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Finding the right tire is often a bit tricky, especially if you’re riding both on smooth pavements and rough off-road tracks.
Such a tire has to be able to tackle rough roads while still be street-legal. Great dual sport motorcycle tires are ideal for commuting as well as off-road adventures.
The only way to enjoy your bike is to have the best pair of tires. Still, even these tires have different abilities and qualities, so it’s essential that you also consider your needs and preferences.
Take a few minutes to discover the dual sport motorcycle tires in the article below. We also included a little buyer’s guide with information that can help you choose.
For a list of our top all-around tires, click here.
Our 8 Highest Rated Dual Sport Motorcycle Tires Review
| PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|
Continental  | Continental Key Features: Self-cleaning, for on- and off-road use Rim Diameter: 17 inches | Check Price |
Heidenau  | Heidenau Key Features: Stable and balanced, long mileage Rim Diameter: 21 inches | Check Price |
Michelin  | Michelin Key Features: Dual-compound technology, increased stability Rim Diameter: 17 inches | Check Price |
Mitas  | Mitas Key Features: Great traction and stability, DOT-approved Rim Diameter: 19 inches | Check Price |
Shinko  | Shinko Key Features: For all weather conditions, long-lasting Rim Diameter: 17 inches | Check Price |
Kenda  | Kenda Key Features: Great traction, DOT approved Rim Diameter: 17 inches | Check Price |
Pirelli  | Pirelli Key Features: Aggressive tread design, DOT approved Rim Diameter: 18 inches | Check Price |
Dunlop  | Dunlop Key Features: Versatile, many available sizes Rim Diameter: 18 inches | Check Price |
Continental – Self-Cleaning
Continental Twinduro TKC80 rear tire is among the most popular options for on- and off-road adventures. It’s a 40% on-road and 60% off-road model, suitable for commuters and adventurists.
Its compound, along with the wide block tread pattern, brings optimal grip as well as excellent performance on different surfaces.
It has plenty of traction and excellent braking abilities on loose gravel as well as smooth pavements. It’s important to note that this is a highly stable model, so it’s suitable for all riders regardless of their experience.
Another great thing about this product is its self-cleaning ability.
Twinduro can clean itself pretty easily thanks to the way it’s constructed. Its tread pattern allows it to throw away all the dirt and gravel it picks up on the way.
PROS
- Self-cleaning
- Traction and balance
- For on- and off-road use
CONS
- Not the most long-lasting
Heidenau – Ideal for Off-road
This is one of the most standout 50/50 tires that perform equally as well on smooth and rough surfaces. It’s stable, balanced, and easy to mount on a wide range of motorcycles.
It measures 90/90-21 with a load rating of 465 pounds in total. The bias construction gives it durability, offering long mileage and longevity. Its speed rating is H for 130 MPH, while its max PSI is 36.
The K60 Scout has an improved tread and compound, delivering outstanding performance. It’s especially suitable for off-road use thanks to its overall construction.
However, this one has great cornering stability and grip, especially on wet roads.
As such, it’s equally suitable for on-road use and commuting.
You can use it on sand, rocks, and mud as well as smooth, city pavements. It’s a highly versatile and compatible model that’s also quite durable.
PROS
- Stable and balanced
- Long mileage
- For on- and off-road use
CONS
- Lots of road noise
Michelin – Quick Warm-up
Michelin Pilot Road 2 Sport Touring front and rear tires are a great option if you need a set that warms up quickly. You can buy them separately in case you don’t need both, although they perform the best when used together.
The brand’s dual-compound technology provides extended life along with an enhanced grip. It performs well in wet weather thanks to its enhanced traction and braking abilities.
It features a soft rubber compound on edge for a better grip. In the center, it offers extended longevity thanks to the harder and stronger rubber.
It warms up quickly, allowing you to enjoy its full potential within minutes from hopping on your bike. Also, its soft edges give you more stability and balance while cornering, especially if you find yourself on a wet and smooth road.
PROS
- Dual-compound technology
- Even wear
- Increased stability
CONS
- Not the most compatible
Mitas – DOT Approved
This Mitas model is meant for serious off-road riders. It provides traction, handling, and precision that you’ll need on rough off-road surfaces. It’s made specifically for trail use, performing great on mud, rocks, and sand.
