

While some of the tires below may be similar in appearance, each brings its own unique contributions to the ADV tire scene. 

Whether you’re shopping for your first adventure motorcycle tires or just looking to upgrade your current setup, there’s a 50/50 tire here for your riding style. 

Our team has logged millions of miles on more tires than we can count, so if you’ve got questions on anything you see below (or anything you don’t) drop us a line in the comments below. 

#1. Heidenau K60 Scout

We’ve put over 5,000,000 combined miles on the Heidenau K60 Scout, and for a long time they were our favorite adventure motorcycle tires on the market. 

We’ve seen a few products in recent years that might be able to dethrone the venerable K60 Scout , but before we talk about the competition, let’s cover what we love about the Heidenau.

The tread life of the K60 always delivers the “wow” factor.

Of course their total mileage depends heavily on how you treat the throttle, but adventure riders regularly report getting 12,000 miles or more out of the rear. 

The front tire could probably outlive us all, but most folks replace it whenever the rear wears out in the name of safety.

The tread pattern itself is excellent, and offers reliable grip in just about any off road terrain. Larger sizes with the thicker center strip don’t hook up as well when the bike is upright in the dirt.

Traction on dry pavement is a high point of the K60, but when things turn cold and wet it has a reputation for getting squirrely. You’ve been warned.

Check out our Heidenau K60 Scout Review on YouTube

Pros: 

• True 50/50 tread pattern holds its own on and off road. 
• Stiff sidewalls give “run-flat” like support
• Great tread life, regularly sees 12,000+ miles
• New “cold compound” option improves grip in cold and wet conditions. 

Cons: 

• Tread lasts forever, but flattens out particularly fast in the middle. 
• Stiff sidewalls need at least three spoons for mounting or trailside repairs. 
• Original compound struggles to grip in wet/cold conditions
• Tread pattern differs between sizes, larger center strip on larger bikes

CHECK PRICE:

REVZILLA | AMAZON

#2. Motoz Tractionator GPS

The Motoz Tractionator GPS was a direct response to the popularity of the Heidenau K60. It brought the same characteristics K60 users loved, but added the extra grip K60 users were asking for.

Eventually the Tractionator GPS pushed Heidenau to introduce the latest version of the K60 Scout, the “cold compound”, but by then the damage was done and Motoz had converted a ton of K60 fans.  

The Motoz Tractionator isn’t just a K60 copycat though.  

Speaking of tread, the main feature that’s caught our eye is the rear tread pattern. The Tractionator GPS is the first reversible adventure motorcycle tire ever made. We’re in the middle of testing the Tractionator GPS in our fleet and so far we love it.  

Although it’s a relatively new design, initial reports claim the Tractionator GPS adventure motorcycle tire might even get better mileage than the K60.  

Like any true 50/50 adventure motorcycle tire though, the GPS isn’t perfect.  

Although grip is improved, it still doesn’t deliver the confidence of something like a sport touring tire when riding in wet and cold situations.  

We’ve also noticed the Motoz doesn’t feel quite as confident deep in the curves as a K60, likely due to the alternating stand-alone lugs on the edges.  

Check out our Motoz Tractionator GPS Review on Youtube

Pros:  

• Reversible tread pattern lets you choose between true 50/50 or offroad-biased pattern
• As good if not better mileage than the K60
• Surprisingly quieter on pavement than K60 or Mitas E-07

Cons:  

• On the expensive side
• Wet/cold traction is better than K60, but still not ideal
• Slightly less grip than K60 at serious lean angles on pavement

Motoz Tractionator GPS

#3. Mitas E-07+

Another long-standing favorite in the adventure community is the Mitas E-07+ .   The E-07+ adventure motorcycle tire also features a “chevron” style tread pattern, but Mitas does it a little differently than the Heindenau or Motoz options above.  

For starters, neither the front nor rear uses a solid strip of tread in the center of the tire.  

"Mitas E-07+ mounted for a Customer on one of our many Patagonia Tours "

This approach gives the Mitas E-07+ a slight edge in off road conditions over the two tires mentioned above, but also reduces their life expectancy.  

They’re still fantastic, long-wearing tires (most folks agree on getting roughly 8,000 miles out of the rear), but they won’t outlast other 50/50 adventure motorcycle tires.

It’s also worth mentioning that Mitas uses a slightly narrower profile on their E-07+ tires, which has two main benefits.  

First, a narrower profile means your bike’s handling will feel more nimble on twisty roads. No sane person would describe a 1200 GSA as “flickable” but a 1200 GSA with a set of E-07+s mounted up is certainly “more flickable” by comparison.

"Eric with Customers on a route scouting trip in Thailand. Make sure to join our newsletter as they are invite only"

Second, are the offroad benefits of a narrow profile.  

Narrower profile tires have a narrower overall contact patch on the ground. Focusing the weight of your bike onto a smaller area allows its lugs to dig down more easily, which translates to better grip in mud, loose/loamy soil, and soft-over-hard terrain.  

• Narrow profile great for off road traction and on pavement handling
• Not the greatest mileage, but great nonetheless
• Fat/deep tread works great in mud
• Stiff sidewall gives same benefits as Heidenau
• Little bit of a “knobby” squirm at highway speeds
• Stiff sidewall = mounting headaches
• Lower mileage than other options

Mitas E-07+

#4. Dunlop Trailmax Mission

Dunlop was a long time coming with their entry into the 50/50 segment, and these adventure motorcycle tires were well worth the wait.  

A ton of R&D went into developing the unique tread patterns of the front and rear tires, and the final product truly stands out from the competition.  

Gone are the shared “chevron” tread patterns of every other tire on this list. Dunlop Trailmax Mission opted for a more street-biased appearance that somehow manages to deliver great feel off-road in everything but the gnarliest conditions.  

And unlike some of those chevron-style tires, the Dunlops have zero high-speed drift or wobble to speak of. Load your bike down as heavy or light as you want, and ride it however fast or aggressively you please on the pavement: These tires never have you second-guessing on long highways and twisty canyon roads alike.

Part of this can be chalked up to Dunlops linked tread blocks, which use structural bridges between wider knobs. The Trailmax Mission is clever though, as it employs these bridges close to the carcass to preserve offroad traction.

Mileage is on par with the K60 if not better. The folks at ADV Rider famously put 11,000 miles on a set in one year and didn’t even hit the halfway mark.  

As you might expect from a tire this good on the pavement, it isn’t quite as good off-road as other options. 

The Trailmax Mission delivers great feel in typical adventure riding conditions (dirt/gravel roads, forest service roads etc.), but it wouldn’t be our first choice on this list for deeper sand or mud. 

• Fantastic mileage without centerline tread
• Best 50/50 on pavement
• Wrap-around lugs great for ruts/not getting stuck
• Stepped blocks maintain bite as tread wears down.
• Condensed front tread wanders more in sand/loose terrain
• “Side biters” increase stiff sidewall woes

Dunlop Trailmax Mission

#5. Continental TKC 70/TKC 70 Rocks

An oldie but a goodie, now with more junk in the trunk. Continental's TKC 70 is a tire that needs no introduction as adventure riders have been singing its praises for years, but the German tire maker has added a "Rocks" version of the TKC 70 to their lineup to up the Conti's dirt prowess. 

The interesting thing about the Rocks is that Continental designed it as a rear-only tire with the intent of boosting the TKC 70's overall dirt prowess. Most would considered the 70 about an 80/20 tire, so adding a Rocks to the rear moves the needle closer to the desired 50/50 split. 

We're fans of the Rocks because it shares the same dual tread compound as the original to deliver a long-wearing center and grip-focused shoulders. It also shares Continental's outstanding wet grip treatment, making this one of the better options on our list for riding in cold and/or wet conditions. 

Overall we'd consider this combo a bit more street biased than our other picks, but it's still a predictable performer in everything but slippery mud or wet grass. Mileage wise you're looking at about 8,000 miles to a set here, so you'd also be right to consider the TKC 70 a bit of a tradeoff in terms of grip v. longevity. 

• New "Rocks" rear is better for offroad performance
• Still maintains excellent street and wet grip
• Center tread strip is gone, making for better upright grip
• Solid overall mileage, but not the best of the bunch
• Still commands a premium price

Continental TKC 70/Rocks

#6. Metzeler Enduro 3 Sahara

Last but not we've got he Metzeler Enduro 3 Sahara , which is a bit of a specialist among our selections. Specifically we've loved the Sahara for riding in both sand and mud, as it's one of the best self-cleaning tread patterns we've experienced in a true 50/50 tire. 

Everything else is about what you'd expect for a tire in this genre. On the pavement the Enduro 3 Sahara delivers surprisingly confident performance for such an open tread pattern, while in the dirt you've got enough bite to get through just about anything without scaring yourself. 

The one caveat we'll mention with this tire is that it's definitely the lowest mileage of the list, as we've gotten as little as 4,000 miles from the rear tire when riding long days on mostly paved roads. The front is typically good for about 8,000 miles, but as is often the case, we prefer to switch both tires once the rear wears out. 

All things considered the Enduro 3 Sahara is a damn good looking tire that delivers the goods in the lowest traction situations, and what it lacks in mileage it makes up for in off-road manners. We'll also note that the Sahara typically retails for a good bit less than premium options like the Motoz or K60, so there's an argument to made for value here as well. 

• Best sand/mud performance we've found in a 50/50 tire
• Looks downright tough on the bike
• Surprisingly good street manners despite the aggressive tread
• Sub-par mileage for the segment
• Prone to cupping if you don't watch your pressures

Metzeler Enduro 3 Sahara

What If I Spend More Time Off Road?

The 80/20 argument.

In our experience, the tire is rarely the culprit when riders report a lack of confidence in the dirt. It's time spent practicing and developing off-road skills, not a knobbier tire, that makes this style of riding more enjoyable. 

That's why we offer off-road skills training that focuses on the four fundamentals of off-road riding: drive, braking, body position, and vision.  Once you've learned crucial skills like how to "steer with the rear" and loft the front end over obstacles, chances are you'll find a 50/50 tire works just fine. 

With that being said, if most of your riding takes place off-road and you know a knobby is what you need, an 80/20 tire is the right tool for the job. Here are a few quick suggestions to get you pointed in the right direction, but for the full run-down on street-legal knobbies, make sure to check out our in-depth article on dual sport tires .

#7. Motoz Tractionator RallZ

We run Motoz tires on roughly half of our adventure touring fleet around the world, and while our go-to over the years has been the Tractionator GPS mentioned above, we're also huge fans of the brand's 80/20 option, the Tractionator RallZ .

We dig the RallZ because it's something of a Goldilocks off-road tire, sporting a properly aggressive tread pattern while also providing above-average tread life for the segment. The RallZ's extra-tall knobs deliver somewhere between 4,000-6,000 miles to a set depending on how you ride, which is a massive improvement over your typical street-legal off-road tire. 

What's most surprising about these adventure motorcycle tires is that they also handle pretty damn well on pavement, even in the wet. With a fairly soft compound and high silica content, the knobs grip and slip predictably, and are more than capable of taking you into peg-scraping territory on dry tarmac.

They're also damn fine in loose sand and mud, and while they're slightly outclassed by our dual-sport favorite Motoz Desert HT, they're a dramatic improvement over any 50/50 tire on the. market. The RallZ isn't cheap, but it's about the closest we've found to having your cake and eating it too with a knobby tire. 

• Outstanding all-around traction in the dirt
• High mileage for a knobby
• Handles pavement and wet conditions better than most
• Availability can be an issue

Motoz Tractionator RallZ

#8. Continental Twinduro TKC80

We can't talk 80/20 adventure tires without talking about the most infamous big bike knobby of all time, the Continental TKC80. The TKC80 is arguably the longest-running ADV tire of all time, having been introduced back in the 1990s, but it remains at the top of many rider's lists for one reason: it grips like stink anywhere you take it. 

We've ridden the TKC80 everywhere from the open desert to Appalachia's infamous "Tail of the Dragon" and it just plain works. Both mechanical and chemical grip are excellent on this tire, and the tread blocks are large enough that it doesn't even feel like a proper knobby when leaned over on its shoulder. 

The Twinduro is also one of the more expensive tires out there despite its short lifespan, so you'll have to pay a premium to own them and then pay it again once you've smoked your first set. This would also explain why the most popular ADV sizes of the TKC80 are sold out more often than not, so if you find a set available in your size, don't leave it sitting in your cart for too long. 

• Grips everywhere, period
• Feels like a proper touring tire on the pavement somehow
• Decades of satisfied owners
• Soft compound delivers limited mileage
• Expensive and often sold out

Continental Twinduro TKC80

Final Thoughts On Adventure Motorcycle Tires

Adventure riders ask a lot of their gear, and that's especially true of their tires.  

It’s important to remember an Adventure tire is just that: A happy medium between on and off-road performance that delivers to a degree on both.  

Of course if on and off road performance were our only concern, everyone would be running Continental TKC80s or Shinko 804s. But we need longevity too.  

Adventure riders are here for a long time AND a good time. Get yourself a tire that’s ready to do the same.  

→Related Links:  Motoz Tractionator GPS VS Heidenau K60 Scout and Best Dual Sport Tires for Serious Off-Road Riders.

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The Best Adventure Motorcycle Tyres

There are essentially 3 types of tyre for Adventure bikes:

Enduro tyres, sometimes known as Off-Road Adventure tyres, (think nice and knobbly tyres that look like they’re ready to scale the side of a hill).

Then there are Adventure tyres, which are rugged-looking Sports Touring tyres with visible tread blocks, giving them a slight off-road capability.

Finally there are Sports Touring tyres, which are essentially the same tyres as you’d get for any other bike, just available in Adventure-bike wheel rim sizes.

We all know the chunky tread blocks look the best but for the vast majority of Adventure-bike riders, who never stray off-road, a Sports Touring tyre is the best bet.

For those who do a bit of green-lane bothering or who like the image of rugged-looking tyres, then Adventure tyres are the way to go.

For those who use the roads to get to the off-road sections and then go and get completely lost, then an Enduro tyre is the best bet as it’s the only one that will give you good traction on loose surfaces.

Choose Your Tyre Type

How to choose the right tyres for you.

An Adventure bike looks better with knobbly tyres but it won’t ride as well as an Adventure bike fitted with Sports Touring tyres. 

Fortunately all the tyre manufacturers make versions of their Sports Touring rubber in Adventure-bike wheel rim sizes, so you don’t have to compromise and ride your Adventure bike on the road with knobbly tyres that wander in a straight line and wear out a lot faster than a conventional tyre.

If you do a little bit of green-laning then an Adventure tyre makes sense but if 99% of your riding is on the road, a Sports Touring tyre is a better bet. You could always get the best of both world and buy a second set of rims and fit them with Enduro tyres, so you have a properly capable tyre for when the going gets loose and a decent tyre for the road.

Adventure motorcycle tyre chooser chart

If you’re not sure of the best tyre for your Dual Sport motorcycle, then check out the chart below. We’ve put some common scenarios in the table to help you get a better idea of the category of tyre that you’ll get on with.

Best Sports Touring Tyre

A Sports Touring tyre is a great choice on an Adventure bike. Despite what many think, it’s in no way a compromise. If the vast majority of your riding is on the road, no matter whether you’re on a Ducati Multistrada, a BMW GS or a Triumph Tiger, you’ll be best off on a Sport Touring tyre. They warm up quickly, offer long tyre life and great all-weather grip. They’re a great option for fast-road riders too.

It’s only when you deviate from road riding that you should, in my opinion, consider a different type of tyre. If you’re doing lots of trail riding, then you either need a smaller-engined trail bike, with enduro tyres or you need to fit trail-capable tyres to your big Adv bike.

Pirelli Scorpion Trail 2

The best choice for real-world riding.

If you ride an Adventure bike but hardly ever stray off-road then the Scorpion Trail 2 is the tyre you need. I’ve ridden on 20+ different tyres on Adventure bikes and, for me, the Scorpion Trail 2 is the best tyre in terms of feel, grip and feedback on the road. It’ll make your Adventure bike handle like a sportsbike and if you’re riding on the odd light gravel trail, they’ll be fine.

Motorcycles you’d expect to see running a Sports Touring tyre: From a BMW R1200GS, to an Aprilia Caponord, a Ducati Multistrada 950 or a Suzuki V-Strom 1000.

The rider’s most likely to be seen: Commuting into work or heading out for a Sunday ride with a mission to find the area’s best fry-up.

Other great tyres in the Adventure Sports Touring category

Sports Touring is a hotly contested category with every manufacturer producing at least one model, if not two. Most Sports Touring tyres are available in Adventure-bike rim sizes and some will even slightly amend the tread pattern to give the tyre a rugged look.

Metzeler Roadtec 01

Pirelli Angel GT2

Dunlop Roadsmart 4

After something a little stickier? Arguably one of the biggest adventures you could have on your Adventure bike is to head to your favourite race circuit and do a trackday.

If this sounds like just the thing you’ve been meaning to do, then Dunlop have a tyre for you. The Dunlop SportSmart TT is a trackday tyre, available in Adventure-bike wheel sizes. Sticker than a slug coated in treacle, the SportSmart TT will give you the grip you need to bag some impressive lap times and cling onto superbikes.

Just watch out for when your centrestand digs in as your suspension compresses through the Craner Curves…

Best Adventure Tyre

Let’s be honest, 99% of Adventure bikes never go off-road. So while a knobbly tyre looks the business, it won’t necessarily give you the confidence you could have – or the ride quality you’d like – compared to if you were on a Sports Touring tyre.

These knobbly-looking Dual Sport tyres are a good compromise; they have ‘Adventure bike’ looks with performance close to a road-only tyre and they can do a little bit of trail riding too.

They’re essentially exactly the same as a Sports Touring tyre in terms of their carcass and construction but the Dual Sports have a more pronounced ‘off-road’ tread pattern.

The tread pattern isn’t just about rugged looks; they’ll find grip where there is none, especially on loose surfaces and green lanes but they won’t be as good on the road as a Sports Touring tyre. So it goes back to being honest about your riding and the conditions you ride in.

If you’re doing proper off-roading on your Adventure bike, then of course you’ll need a proper off-road tyre but for most Adventure motorcycle riders, a Sports Touring or Touring tyre in a rim size to suit your Adventure bike is the best tyre choice.

In this Adventure category, we’re recommending a tyre for people who ride off-road as well as on. If you only ride on the road on your Adventure bike, see the Sports Touring section.

Michelin Anakee Adventure

Combining great performance with good looks

Primarily aimed at road riding, the Michelin Anakee Adventure is a brilliantly stable tyre, with plenty of edge grip and wet weather performance. They have a fast-warm up and thanks to the rounded tread blocks, they corner well and have no excess vibration at speed. They are a favourite of many adventure-bike riders who are 90% focused on the road but have the occasional desire for some green-lane action.

Motorcycles you’d expect to see running an Adventure tyre: Honda Africa Twin, KTM 790 Adventure, BMW R1200GS Adventure, Ducati Multistrada 1260 Enduro

The rider’s most likely to be seen: Taking on narrow farm roads in Wales or the Yorkshire moors, eyeing up green lanes or enjoying a well earned pub lunch.

