Finding the right on/off-road tires can dramatically improve traction, stability, and mileage across varied terrain. This guide highlights five top options designed for dual-sport and adventure bikes, focusing on durability, grip, and long wear life. Each tire is evaluated for road comfort, off-road capability, and overall value. Use the buying guide at the end to compare these choices based on your riding style and terrain needs.
| Product | Brand | Size/Fitment | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tusk 2Track 150/70B-17 Rear | TUSK | Rear, 150/70B-17 | Adventuring on mixed surfaces |
| Shinko 805 On/Off Road Rear 130/80-17 | Shinko | Rear, 130/80-17 | Balanced on/off-road handling |
| Tusk 2Track Adventure Tire Set (Front 90/90-21 & Rear 150/70B-17) | TUSK | Front 90/90-21, Rear 150/70B-17 | Front/rear dual-sport performance |
| Tusk 2Track 170/60B-17 Rear | TUSK | Rear, 170/60B-17 | Longer wear, aggressive off-road grip |
| E805 On/Off Road Rear 140/80-17 | Generic | Rear, 140/80-17 | Reliable on/off-road performance |
Tusk 2Track 150/70B-17 Rear Tire
The Tusk 2Track 150/70B-17 rear tire uses a durable rubber compound to deliver confidence-inspiring traction and long wear life. Its design supports both on-road touring and off-road exploration, making it a versatile choice for riders who switch between highway and dirt. Large tread blocks provide stable handling on paved surfaces while maintaining grip in loose conditions. This tire prioritizes comfort, grip, and stability across varied riding conditions, helping riders maintain control when transitioning from gravel to twell-paved segments.
Shinko 805 On/Off Road Rear 130/80-17
The Shinko 805 rear tire combines Big-Block technology with enhanced on-road handling and mileage. It features stable sidewalls suitable for soft surfaces, providing reliable grip on dirt, gravel, and mud without sacrificing highway comfort. This tire is well-suited for riders who prioritize longevity and predictable performance across mixed-terrain routes, from city streets to light trail adventures.
Tusk 2Track Adventure Set (Front & Rear)
This front/rear set uses a durable rubber compound for traction and wear resistance. The knobby-tread arrangement provides solid stability and grip, with reinforced knob bases to enhance handling and prevent variable block movement under load. The 2Track pattern aims for balanced performance on both asphalt and off-road trails, making it a practical option for riders who roam between paved and dirt surfaces.
Tusk 2Track 170/60B-17 Rear Tire
Designed for adventure and dual-sport motorcycles, this rear tire in size 170/60B-17 (72T) uses a tubeless radial construction for reliability and ease of maintenance. It emphasizes stability and grip under varied load conditions, with reinforced knob bases to boost handling on uneven terrain. It’s positioned for riders who demand consistent performance and longevity across mixed riding conditions, including high-speed highway segments and rocky trails.
E805 On/Off Road Rear 140/80-17
The E805 rear tire emphasizes dependable on-road handling and mileage, with stable sidewalls suited to soft surfaces. It carries an all-terrain focus suitable for riders who encounter muddy or sandy stretches in addition to regular pavement. The design supports consistent wear and predictable behavior when encountering varied terrain, making it a practical choice for mixed-terrain routes.
Shinko 805 On/Off Road Rear 150/80-16
The Shinko 805 rear tire in a 150/80-16 size continues the brand’s on/off-road emphasis, delivering balanced handling and reliable mileage. Its design supports stable performance on soft surfaces while maintaining comfortable highway manners, suited for riders who navigate both paved roads and light trails.
Knobby 120/70-12 & 130/70-12 Set
This set features off-road tubeless tires with block-shaped treads designed for smaller displacement bikes. The tread pattern is optimized for complex road conditions such as gravel or dirt, offering robust off-road grip while remaining manageable on-road for light dual-sport use. It’s suited for riders who prioritize rugged off-road capability on compact bikes.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations For On/Off Road Tires
Riding style and terrain are the primary drivers when choosing off-road tires. Consider these factors to help select the best tire for your needs:
- Terrain balance: If you ride mostly road with occasional dirt, prioritize on-road stability and predictable off-road grip. For frequent trails, choose knobs with biting edges and taller tread blocks.
- Tread pattern: Aggressive, blocky patterns excel in loose surfaces; smoother patterns outperform on pavement but may wear faster off-road. Dual-sport tires try to balance both roles.
- Durability and wear: Look for a durable rubber compound and reinforced knob bases for longevity under varied loads and speeds. Tubeless radial designs often provide lower rolling resistance and better heat management.
- Size and fitment: Ensure correct sizing for your model. Incorrect sizing can affect handling, ABS calibration, and clearance.
- M+S labeling: Mud and Snow marks indicate better performance in soft, muddy conditions, but tread design and compound are equally important for mixed-terrain use.
- Maintenance and repairability: Tubeless tires are generally easier to repair in the field. Ensure you have compatible patches or plugs and a proper pump or inflator.
- Cost vs. mileage: A tire’s upfront price should be weighed against expected mileage and replacement intervals, especially for long-distance dual-sport riding.
In summary, selecting the right on/off-road tire involves evaluating terrain exposure, riding style, and the balance between durability and grip. The products above cover a spectrum from pure adventure-oriented rear tires to front/rear sets designed for mixed-terrain adventures, offering options for riders seeking reliability, balance, or aggressive off-road traction.