It has an aggressive knob pattern, which is what gives you traction in different weather and road conditions. Mitas claims this is ideal for challenging terrain.
Another vital thing to mention is its durability. It’s designed specifically to cover a lot of miles in different conditions, resisting puncture and providing stability.
One thing to keep in mind is that this DOT-approved option is meant for 20% street and 80% dirt use. As such, it might not be the right one to use on smooth surfaces, especially if you find yourself caught in the rain (see good rain options).
PROS
- Easy handling
- Great traction and stability
- DOT-approved
CONS
- Not the best for city rides
Shinko – Tubeless
Shinko 705 is a long-lasting tire and one of the most affordable options out there. Its versatile tread design allows you to ride in different weather conditions regardless of whether the road is wet or dry.
It provides a smooth ride and a reliable performance, especially at high speeds, during highway rides. However, the most important thing to note here is its versatility.
This tubeless Shinko is ideal for both on- and off-road adventures. You can use it on sandy and dry roads, racetracks as well as wet pavements.
Another thing to keep in mind, especially if you’re mounting the tire by yourself, is that it’s uni-directional. This means you should focus on the arrow that’s designed on the sidewall. The front models have a weight load of 435 pounds.
PROS
- Long-lasting
- Even wear
- For all weather conditions
CONS
- You might experience tread separation
Kenda – High Performance
These Kenda tires are tough and versatile. They can handle a wide range of conditions and different situations during your on- and off-road rides.
It’s one of the most popular options for your dual-sport bike since it offers great performance on both street and dirt tracks. Kenda K270 is a DOT approved model with a 50/50 ratio between street and dirt use. It’s not an aggressive pattern, which is why it’s as easy to use in as many conditions.
It has a large contact patch that’s ideal for street use. However, the tire can also handle rough and worn tracks covered in loose gravel or sand. It’s a stable model made with a unique rubber compound that guarantees mileage and longevity.
It’s self-cleaning, offering excellent traction and balance in various conditions. As such, it’s a great option for commuters who like a bit of off-roading on the weekends.
PROS
- Self-cleaning
- DOT approved
- Great traction
CONS
- Not for over 100 mph
Pirelli – Aggressive
Pirelli MT21 Rallycross is one of the most recommended options for off-road use. It’s a DOT approved tire, so it’s road legal and safe to use in the streets. However, its performance is a bit more suitable for off-road riding.
It’s its tread pattern that’s designed and optimized specifically for dirt and gravel roads. It does reasonably well on smooth pavements, but not so well in wet conditions. For this reason, it’s usually recommended for cross-country racing and other off-road adventures.
Another critical thing to mention is that Dirt Bike magazine chose MT21 Rallycross as one of the most aggressive dual-sport tires on the market.
Pirelli offers this tire for both front and rear use, and in different sizes. It’s a matter of which you need as well as the bike you ride. Consider these things before you opt for any particular size.
PROS
- Aggressive tread design
- Comes in many sizes
- DOT approved
CONS
- Not the best for street use
Dunlop – Tube Type
Everyone was pretty excited when Dunlop introduced its new D605 to join the popular D606. It was a new addition to its already famous line of dual sport tires. However, this one is targeted at riders who have small and mid-displacement bikes.
It’s DOT approved and one of the best options if you’re serious about your off-road adventures. It has a full-depth tread pattern meant for rough use.
Another thing that adds to its off-road abilities is excellent traction it offers in different conditions.
Although it’s primarily meant for rougher use, it can easily handle smooth rides around town as well.
You can use it in different conditions since it’s made to be an all-around product, providing comfort and balance at all times.
PROS
- Versatile
- Many available sizes
- DOT approved
CONS
- A bit noisy
How to Get the Best Motorbike Dual Sport Tires?
Unless you have plenty of experience, you’ll need a bit of guidance to pick your dual sport tires. It’s because these usually come in many sizes and heights. Also, some are more durable than others, so you want to be sure that you’re getting the most suitable product.
Think about the conditions you usually ride in. If you’re usually on rough terrain, you need light options. On the other hand, you need something completely different if you’re just riding around town on a smooth road.