Other great tyres in the Adventure category

Pirelli Scorpion Trail II

Continental TKC70 and new TKC70 Rocks rear

Best Enduro Tyre

If you’re planning a holiday where you’ll be spending a large amount of your time on trails or unpaved roads, then you’ll need a proper off-road tyre.

It won’t have the same road-holding ability as a road-focused Adventure tyre but it’ll give you far superior grip on loose surfaces, allowing the bike to dig into the surface and not just skate across the top of it.

If you only ride a few miles of trails every year, then you’re better off with an Adventure tyre, rather than an Enduro.

If you mainly ride on the road but you do a bit of trail riding, then you could always get a second pair of rims and fit Sports Touring tyres for the road miles and Enduro tyres for the muddy stuff.

Metzeler Karoo 4

It’s good enough for the bmw off-road school.

A road legal Enduro tyre that’ll give you the purchase you need to tackle almost anything. The all-new Karoo 4, launched in 2021, is the tyre used at former Paris-Dakar rider Simon Pavey’s BMW Off-Road School to haul the big 1250GS models around the tough Welsh landscape. Not the best choice for pure road riders but not too shabby on the tarmac either.

Motorcycles you’d expect to see running an Enduro tyre: KTM 450 Rally, BMW F850GS Adventure, Yamaha Tenere 700

The rider’s most likely to be seen: Connecting up their hydration pack and checking their luggage straps before heading off into the wild.

Other great tyres in the Enduro category

If you want the gnarliest tyres for your off-road exploits, then checkout the tyres below:

Bridgestone AX41

Kenda K784 Big Block

Anlas Capra X

Motorcycle tyre load index chart

A motorcycle tyre’s load index is a numerical code that corresponds to the maximum weight a tyre can support. In order to determine the load index you require, take the gross single axle load of your bike (see your owner’s manual). If it is, say, 340kg then each tyre needs a load index with a minimum load of 170kg, in this case 46. As two tyres that can carry 170kg each will safely carry 340kg.

Motorcycle tyre speed rating chart

Every motorcycle tyre has a speed rating. It is a single letter found after the load rating which is a single number. For example 67H or 55P.

The letter is a maximum speed rating, which indicates the maximum speed the tyre can safely reach, with the maximum load when the maximum listed inflation pressure is used.

Symbol, Max Speed (mph)

(V), more than 149mph

(W), more than 169mph

ZR, more than 149mph

Adventure motorcycle tyre questions

What’s a knobbly tyre like on the road? Not great. If you’ve never ridden on one before, it’ll feel like you have a flat tyre. At motorways speeds the bike will gently wander from side to side and if you overheat them (which is easy on a motorway stretch) you can literally tear the tread blocks off.

What’s the tyre life of a knobbly on the road? You’d be lucky to get 1,500 miles from a rear.

Can you green lane on road tyres? Yes and no. If you try it on Sports Touring tyres on anything looser than a light bit of dry gravel you’ll find the front won’t get any purchase. In the wet it’ll be lethal. Mud? Forget it.

Can you run tubeless tyres on spoked rims? Certain rims are designed so that you can run tubeless tyres on the bike. KTM use a rubber liner that goes over the spoke heads making what looks like a Tube type wheel actually be able to run a tubeless tyre. BMW have designed most of their spoked wheels so that the spokes run to the outer edge of the rim (unlike normal spoked rims that have holes in the middle) this means the wheel is incredibly rigid whilst also being tubeless, clever Germans. Strangely Honda’s awesome CRF1000 Africa Twin comes with tube-type wheels. If you want to run tubeless tyres you need to fork out a few grand on new rims. Must be purely a cost saving exercise from those nifty engineers from the land of the rising sun.

When you change your tyre do you need to change the inner tube? Ideally, yes. However some riders like to watch the pennies. The issue with re-using your inner tube is that if it does get a puncture it’s a hassle (and costly) to get the tyre off and replace it. So for the sake of £10 to a new inner tube, you might as well replace it. Your tyre shop will be able to advise you on the condition of yours if you would prefer not to buy a new one.

Can you repair an inner tube? You can but it’s not worth it. The risk of the repair failing isn’t worth the hassle. Most long-distance adventurers carry spare inner tubes rather than puncture repair kits.

What tyres do they use on Dakar bikes? Various but mainly the same big block tyres you can buy from any motorcycle tyre specialist.

Are Enduro tyres road legal? Not all of them are. If they have the FIM stamp on the sidewall they are.

Motorcycle tyre FAQs

What Is The Legal Requirement For Tyre Tread Depth? Here in the UK, the legal requirement is that the tyre tread depth be no less than 1.0mm around the circumference of the middle three quarters of the tyre.

Once your tyre reaches this limit, it must be replaced.  It is advisable though, to replace tyres before they reach their legal limit, as their ability to provide traction will be heavily compromised. 

Many organisations and companies advise changing at 2.5mm tread depth because at lower than this tread depth, you will notice a decline in your motorbike’s handling ability and stopping distance. 

Riding around on tyres with a lower tread depth also makes you more susceptible to punctures, nasty loose nails and other damage to the tyres as they are wearing paper thin. 

Do they make motorcycle run-flat tyres? In the car world, run-flat tyres have been the mainstay for over a decade. Can you believe that the first ‘run flat tyre’ was introduced by Michelin in 1934? It was designed for military use and also for armoured bank vehicles to lower their risk of being successfully hijacked.

Back in the real world, run-flats are a common fitment to modern cars. Due to the way a motorcycle tyre needs to work, the development of a true run-flat motorcycle tyre has yet to hit the mainstream. A good alternative is to use a tyre sealant like Slime, which will prevent a tyre from immediately deflating if you get a puncture or a screw or nail in your tyre.

Do I need to scrub new tyres in? You always had to scrub your tyres in but have modern methods of tyre production removed the need to do this?

In short no. However it’s less about the release agent used to get the tyre out of the mould. That used to be an issue and it could mean the tyre surface wouldn’t grip well until it was worn away. 

However a tyre still needs bedding in for the first few miles. During the fitting process the bead undergoes enormous forces and the first few miles allows it to properly seat on the rim. Going steady for the first few miles also allows the steel belt and aramid fibres to settle-down and start working properly.

How should I store my bike if it’s not being ridden Your tyres will lose pressure over time. If you’re storing your bike for a month or more, it pays to keep it on paddock stands rather than sat on its tyre on the sidestand.

As the tyre loses pressure, it will deform and can form a flat spot, especially if the floor it is on reaches near-zero temperatures. It can cause this part of the tyre to become brittle.

If you don’t have paddock stands, then pump the tyres up to their maximum pressures and as silly as it sounds, roll the bike onto some carpet to keep the tyres from being subjected to extremely cold conact.

How long do tyres last? All tyres will have a production date on the sidewall. From the moment they’re manufacturered, they’re guaranteed for 5 years but they will last around 10 years. So if you fit a pair that are unused but four years old, you’ve got around 6 years of usable life in them. If you don’t get through them in that time, perhaps take up a new hobby?

To see when your tyres were made look for the final four numbers after the DOT code. The first two numbers designate the week of the year and the second are the year. So a tyre with the code 3419 was made in the thirty-fourth week of 2019.

Thanks to the following who helped us research and write this guide to the best motorcycle tyres:

twotyres.co.uk

Bridgestone

All good advice in this article ..good to have a sensible easy and informed choice,rather than too much technical terminology.

Nice simple breakdown, for a not very simple problem. I would NOT use an ‘Adventure Tyre’ for anything except road riding and very careful riding on well-groomed gravel roads. In my (humble) opinion they do not offer any more ‘off-road’ grip than a touring tyre. The tread is shallow and the gaps between blocks tiny – I can’t see this helping at all. – Just my thoughts. As riders we REALLY do need something in between a full enduro tyre and a touring tyre. – I haven’t seen many that could comfortably be described this way. MOTOZ GPS is getting close and Mitas E07+ looks like it might be straddling the fence – I haven’t tried either though and keep hearing conflicting reports (It also depends hugely on the climate where you live).

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7 Best Adventure Motorcycle Tires in 2024 (Read This First!)

By Michael Parrotte

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A lot of adventure motorcycle riders are eager to know the best adventure motorcycle tires to buy for their bikes. While it is good to have the best rubbers underneath your bike, there are a couple of things you need to know about ADV tires to make an informed decision during the selection stage.

In this comprehensive guide on the best adventure motorcycle tires, I’m going to break down everything you need to understand when shopping for tires. You probably must have come across questions on search engines such as best 50/50 adventure tires, 60/40 adventure tires, 70/30 adventure tires, 80/20 adventure tires, and even 90/10 adventure tires.

Understanding these figures will place you in the best position to buy the right set of tires that are best fit for your riding style. For this reason, I’m going to start by explaining these terms.

Understanding Adventure Motorcycle Tires Ratio (50/50, 60,40, 70,30, …)

Adventure motorcycle tire ratio is meant to help riders determine the right tires for their riding styles. While some riders do a lot of off-road riding than pavement riding, some do more pavement than off-road, and others do almost the same amount of riding on both off road and on pavement. For this reason, having ratios on adventure tires is necessary because it helps riders know the right one to go for.

Let me start with the 50/50 adventure tires. From my explanation above, you can easily deduce that a 50/50 adventure tire is one that is equally suitable for street riding and off-road riding.

For 60/40 off-road/street adventure tires, it means that they are slightly better for off-road or dirt riding than on pavement. The 60 is for off-road, while the 40 is for on-road.

Now, following this sequence, you can deduce that a 70/30 off-road/on-road tire tilts more towards dirt riding than on-road riding. 80/20 adventure tires are better suited for off-road than on road, and it continues like that till 90/10. There are no 100% percent adventure tires designed for only dirt riding because no matter how aggressive you are with your riding; you must still see the need to ride on the road.

Below is a summary of my top 7 best adventure motorcycle tires:

How to Choose the Best Adventure Motorcycle Tires?

Choosing the best adventure motorcycle tires highly depends on your riding style or how aggressively you want to ride. Nonetheless, most of the adventure tires on the marketplace have a 50/50 or 60/40 ratio.

Why is that so? Adventure tires with such ratios strike a perfect balance between off-road and on-road, making them the most preferred choice for adventure riders. If you do as much adventure riding as street riding, below are the reasons you should choose 50/50 or 60/40 adventure tires:

• They provide excellent off-road traction that can get you through anything
• Just as they are perfect for off-road riding, these tires are also great for providing enough traction for pavement riding.
• You will also enjoy a good tread life from this type of adventure tire.

With this information, it’s time for me to list my top 7 best adventure motorcycle adventure tires to buy in 2024. My list will be a mix of 50/50 and 60/40, and a few other ratios for those who will be interested in them.

My Top 7 Best Adventure Motorcycle Tires

As someone with over 35 years of experience in the motorcycle industry, below are my top recommendations for riders seeking the best adventure tires for their bikes:

1. Bridgestone Battlax Adventurecross AX41 Tires

Buy on RevZilla | Amazon

The first on my list of best adventure motorcycle tires is the Bridgestone Battlax Advneturecross AX41 tires. This is no surprise to most ADV riders because these tires have been rated highly by independent bodies as one of the best 60/40 adventure tires on the market (60 for off-road and 40 for road).

What makes the AX41 tires a good option to consider? Below are some reasons:

• They are designed for both rugged terrain and paved roads, making it pretty smooth for riders to travel from one adventure site, traveling through a paved road, to another adventure site.
• The Bridgestone Battlax Adventurecross AX41 tires undergo numerous tests to confirm their ability to easily hook up softer terrain and at the same time hold firm on paved surfaces.
• Although made of a single compound, the composition is very tough, making it perfect for heavier bikes.
• Finally, the durability of the tire is one to reckon with.

These tubeless, newly designed tires offer excellent grip on both off-road and on-road. If you own a big adventure touring bike and are in need of tires for all conditions, you should consider buying the Bridgestone Battlax Adventurecross AX41 tire.

• Excellent mileage for road and off-road
• Great grip on paved roads and off-road
• Has a unique design
• Perfect for heavier adventure motorcycles
• They are somewhat loud and unsafe for highway speeds

2. Heidenau K60 Scout Tires

Buy on RevZilla | Cycle Gear

The Heidenau K60 is one of the best adventure motorcycle tires on the market. This 50/50 dual sport tire offers an excellent balance of performance on-road and off-road. The improved tread and compound composition of this tire offer better cornering stability and great grip on wet road conditions while also delivering well off-road.

As for steering and durability, there’s hardly any other brand of tire that beats the Heidenau. I got well over 20,000 miles from these tires, and performance wasn’t compromised throughout this period.

One noticeable feature about these tires is that different sizes look different. This is so because each k60 Scout tire size has its own special tread design optimized for that particular tire’s size and the needs of the motorcycles it will typically be installed on. While some tires have a chevron-style tread, others have a continuous strip in the center.

The tire comes in both tubeless and tubed designs.

• Comfortable to ride on both a paved road and uneven surfaces
• Offers excellent grip on various road conditions
• Excellent mileage
• Capable of riding on loose sand, wet grass, thick mud, etc.
• Since they are made of harder compounds, on occasion, they can slide a little on paved roads. Therefore, you must be mindful of your speed on the highway.

3. Continental Trail Attacks III Tires

If you are interested in motorcycle tires with confidence-inspiring grip on paved surfaces and also enough grip to ride on hard-parked stony trails, I’ll recommend the Continental Trail Attacks 3 tires for you.

These 90/10 street/trail tires are the best of adventure tires with a combination of longevity and grip. They are suitable for riders with heavy ADV bikes who occasionally do trail riding. If you know how popular the Trail Attack 2 tires are, the Attack 3 are an improvement on Attack 2, thus confirming the amazing features that come with them.

The new, optimized tread pattern of the Trail Attack 3 provides improved traction on wet and dry surfaces, and are designed to last for long miles (around 7,000 to 10,000 miles) before considering replacement.

One of the things I like about these tires is that they are nearly silent, with almost zero tread noise. While they are perfect for paved surfaces (like any other road tires), they also have a bit of extra rubber to resist punctures in the dirt.

• Excellent road tires with some extra features to navigate dirt
• Almost zero tread noise
• Great design, excellent cornering ability
• Amazing on wet and dry surfaces
• Better mileage
• These tires are not for you if you are looking for ADV tires to navigate mud and sand. They are more of a street tire than off-road.

4. Dunlop Trailmax Raid Tires

While some might call this adventure tire 60/40, I see it more as a 50/50 tire because it can tackle the trails as much as it can ride on paved surfaces. The Dunlop Trailmax Raid tires were built upon the success of the very popular Trailmax Mission in terms of offroad ability. The following is what this all-terrain adventure tire has to offer:

• Suitable for both heavy and mid-weight ADV bikes
• Great resistance to damage from stones, rocks, and other debris
• Excellent comfort and handling
• Good mileage
• Great traction both on-road and challenging off-road conditions
• Comes in a variety of sizes to fit multiple bike models

Looking at the Trailmax Raid advanced rubber compound, it features highly dispersible high surface area silica that improves performance on wet surfaces. It also limits the tire’s reliance on heat for optimum grip. This compound is made of a mix of resins and carbon black variants that help restore conflicting requirements between off-road and on-road as well.

Personally, these tires are perfect for both on and off-road riding. Nevertheless, there’s no 100% perfect tire in the market. Therefore, if there is anything I’ll like to be improved on, it would be the rear tire longevity and the front tire performance on sandy trails. But in all, great tires to have underneath your ADV bikes.

5. Michelin Anakee Wild Tires

The Michelin Anakee Wild Tires are another versatile option designed for both on-road and off-road riding. These 50/50 adventure tires have a unique tread pattern that features large, deep grooves and aggressive lugs, thus offering excellent traction in different terrains such as gravel, mud, and even rocky surfaces.

The compound and construction of this rugged tire ensure durability and resistance to punctures, making it one of the most reliable tires for adventure riders.

Below are the two reasons the Michelin Anakee Wild made my list of the best adventure motorcycle tires:

• Superior off-road performance: All the confidence you need to explore challenging terrains is embedded in this tire. Its aggressive tread design allows for excellent grip and stability on off-road.
• Reliable on-road handling: The off road capabilities of the Anakee Wild tires do not in any way compromise its performance on paved roads. These tires deliver a smooth and stable ride for commuting or long-distance touring.

Overall, the Michelin Anakee Wild strikes a perfect balance between off-road and on-road performance, with approximately 50% of its capabilities dedicated to each terrain type.

• Superior off-road traction
• Suitable for both paved and off-road riding
• Durable construction
• May not perform 100% when compared to pure road tires, but as long as you are mindful of your highway speed, the tire will serve its purpose perfectly.Top of Form

  6. Dunlop Trailmax Mission Tires

Yet another Dunlop tire on my list of best adventure motorcycle tires is the Dunlop Trailmax Mission tire. These 50/50 adventure tires are known for their versatility, meeting the needs of adventure riders who seek reliable performance both on and off-road. The Trailmax Mission provides excellent traction and stability on various terrains, thanks to its aggressive tread pattern with large, deep grooves and robust knobs.

Aside from the excellent performance of these tires, the advanced materials used for construction enhance durability, ensuring longevity and resistance to punctures during off-road riding. No matter how big your ADV rigs are, the revised rubber compound helps extend tire life.

• Great performance on and off the road
• The expected tread life is one of the best you can find
• No tread noise
• It comes in various sizes
• The stiff sidewalls of the tire may make it a little difficult to change the tire

7. Pirelli Scorpion Trail II tires

To conclude my list of the best adventure motorcycle tires, I have the Pirelli Scorpion Trail II 80/20 on-road/off-road Tires. These tires are designed for modern adventure touring motorcycles , offering a blend of versatility and performance. With an aggressive tread pattern combining enduro and sport touring features, they deliver excellent traction and stability at high speeds.

Another thing I find interesting about this tire is its dual compound construction that ensures extended mileage without compromising cornering ability, while the shortened profile promotes even wear for consistent performance.

The Trail 2 tires are designed to handle heavy loads and are reliable on long trips and winding roads. Featuring enhanced wet grip and compatibility with various high-performance bikes, they excel in diverse conditions. Their multiple-speed ratings accommodate different motorcycle models, including specialized editions like the K-spec for KTM Super Adventure and D-spec for Ducati Multistrada 1200 Enduro.

Overall, the Scorpion Trail II Tires offer peak performance for adventure enthusiasts, whether on straight highways or challenging terrains.

• Great performance on paved and unpaved surfaces
• Superior grip for stability and control
• Extended mileage
• It wears evenly throughout its lifespan
• Reliable handling even under heavy load or during spirited riding
• You may experience reduced traction in extremely wet conditions compared to pure road tires

Recommended:

The 6 Best Noise Cancelling Helmets For Really Quiet Rides

The Durability of Adventure Tires

Adventure tires are designed to withstand rugged terrain and varying weather conditions, making durability a crucial factor. These tires typically feature reinforced sidewalls and tread patterns optimized for off-road performance.

