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:
| Product | Category | Check & Shop Now |
|---|---|---|
| BRIDGESTONE BATTLAX ADVENTURECROSS AX41 TIRES | On-road/off-road ratio 40/60 | RevZilla | Amazon |
| HEIDENAU K60 SCOUT TIRES | On-road/off-road ratio 50/50 | RevZilla | Cycle Gear |
| CONTINENTAL TRAIL ATTACKS III TIRES | On-road/off-road ratio 90/10 | RevZilla | Amazon |
| DUNLOP TRAILMAX RAID TIRES | On-road/off-road ratio 50/50 | RevZilla | Amazon |
| MICHELIN ANAKEE WILD TIRES | On-road/off-road ratio 50/50 | RevZilla | Amazon |
| DUNLOP TRAILMAX MISSION | On-road/off-road ratio 50/50 | RevZilla | Amazon |
| PIRELLI SCORPION TRAIL II TIRES | On-road/off-road ratio 80/20 | RevZilla | Amazon |
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
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.
Pros
- Excellent mileage for road and off-road
- Great grip on paved roads and off-road
- Has a unique design
- Perfect for heavier adventure motorcycles
Cons
- 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.
Pros
- 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.
- Has a unique design
Cons
- 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.
Pros
- 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
Cons
- 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.
Pros
- Superior off-road traction
- Suitable for both paved and off-road riding
- Durable construction
Cons
- 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.
Pros
- 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
Cons
- 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.
Pros
- 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
Cons
- 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.
 I've diligently categorized my motorcycle gear recommendations into all available categories, with the aim of providing you with a comprehensive analysis that showcases the absolute best options for all your needs. These items are the culmination of in-depth research, extensive testing, and personal use throughout my vast experience of 50+ years in the world of motorcycling. Besides being a passionate rider, I've held leadership positions and offered consultancy services to reputable companies in over 25 countries. To See Top Picks and the Best Prices & Places to Buy: Click Here! |
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)
Ni/JO