For trail riding, you need a lightweight tire that won’t add much weight to your motorcycle. It’s because you might fall off the bike at some point, and you want to be able to lift it easily.
Still, this type is excellent for many situations. It works for narrow tracks as well as logging trails and other off-road, rough terrains.
You need a heavier pair if your bike has a large engine. However, you want to consider your height and weight as well to ensure that the models of your choice can handle your body.
Make sure to consider all the pros and cons of each product. It’s the best way of ensuring that you’re getting what fits your needs and preferences. Most manufacturers claim their tires are meant for street and off-road use. These are 50/50.
What are Dual Sport Tires?
Dual sport tires are made for dual sport motorcycles. Much like these motorcycles, tires should be able to handle rough terrain as well as smooth, city pavement.
They’re meant for different road and weather conditions, although each model is somewhat different in terms of what it delivers. When using these, you should consider using matching front and rear models.
Different Types & Ratings
- 90/10 – these are 90% made for use on the street and 10% for use on gravel roads. They’re not the best for demanding weather and off-road conditions.
- 70/30 or 80/20 – these might be a better choice for off-road riding, but they’re still recommended for city conditions. They’re great to use if you’re usually on the highway and smooth pavements with an occasional off-road track.
- 60/40 – these are better for on-road use, but they might lack some precision and responsiveness in the corners. They’re somewhat better for rough terrain than the ones we mentioned above.
- 50/50 – they offer decent performance on both smooth pavements and rough terrain, but they’re still not the best in either condition. It’s a good choice if you’re unsure of the road you’ll come across.
- 40/60 – it’s a good choice if you need a street type that has plenty of stability. You can use it at high speeds, but keep in mind that they’re better for off-road conditions than street use.
- 20/80 or 30/70 – these are made for off-road adventures, although you can still use them in the streets. It’s a popular option among dual sport owners who ride in not-so-demanding conditions.
- 10/90 – these are meant for off-road use, but are street legal. However, they lack responsiveness and precision, so you should only use them to get to the trail.
Where to Buy Them?
Buying dual sport motorcycle tires might be a bit intimidating, especially if you’re a beginner. If you’re unsure about where to buy them, you should definitely try online shopping. It’s by far the most efficient way because it’s simple and offers plenty of different products.
Online shopping allows you to buy new options for your motorcycle without leaving the comfort of your house. It takes some time and a detailed guide like the one we’re offering here to figure out which is the top dual sport motorcycle tire that matches your needs and preferences.
Trying to find products without any guidance might not be as effortless. For this reason, you should consider the information we shared in our guide, as well as the products we reviewed above.
These are among the most popular options that online market offers. We chose them for you based on their quality, performance, size, durability, and affordability.
Benefits Of Choosing Adventure Tires
There are many benefits to choosing the right dual sport motorcycle tires. What stands out the most is that these are quite affordable, especially when compared to traditional models.
They give you fuel efficiency that you’re unlikely to get with other motorcycle tires. Also, they’re versatile and can often work different on- and off-road conditions.
As such, they’re ideal for commuters who like an occasional rough terrain and off-road adventure. They’re also excellent for rough terrain enthusiast who sometimes drifts to highways.
They’re fun and exciting to use regardless of the surface and conditions. However, this largely depends on the brand and type you go for. In other words, quality models are the only ones that can provide these benefits.
Also, benefits often depend on how well you choose among as many tires. It’s critical that you find that balance between on- and off-road riding so that you can get the best of what these can bring.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between adventure and dual sport motorcycle tire?
Dual sport bikes are better off with knobby tires. These offer a decent grip on and off the road, although their performance might range depending on the particular type you go for. They’re typically much better for rough terrain than adventure motorcycles.
On the other hand, what you use for adventure motorcycles are usually better for smooth pavement. These allow precise braking and improved safety when it comes to riding in the city.
Conclusion
At this point, you’ve probably chosen the dual sport motorcycle tires for your motorbike. If not, we suggest you go back to our buyer’s guide and reviews while keeping in mind your needs and preferences.
Having the right set is critical, especially if you’re often riding and in different weather and road conditions. For this reason, you should be careful about the product of your choice.
Take time and make sure to think about the critical buying factors we discussed, and you probably won’t have issues picking one of the tires we reviewed.