Nevertheless, if you spend more time riding in rough terrain than on paved roads, you should expect that the tires will wear faster. I think for durability, anywhere from 5,000 miles upwards is a good deal for any rider.

Are Adventure Tires Tubed or Tubeless?

You can get adventure tires in both tubed and tubeless variants, with distinct advantages depending on the rider’s preferences and intended use. Tubed tires require an inner tube to hold air, making them more susceptible to punctures and pinch flats.

On the other hand, tubeless tires feature a reinforced bead that creates an airtight seal with the rim, eliminating the need for an inner tube. This design reduces the risk of flats caused by punctures and improves overall ride quality by allowing lower tire pressures for better traction. However, also note that tubeless setups may require additional maintenance and specialized equipment for installation and repair.

Knowing the Right Pressure to Run Your Adventure Tires At

The right pressure to run your adventure tires at is a crucial factor for optimizing performance and ensuring a safe ride. The ideal pressure depends on various factors such as rider weight, bike load, terrain type, and personal preference.

Generally, lower tire pressures provide better traction and shock absorption on rough terrain, while higher pressures reduce rolling resistance on smooth surfaces. Always adhere to the manufacturer’s recommendations and consider factors such as load distribution and riding conditions when adjusting tire pressure.

It is a good practice to regularly monitor tire pressure and make adjustments as needed because it can help enhance both performance and safety during off-road adventures.

You can even invest in a quality tire pressure gauge and carry it during rides to enable you to make informed pressure adjustments on the go.

Michael’s Summary and Conclusion

Choosing the best adventure motorcycle tires is essential if you care about performance, durability, and safety. I have carefully researched and selected the 7 adventure tires in this article to serve adventure riders optimally.

Whether you are buying tubed or tubeless adventure tires, always make sure you stick to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure gauge for performance as well as your safety.

Information for this article was partially sourced and researched from the following authoritative government, educational, corporate, and non-profit organizations:

• Tire Performance Study
• Tire Safety Ratings and Awareness
• Motorcycle Mechanics Institute (MMI)
• Tire Industry Association (TIA)

About the Author:

Michael Parrotte started his career in the motorcycle industry by importing AGV Helmets into the North American market. He was then appointed the Vice President of AGV Helmets America. In total, he worked with AGV Helmets for 25 years. He has also served as a consultant for KBC Helmets, Vemar Helmets, Suomy Helmets, Marushin Helmets, KYT Helmets, and Sparx Helmets.

In 1985, he founded AGV Sports Group, Inc. with AGV Helmets in Valenza, Italy. For over 38 years now, the company has quietly delivered some of the best protective gear for motorcyclists in the world.

Click Here  for Michael’s LinkedIn Profile

Click Here for the Complete AGV Helmet & AGVSPORT History

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Editors’ Choice: Adventure Motorcycle Tires & Tools

• June 13, 2023

Whether you’re picky about your rubber or don’t care what sort of skins are wrapped around your rims, you’re bound to burn through quite a few sets of tires while ripping around on your motorcycle. For adventure riding, you want a tire that’s designed specifically for your adventure bike and performs well both on-road and off. Following are some of our favorite tires and a couple of key tools to bring along on every adventure.

When you’re choosing tires for ADV riding, you’ll notice the balance between the off-road/on-road use ratio referenced, and adventure tires often fall into the 50/50 or 40/60 category, with more purpose-driven outliers in the 80/20 range. This is because, like all things in life, there’s a bit of a compromise when it comes to choosing tires. Your 50/50 tires are going to last a little longer than the 60/40s and will inherently perform a bit better on the tarmac. 60/40 tires will give you the upper hand in the dirt, but are generally made of a softer compound with deeper treads, so you’ll burn through them quicker than a set of 50/50s.

Our Favorite(s)

Bridgestone battlax adventurecross ax41.

Over the last couple of years, Eva Rupert ridden over 10,000 miles on several sets of Bridgestone Battlax Adventurecross AX41s. Needless to say, they’ve become her go-to tire for adventure motorcycling. From Baja to the Pacific Northwest and through every state in the Western US, they’ve always had her back in the backcountry and on the long stretches of pavement in between. What the Battlax lacks in longevity, it more than makes up for in performance— both on-road and, most importantly, off. You can read Eva’s full review here .

MSRP: $109.38 – $227.68

Honorable Mentions

Continental Twinduro TKC80

No list of ADV tires would be complete without the Continental TKC80, easily one of the most ubiquitous and best-performing set of skins on the market today. Also falling into the 40/60 category of adventure tires, the TKC’s block-pattern knobs excel off-road while hinting at a street-tire profile to maintain tarmac traction. What this tire lacks in longevity, it makes up for in performance. The big block pattern scares the dirt into submission and gives you tons of grip, braking power, and traction on a wide range of surfaces from loose to hard pack. 

MSRP: $178.00 – $331.00

Dunlop Trailmax Mission

The Trailmax Mission Tire is one of the best 50/50 adventure tires on the market today. A relatively new addition to Dunlop’s lineup, the Mission delivers knobby-like performance off-road, has an impressive grip on the street, and the darn things last forever! Dunlop claims that you’ll get an impressive 8,000 miles out of the rear tire, virtually twice the longevity of the TKC80. The tread design uses deep, widely spaced lugs cut into the tire’s profile to deliver sure-footed road carving. The wraparound tread blocks reach around the sidewall, increasing puncture resistance and traction while ripping off-road.

MSRP: $122.00 – $245.00

Heidenau K60 Scout

Heidenau’s K60 Scout has a tread pattern that handles the tough stuff with ease, making it a go-to choice for adventure riders the world over. The K60 Scout has your back with virtually unrivaled longevity— it is not uncommon to get 20,000 miles on a front and 10,000 miles on a rear. Heidenau’s tire compound uses a high natural rubber content, which is incredibly resilient and durable. When combined with sturdy belted construction, this makes for one of the most trusted, longest-lasting tires available to long-distance travelers.

MSRP: $131.00 – $239.00

The iconic Mitas E-07 is a 50/50 tire developed with the weight and power of big adventure machines in mind. Due to its hard-wearing bias-ply construction and optimal on- and off-road performance, the E-07 is a popular ADV tire for round the world trips and home turf adventures alike. The chevron tread arrangement maximizes biting edges with sufficient gaps between tread blocks to ensure good traction in tricky off-road situations. Suited for tubeless and tubed tires, on pavement, the versatile E-07 instills confidence when cornering and in wet conditions with stability and comfort even at highway speeds.

MSRP: $79.51 – $243.40

Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR

The Scorpion Rally STR is another 80/20 tire that offers decent off-road grip and longevity that goes the distance. The Rally STR features a road-derived profile and a silica-rich compound that works well on the pavement, even in wet or cold conditions. This profile and compound, combined with a unique tread design, results in a consistent contact patch that delivers serious canyon carving performance. When your adventure takes you off the tarmac, the refined tread design makes quick work of gravel, sand or dirt, especially if you air down a bit. 

MSRP: $166.27 – $294.97

Tire Tools and Accessories

Slime Power Sports G2 Tire Inflator

The Slime Power Sports G2 Tire Inflator is so compact, not to mention essential for emergency tire repair, there’s no reason to leave home without it. The built-in gauge allows you to observe the increased pressure with a reading up to 100 psi and the bright, built-in LED sheds plenty of light on the situation. This powerful mini-pump will inflate your motorcycle tire in a jiffy and then stow away neatly in its rigid carrying case.

MSRP: $46.36

BikeMaster Tire And Tube Flat Repair Kit

With space of the essence when adventure riding, making your tool kit as bike specific as possible is always a good idea. That said, looking out for yourself and your buddies on the trail is always worth the extra ounces and I always carry tire repair for tube-type and tubeless tires. The BikeMaster kit comes with all the patches, plugs, and tools you need to take care of everyone on the trail, no matter what type of tires they’re running.

MSRP: $42.89

Motion Pro T6 Tire Levers

The Motion Pro Tire Levers have a space-saving dual-ended design with a tire spoon on one end and hex wrench on the other. Trailside tire changes are always a pain, but the clever lip design on these tire spoons makes things a little easier. The hex end comes in a variety of sizes so you can select the most useful set for your individual bike.

MSRP: $34.99

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Adventure Tire Buyer's Guide

Searching for traction in all the wrong places

As mentioned in our first installment of adventure bike upgrades , tires are one of, if not the , easiest ways to transform the handling of your big adventure bike. As adventure bikes have grown in popularity, so have tire offerings for them. With the plethora of tire choices to choose from these days, one can almost pinpoint exactly how much dirt versus road you plan on doing and choose a tire that meets your riding expectations.

When I first purchased my 1190 Adventure R, it was my only motorcycle, and I was commuting on it every day. Though I had dreams of off-road adventures on my Adventure, I couldn’t justify slapping on a set of TKC80s and shredding them on the 405 freeway. I chose to run the stock ContiTrailAttacks for quite a while until I bought my Tuono, then I was able to start swapping in more aggressive tires on the KTM since I wouldn’t be using it to commute all the time.

The adventure tire buyer’s guide we’ve put together includes nine brands with one road-biased and dirt-biased offering from each. Yes, we know there are other brands and other tires, but we had to draw the line somewhere. If your favorite tire isn’t listed, leave it in the comments section to share with other readers.

Table of Contents

• 1. Bridgestone Battlax Adventure A41: Shop Now Read review
• 2. Bridgestone Battlax Adventurecross AX41: Shop Now Read review
• 3. Continental ContiTrailAttack 2: Shop Now Read review
• 4. Continental TKC80: Shop Now Read review
• 5. Dunlop Trailsmart: Shop Now Read review
• 6. Dunlop Trailmax Mission: Shop Now Read review
• 7. Dunlop D606: Shop Now Read review
• 8. Heidenau K76: Shop Now Read review
• 9. Heidenau K60 Scout: Shop Now Read review
• 10. Metzler Tourance: Shop Now Read review
• 11. Metzeler Karoo 3: Shop Now Read review
• 12. Michelin Anakee Adventure: Shop Now Read review
• 13. Michelin Anakee Wild: Shop Now Read review
• 14. MOTOZ Tractionator Adventure: Shop Now Read review
• 15. MOTOZ Tractionator Desert H/T: Shop Now Read review
• 16. Pirelli Scorpion Trail II: Shop Now Read review
• 17. Pirelli MT 21 Rallycross: Shop Now Read review
• 18. Shinko 705: Shop Now Read review
• 19. Shinko 804/805: Shop Now Read review

Bridgestone Battlax Adventure A41

The Bridgestone Adventure A41 is said to perform very well in wet conditions without giving up stability in the dry. A 90% street, 10% off-road tire, the A41 doesn’t make any promises it can’t keep off-road, but as Brent stated in his review, he came away rather impressed by just how good a tire like the A41 could be off-road. I suggest checking out his review for a thorough explanation of the tech behind the tire.

MO Tested: Bridgestone Battlax Adventure A41 And Sport Touring T31 Tire Review

Bridgestone Battlax Adventurecross AX41

The all-new Bridgestone Battlax Adventurecross AX41 dips into a new micro-segment of adventure tires for Bridgestone. The tread pattern and block shape has been optimized for better traction and wear life to give adventure riders the best of both worlds. This tire falls into the 60% off-road/40% on-road but as always, your mileage may vary.

Continental ContiTrailAttack 2

When I first purchased my 1190, it came with the ContiTrailAttack as the stock rubber. Those tires provided excellent grip and longevity. I burned through one set of this new version on the 1190 as well, but those ended with a couple of punctures and the decision to put a more aggressive tire on my bike. The ContiTrailAttack 2, in my opinion, is probably the most street-focused tire on this list, and it handles pavement extremely well. Off-road, it left me wishing for more traction in almost every situation.

Continental TKC80

There have been many imitations of Continental’s extremely popular 40% street, 60% dirt adventure tire, but so far, none have managed to gain as much traction as the TKC80… pun intended. OE equipment on KTM’s big Adventure R bikes, the TKC80 does its job remarkably well. Stable on pavement thanks to its standard tire profile, while having large well-spaced lugs that do a great job when the pavement gets gone. A billion* adventure riders can’t be wrong. Can they?

*this number is made up

Dunlop Trailsmart

For 80% street, 20% off-road, the Trailsmart from Dunlop will provide excellent street handling with its silica-fortified compounds which enhance grip in both wet and dry weather. The Trailsmart takes inspiration from the Trailmax TR91, maintaining a similar V-shaped groove pattern that provides grip in all conditions.

Dunlop Trailmax Mission

The Dunlop Trailmax Mission tire is Dunlop’s first foray into what it calls the 50/50 adventure tire segment. After attending the press introduction for the tire, speaking with engineers, and having the opportunity to put 2,000 miles on a set of Trailmax Missions , my view of the tires hasn’t changed much since the intro, that is, aside from the impressive wear resistance they offer. If you’ve read the aforementioned reviews (or read into the slight snark in the first sentence here), you’ll know that I wouldn’t consider these tires a 50/50 option. More like 30/70 or 40/60 (dirt/pavement). The fact is, these tires do not work as well off-road as they do on-road which means they’re not truly a 50/50 tire. What the Dunlop Trailmax Mission is is an undeniably good tire. For what it is, it’s great. The rear always surprises me with how well it hooks up, and after pounding out thousands of miles over all sorts of terrain, the tires look unused. This is the kind of tire I wish I had on my own adventure bike because it doesn’t see a lot of dirt these days (for reasons that might be obvious). If you want a tire in the 30/70 range, the Dunlop Trailmax Mission should foot the bill for many miles. 

Dunlop Trailmax Mission Tire Review – First Ride

MO Tested: Dunlop Trailmax Mission Tire Long-Term Review

Dunlop D606

Definitely one of the most off-road focused tires on this list, I would rate the D606 at 10% street, 90% off-road. A full-depth tread pattern designed for rigorous off-road use which should yield excellent traction on everything from hard-packed fire roads to soft single-track trails. Dunlop also claims the tire has been engineered for good highway wear and grip, but I would suggest keeping it off-road mostly unless you love changing tires.

Heidenau K76

The K76’s tread pattern is similar to the Metzler Tourance which did surprisingly well on slippery muddy fire roads while offering great traction on paved roads. While we haven’t tested these, we hope the similarities in tread pattern bode well to the Tourances we enjoyed.

Heidenau K60 Scout

When the K60s came onto the scene they garnered a cult following for 50/50 tires that offer longevity never before seen on this type of tire. The “chevron” style tread pattern provides lots of open space between the tread blocks to route sand, mud and water from the contact patch while constantly keeping some rubber in contact with the road as the tire rotates.

Metzler Tourance

The last time I was on a bike with Tourances was the BMW G310GS. At the press introduction of that motorcycle, I was surprised by how well these tires hooked up on the slippery muddy fire roads we were on during our test loop. I had expected them to be slipping around, yet everytime I braced myself for a flat track-esque slide, they held traction much better than I expected in those conditions. They also worked well on our wet and dry street rides. A solid choice for a more road-bias adventure bike that will also hold its own when the going gets dirty.

Metzeler Karoo 3

The Karoo 3 from Metzler is said to provide rally-raid off-road traction while also offering high-speed stability and excellent mileage. The tread pattern is reminiscent of a paddle tire with the large spacing between the v-shaped grooves which should give solid off-road performance while the large blocks and stiff carcass provide stability needed on-road.

Michelin Anakee Adventure

The Anakee Adventure is meant to build on everything the Anakee 3 was while increasing performance in nearly every category. New silica compounds provide better grip in the wet, while the new Bridge Blocking Technology connects the lugs to enhance stability on-road. With much wider blocks and a more aggressive off-road tread pattern, the Anakee Adventure is ready to tackle whatever the trail might throw at it without giving up stability and longevity on the pavement.

Michelin Anakee Wild

Michelin’s Anakee Wild is designed to be a 50% street, 50% off-road tires with long-lasting compounds derived from its Desert Race tire while still providing stability and comfort on-road. Off-road performance is gained by the offset block design and curved tread grooves. I’m planning for these to possibly be the next set of tires I test on my 1190.

MOTOZ Tractionator Adventure

The MOTOZ Tractionator Adventure is what we chose to use in our EZ ADV Upgrades series to showcase the impact a more aggressive tire can have on your big bike’s off-road prowess. The claim to fame for MOTOZ is that the tires are said to last up to two times longer than similar adventure tires. We can’t substantiate that claim yet, but we do hear good things from customers who have spent more time with them. Traction with the rear is pretty solid, though the tight tread pattern on the front didn’t bite the way we hoped.

EZ ADV Upgrades: The Ever-Present Hunt For Traction

MOTOZ Tractionator Desert H/T

MOTOZ describes the Desert H/T as a 15% street, 85% off-road tire that has been designed to handle hard terrain, fast rocky fire roads, gravel roads, and desert hardpack with sandy variations. The tread pattern on these tires should offer ample grip during off camber sections, cornering, and braking. As with all MOTOZ tires, they are also engineered to be long-lasting, but really that depends on how and where you use them.

Pirelli Scorpion Trail II

Pirelli’s Scorpion Trail II offers touring tire level grip on-road, great wet weather drainage due to specially designed side groves, and a surprising amount of grip off-road. We would call this an 80% street, 20% dirt tire. Pirelli says they have brought over touring technology from their flagship tourer, the Angel GT, which in my experience is a great tire and what is currently rolling on my Tuono, to help add on-road grip and longevity. The Scorpion Trail II is a solid choice from a performance-oriented brand if you find yourself on-road more often than not.

Pirelli MT 21 Rallycross

I’m currently running the Scorpion XC Mid Hard on my KTM 500 EXC and I love those tires. The MT 21 Rallycross are probably some of the most hardcore off-road focused tires on this list and the closest DOT Pirelli to what I’m running on my dual-sport bike, which is fine if you plan to do most of your mileage off-road. I would rate these 10% street, 90% dirt and if you run them on the street much, you’re going to be changing tires more often that you might like. The tradeoff? Substantial off-road grip for your big ADV bike.

Shinko makes great tires for budget-minded riders. The four-ply radial construction of this 80% street, 20% off-road tire is meant to offer great wet weather grip on road while remaining stable and smooth and also giving decent grip for off-road excursions.

Shinko 804/805

Shinko created the 804 and 805 specifically for larger adventure touring bikes. The big block pattern has been proven to work well for other manufacturers cough* Continental *cough, both for on-road stability and off-road traction. So if you’re looking for a blocky affordable ADV DOT-rated tire to wrap your wheels with, the 804 and 805 are a good wallet-friendly bet.

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Ryan’s time in the motorcycle industry has revolved around sales and marketing prior to landing a gig at Motorcycle.com. An avid motorcyclist, interested in all shapes, sizes, and colors of motorized two-wheeled vehicles, Ryan brings a young, passionate enthusiasm to the digital pages of MO.

