Looking for the Best Dual Sport Tires – What do you recommend?

Introduction

I’m on the hunt for the top dual sport tires for my bike and would love some insights from fellow riders! I primarily ride on a mix of asphalt and off-road trails, so I need something that can handle both conditions well. I’ve done some research, but the choices out there are overwhelming. Every tire seems to have its own set of pros and cons.

Performance Considerations

When choosing dual sport tires, there are a few important factors I’m considering:

  • Tread Pattern: I’m looking for a tire that can provide decent grip on muddy or loose surfaces while still being safe on highways.
  • Durability: I’d like something that can withstand rugged terrain without wearing down too quickly.
  • Size Compatibility: I need to ensure that the tire size is compatible with my motorcycle model.

What to Look For

  • Reviews: Personal experiences and recommendations really help me narrow down my options. Have you had a particularly good or bad experience with any specific tire brands or models?
  • Recommendations for Brands: Which brands do you trust for dual sport tires? Are there any that you think I should definitely avoid?
  • Pricing: I’m budget-conscious, but I’m willing to invest a bit more for quality. What’s a reasonable price range for good dual sport tires?

My Bike Specs

For context, I’m riding a [insert bike model Here], and the current tires are getting a bit worn out. I mostly ride in [insert typical riding conditions], so any recommendations that fit these conditions would be fantastic!

Conclusion

If you’ve got any tips, experiences, or model recommendations, please share! I appreciate any help you can provide on this tire quest. Thanks a ton!

4 Likes

I’ve been using the Metzeler Karoo 3 tires for about a year now. They hold up well on-road and have great grip off-road too. Longevity is decent, around 5000 miles for my style of riding.

2 Likes

I’ve heard great things about those! How do you find them in wet conditions?

2 Likes

Definitely check out the Continental TKC 80! They seem to last longer than the Karoo 3 and perform surprisingly well on the highway for a knobby tire.

5 Likes

I’ve considered those but heard they can be noisy on the road. What’s your experience?

They do get a bit noisy, but for the performance you get off-road, it’s worth it! Plus, I find the wear isn’t too bad if you keep the air pressure right.

I swear by my Michelin Anakee Wilds. They excel in both off-road grip and decent road handling. Longevity is excellent—probably around 7000 miles based on my usage!

That’s impressive mileage! Do they handle mud well?

Yes, they handle mud surprisingly well! If you’re planning to do a lot of trails, they offer great traction without sacrificing too much on the road.

I had a bad experience with the Bridgestone AX41. They wore quickly, and I didn’t find the grip as promised. I switched to the Karoo 3 after that.

That’s a bummer! I’ve been curious about those. Maybe they’re not for me.

On the flip side, I’ve had success with the Dunlop Trailmax Mission. They’ve been great on the freeway and performance off-road is respectable too.

4 Likes

That sounds like a balanced tire! How many miles do you get before they need replacing?

I’ve managed around 6500 miles with mine. It really depends on your riding style, though. A bit more aggressive and you might see less mileage.

For a mix of highway and light dirt, I think the Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR is excellent. They stay stable at higher speeds and look good doing it! But, how do they fare in rough terrains?

I’ve heard mixed reviews. Some say they lose grip too easily on wet rocks. Anyone else experience that?

4 Likes

It’s true; the grip can be sketchy on slick surfaces. I usually carry a spare tire just in case—better safe than sorry!

TL;DR: For a good balance of all conditions, I lean towards the Michelin Anakee Wilds or Metzeler Karoo 3, but personal preferences play a huge role. Have fun choosing tires—it’s part of the adventure!

I’m also looking for dual sport tires for my KTM 690 Enduro. I’ve heard good things about the Continental TKC 80s for a mix of on-road and off-road.

I’ve been using the Bridgestone Battlax Adventure A41s on my BMW GS and they’re fantastic! Great grip on wet roads.