More by Ryan Adams

Join the conversation

I'm really surprised the Dunlop Trailmax Mission didn't make the list. I've found them to be the best all around tires I've had on my V-Strom over the last 4 years. I'm extremely happy with them in the wet, the dry, on hard pack fire roads, loose gravel and rocky terrain. Nice and quiet at speed and I have zero issues leaning them over in the twisty stuff. I measured the tread the other day and should get my average of 15000 km out the rear and twice that out of the front.

• See 1 previous

No kidding. One of the top rated 'all around' ADV tires on the market.

A glaring oversight on my end (particularly because I've published two articles about the Trailmax Mission). This Buyer's Guide is actually an update (apparently not as well updated as it could have been) to one published previously on the site. Thank you for pointing out the exclusion. It has been added to the list.

For sure lots of fine options for ADV riders these days. I prefer a bit more aggressive front and longer lasting rear so often mix models and brands to get the right combo.

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Michelin Anakee Adventure motorcycle tyre review

ABR’s Julian Challis went to Portugal to check out the Michelin Anakee Adventure, the French manufacturer’s latest adventure tyre.

If the plethora of forums and owners’ groups are any reliable barometer of opinion, the riders of every brand and size of adventure bike are engaged in a constant quest for the best tyres.

But it’s not an easy quest, as any contender must combine exceptional grip on and off-road, promise incredible longevity and, of course, look suitably rugged to match the styling of the bike. If a manufacturer can match these often disparate criteria, it would seem an instant route to massive sales.

That’s exactly what Michelin must be hoping for with its all-new Anakee Adventure tyre. Not that the French manufacturer is struggling. Its sales have doubled in the last five years, maintaining Michelin’s position as one of the biggest players in the global tyre market with revenues of over €22 billion in 2018 alone.

Filling the gap in the adventure market

But with the popularity of adventure bikes showing little sign of decreasing, the need to fill the gap between its tarmac specific Road 5 Trail and the 50:50 Road/Off-road credentials of the Anakee Wild was essential to capitalise on the ever-booming market.

The Anakee Adventure sits directly between these two, pitched as an 80% road:20% off-road tyre. Michelin, like most of the bike manufacturers, has acknowledged that although adventure bike owners love the off-road looks of their machines, the adventures are far more likely to be based on blacktop than slogging through axle-deep mud in remote landscapes.

Yes, we want the option to go away from the beaten track every now and then, and when we do, we want the tyres to perform well, but at the same time we want the tyres to handle big speeds and enthusiastic road riding.

To come up with a tyre that can tick both these boxes, Michelin has gone all out with the latest technology and designed and produced a truly unique and, on the basis of the bikes we rode at the European launch in Portugal , a very effective and likeable tyre. The Anakee Adventure is the first in the company’s range to incorporate ‘two compound construction’ that has normally been reserved for radial road tyres.

For the front tyre, this translates to the central crown of the tyre being constructed from a silica-based compound to give the best grip even in the wet, while the shoulders of the tyre (the 20% on either side of the crown) are made from a softer compound to deliver the grip needed to corner safely in the dry.

For the rear tyre, the central crown is the same, but on the shoulders, the softer compound sits on top of a bed of the harder silica to give better stability at speed while still allowing spirited cornering and good wear characteristics.

Putting the new rubber to the test

To support this new technology, the Anakee Adventure has a fully-grooved tread pattern that gives the important off-road looks and hopefully, great grip when the going gets dirty. Balancing the dual duties of the tyre, Michelin has made the pattern more compact in the centre for road stability, included bridge blocks that tie the side blocks together, designed tapered grooves that channel away the water and, importantly, given the tyre a smooth profile to allow seamless transition into corners whatever the surface underneath.

To allow us to properly test the tyres, Michelin had assembled a full range of adventure bikes from the diminutive Suzuki V-Strom 650 right up to the bahn-storming BMW R 1250 GS, all suitably clad in beautifully-crafted new rubber. They’d also laid on a two-day road trip of over 180 miles of, rather appropriately, 80% sweeping Portuguese roads and 20% deliciously varied and sun-kissed trails across the countryside to the east of Lisbon.

Starting on an Africa Twin, we progressed through to the big BMW, onto the F 850 GS, the Triumph Tiger 1200, Yamaha XT1200Z Ténéré and finished the journey on the positively sylph-like BMW F 750 GS. Regardless of the bike we had selected, the Anakee Adventures were beautifully neutral and dependable.

Whether you were diving into a fast road corner at three-figure speeds or powering along a twisty gravel track, the Michelins coped with whatever we threw at them regardless of whether we were on a 250kg behemoth or a lighter machine. On the tarmac, you can simply forget the adventure tread pattern and ride like you’re on a set of road hoops.

On the dirt, you can trust them to keep the bike sunny side up providing you don’t go mad and think you’re on a dirt bike. Impressive stuff, and enough to see the Anakee Adventure homologated as the OEM tyre for the 2019 BMW R 1250 GS and the new Moto Guzzi V85TT.

In the course of two sunny days in Portugal, the opportunity to test the tyres in any wet conditions didn’t arise, but as the Michelin test riders have racked up thousands of miles testing these new tyres in all kinds of weather conditions, we can be confident that the Anakees are not going to let you down on a winter commute.

The tyres have a ‘Mud and Snow’ marking, but given the tread pattern on the front, we’d be reticent to be over-confident in slippery conditions. That said, given the type of riders and bikes these Anakee Adventure are aimed at, we doubt you’ll be heading out onto snotty trails in the depths of December…

Good tyres should be like good shoes, they need to do the job they were meant to do without you even noticing them. And on that basis, the Michelin Anakee Adventures could be the tyre that adventure riders have been looking for.

Front tyres are available for 21” as a 90/90 and 19” as 100/90, 110/80 and 120/70

Rear Tyres are available in 18” as 150/70 and 17” as 130/80, 140/80, 150/70 and 170/60

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Adventure Motorcycle Tyres Guide

Our guide lists every Adventure motorcycle tyre you can buy in the UK and helps you choose the best tyre for your riding style.

Intro How to choose the best adventure motorcycle tyre Road vs. Soft Road vs. Off Road Examples of popular Adventure bike tyres and their Road / Off-Road bias Do I need knobbly tyres? Motorcycle tyre load index Motorcycle tyre Speed Ratings What are the best adventure tyres for wet roads? How long should my adventure tyres last? What pressures should I run my adventure tyres at? Can I repair a puncture in my Adventure bike’s tyres? Adventure Motorcycle Tyre FAQs Adventure Motorcycle Tyre Specialists

20 years ago, when Adventure bikes were in their infancy. Bikes like the Yamaha XTZ750, Suzuki DR650, Honda Africa Twin and KTM 660 Adventure paved the way for the modern Adventure bikes that are so popular today. Tyre choice was limited to Enduro tyres that were made for mud-pluggers or naff road tyres that were available in the less conventional 18″, 19″ and 21″ wheel sizes.

Two decades on and it’s all changed.

Think adventure bike and you’re probably picturing an R1200GS, or perhaps the wide-eyed and beaky R1150GS that came before. Perhaps you’ve had both and you’re now on an R1250GS? You can’t avoid BMW, they have redefined the Adventure bike sector. KTM too have transferred their off-road expertise to the more road-going Adventure range. Bikes like the 1190 and 1290 Adventure are potent road bikes, with off-road pretentions.

Then there’s the re-purposing of the cult names of yesteryear. From Honda’s CRF1000 Africa Twin, to Yamaha’s 1200 Super Ténéré and now the awesome-looking Ténéré 700 which isn’t too far off the wild-looking T7 concept bike. Not forgetting Ducati’s Multistrada range (20 years ago, who would have thought Ducati would be interested in the ADV sector?), which, with the 950 is a genuine off-road capable bike. Then there’s the soft-roader bikes, like Suzuki’s V-Strom 1000, Triumph’s Tiger 800 and even Kawasaki’s Versys which all have an Adventure-style.

So it’s no surprise, with such a huge range of Adventure bikes – spanning from off-road questionable to off-road capable – that there is a bewildering range of tyres to suit.

How to choose the best adventure motorcycle tyre

It’s all about the tread pattern.

Well, it’s ALMOST all about the tread pattern. It’s a little bit about looks too, if we’re being honest.

The tread pattern is the most obvious reference point when you’re looking at picking a new tyre.

If it has huge tread blocks on it, it’s going to be great off-road and not that good on the road. That bit is obvious.

But for a lot of Adventure riders, looks are important. While there aren’t many road-riding Adventure bikers vain enough to fit ultra-knobbly tyres like Continental’s TKC80 to their bike, there are a lot of Adventure-bike riders who like a knobbly-ish tyre because they look good and in some cases, they came with the bike. Michelin’s Anakee Adventure is a good example. The trouble is, many aren’t aware of the compromise that these off-road-ready tyres force road riders to make.

Tyre manufacturers know that rugged-looking tyres sell, so they offer a growing range of road tyres with an edgy-looking tread pattern. Take the Continental Trail Attack 3 as an example, it’s the tyre being used in the image above. It’s essentially a RoadAttack tyre with a crazy-paving tread pattern. It’s a brilliant tyre for road-riding Adventure bikers and it can handle loose trails without getting in a flap. But most bikers opt for a tyre like a Continental TKC70 because it looks much more raw. The trouble is, the TKC70 is no where near as good on the road. It won’t hold a line as well as a road-focused tyre, it won’t be as comfortable to ride on and it won’t last as long. It’s just not a sensible option.

A little tip for you. Tyres like the TKC70 are designed to be 70% unpaved roads and 30% paved roads, while the TKC80 is 80% unpaved and 20% paved. Not all tyre manufacturers make their product as easy to understand as Continental do with their numbering system but if, like most Adventure bike riders, 99% of your miles are on the road, then you don’t want a tyre with knobbly bits on them, even though they do look cool.

Road vs. Soft Road vs. Off Road

Pictured above are two typical Adventure-bike ranges from two of the big players, Michelin and Continental.

On the left you have Michelin and the tyres are the Road 5 Trail, Anakee Adventure and the Anakee Wild. On the right you have Continental and the tyres are the Trail Attack 3, TKC 70 and TKC80.

When a customer comes to our workshop for a new pair of tyres for their Adventure bike, but they don’t know what they want to fit next, we’ll show them a manufacturer’s range as it’s the best way to understand how different the tyres are.

Only when they’re pictured side-by-side, can you see how extreme the off-road orientated tyres are. Seeing them like this helps a customer understand that while the big block tyres look cool, they’re not a good road option.

On the road, the best tyres are the ones on the left. They have a higher silica content, which makes them faster to warm up and better in the wet, they’ll hold the road better and wear better too.

On the far left is the Michelin Road 5 which is a very popular tyre for all bikes, not just Adventure bikes, because it’s such a good all-conditions tyre and brilliant in the wet. The tyres on the right will have the highest wear and therefore will return the least mileage on tarmac.

For off-road adventures, all the tyres pictured above will work on light, dry trails and it’s the rider who will make the difference here. If you’re riding a fair amount on trails or gravel roads, through all conditions, then the tyres in the middle are great options. They’re not bad on the road either, they’re just not the best choice.

If you’re planning on getting muddy, getting lost and generally trying to go places you shouldn’t then the tyres on the right, which are off-road biased, are the ones to fit.

Examples of popular Adventure bike tyres and their Road / Off-Road bias

Michelin Anakee Adventure : 80% Road, 20% Off Road

Continental Trail Attack 3 : 90% Road, 10% Off Road

Bridgestone A41 : 90% Road, 10% Off Road

Kenda K784 Big Block : 15% Road, 85% Off Road

Metzeler Karoo Street : 75% Road, 25% Off Road

Anlas Winter Grip Plus : 85% Road, 15% Off Road

Do I need knobbly tyres?

Proper knobbly tyres, like the ones we’ve pictured above, are designed for loose surfaces and they’re not a great road option.

On display are some of the gnarliest options from the main players when it comes to off-road rubber. From left to right, you have the Continental TKC80, Michelin Anakee Wild, Kenda K784 ‘Big Block’, Anlas Capra X and the Anlas Winter Grip Plus.

All the tyres pictured here are M&S rated, which means they’re designed for Mud & Snow, which is a legal requirement for tyres in some countries, like Germany for example but not here in the UK.

Here in the UK, we’re not that big on ‘winter tyres’ for cars, let alone bikes, so these aren’t a hugely popular choice. However if you are commuting on your Adventure-bike through winter, especially if there’s slush or snow on the ground, the Winter Grip Plus – pictured on the far right – is a great option. But for ‘normal’ winter conditions, where it’s cold and wet, a road-focused tyre like a Michelin Road 5 or a Metzeler Roadtec 01 is a better bet than all of the above.

Knobblies look cool. So why wouldn’t you fit them for road riding?

Knobblies will wear far faster than a road tyre, the bike won’t handle as well, nor have as much grip. The tread blocks are so tall they flex when in contact with the road, which gives the bike a feeling like it’s wandering, even in a straight line.

Even though they look like they could handle wet roads, knobbly tyres aren’t that good in the wet either. They create a lot of road noise at speed and they’re not as comfortable as a road tyre.

Despite all this, some riders fit them because they love the look – and that’s fine but we don’t advise you fit knobblies if you’re not heading seriously off-road.

But, do you know what? If you don’t care about wear, ride quality or outright grip and you want your Adventure bike to look rock hard, then stick a set of Michelin Anakee Wilds on, get out there and enjoy yourself.

Motorcycle tyre load index

The tyre’s load index is a code that is stamped on the rim of every tyre. It corresponds to the maximum weight a single tyre can support. Therefore you should combined the load rating of both tyres and ensure it covers the gross single axle load of your vehicle. To determine your load index, locate the number on your tyre’s sidewall and compare it with the table below. There are over 80 different motorcycle load index ratings, and we have listed a sample to give you an idea.

Load Index/ Weight (kg)

20 / 80 30 / 106 40/ 136 50 / 190 60 / 250 70 / 335 80 / 450 120 / 1400

Motorcycle tyre Speed Ratings

The tyre Speed Rating (sometimes referred to as the Speed Symbol) indicates the maximum speed at which the tyre can carry the load indicated on it’s Load Index. These speeds apply to tyres that are in good condition and are inflated to the correct pressure and fitted to the correctly sized rim.

The speed stated is the maximum speed the tyre is capable of and not a cruising speed.

Adventure bike tyres tend to have a speed rating of VR but the road-focused tyres will have a speed rating of ZR.

Speed Symbol / Max Speed (mph)

L / 75 P / 93 S / 112 T / 118 H / 130 V / 149 (V) / > 149 @ 85% of the load rating W / 169 (W) / > 161 @ 85% of the load rating ZR / 149

What are the best adventure tyres for wet roads?

It’s a common misconception that knobbly tyres are good in the wet. They’re good on loose surfaces as they can break through the top layer of mud or gravel and dig into the firm ground underneath, giving you traction.

However on tarmac, knobbly tyres can’t shift water like a good road tyre can. The tread blocks of a knobbly tyre act in a similar way to a slick tyre on wet tarmac. The edges of the tread block cut through the water to some extent but the flat bit of rubber on the road will lose traction and as anyone who has ridden on knobbly tyres on wet tarmac can tell you, the bike will wriggle around.

The grooves in a road-focused tyre are designed to ‘pick up’ the water and channel it away from the tyre, which means the following rubber can get a better contact patch with the road. Tread blocks and water removal don’t go hand-in-hand, so the more knobbly-looking the tyre, the lower its ability to channel water away.

Pretty much all of the manufacturers premium ‘road’ adventure tyres offer excellent wet weather performance but if you like to really push on when things get torrential we’d go for one out of these: and in no particular order Metzeler’s Roadtec 01, Michelin’s Road 5 Trail or Continental’s Road Attack 3.

How long should my adventure tyres last?

This all depends on the type of tyre. A more road-orientated tyre will last longer on the tarmac.

A Michelin Road 5, for instance, tends to get between 4000 and 7000 miles, depending on the bike, the rider and where it’s being used. Long motorway miles actually tend to see a better tyre life as there’s less force working the tyre. At the other end of the scale, if you run Continental TKC80 tyres predominantly on the tarmac, you’d be lucky if that tyre survived 1500 miles.

Riding on gravel tracks and trail roads, a typical adventure tyre like a Bridgestone AX41 or Metzeler Karoo 3 ought to last well over 1,500 miles – and 1,500 miles of trail riding is a long way!

What pressures should I run my adventure tyres at?

We always recommend what the tyre manufacturer states. Most of the big Adventure bikes run 36psi front and 42psi rear for road. When riding off-road we recommend dropping the pressure a bit to help spread the load and give better traction. However tyres like the Metzeler Karoo 3, Michelin Anakee Wild and Pirelli Scorpion Rally are a new generation of Adventure tyre and you really don’t need you to drop the pressures while riding off-road.

The general idea with lower pressures is that you drop them in line with how soft the terrain is. But don’t go so low that you get pinch flats or damage the rims. I wouldn’t go any lower than 18psi rear and 20psi front on the big Adventure bikes out there.

Can I repair a puncture in my Adventure bike’s tyres?

This depends on a few factors: Where the puncture is, the angle the nail/screw has gone in at and the diameter of it. If these factors are all OK the answer is normally yes it can be permanently repaired. However we don’t repair punctures in the front tyre, as a failure here can be fatal. Fortunately more than 95% of the punctures we see are to the rear tyre, which can often be repaired. This rear puncture bias is due to the fact the front tyre tends to fling the offending item into your back tyre.

Every Adventure motorcycle tyre you can buy

We’ve put together this list of all the tyres you can buy in the UK that are either designed specifically for Adventure bikes or available in Adventure bike wheel sizes.

SPORTS / GETTING IT RIGHT OVER

If you want the stickiest rubber on your GS for fast road riding or for trackdays (we’ve had a few customers fit them), then you have two great choices of tyre that wouldn’t look out of place on a 200bhp Superbike. They’re not a common choice – because most GS riders don’t buy the bike for its apex-hunting ability – but they are both brilliant tyres that will give you the maximum outright grip on the road, or indeed track, when conditions allow.

Dunlop Sportsmart TT

This one from Dunlop is the closest thing to a slick you’ll get to fit on your GS. Using Dunlop’s NTEC technology allows these beauties to have the pressure dropped significantly on track creating a huge foot print and unbelievable grip. If 19″ tyre warmers were available for the front you wouldn’t need them as these heat up really quick and Dunlop suggests you don’t need to use them on this tyre.

Metzeler M9RR

The replacement for the much-loved M7RR, the M9RR is a sports tyre that’s more than good enough for fast group trackday pace. Its 100% silica compound gives it a very fast warm up in cold and wet conditions and even though it’s a sporty tyre, it’s also a great tyre in the wet..-+

If you’re heading off on a European adventure or if you’re commuting or clocking up motorway miles, a modern Touring tyre is the answer. They’re give you great handling, due to the fact the majority are dual compound, with a hard-wearing central belt and softer shoulders for more edge grip. They’re also excellent in the wet and offer a fast warm up in all conditions.

Anlas Winter Grip +

The Anlas Winter Grip + is quite possibly the best all round motorcycle winter tyre available. A very stable and predictable M+S rated tyre it’s also made in sizes suitable for both street and adventure bikes. This one is a great choice if you need a pair in the Autumn.

Avon Spirit ST

The Spirit ST is a high performance Sports Touring tyre from British firm Avon. Using a high silica content and a tread pattern that disperses water superbly, these are made for the UK’s unpredictable weather.

Bridgestone T31

The T31 made it’s predecessor (the T30 EVO) feel very outdated. This tyre has great mileage, superb wet weather performance and incredible sports bike tyre handling.

Continental Road Attack 3

The Conti Road Attack 3 replaced the Conti Road Attack 2. This one won Motorrad’s sports touring tyre test against five of the other leading brands. It uses their TractionSkin technology which allows the tyre not to need a release agent in production and allowing a very quick run in period.

Dunlop Roadsmart 3

Released in 2016 the Dunlop Roadsmart 3 has become very popular over the last few years. It replaced the Roadsmart 2, it offers class leading agility, wet weather performance and a claimed 44% increase in mileage over it’s predecessor.

Dunlop Roadsmart IV

Dunlops are always a firm favourite for those who like sharp and precise steering. The Roadsmart 4 is a hard-wearing tyre that also performs brilliants in the corners. If you’re two-up with luggage, these are a great shout.

Metzeler Roadtec 01

MCN’s tyre of the year in 2016 and 2017. A new generation of tyre that can do it all, the Roadtec 01 is one of those tyres that’s at home on pretty much any bike, from superbikes to tourers. It is a fantastic road tyre, thanks to it quick warm-up and long life.

Michelin Road 5 Trail

The Road 5 but in Trail bike sizes. Michelin’s most popular road tyre is an excellent choice for Adventure bikers who rarely stray off the black stuff. They don’t have that knobbly adventure-ready look but they do have bags of grip, wet weather performance and durability.

Michelin Road 6

All-new for 2022. The Road 5 was easily the most popular tyre in 2021 and that’s because it’s a great do-it-all tyre for those who ride on the road. The Road 5 / Road 5 Trail confused people (it was the same tyre, just the Trail was available in Adventure-bike sizes) and so the Road 6 is just a Road 6, there’s no Trail. Commuting, touring, sunny Sunday blasts; the Road 6 will do it all.

Pirelli Angel GT2

Pirelli’s latest touring tyre, takes over from where the popular Angel GT left off. A dual compound rear, with softer shoulders for more edge grip but a harder central compound for maximum mileage. Borrows from Pirelli’s track rain tyre tread pattern for better wet-weather grip. We rode a BMW GS on every tyre that Pirelli and Metzeler make for the common adventure-bike sizes and we rated the Angel GT2 as the best road-going tyre – it really brings out the best in the bike’s handling.

ADVENTURE / I LIKE THE OFF-ROAD LOOK

Anlas Capra R

The Anlas Capra R is the ‘does it all’ choice sitting between the Capra RD and the Capra X. It can handle tarmac and unpaved equally well. A very well priced Adventure spec tyre in sizes suitable for the smaller capacity bikes as well as the big continent crunchers.

Avon Trailrider AV53 + AV54

Avon’s Trailrider, an 85% road and 15% off-road based tyre. Lot’s of silica for the wet and M+S rated for the winter. These are the replacement for the Avon Gripster.

Bridgestone A40

The Bridgestone A40 replaced the Battlewing BW510 & BW502, it’s design was more road based than the Battlewing. A good value for money option on Adventure bikes but now superceded by the A41.

Bridgestone A41

New for 2018 the Bridgestone A41 replaced the A40. With a huge choice of sizes and OE fitments available in sizes suitable for bikes as diverse as the 3 wheeled Yamaha Niken to Ducati’s Scrambler with its unusual 18″ front fitment along with all the common Adventure sizes. A great road/trail tyre.

Continental Trail Attack 3

Continental’s Trail Attack 3 replaced the popular Trail Attack 2. A tyre made for the tarmac but also capable of a little bit of dry off road action. Lot’s of choice in the sizes available including ones to fit 17″ wheeled bikes.

Continental Trail Attack 2

The Continental Trail Attack 2 is a great value for money Adventure touring tyre. Replaced now by the Trail Attack 3. Extremely quick scrub in due to Continentals innovative Traction skin technology.

Dunlop Trailmax Mixtour

A road-focused Adventure tyre that’s probably for you if you ride 90% road, 10% light trail. It won’t do the really muddy stuff but it’s a cracking road tyre for those on a budget.

Dunlop Trailsmart Max

Now replaced by the Trailmax Meridian, the Trailsmart Max was the second version of the original Trailsmart. Dunlop stated it a 90% road 10% off road tyre but lot’s of owners have praised it’s off road capabilities and even going as far as saying it’s a more 80% road 20% off road tyre.

Dunlop Trailmax Meridian

The Trailmax Meridian was released in 2020 as the replacement for the Trailsmart Max. It has a very unusual tread design named the ‘ice axe’ which gives it a 10% off road and 90% road bias. Initial reports are a nice turning tyre with very stable handling.

Dunlop Mutant Hybrid

The new for 2020 Mutant, like a love child from the meeting of a Race Wet, Supermoto and dirt track tyre. A great choice if you want to attempt to get your knee down in the wet on your R1 at your local roundabout.

Metzeler Tourance

The Tourance must surely be called a ‘classic’ after all this time. Some would say the original Adventure tyre. A 70% road 30% off road tread design these are still incredible popular with the GS guys and girls out there.

Metzeler Tourance Next

The Tourance Next was the replacement for the Tourance EXP which superseded the classic original Tourance. These have never had the appeal of the original, we think partly because of the more road oriented tread pattern.

Metzeler Karoo Street

A good choice if you do a little bit of dry green laning, the Karoo Street is so much better on road than the more blocky deeper treaded alternatives whilst also looking the part.

Michelin Anakee Adventure

The Anakee Adventure was released in 2019 to replace the Anakee 3. A more off road looking tyre then the Anakee 3, still retaining superb tarmac grip due to it’s high silica content and 2CT dual compounds on the rear tyre. This one will make your Adventure bike look and also feel the part.

Michelin Anakee 3

Original fitment of the BMW R1200GS the Michelin Anakee 3 replaced the Anakee 2. Very interesting tread design using beveled edges and 3D serrations which help with both dry tarmac use and mud clearance when off road.

Pirelli Scorpion Trail 2

Replacing the original Scorpion in 2015 the Pirelli Scorpion Trail 2 comes with dual compound rear giving great mileage. Nice steering and turn in make this a good choice if you enjoy ‘getting it over’. BMW, KTM and Ducati all have bikes using this one as an original fitment.

ADVENTURE / I RIDE THE ODD TRAIL ON THE WEEKEND

Avon Trekrider AV84 + AV85

The Trekrider is Avon’s 50/50 road/offroad tyre, like a Range Rover equally as good in the mud as on the tarmac. These are M+S rated if you ever find yourself in Germany and it’s starting to snow.

Continental TKC70

If you need a tyre capable of a bit of mud bashing and tarmac mile munching the TKC70 could be the one for you. 70% off-road and 30% road bias this could be the perfect choice for your R1250GS.

Continental TKC70 Rocks (Rear tyre only)

New for 2020 the TKC70 Rocks comes in a rear fitment only for now, designed with improved off-road capabilities without sacrificing on road grip over the original TKC70 rear. Mix it with a TKC 80 front if mud is your thing!

Bridgestone AX41S

Do you want your bike to look like a flat tracker or classic Scrambler? If the answer is yes the Bridgestone AX41S is what you need. With sizes to fit Suzuki’s tiny Van Van up to BMW’s latest R1250GS. Fantastic wet weather performance and excellent mileage due to the rears 3LC dual compounds.

Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR

Used by Ducati as original equipment on it’s Desert Sled. The Pirelli Rally STR is great going from upright to right over. There is a bit of block movement but not a massive amount, a very good tyre if you like the look of knobblies but also enjoy riding hard on the tarmac.

OFF-ROAD / I’M GENUINELY GOING TO GET LOST

Anlas Capra X

The Capra X is real Adventure Bike tyre, capable of the most extreme off-road routes. Mileage is very good for such a blocky tyre, we’ve heard users on big GS’s get around 5k on the rear and a little more on the front with mixed usage.

Bridgestone AX41

The AX41 is Bridgestone’s Adventure off-road tyre. Suitable for even the muddiest conditions and having excellent block rigidity which is what you want when riding on the tarmac to get to the mud! Lot’s of sizes available suitable to fit 50cc bikes up to the 1260cc beast that is the Ducati Multistrada Enduro.

Heidenau K60 Scout

A Mud & Snow rated Adventure bike tyre, that curiously features a different tread pattern depending on the tyre size and profile. A tubeless fitment, it’s a good option for road-riding Adventure bikers who like the rugged off-road look.

Kenda K784 Big Block

The K784 Big Block is designed to take you to the places you didn’t think possible on a motorbike. This one is a great alternative to the more well known and costlier mud movers.

Metzeler Karoo 3

One of the most popular Adventure bike tyres, the Karoo 3 was used by the BMW Off-Road school for years and is a popular choice for Adventure bike riders who like to take on the odd trail or green lane.

Metzeler Karoo 4

New for 2022 and no doubt set to be a popular choice. The Karoo 4 is being used by the BMW Off-Road school and is a good choice for Adventure bike riders who like to take on the odd technical trail.

Michelin Anakee Wild

The knobbliest Michelins you’ll get this side of a Dakar bike, the Anakee Wild is the next step up from the Anakee Adventure and has deep tread blocks. It’s a tyre with a huge off-road bias and not a recommended fit for road riding. Available in tubed and tubeless sizes and they’re Mud & Snow rated.

Adventure Motorcycle Tyre FAQs

Do knobbly tyres need scrubbing in? Yes. All tyres need scrubbing in but it’s the bedding in that’s equally as important. Recommendations vary from manufacturer to manufacturer and tyre shop to tyre shop.

Some industry guidelines state you should ride 200 miles on a new tyre but we don’t think that’s practical. Which is why we recommend you ride at least 10 miles on your new tyres as if it were raining. That means gentle throttle inputs, no harsh braking and minimum lean angles.

This gives the tyre time to seat on the rim and for the tyre’s carcass to bed in. Of course, the outer surface of the tyre matters too, which is why 10 miles of gentle riding is a good target for any new rubber as it will rough up the surface and at the same time ‘clean’ off any chemicals used in the release agent or the soap used to get the tyre on the rim during the fitting process.

Are Off-Road tyres road legal? In most cases they aren’t but it will state on the tyre whether they are. For big adventure bikes, this won’t be an issue, as the vast majority of tyres made in larger sizes are road legal. However some motocross and enduro tyres will fit on smaller dual-sport and trail bikes and so it is important to check that your tyre is road legal. It’s worth remembering that green lanes and byways are classed the same as roads and so your bike must be road-legal, taxed, have a valid MOT and be insured. If you fit motocross tyres to your green-laner, you might end up in hot water.

Does my adventure bike have tubed or tubeless tyres?

If you have cast wheels you can use tubeless (TL) tyres. Spoked wheels normally use tube type (TT) tyres.  Exceptions are BMW’s big GS wheels which have the spoke nipples running to the outside edge of the rim (a fantastic bit of engineering). The other tubeless spoked rims are fitted on the higher end KTM’s which use a rubber gasket which covers the top of the spokes creating an air tight seal. Care must be taken when fitting tyres to these rims as it’s possible to damage this gasket with your tyre levers and then spend hours working out why it’s slowly deflating!

Can I use Risemousse on my adventure bike tyres?

If you ride on the tarmac no! mousses are designed to run at really low pressures which will heat up incredibly quickly and then fall apart. You’ll also find no mousses available in the correct sizes at the time of writing.

Can I repair an inner tube? Yes you can but we advise you to change the inner tube and not repair it. The trouble with a repair is that it won’t be as strong and failures are common. With all the hassle involved in removing the tyre to repair the tube, you might as well stick a new one in there. Just make sure you check the inner surface of the tyre for anything that might have punctured through the tyre and the tube in the first instance. Then remove any debris before you fit your new tube.

When I change my tyre should I replace the inner tube? Yes, it’s a good idea to change your inner tube at the same time, even if it looks in good condition. Inner tubes will perish over time and they’re especially susceptible around the valve. The cost of a new inner tube versus the hassle and cost of removing the tyre again to fix or replace the inner tube means it’s a sensible idea to change it when you change your tyre. Your tyre shop will be able to advise you of the condition of your inner tub when you change your tyres.

Adventure Motorcycle Tyre Specialists

Here at Two Tyres, we’re motorcycle tyre specialists. We have a London motorcycle workshop and a comfortable customer lounge, with free WiFi, refreshments, comfortable seating and a ‘hot desk’ where you can crack open your laptop.

We hold over 300 different tyres in stock at any one time and over 100 different inner tubes. We have direct accounts with all the manufacturers, which enables us to get access to the widest range of tyres and sizes at the best prices.

When it comes to Adventure bikes, we carry all of the popular Adventure motorcycle tyres in stock and have approximately 50% of every manufacturer’s range in at any one time.  If we don’t have a tyre in stock, we can get it to you on a next day service, either mail order anywhere in the UK, or you can have it fitted in our workshop.

Our state-of-the-art T520 tyre changing machine is designed specifically for motorcycle rims. The plastic and rubber coated jaws and arm mean we can change tyres on spoked rims, larger-size Adventure wheels and even carbon and magnesium rims. A lot of tyre fitters don’t like working on Adventure bikes because they don’t have the machinery to deal with the sometimes-tricky fitment, which can risk scratching your rims. Here at Two Tyres we pride ourselves on our fitting and we have the best tools to do the job

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Best Adventure Motorcycling Tyres

See also road touring tyres  and  off-road tyres interesting 2021 tyre article in advrider.

The big image below compares the tread on some of the best-known, currently available do-it-all travel bike tyres . A similar set of images appears in the AMH . Along with price, tread is the first thing we look at when choosing a tyre. This page covers the best  80/20 adventure biking tyres  suited to travel in the AMZ  where the road infrastructure can be irregular.

Over the years I’ve tried at least half of them. One thing’s for sure: the range and quality of tyres today is a whole lot better than when I first started my bike travels in the early 1980s ( right ).

And what’s more, wireless technology has enabled inexpensive tyre pressure monitoring systems ( TPMS , right ) kits, the vital metric which has been missing from our dashboards all these years. I’d take built-in TPMS over traction control any day.

When an unfinished highway turns to dirt, is washed-out by floods or is under repair for miles, these do-it-alls are the tyres that’ll give you the confidence to get stuck in. And along with their all-road attributes, from many of the less knobbly versions,  10,000 miles from a rear is easily possible, while still behaving predictably on wet roads . That sort of mileage matters more than dirt-road grip, especially when replacements aren’t easy to find and when carrying a spare is a pain.

All are clearly oriented towards road riding – some more than others, but these tyres have deeper and wider gaps between the blocks than  road tyres . As I found the other month, the difference between a road-style Anakee and some do-it-all Mitas, Motoz or Metzelers shown below is that on bends sprinkled with loose gravel (or jelly beans), the blocks may briefly skim sideways over the gravel but the blocks soon grip the tarmac between the gravel. A smooth, shallow-treaded road tyre would just keep rolling sideways. It’s the same on dry gravel tracks: predictable and controllable small slides, not rolling around on marbles. In  deep sand or mud most won’t be much better than a road tyre unless you drop the air pressures right down.

Judged on looks alone, I’d designate a few like the Dunlop D605 and Motoz RallZ at  70/30 road/dirt , The Michelin Anakee Wild I used in Morocco on my Himalayan (below) certainly worked great on loose, dry surfaces. But most are in my opinion 80/20 road/dirt or less , despite manufacturers’ claims. In terms of actual mileages covered, I’d say 80/20 is still a higher ratio of road-to-dirt than most long overland trips cover, but like other ‘all-terrain’ aspects of an adventure bike (big wheels, wide bars, low gearing; good clearance), when you need them you’re glad they’re there. This winter I’ll be trying some Bridgestone AX41s run tubeless on my CRF300L .

See also Road Touring Tyres  and  Off-Road tyres

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4 thoughts on “ Best Adventure Motorcycling Tyres ”

Hello Chris, when can we expect the next edition of Morocco Overland? Thanks

Realistically, about this time next year, Paul. All the routes are getting a major overhaul but I didn’t manage to get much done last winter.

Ok, Thank you.

Very useful. Thanks!

Top 7 Adventure Motorcycle Tires in 2021 (Dual Sport)

You can’t overstate the importance of tires in any genre of motorcycling, but especially when it comes to adventure riding.

Get it right, and you’re in for an epic ride. Get it wrong and the going could be very challenging—and that’s putting it mildly. 

Choosing the right adventure tire is no easy task. The options are seemingly endless, and even within the adventure category, the possibilities get separated again based on the kind of riding you plan on doing.

We’re going to do our part to help make the decision a little easier with our list of the top seven adventure motorcycle tires in 2021. 

While we know you love to get dirty and take your big ADV off-road , adventure riding invariably involves some stints on asphalt to get to the good stuff.

Because of this, we’re going to split this list down the middle and predominantly stick with 50/50 on-road/off-road tires. 

This will give you a nice blend of rubber to cover a variety of terrain. They are presented here in no particular order.

Even if your riding skews more towards one side or the other, the good news is nearly all of the manufacturers you see here also make tires to suit.

Michelin Anakee Wild Tires

The Michelin Anakee Wild tires may not look like 50/50 tires, and that’s the point.

Instead, Michelin has drawn from its experience racing in the grueling Dakar Rally, and the tread pattern of the Anakee Wild represents its success in the toughest race out there. 

The offset blocks and curved tread grooves dig into soft and challenging terrain to find grip and drive you out. Meanwhile, the front and rear casing design combined with the optimized tread depth and compound selection ensure great durability and stability on road. The Anakee Wild is also available in multiple sizes to suit big adventure-touring and dual-sport bikes.

Mitas E-07+

The Mitas E-07+ rides on the success of the E-07 (without the plus). Offering high mileage while still being able to traverse challenging terrain, the E-07+ features a more rounded profile for better on-road performance. 

The aggressive chevron tread pattern gives it versatility by channeling away water on the road while also being able to dig into mud or snow to find grip.

Opt for the Dakar version if you want a harder compound or the standard version if you’ll face more wet riding.

Heidenau K 60 Scout

You’ll find a high rubber content in the Heidenau K 60 Scout. Its robust compound, combined with its belted construction, gives it a long life as a road tire. Depending on the tire size you might notice the tread design looks different. This is a result of the new compound. 

Different sizes may get slightly different tread designs, but all of them promise excellent grip and stability on or off-road.

No matter the tread design, you’ll notice chunky blocks to help find grip in various terrain. And if your application requires tubes, the K 60 Scout will accommodate them.

Continental TKC70

Combining elements of the hugely popular TKC 80 with the ContiTrailAttack 2, the Continental TKC 70 draws a happy medium between off-road capability and on-road performance. 

You’ll see the closely spaced blocks lend themselves towards light to medium off-road use, but these tires are very happy on the road.

Continental’s dual-compound technology places a harder compound on the center of the tire and a softer one on the shoulders for better durability in a straight line and more grip while cornering. 

Clearly skewing more towards road riding, the TKC 70 is still capable for gravel excursions.

Continental TKC80

If you want the OG in dual-sport adventure bike tires with true on-road and off-road performance, you turn to the Continental TKC 80.

The wide, chunky tread blocks lend themselves to biting through tough dirt and mud and obviously handle hardpack with ease. 

The self-cleaning tread pattern helps it bite, no matter the terrain. Despite the clear off-road bias with the TKC 80, the rounded profile allows the tire to offer surprisingly good traction and handling on the street. So while the TKC 80 skews more towards the dirt, it’s a nice offset to the TKC 70 above.

Dunlop Trailmax Mission

More than two years in the making, Dunlop’s Trailmax Mission is a serious 50/50 tire with an aggressive tread pattern to ensure traction in hard terrain.

The thick, staggered tread blocks also have a “step down” feature to enhance the contact patch after the initial contact with sandy terrain to keep biting and move you forward. 

In addition, wrap-around lugs on the tire’s edge help protect the tire from sharp rocks while also adding to the off-road traction.

On the road, new compounds help the Trailmax maintain excellent longevity, while the deep grooves work their magic in the wet by evacuating water efficiently. With applications for adventure bikes of all sizes, it can be used with or without a tube (bike dependent).

Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR

Pirelli is well known in the road world for its excellent tires, and the Scorpion Rally STR takes some of that inspiration into a well-rounded 50/50 tire for the dual-sport, sport touring, and adventure riding crowd. 

Visually, you can see block design that will work well in gravel, (some) sand, and dirt. Making those blocks last a while on pavement is a compound choice tailored for longevity.

The silica-rich compound ensures quick warm-up times even in wet and cold conditions. 

And with big blocks, the Scorpion Rally makes quick work of evacuating water when the road gets wet.

The street tire inspiration can be seen in the rounded profile, allowing for confidence-inspiring handling on twisty roads while still offering decent off-road grip. 

While no means a definitive list, these seven tires will give you a good understanding of the options available on the market and make you aware of what to look for when it comes to a tire for adventure riding . 

Even if you’re looking for something more dedicated one way or the other, by knowing what a 50/50 tire looks like and offers, that will help you when you’re looking at specs for other tires. So whether you have a big GS 1250 or a small dual-sport, with or without tubes, there’s something here for everyone. 

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Follow on facebook:, dunlop trailmax mission: a 50/50 tire that lasts 8,000 miles, we see if dunlop’s latest adventure tire delivers after an extensive test..

The elusive goal in designing adventure bike tires is finding the optimal balance between three somewhat contradictory factors: on-road performance, off-road performance, and longevity. Dunlop’s Trailmax Mission 50/50 adventure tire seems poised to rise through the ranks as a serious contender for the throne of a tire that’s not quite a street tire, not quite a knobby, but designed to work well everywhere.

While several manufacturers have offered 50/50 tires for big bikes for many years, Dunlop has been noticeably absent from this market segment. So what could Dunlop do that hasn’t been done before? A close look reveals there is a lot of technology built into these rubber hoops.

Front and rear tires have distinctly different patterns and you might think they are two different tires at first glance. The front uses a symmetrical tread for more even wear, and 17” and 19” diameter tires use a coffered out area on the knobs for greater traction.

Both front and rear tires use ‘staggered step’ technology on specific knobs to increase rigidity and create additional edge grip surface area. Like shark teeth, as one edge wears away, there’s another one that steps in behind it to take its place. Also, deep tread grooves with connector blocks help the Missions grip in loose terrain while keeping lugs stabilized.

One of the most distinctive tire characteristics is the use of wraparound sidewall lugs to increase durability, allow lower tire pressures off-road, and keep the tire tracking straight in muddy or sandy conditions. The sidewall tread is even said to assist in steering out of ruts by providing extra side grip. 

After Dunlop went through 30 prototype versions, their new shoes were finally ready to be released to the public at the end of last year. What they came up with doesn’t look like your typical 50/50 dual sport tire. At first glance, it looks a lot more street focused than you would expect from a tire in this category. I heard from early reports they grip a lot better than they look, but I retained a fair amount of skepticism based on appearances. In order to see if they live up to manufacturer claims, we spooned a set onto our KTM 1090 Adventure R test bike and put them through their paces over 4,000 miles of riding in a wide variety of conditions. Read on to see how they perform.

How They Performed

On the Street: Given seemingly endless pavement surrounds greater Los Angeles and Orange Counties, a lot of road miles are incorporated into any adventure ride that begins or ends in this part of Southern California. I usually run more aggressive knobby tires on the 1090R, and thus the bike immediately felt noticeably smoother and quieter on the road with the Trailmax Missions .

Gone was the “freeway groove wobble” that many adventure bikes are susceptible to with knobby-style tires mounted. At any speed, with or without luggage, the bike tracked rock-steady in a straight line. When the straight pavement turned to a squiggle, the big twin rolled into corners smoothly, and without the feeling of taller knobs flexing and pushing deeper through the curves. Aside from the round profile and lower tread depth compared to a true knobby, cross bracing between certain blocks is designed to further prevent tread flex as the bike gets pushed side-to-side.

With claims of an 8,000-mile lifespan, I was initially skeptical a rubber compound boasting that level of durability could provide a high level of grip on asphalt, let alone wet asphalt. However, confidence to lay the bike over deep into corners proved high in the dry, and after many miles of riding in both light rain on twisty roads and torrential downpours at freeway speeds, overall the tires were surprisingly grippy — especially when compared to other high-mileage tires like the Heidenau K60 in similar conditions.

In the Dirt:  Going into this test, one of my biggest preconceptions (based solely on appearance, prior to riding them) was that deep sand would be a problem for the new Dunlops. The first major ride revealed some of my concerns about potential limits to traction were justified, but not nearly to the degree I was expecting. With panniers fully loaded for overnight camping, the 1090R shod with the Trailmax Missions was immediately thrown into 500 miles of city, freeway, hardpack dirt road, and deep sandy washes.

It’s a bit much to expect a round profile to work as well in sand, rocks, or mud as something with a block-tread pattern like the stalwart Continental TKC80. Throwing a fully-loaded KTM 1090R into Bradshaw Trail’s endless sandy washes, the amount of grip was immediately surprising. Particularly in the rear. However, you can absolutely feel the back end drift under heavy handfuls of throttle more than a TKC80 would. Both the front and rear Missions suffer to a greater degree than the TKC80 in deep sand and mud, especially the front, but again, they do hook up beyond what appearances might suggest.

While the wraparound lugs along the sidewall look almost more decorative than functional, they seem to grab sand and dirt very well as the tire sinks into it. Up front, some vagueness is felt in deep washes, but the bike still changes direction adeptly, just with a bit of a delay compared to a more aggressive knobby-style tread.

Another surprise was how well the tires hooked up in the rockiest of conditions, and how little damage they seemed to suffer. Treading a line (no pun intended) between street tire sipes and large gaps between lugs, the traction arrangement seems to have just enough room to allow the articulated edges of the rubber to get around rougher terrain and grab hold. Pushing a big twin up a steep, loose mountain is no small feat for a 50/50 tire.

Tire Longevity: Over the course of this test, the Trailmax Missions were put through 4,300 miles of rocks, sand, hardpack dirt, both wet and dry twisty pavement, and long-haul superslab. Most of the rides involved a lot of pavement before reaching the dirt, which is typical of an adventure bike’s routine. One ride alone was an 1,100-mile road trip. Overall percentage of pavement/dirt riding was around 70/30.

Having annihilated here-unnamed adventure bike tires in a matter of a few hundred miles in the past, it was a huge and welcome surprise to see (visually) what appeared to be no appreciable wear on the tread until well after 2,000 miles! Even at the conclusion of the test over 4,000 miles later, the tires only recently began to have that “experienced” look to them.

Initial tread measurement when new was 6mm front and 10mm rear. After 1,620 miles they were down to 5mm/8mm front/rear, and at the conclusion of the test were at 3.7mm/7.4mm front/rear after 4,300 miles. Assuming the tires are worn out at 1mm of tread depth, that would mean the front still has 54% of it’s tread left and the rear has 71% wearing at a constant pace. Tires generally burn up much of their tread in the first part of their lifespan though. Given the Trailmax Missions retained over 50% of their tread after the 4,300-mile mark, this bodes well for a long lifespan potentially reaching the claimed 8,000 mile mark.

Who Are They For?

Rather than focusing on who these tires are for, it’s perhaps easier to focus on who they are not for. This is not the tire for the hard core “1%” dirt crowd, looking to take their adventure bikes through terrain with dreams of Erzberg glory running through their minds. Nor is this the tire for the person who frequents that famous local snake of pavement and likes to flirt with getting their knee on the ground in their adventure suit. Instead, this is a tire for all the rest of us to consider. 

While it works surprisingly well off-road for a round profile dual sport tire, those who ride in more loose terrain will feel some vagueness. That said, an experienced off-road rider that wants more tread life will find the grip manageable in tricky terrain.

Our Verdict

Inherent in a 50/50 tire’s design is the caveat that it will lack some performance aspects at the extremes. The Trailmax Mission is a 50/50 tire which has arguably widened the range of usability — increasing longevity and street performance while still maintaining acceptable grip in challenging off-road terrain. Given pricing is on par with other popular dual sport tires in this class, and the performance it provides, it’s worth throwing a set on to try out. 

What We Liked

• Drastically improved on-road handling compared to most 50/50 tires.
• Surprisingly good off-road ability for a fairly round, smooth tire design.
• The claim of lasting 8000 miles seems realistic.

What Could Be Improved

• Trade in some mileage for a bit more aggressive off-road grip.

Trailmax Mission Specs

ON-ROAD/OFF-ROAD RATING: 50/50 CONSTRUCTION: Mix of bias and bias-belted; Tubeless PRICE: Front: $92-$155; Rear: $158-$202

Trailmax Mission Sizes

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Photos by Jon Beck and Rob Dabney

Author: Jon Beck

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This type of review is what I really appreciate about this website and continue to come here to keep on ADV related topics. Very nice write up on a pretty comprehensive test and review of these tires. I will definitely be giving these a look for my next set. Looks like I may have to eat my Wheaties before mounting them though.

I wish they would make it in a 17″ front – there are heaps of bikes ridden on dirt roads needing a 50/50 tyre that have a 17″ front wheel – aka TKC80 sell heaps of 17″ fronts

I have Avon Trailriders on my “street bike” and they are excellent. Best wet, cold and dry pavement adventure tires with any tread I’ve ever tested and you want that pavement grip on a bike with 17’s. Everything slides some on gravel and Avons grip on gravel roads on the mountain climbs I do about as good as the Dunlops on my adventure bike. Better road feel, quiet (the Dunlops are noisy), without taking 20 minutes to warm up to prevent sliding the rear on wet cold roads and thats important to me. Downside is they probably won’t last as long as the Dunlops.

I put these on my Africa Twin in May and had the same experience so far. Really good street performance for a 50/50 tire and pretty damn good off road. Just back from a 2,200 mile trip (Yellowstone and Glacier) and still have tons of tread. Very, very happy with these tires.

Pushed mine a little too far. Rear tire only. Tire looked good for 8,000 miles. I was unable to get a tire changed and ended up going around 10,500 miles. Finished riding the TAT at 10,100 miles. Tire got very slippery at the end. Great tire for 8,000 miles of all kind of riding.

I didn’t see any mention of road noise, or that washboard feeling produced by some tires. What is your your assessment of that issue? Thank you.

I wear earplugs 99% of the time when I ride, so any road noise is generally coming from the quartet of mud tires doing 80 on the freeway next to me. Given I generally ride more aggressive knobbies on adventure bikes, these tires were significantly more silent and smooth by comparison. In the review I simply mentioned the bike feeling “smoother and quieter on the road”. As far as lack of road noise or the “washboard” effect you mentioned, I’d put the Trailmax Missions near the realm of TKC70s, Tourances, etc..

After 10,000 miles on a CB500XA (450 lbs) my experience is they are very quiet on the street for a 50/50 tire. Contemplating trying a set of Mitas e07 for a lighter tire for my bike but I don’t want to give up how quiet these were after riding big block tires. I think I’ll stick with another set of Trailmax.

Running a set now on my KTM 790 R and would agree wholeheartedly with your point of view. Really nice on the pavement. Surprisingly good in the dirt/gravel. Not very good in muddy/wet off-road conditions. I do find the front tire feels very hard off-road, but in all fairness, I generally don’t pressure down.

They did well on the MABDR. I have them on a KLR. Road traction was awesome on those Virginia Roads Concurr with side walls, I ended up getting professional help. So far…..great.

But what do you do if you need to fix a flat by yourself on the trail. (and don’t carry 5 tire irons and a tire changing stand? 🙂 ) that part kinda scares me off…?

Your AMA Roadside coverage will work then.

Both in the shop and on the trail I only use two 8” levers to change tires. Some tires require a bit more finesse than others, but so far I’ve never encountered one that couldn’t be done this way – including these Dunlops.

I always find it interesting that the people who write these reviews never seem to do so in any other environment than dry sands rocky environments and pavement, none of which we have in the northeast, i would like to see some testing on mud and wet mossy rocks not the ideal dry stuff all the time…

I think you would be better off with knobby tire in those condition , I just install a set of Dunlop trail max mission and tried them in the wet sand and dirt near freezing temperature and they slide to much , drop my bike in a up hill climb felt like I was on ice . They are not very good in the mud or very wet condition . But they are great almost every where else .

Just had a 2500km trip here in South Africa..These Tyres has a very very hard compound.Grip good but not at all good on rocky terrain.

Thanks for the comprehensive review on the Trail Max tyres I am relatively new to full on Adventure bikes coming from an Enduro and Sport Touring background riding big thumpers. I used to look at the tyres on these big bikes in amazement and figure horses for courses but since joining the ranks of the light Adventure biker on my KTM 790R I have become addicted to blasting these beasts. I always thought the tyres looked like exploded road tyres and you’d have to be mad to punt them on the dirt but its surprisingly good when the pressures are dropped it’s really only the braking from high speed on dirt that I find is compromised I noticed that there was no mention of either pressure drops or braking traction from speed and that the tyres were predominantly used for road which I would imagine is what most blokes do with the larger ADV bikes I am running Anakee wilds on my 790 and highly rate this type of tyre they seem to be wearing well in comparison to the useless Karoo’s that came with

I have 9k miles on GS1200 and have done slab, MABDR, Smoky Mountain 500 with them. I will be purchasing another set soon. Best tire I have used on GS for my style of riding.

Riding my KTM 790 Adv, I’ve put on 14300 miles on the Dunlops doing 70% paved and 30% dirt (some pretty bad) – and a few tours with bags. Front tire still maintains its round profile while rear will naturally flatten in the center. It goes without saying that the tires are shot, but really happy with the performance and will be sticking with them for now.

Did you mean 4.7mm on rear tyre after 4,300 miles? You wrote 7.4mm. Cheers

No, there was 7.4mm of tread on the rear tire after 4300 miles. Down from 10mm of original tread. Cheers!

Can you comment on lower the tyre pressures for better grip on gravel and sand roads with these tyres?

These tires were on my short list of replacements for the stock Pirellis on my T7, but I back-burnered them when I saw the weight when compared to tires in the same class and sizes. They are HEAVY. If anything is true of ADV tires, it’s that no matter what you buy, there are probably going to be compromises.

Most impressed with your riding ability………

Not 100% convinced DMT’s are a 50/50 tire, but I just took off a set of DMT’s at 10,500 miles. I’m guessing but, I hink i could have gotten another 3-4k out of them. Not the most impressed with front tire in lose stuff but over all great tires.

I think their new 605s or whatever is a better tire, and they are cheap. Thein, seems like they are about the same tire.

[…] recommendations lightly, so you can read about how the TrailMax Missions performed for us during 4,300 miles of rigorous testing over sand, rocks, handpicked dirt, wet and dry twisties and even the dreaded interstate. The gift […]

All I can say is they have been some of the best tires I have run on my GSA. I have over 9000 miles on this set and not close to wear bars yet!! Great tire for what I need

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Adventure bikes and dual-sports are all the rage at the moment , and not only have they caused electronic rider aids to improve, but they have also inspired great advancements in tire technology.

Just as every manufacturer must have an adventure bike in their catalog, so must every tire manufacturer have a dual-sport or adventure bike tire available. The tricky part, of course, is developing tires that seemingly do the impossible, by working well both on and off-road. Modern manufacturers are savvy enough to know that here's a wide variety of adventure riders out in the world. Some choose to ride exclusively on dirt, while others sticking primarily to pavement. So tire makers constantly have to ask themselves the same question: how do you accommodate this wide spectrum of rider needs? The simple answer is, you give ADV riders plenty of choices .

Updated March 2023: Every year, tire manufactures release new and updated tires. To keep our readers up to date on the latest developments, we will periodically update this article with new information.

RELATED: The 10 Best Middleweight Adventure Bikes On The Market

Pirelli Scorpion Trail II Dual Sport

When you first look at these tires, they don't particularly scream "off-road" to anyone. Where are all the knobbies, you may ask? But Pirelli knows what they're doing, and they billed the Scorpion Trail II tires as sport touring with dirt-road capabilities . Since most motorcycle riders will use their adventure bikes on paved, gravel and packed dirt roads, these less aggressive tires will do the trick nicely. They have plenty of water evacuation channels, crisscross grooves for dirt traction and optimized contact patch area so that you may feel safe in any corner.

Continental Trail Attack 3

Similarly to the Scorpion Trail IIs from Perilli, these Conti Trail Attack 3 tires were build as a road-biased compromise for larger adventure motorcycles. Again we see a less aggressive off-road pattern, but Continental outfitted these with their MultiGrip compound, that is manufactured for high grip in dry and wet conditions. There's also the TractionSkin, which is their micro-rough tread surface, basked into the tire. They are primarily made for adventure riders that prefer to push their bikes in the sport-touring direction, but they won't feel intimidated on these, when the pavement finally runs out, and the dirt road begins.

RELATED: 10 Best Used Adventure Motorcycles

Shinko 705 Dual Sport

With an 80/20 road/off-road tread pattern, the Shinko 705 is the perfect tire for those who will spend the majority of their time on-road but want to be able to head into the forests and wild trails when the mood takes them. The large-block tread pattern gives excellent grip on wet or dry roads, and while it might lack the ultimate grip of more aggressive designs off-road, it will still work well if you are content to not push the performance envelope too much off-road. It is a great tire if you are riding a middleweight adventure bike and the tread should last for at least 5,000 miles. Lastly, the price is very attractive, but that doesn’t mean that quality has been sacrificed. DOT-approved.

Dunlop Trailmax Mission

Dunlop has been in the tire business for a long time. Perhaps as long as there have been motorcycles. So when they put their industrial might into developing an adventure tire, you may just get something special as the end result. The Trailmax Mission tires are rated as 50/50 on- and off-road tire, and may be, subjectively, the perfect all-rounder tire.

The tread blocks are rugged and staggered across the face of the tire to give excellent stability and stiffness. The wraparound tread pattern helps protect the tire from punctures when riding through rocky sections, and the tire’s compound has been perfected to give the best compromise between grip and mileage performance. They also, conveniently fit the proverbial who's who of adventure bikes. They can be equipped on Honda's Africa Twin, BMW's GS models, KTM's Adventure bikes, Yamaha's Super Ténéré and Triumph's Tiger models, as well as many others.

RELATED: 10 Reasons Why You Should Buy An Adventure Bike

The Mitas E-07 is a bit of an oddity on this list, as it's almost a 50/50 tire. Mitas calls it a 60/40 but just look at those chunky treads! If your goal was to hop on the highway just so that you can get to the dirt as fast as possible, then the E-07 were developed with you in mind. It is specifically designed to cope with the weight and power of the larger adventure bikes. Aside from its good on-and off-road performance, the bias-ply construction ensures incredible tire life, which makes it perfect for this planning longer trips, where budget and practical constraints mean that changing tires often just isn’t feasible. A chevron tread pattern works well on the road and the wide spacing of the blocks give good traction off-road. The other benefit of having these tires is that they're rated M+S, or Mud + Snow. That's not something many other tires on this list can boast.

Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR

Pirelli is one of the great tire companies, with their sports tires being held in extremely high regard. The same goes for their dual-sport tires which, though may be on the expensive end of the scale, do what they are designed to do very well. It is described as an 80/20 on-/off-road tire, which is surprising given the aggressive tread pattern, but it works surprisingly well on-road as well as offering good stability and consistent, predictable handling off-road.

So if you were going to choose a specific road-biased tire to vigorously tackle some local dirt routes, you may as well choose the Rally STRs. The innovative knob design will allow for greater traction while ascending hills, riding over obstacles and making your jumps. And at the end of the day, they'll take you home in a quiet, stable and civilized manner.

Continental TKC70

There's a reason why the TKC70 tires come as standard equipment on the KTM 390 Adventure motorcycle . They're made to make you feel safe on any surface. They're positioned to be light-medium off-road use, according to Continental, with extraordinary street performance. They'll feel just as safe on dirt as they would on a racetrack. They come equipped with Continental's MultiGrip and RainGrip compound technology and have a uniquely constructed tread pattern for quiet stability on pavement.

Bridgestone Battlax ADV Trail AT41

Bridgestone have also thrown their hat into the ring, by designing the Battlax ADV Trail AT41 adventure tires. These 80/20 tires have a semi-aggresive tread for that off-road look and feel, but the overall tire is still made primarily for on-road touring, according to Bridgestone. These tires provide enhanced traction and breaking on dry and wet roads, and were designed with stability in mind.

Bridgestone had created these tires for their clients that were seeking something a little more off-road oriented than the A41, which certainly didn't look the part. And with the knob pattern designed the way it is, you call tell immediately that you'll be able to have the traction you need, if you happen to catch yourself in an off-road situation.

Michelin Anakee

This is an exceptional 80/20 adventure tire from French manufacturer Michelin . These Anakee tires were originally outfitted on the 2019 BMW R 1250 GS motorcycles. And BMW doesn't choose their partners blindly from a party hat. But what really sets these tires apart from others is that each tire has four separate compounds. These compounds give both good wear in the middle of the tire and progressively more grip in the corners, with the hardest compound reserved for the central strip of the rear tire.

With its large-blocked, smooth appearance, the Anakee is excellent on-road, tracking straight and true and not being diverted by grooves or seams. There is a huge amount of grip on-road, even in the wet. It is also an extremely quiet tire, which is great for longer journeys. Off-road, these tires reward smooth throttle operation, and maintaining momentum is essential if the going gets particularly steep or gnarly. Because of that, perhaps a tire for the more experienced rider.

Metzeler Tourance

The Metzeler Tourance seemingly have it all. They are durable, with Metzeler guaranteeing a high level of mileage in wet and dry conditions. Their high-tech level of construction promotes stability in any environment. They're tailor-made for dual-sport and adventure motorcycles, as their main purpose is to be able to handle all weather conditions, regardless of whether you're on the street or on dirt. And the aggressive profile of the tread belies the tires' steady on-pavement capabilities, and because of the wide contact patches, the rolling noise of these tires is kept to a minimum.

There's also a slightly wider choice of sizes that you don't normally see with dual-sport tires like these. In additional to the typical ADV 21-inch options, you'll also have 13, 14 and 15-inch sizes available to you. But the ones that will benefit the most from a greater variety will be those that ride motorcycles with 17 and 19-inch rims.

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Long Way Adventure Tires. Which Are the Best?

Should I go for a 50/50 tire? Or maybe street tires with enduro back-up? Tough decision

The Continental TCK 80 Twinduro is one of the most acclaimed dual-sport tires. And there’s a good reason for that. But it also comes with a short lifetime. Then it’s the Michelin Anakee III capable of 20,000 km, but it’s just a street tire with enduro marketing. And there’s Heidenau K60 Scout which gives you proper wear and decent off-road performance, but that comes with poor road performance. So, what’s the best decision if leaving on a 10,000 km trip on a big adventure bike? 

Honestly, I don’t think there’s something right and something wrong, but I will tell you my point of view. It’s all about circumstances, personal taste and being able to face a compromise. 

Last year I traveled to Georgia and Armenia, via Cappadocia on my BMW R1200GS. It was an 8,500 km trip, mostly on paved roads. In fact, 90% of those 8,500 km were only on the tarmac. But that 10% of dirt was the best part of the trip – the unpaved roads to the medieval Georgian villages in the Caucasus. And with a heavy-weight R1200GS, it’s not the best choice to go on muddy roads with street tires. That’s where my Heidenau K60 Scouts made the difference. For the rest of the trip, they were useless and annoying due to the vibrations and noise. But if leaving again on a 10,000 km adventure, I would have chosen the same tires. 

If I were to ride some Continental TKC 80 or Metzeler Karoo 3, they would have been gone long before reaching the off-road segment of the trip. If I were to choose Michelin Anakee III, Pirelli Scorpion Trail or Metzeler Tourance Next, well… bye-bye, Ushguli!

Also, I’m not the guy to carry another set of tires and the time was too precious to lose a day finding a set of tires over there and putting them on. So I faced the vibrations and the highway discomfort without regrets. 

It was also clear to me that I made the best decision when I met two Dutch guys riding some badass single-cylinder KTM motorcycles to Mongolia. They already changed a Karoo 3 rear tires, and the other one was waiting for its turn. 

Watch More:

Heidenau K60 Scout Tire Review

Adventure Travel to Caucasus on BMW R1200GS Adventure

Adventure in Kazahstan on DR650

Now let’s get back to the header idea. It’s just my choice, but when going for an under 4.000 km off-road ride, I’d choose renown dual-sport tire, such as Continental’s TCK 80. If there’s a longer trip ahead, I’ll change them for K60 Scouts. For street use, I’ll choose the Metzeler Tourance Next, Pirelli Scorpion Trail or Michelin Anakee III. 

What’s your choice? 

One thought on “ Long Way Adventure Tires. Which Are the Best? ”

Well there are also Conti TCK 70, Metzeler Enduro 3 Sahara, and Tourance classic, not the Tourance Next.

These tires last longer than the softer ones you discuss and also give better off road duty than the more road oriented ones you mention. I’ve done some reasonably serious stuff with both the enduro 3 and traditional Tourance and gotten fairly long mileage.

I’m considering the tck 70s now. And of course heidenau scouts are super strong and earnest tires that vibrate, squirm in the rain and have sidewalls so stiff that it makes it hard to not scuff the rim while getting them on. For a while a few years ago there was one shop I know of that wouldn’t put them on because it was such a struggle. Seemed a little dramatic to me but I got the basic idea. I may just go with the best deal between the scouts, enduro 3 and tck 70s. I actually don’t think you can go wrong or be left off of your desired routes, you might just ride the same routes a little differently with those. Compared to anything I had from 1968 until about 1997, there is just no comparison now and we went all over the place in our ignorance.

The biggest use difference I see now is the commoness of extreme speed traffic flows and aggressive crowded highway conditions. It’s not a bad idea to bias tire purchases in that direction a little more these days IMO. But I love a dirt tire in the rough, no doubt about it.

Oh, I am currently riding a 2012 r1200gsa with a very sweet adaptive ölins setup. I ride probably 30% off road and I do not trailer the bike, so it involves real touring as well and that means as far as it takes to get there. I only mention because tire talk is useless without knowing what they’re on and for what and the basic perspective of the rider.

Once you arrive, to either back country or city destinations, the cases come off and once you’re used to the GSA dirt dance or GSA city scooter impersonation, you can go all over the place. Keep the throttle on some even if the brakes are on too. Do not stop, momentum is your ally. Stand up, head up in the rough. Big GSA riding is not necessarily for everyone. Plenty of haters, but with the right tires they are just a one bike/one world thing. I wish they were shorter and cheaper. Otherwise, almost great anywhere and over the top great overall. They are not easy to pick up.

Tires matter a lot on any bike and you will need to try many over time to know for yourself. Everybody has an opinion.

Just my POV.

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What’s the best tyre for my adventure bike? How to choose motorcycle rubber…

By John Milbank

Consumer Editor of Bennetts BikeSocial

Bridgestone’s Gary Hartshorne rides 25,000 miles a year on a variety of bikes, including his own R1200GS

Where do you ride… Honestly? There’s nothing wrong with sticking to paved roads at all, but you’ll compromise your tyres’ longevity, comfort and handling if you insist of putting knobblies on your bike. Equally, there’s a big difference between exploring light gravel trails and covering distance on mud and rocks. Here are Gary’s recommendations – we’ll get into why they’re the best choice next …

While you don’t have to stick to the bike manufacturer’s OE brand, it’s important to use a tyre of the size and weight/speed rating that’s recommended. You can get this information from your handbook, or the tyre manufacturer, but as adventure bikes are often loaded up with luggage, it’s really important that the tyre is capable of carrying the weight.

Motorcycle tyre load index in kg

You don’t have to have knobbly tyres on an adventure bike – be honest about where you’re going to ride. If you only cover tarmac, stick to a sport-touring tyre like the Bridgestone Battlax T31 – that’ll be fine even for light, dry fire trails. If you want something that’s got a bit more of the style of a knobbly, but is still road-focussed, try the A41 .

But if you’re going to want to stray onto some green lanes or byways, a tyre with a deeper, more blocky tread pattern like the Battlax AX41 will allow the rubber to bite into loose surfaces. This is still a very capable road tyre, but the more knobbles a tyre has, the smaller cross-sectional surface area is available, so the temperature will increase on tarmac, along with its wear rate.

Knobblies aren’t necessarily designed to simply find grip on a loose surface – the tread is intended to throw the loose material out of the way and find traction on something harder, but a well-designed adventure tyre should offer much more grip in the dirt than knobblies of 10-15 years ago due to advances in tread design.

The AX41 is road legal, though it’s got a Q speed rating, so it’s not intended to go above 99mph – this could restrict the recommended fittings for your bike, depending on its top speed. If in doubt, good tyre manufacturers are happy to have you contact them for advice on recommended fitments.

Motocross tyres are not road-legal, as they don’t have the contact patch required for road use. Remembered that byways and green lanes are classed as roads, so your bike must be road-legal, taxed, have a valid MoT, and be insurered.

Motorcycle tyre speed ratings in mph

* At reduced loading

Tyre mousses, which keep your tyres up even with a puncture, are not road legal; that means that if the police found out what was in your tyre, you’d be breaking the law, even if you were riding on green lanes or byways.

Mousses don’t last long anyway, but they really don’t like heat, so when riding on tarmac they can fail suddenly.

If you have spoked wheels that don’t have sealed spokes (or aren’t designed like BMW’s wheels, with the spokes at the sides), you’ll have to use a tube.

What’s important to know is that wheels rims have different designs, so while you can use a tube in a tubeless tyre on a tube-type rim, you mustn’t put a tube-type tyre on a tubeless rim, as the bead won’t fit securely.

Bridgestone’s best adventure bike tyre on the road in the wet would be the T31 , as it has the optimum tread pattern. The A41 would be very close, but they’d both be better than a knobbly like an AX41 ; while knobbly tyres are the best in wet mud, they don’t have the water-shifting ability of a road tyre on tarmac.

Any road tyre is designed to look aesthetically pleasing, but of course the grooves have also got to pick up water and throw it to one side, leaving a relatively dry patch of tarmac for the following ‘slick’ section of rubber.

The way the tread is designed will influence its ability to shift water, and that goes right down to the angle the grooves are cut into the rubber. These grooves also have to work as the tyre moves and deforms when it meets the road – it’s no good just having a slot in the rubber that looks pretty; it must be designed to maintain an efficient shape within its specified load and speed rating (that’s one reason why so much R&D goes into tyres). Which, once again, is why it’s so important to use the correct rating of tyres, as recommended by your bike’s manufacturer.

Tyres are designed as pairs – if the front is engineered to disperse a certain amount of water, the rear must be able to cope with what it leaves in its path. Mixing tyres isn’t ideal for this reason, and that’s not just brands – having a touring tyre that moves a lot of water on the front, with a more blocky adventure tyre on the back, could cause problems.

You might also have noticed that some front tyres have tread patterns that appear to run in the opposite direction to the rear – this is to shift the water to the outside edge of the wheel in a corner, the idea being that it’s better than throwing it to the inside, which would create a wetter patch of tarmac when the rear tyre reaches it, making it have to work even harder.

Keep in mind that knobbly tyres will generally wear out more quickly than a road-focussed tyre in the same conditions on tarmac, you’ll likely get around 3,500 miles from a pair of AX41s , but 7-8,000 from the A41s , simply because the knobblier tyre’s blocks move around more, so generate more heat.

The most important thing is to regularly check the pressures; while tyres do have a liner built into the carcass, they’re still porous, so will slowly lose pressure – up to 2-3psi in a month.

How you ride also has a big influence – a smooth rider will see their tyres last a lot longer than someone who’s more aggressive on the throttle and brakes. For example, the same tyre might be used in short-circuit racing (let’s say Donington Park), at the same pressure and temperature as at the Isle of Man TT:  the TT sees fast and smooth riding, while Donington would have the riders on and off the brakes – hard – constantly. In 20 laps (50 miles), Donington would likely destroy the tyre, but six laps of the TT, covering 226 miles, would probably see it in far better condition.

The industry guideline is a recommended 200 miles, but that is for the safest margin. Keep banking over a little at a time, so as you lean, your contact patch is half scrubbed in, half fresh; lean incrementally. And no sudden braking or acceleration; it’s not just the speed or the lean angle that can cause a problem on new tyres – it’s more the brake force or acceleration.

A common perception used to be that scrubbing tyres in was about getting rid of the release agent that was used when removing the tyre from the mould, but not all manufacturers use this anymore; Bridgestone for instance has such precise moulds that there’s no need. But a tyre still needs its surface ‘roughing up’ (like a new pair of leather-soled shoes), and the plies within the carcass also have to settle into each other.

Another point to consider is that the rubber will likely have been fitted with tyre ‘soap’ – it’s possible for a new tyre to spin slightly on the wheel during hard acceleration when it’s just gone on, which will throw it out of balance.

Finally, when you replace your tyres, the bike will feel very different as you’ll have been riding for a long time on rubber with a more worn, and hence different shape; you need to give yourself time to acclimatise to the new hoops.

The air in the tyre is what’s supporting you and your motorcycle, not the rubber. Don’t go by the maximum pressure shown on the tyre itself – you’ll find the correct tyre pressure in several places:

• On the bike itself (usually the swingarm)

• In the handbook

• On the website of the tyre manufacturer.

The wrong place to look is on a forum.

Motorcycle manufacturers don’t randomly choose their own pressures – it’s dictated by the maximum load on the bike, so you’ll sometimes see recommended pressures based on solo riding, and when fully loaded, but that’s the only variable: the correct pressure is the one given to you by the manufacturer of the bike or of the tyre recommended for that bike.

In Europe the European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation (ETRTO) stipulates what size of tyre goes on a certain size of rim, and what pressure goes in it under a certain load (in Japan it’s JATMA, the Japan Automobile Tyre Manufacturers Association).

Don’t drop your tyre pressures when riding on wet roads either – this will cause the tyre to deform, reducing not only the contact patch, but also closing up the tread grooves when they meet the road, making water dispersal less effective. The leading tyre manufacturers – like Bridgestone – spend years and years, and millions of pounds, developing tyres to work at specific pressures, so use them.

But there is an exception with adventure bikes – when you ride properly off-road, the tyre’s carcass needs to mould itself around an obstacle. You’ll typically be dropping the pressures down to the mid- to low-twenties, but don’t go too far, especially on very rocky surfaces. Tubed tyres can also be prone to ‘tube pinch’ if the pressures are reduced too far, leading to punctures as the tyre rotates over the tube.

If your bike’s being stored for a while without being ridden, you should ideally use paddock stands to get the rubber off the ground. As all tyres slowly deflate over time they’ll start to deform a little with the weight of the bike on them in one spot; getting the motorcycle up in the air will cure this.

If you can’t lift the bike up, check the pressures every week, and rotate the wheels through 90°. Also keep some carpet under the tyres, to insulate them from cold concrete – in a very harsh winter, the freezing temperatures can push the rubber to its ‘glass transition point’ and it will start to become brittle.

If the bike’s not on stands, you can also pump the tyres up to the maximum pressure indicated on the sidewall, but you must leave a note on the tank to remind you to drop them back down to the correct pressure before you ride.

If you’re storing loose tyres, or wheels with tyres on, keep them laying on their side in the loft or under the bed. The main thing is to keep them out of the cold and away from sunlight.

To check how old a tyre is (as long as it was made after 2000), look at the last four digits that appear after the DOT code – the first two are the week it was made, the second pair are the year; for instance, 1518 would be a tyre made in the 15th week of 2018.

British Standard BSAU159F states that to be repaired, a motorcycle tyre must have a speed rating of V or below. The hole must be 3mm or smaller, and the damage must be within the centre 75% of the tread; not on the edge or the sidewall.

Repairs can’t be carried out in the grooves of the tread, so knobbly tubeless rubber will be a problem. Of course, if you have tubes, these can be replaced at the roadside if you have the tools, but remember that with any tyre, the plies inside the carcass will be damaged, so you should have any damaged checked by an expert.

A tubeless roadside repair should only be considered a means of getting you to the nearest professional fitter, where the tyre needs to be removed and repaired (if possible) from the inside.

During development, motorcycle manufacturers don’t test their bikes with every set of tyres available – some brands might use just one, others might use several. From this data will come the bike maker’s recommended fitment, but all tyres are made to conform to European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation (ETRTO) specifications, so within the axle weights, maximum speed and sizes, there will be other options that can safely be recommended by other brands.

Some top-of-the-range motorcycles, like the BMW S1000RR, will come with top-spec tyres, but others might have rubber that’s been designed specifically to be sold with the bike when new. These could look the same as similarly-named tyres, but might have one or two extra letters at the end if their name.

Just one example of this is a pair of sports tyres that might be single-compound for the bike that they come with (like the Bridgestone RS10G on the Yamaha R1), but multi-compound when bought after-market (the Bridgestone RS10). A single compound tyre is of course less costly to produce, so a bike manufacturer might specify that as part of its requirements when developing the machine, but they could last fewer miles than the after-market versions.

No bike manufacturer can tell you that you must use a specific brand of tyre – what matters is that you stick to the correct sizes and load/speed ratings, and that you run them at the correct pressures. Each tyre manufacturer will offer a list of recommended fitments, then you can choose which best suits your riding style.

Bridgestone’s choice

Bridgestone’s Gary Hartshorne explains how to choose the best bike tyres

We worked with Bridgestone to explain how to choose the best adventure bike tyres – if you understand the technology, you can more easily buy the right ones for your machine. We also asked the other most popular manufacturers for their recommendations. Of course, these are a general recommendation, and not specific to a particular bike, so always check the fitment for your motorcycle…

Bridgestone recommended adventure bike tyres

I only ride on tarmac: Battlax T31  (sport touring tyre for pure road performance) or Battlax A41 (more rugged styling)

I do a few gravel roads: Battlax AX41 (50/50 off-road/road, with excellent road performance)

I ride 70% or more off-road: Battlax AX41

Anlas recommended adventure bike tyres

I only ride on tarmac: Capra RD

I do a few gravel roads: Capra R

I ride 70% or more off-road: Capra X

Avon recommended adventure bike tyres

I only ride on tarmac: Trailrider

I do a few gravel roads: Trailrider

I ride 70% or more off-road: Trekrider

Continental recommended adventure bike tyres

I only ride on tarmac: Trail Attack 3

I do a few gravel roads: TKC70

I ride 70% or more off-road: TKC80

Dunlop recommended adventure bike tyres

I only ride on tarmac: Roadsmart III/Trailsmart Max

I do a few gravel roads: Trailsmart Max

I ride 70% or more off-road: Dunlop MX Range (depending on application/surface)

Maxxis recommended adventure bike tyres

I only ride on tarmac: Presa Detour / CM509 Dakar

I do a few gravel roads: Traxxer

I ride 70% or more off-road: Dual Sport

Metzeler recommended adventure bike tyres

I only ride on tarmac: Tourance Next

I do a few gravel roads: Karoo Street

I ride 70% or more off-road: Karoo 3

Michelin recommended adventure bike tyres

I only ride on tarmac: Road 5 Trail

I do a few gravel roads: Anakee Adventure

I ride 70% or more off-road: Anakee Wild

“The named tyres are in general one of the most appropriate tyres for the stated type of bike and use. These generalisations are not Michelin recommendations. The law, the specific bike and the intended use are all factors that must be considered when determining the correct choice of tyre. Always seek expert advice if in doubt.”

Pirelli recommended adventure bike tyres

I only ride on tarmac: Scorpion Trail II

I do a few gravel roads: Scorpion Rally STR

I ride 70% or more off-road: Scorpion Rally

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1290 Super Adventure R tire recommendation

Discussion in ' Hard. Core. (1090/1190/1290) ' started by kid a , Jul 25, 2019 .

kid a Been here awhile

I've been browsing and looking through the hundreds and hundreds of pages on the 1290 SA S & R threads, but it's just a lot spread over years of posts to get down to tire specific experiences. 1290 SA R is new to me and I'm looking to spoon on some very street/touring/adv tires on it and looking to get the best out of the 21" front when not in the dirt. I see and read things about the R model's 21" wheel being very flighty and very small contact patch, even mentions of speed wobbles. I've never had a road going bike with a 21" front before. All my experience is with 17" or 19" fronts. I have Bridge stone A41's on my 19" caponord and they are great in the dry and wet on road. But, it's a wider 19" front wheel. I watched a journalist review of the A41 on the 21" 1290 SAR and they mentioned it wasn't the most confidence inspiring on the road, but that might just be life with a 21"? Has anyone had a great experience with a very road biased 21" tire for the SA R that will only see dry hard pack dirt at most? I'm picking the bike up today, so haven't gotten out on its used 705's yet, but I'm guessing I'm not going to be very happy with them when carving corners or when out on dark wet roads during camping/touring trips. I need something very sticky and stable as possible, I can live with sketchy fireroad riding as a trade off Thanks guys

Lewilewi Ride it like you stole it......

But you did not ask what's the best engine oil....

Saltboxlad Long timer

Lewilewi said: ↑ But you did not ask what's the best engine oil.... Click to expand...

quixand Been here awhile

kid a said: ↑ I'm picking the bike up today, so haven't gotten out on its used 705's yet, but I'm guessing I'm not going to be very happy with them when carving corners or when out on dark wet roads during camping/touring trips. I need something very sticky and stable as possible, I can live with sketchy fireroad riding as a trade off Thanks guys Click to expand...

quixand said: ↑ I ran through the stock TKC80’s in 3200 miles, and just ordered Shinko 705’s as replacements. The TKC80’s gave me wobbles and thumping in the front end that the dealership could not resolve. I have had the 705’s on my last V-Strom 1000 and loved them on highway and gravel / fire roads I run. And they last more than 2 X’s Longer than most. And half the price of some. I almost bought Heidenau K60 Scouts, but twice the cost. Click to expand...

Saltboxlad said: ↑ Yes, and tyre choice is based on oil used as we all know. But seriously, Conti Trail Attack 3's is my vote Click to expand...

Jason4 Been here awhile

You might be buying the wrong bike if your priorities are focused so much on road performance. The 1290 S might be a better choice. I've been riding on a pair of 705s after I wore out the stock TKC80s and a rear 805 and have been happy with them. My last bike was a Daytona 675 that was on DOT race take offs and part of the reason I bought the 1290 R is that it's very comfortable at closer to legal speeds and it reminds me to keep myself in check.

kid a said: ↑ Are the trail attacks stable at higher speeds and decent on wet pavement in your experience? I do understand tires are definitely subjective based on use and rider style & skill. My order of desire is dry pavement cornering grip, wet pavement grip, stability at higher sppeds (hwy touring and back road twisties). Things I'm not so concerned about are milage and off road grip Click to expand...

ncj01 Long timer Supporter

for OP : Contri Road Attack 2's are great - and come in 150/18 which is the only super sport tire i'm aware of that does Conti Trail Attack's are ideal for your needs, stock on the original 1190 ADV's. 705's are also excellent, don't be fooled it's a street tire. Or TKC70's, just an upscale 705. // At the 5500 mile mark, i installed the FIFTH rear tire on my SAR... That 5th tire was a MotoZ Tractionator Adventure GPS...and i got a full 2000 miles out of it, which is an all time record... worked great, slightly sketchy when hammering hard offroad, but that's just part of the fun.

TakSD Been here awhile

Best and grippiest road tyre by far in 21/18 size is the Bridgestone A41! Very soft compound on the edges but most importantly very progressive, unlike the snappy continentals. My favorite choice in the pirelli scorpion STR because it’s grippy enough and can do some dirt tracks!

Anyway, OP hasnt told us what oil hes using yet, so cant really recommend until we know, where is the Oil/Tyre matrix chart

Saltboxlad said: ↑ Anyway, OP hasnt told us what oil hes using yet, so cant really recommend until we know, where is the Oil/Tyre matrix chart Click to expand...

kid a said: ↑ If this helps- I'm using snake oil Click to expand...

Bloodstripe75 Adventurer

ncj01 said: ↑ for OP : Contri Road Attack 2's are great - and come in 150/18 which is the only super sport tire i'm aware of that does Conti Trail Attack's are ideal for your needs, stock on the original 1190 ADV's. 705's are also excellent, don't be fooled it's a street tire. Or TKC70's, just an upscale 705. // At the 5500 mile mark, i installed the FIFTH rear tire on my SAR... That 5th tire was a MotoZ Tractionator Adventure GPS...and i got a full 2000 miles out of it, which is an all time record... worked great, slightly sketchy when hammering hard off-road, but that's just part of the fun. Click to expand...

Bloodstripe75 said: ↑ I am hoping that you mean 20,000 instead of 2000 as I put a set of MotoZs and I have 2000 miles on them and they look nearly new. My vote would be for the MotoZs as they have a hard sidewall for rocks and trail along with a great rubber compound for street use. I have had no problem in the Bay area up and down to Oregon carving up the twisties. https://motoz.com.au/product/tractionator-gps/ Click to expand...

ncj01 said: ↑ No sir. My bike has 7500 mi on it and the GPS was installed at 5500, and was the 5th rear tire on my bike. I was getting <1000 mi per tire for the first 2, then got a full 1200 out of the 3rd. 4th was a MotoZ TA, got just under 1800 from it. I was a tad more gentle on the GPS as it can’t be ridden as hard off-road. Click to expand...

Jmarklowitz Adventurer Supporter

I put A41's front and back on my sar for a long road trip. My tkc80 back was about gone at 2k miles. I live near Denver and have a Harley buddy in Salt Lake so we were not doing any off road. I have a little over 2k miles on them and they worked great. Road through everything from 100 degrees in southern UT to three different snow storms in the rockies on my way home. I can recommend them! They still look new. Now I want to wear them out so I can go back to knobbies and hit the fire roads. They maybe ok on dry dirt roads but it's been raining everyday and I dont dare get caught in mud with the A41's.

CanineCombatives the sound of inevitability

The TA3's could have been the new benchmark in the 18/21 street tire realm but they blew it, the front is really quite fat and raises the bike significantly over the A41's and the rear is lower and wider than the A41 so your lowering the rear and raising the front, not what you want believe me, but in spite of that, they still have the best grip and feel on the side of the tire you can imagine, so much so I was willing to deal with the flighty front end just to get more of it, I still cant figure out how conti goofed this sizing in what could have been a next level performer.

CanineCombatives said: ↑ The TA3's could have been the new benchmark in the 18/21 street tire realm but they blew it, the front is really quite fat and raises the bike significantly over the A41's and the rear is lower and wider than the A41 so your lowering the rear and raising the front, not what you want believe me, but in spite of that, they still have the best grip and feel on the side of the tire you can imagine, so much so I was willing to deal with the flighty front end just to get more of it, I still cant figure out how conti goofed this sizing in what could have been a next level performer. Click to expand...

A41's will be on order shortly. Thanks for confirming they are the best 21" for road use.

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Michelin Anakee Adventure tires

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Hi mate, bit off topic sorry. What tyres are on your StreetTwin, and what's your thoughts on the tyres vs the originals? Thanks mate.  

SportsterDoc said: No more Pirellis or Metzlers for me, since they are now owned by Chem China (Chinese government). Click to expand...

Thank you for replying, looking forward to hearing from you after your ride on Thursday, if that's OK. The bike looks great in that colour mate. I didn't know about China owning the other brands you mentioned, not to get into politics. But I can appreciate the choices people/consumer make, as to who gets their money.  

Politics aside, I think the quality of my three options were better then Chinese Pirellis or Chinese Metzlers. Cooper (USA) now owns Avon, but the Trail Riders are made in the UK. These Michelin's are made in Thailand, but so is the Street Twin and the build quality is excellent. My 2012 Bonneville was also made in Thailand and the build quality was excellent.  

This product includes: Givi SR6407 tail rack + Apache 2800 case. With this product, you get to enjoy the safety and security of having a carrier that can accommodate two bikes without sacrificing style and design. This product can also be delivered directly to your doorsteps and will not take a long time to install or set up. https://focusoilfilter.com  

SportsterDoc said: Twin Phill: Very pleased with the Michelin Anakee Adventure tires. 430 miles since installation 8 days ago. 303 miles today to Death Valley, including a 13 mile run down Daylight Pass (twisties) from California border to Highway 190. I feel nothing different on the street, other than less likely to follow a groove as compared to factory Pirellis. Going across a gravel parking lot in Amargossa for ~200', they had a confident feel. View attachment 775323 Click to expand...

No matter re the tailrack and case. If sold, I would spend $300+ for SW Motech side brackets ($220) and Pelican type hardcases. They would look streamlined, but the top case is very easy access and easy to swing a leg over...so, I will probably keep it. No clearance issues with front fender (guard?). The 110/80R18 is 10mm wider than the stock 100/90-18, but 2 mm shorter.  

Brilliant should fit fine then with those measurements, I'll refer to this when it's time to replace my tyres. I've had no real problems with the OEM tyres. Apart from my handlebars shaking if I remove my hands at anything over 35kph 🙁 Your tyres look way nicer, and I think overall will be a much better option as well. Judging by your report on the trip over the surface travelled. Thanks so much for your replies mate. You have been a great help. Peace from Australia ✌  

Cool pics, plenty of room under the front guard.  

I have Michelin Anakee Adventures on my 2012 Bonneville T100. Very happy with them compared to stock Metzelers.  

How many miles on them? Wearing well?  

I only have been able to put about 500 miles on them due to knee issues last summer. Ride mostly around town and short trips on the Bonneville as I use the Vic for longer trips. Cant say as to long term wear yet. However, they seem a lot more surefooted to me. If I recall, they are either 90/10 or 80/20 rated tires. Where I live, when the DOT does road maintenance on asphalt, they spray oil on the road and spread very fine gravel over it and post a sign saying "caution - fresh oil, loose rock" and there can also be patches of gravel that are dragged from people's driveways out into the street. The OEM Metzelers got real squirrely on these and the Michelins dont. I dont notice any increased noise on the road or the highway either.  

Was it the Anakee Adventures that you read had noise issues? I know the Anakee II and III were supposed to be noisy.  

Mixed reviews. Google "michelin anakee adventure noise". However, any noise complaints are totally unfounded for the 110/80R18 on the front of my Street Twin...straight or in the curves.  

BTW, the Avon Trailriders have the highest speed rating (V), but even an S rating serves the Street Twin well, since it is speed limited (stock ECM) to ~115 MPH indicated. S: 112 MPH H: 130 MPH V: 149 MPH The Michelin's are H front and V rear  

This post no longer relevant  

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Top 5 Tyre Brands For Your Summer Road Trip Adventure: Michelin, Yokohama & More

India’s fastest dc charger launched: exicom announces 400 kw ev charging, unlocking sustainable urban transportation: the role of evs as a service, challenges faced by cab drivers in a competitive market like india, new hyundai creta breaches 1 lakh booking milestone within 3 months of launch.

Summertime road trips provide a sense of freedom that cannot be matched. When it comes to embarking on a summer road trip adventure, investing in quality tyres is essential for a safe and enjoyable journey. The dependability of your tyres is essential for a smooth and secure ride, whether you’re driving on coastal highways or across hilly terrain. It can be confusing to figure out which of the many tyre brands available on the market provide the longevity and efficiency needed for those long travels.

The best 5 durable tyre brands for your summertime adventures are listed below to help you make an informed choice. With these top 5 long-lasting tyre brands, you can hit the highway in style, knowing that your tyres will carry you to your destination with ease and reliability:

1. Yokohama India

Yokohama is a hidden gem in the world of tyres. Known for its exceptional durability and reliability, Yokohama tyres are crafted with precision engineering and innovative technology. Whether you’re cruising along the coast or venturing into rugged terrain, Yokohama tyres ensure a smooth ride and long-lasting performance. With a commitment to quality and excellence, Yokohama is a top choice for drivers seeking reliability and comfort on their summer road trip adventures.

2. Michelin India

Renowned for their durability and superior performance, Michelin tyres are a favorite among drivers worldwide. With a focus on innovation and cutting-edge technology, Michelin produces tyres that offer excellent traction, handling, and longevity. Whether you’re traversing highways or tackling off-road terrain, Michelin tyres provide the reliability you need for a worry-free road trip.

3. Bridgestone

Bridgestone is another leading name in the tyre industry, known for its commitment to quality and innovation. With a diverse range of tyres suited for various vehicles and driving conditions, Bridgestone offers options that deliver exceptional durability and longevity. Whether you’re driving through scorching summer heat or navigating wet roadways, Bridgestone tyres provide the traction and stability necessary for a smooth and safe journey.

4. Goodyear India

For over a century, Goodyear has been synonymous with high-performance tyres built to last. With a focus on durability and reliability, Goodyear tyres are designed to withstand the rigors of long-distance driving while providing excellent traction and handling. Whether you’re cruising along highways or exploring rugged terrain, Goodyear tyres offer the peace of mind you need to enjoy your summer road trip to the fullest.

5. Continental Tires

Rounding out our list is Continental, a trusted name in the tyre industry known for its precision engineering and advanced technology. With a focus on durability and performance, Continental tyres are designed to excel in various driving conditions, providing excellent traction, handling, and longevity. Whether you’re navigating city streets or cruising along remote highways, Continental tyres deliver the reliability you need for a memorable summer road trip.

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The Spontaneous Road Trip Through Missouri That Is The Perfect Weekend Of Adventure

I ’m the type of person who loves to plan everything. When I go on a trip, I need my detailed itinerary. However, I’m trying to be a little more spontaneous and do more things on a whim. If you are like me and want to add a little more adventure and excitement to your life, this road trip itinerary is for you. Taking you to seven destinations, you’ll form a delightful loop throughout Missouri. Even better, there are attractions the entire family will enjoy, making this a spontaneous weekend adventure that everyone is sure to remember. So, pack your bags, grab your snacks , and let’s go!

1. Gateway Arch National Park

2. city museum, st. louis, 3. onondaga cave state park, leasburg, 4. graham cave state park, danville, 5. cuivre river state park, troy, 6. historic daniel boone home, defiance, 7. forest park, st. louis.

What other destinations would you add to this road trip itinerary ? Are there any restaurants on this route that you would add? Let us and your fellow travelers know in the comments.

The post The Spontaneous Road Trip Through Missouri That Is The Perfect Weekend Of Adventure appeared first on Only In Your State ® .

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Your Road Trip Close to Home adventure guide for June 20

Here's a look at all the great spots to hit from this week's episode of road trip close to home..

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• Open 8 a.m. - 12 a.m. Monday through Sunday.
• 277 Canal St. | New York, NY 10013
• Open at 10 a.m. daily, last entrance at 7:15 p.m.
• 735 Anderson Hill Road | Purchase, NY 10577
• Summer schedule 2024: Open 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
• 44 Jericho Turnpike | Mineola, NY 11501
• Open 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Open 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Open 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sunday.
• 668 Lake Ave. | Greenwich, CT 06830
• 325 Lighthouse Road | New Haven, CT 06512

Interested in more adventures? Check out last week's destinations close to home .

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