Best Dirt Bike Tires

While most of us get too excited about the shiny parts of our bikes such as the spokes and the powerful exhaust systems, we often than not overlook the importance of high-quality tires! If you own a bike, then you know that if you want them to give the best performance, you need a great pair of dirt tires.

What is the most crucial part of a dirt bike”? If you think it’s the engine, then you are very wrong. The dirt bike tires are the most essential part of the motorcycle as a lousy wheel could wreck all the fun on a dirt track irrespective of the engine you have. 

So, whether you are a newbie or an experienced rider, then you must already know the importance of quality tires. It is critical to get it right with your tire selection. So, what makes the best dirt bike tire?

Best Dirt Bike Tires

There are so many brands of dirt bike tires in the market that it can be challenging to get the right one. It can be somewhat confusing and frustrating to pick the best. Therefore, you asked, and we listened. 

We have done some extensive research on all the brands and products to pick out the best of them all. We have also tested each product to ensure they are qualified. 

Also, we have highlighted the advantages and disadvantages of the reviews. From our list, you will be able to pick out the bike tire that will meet your needs with ease. To find out more about dirt bike tires, stay with us till the end!

Best Dirt Bike Tires You Should Buy

Bridgestone motocross dirt bike -TOP PICK5 out of 5 stars
Michelin Starcross Dirt Bike Tire4.8 out of 5 stars
Pirelli Scorpion Pro Dirt Bike Tire4.7 out of 5 stars
Dunlop Hard Terrain Dirt Bike Tires4.6 out of 5 stars
Michelin Starcross 5 Dirt Bike Tire4.5 out of 5 stars

Bridgestone motocross dirt bike

Bridgestone motocross dirt bike

The first product on our list is the Bridgestone dirt bike tires, a leading manufacturer in the world of tires, Bridgestone is renowned for its quality tires, and excellent customer reviews speak volumes about the product. So, why should you consider these tires?

To begin with, the tread pattern design offers an improved racing experience and driving performance. It also provides better slide control when you are riding on firm base soil. The tread pattern is actually race-proven, making it suitable for professional riding. 

The set of tires is built to withstand all the severe conditions a rider may come across while riding on a motocross. They are durable and reliable thanks to the quality materials used to make them. The rear tires are also ranked high for their grip and traction which are crucial for any rider. 

Pros

  • Excellent grip
  • Durable and reliable
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Excellent grip
  • Durable and reliable
  • Affordable


Michelin Starcross Dirt Bike Tire

Michelin Starcross Dirt Bike Tire

Michelin Starcross is a high-energy tire designed for a high energy racer with no doubt. So, if that sounds like something you have been looking for, then why should you settle for less? Below are some of the features we found impressive about the set of tires. 

While we were reviewing the different products, we came to realize that a bike isn’t anything to spend less at. Sorry to disappoint but this set is not anything like cheap! Michelin costs around 100 dollars, but the price is worth every last penny, and this is why!

Also, the set of tires are designed for intermediate terrain. Good news is that you do not need frequent changes while riding on different types of grounds. Also, the tires can withstand hard tracks, so no need to worry about those rocks and tree roots. 

Pros

  • Durable and reliable
  • Excellent grips
  • Suitable for intermediate terrain

Cons

  • Unsuitable for soft terrain
  • Very expensive


Pirelli Scorpion Pro Dirt Bike Tire

Pirelli Scorpion Pro Dirt Bike Tire

The number one determinant of the type of tire you are going to purchase is the terrain and grounds you will be riding on. However, lucky for you, mid-hard and mid-soft bases are already covered. Pirelli scorpion pro comes to the rescue!

The good thing about bike tires designed for intermediate terrain is that they don’t only come in handy for such terrain. They are also a treasure for people who ride in the different ground and would be required to change their tires often. 

Therefore, Pirelli tires will sustain smooth riding through mid-hard and mid-soft grounds. They are made from durable material to ensure they are durable and reliable. The tires have been tested extensively to ensure they meet the targets of performance. 

The tires are made from quality material that ensures durability through intermediate terrain. 

Pros

  • Side knobs and dimples
  • Versatile tires suitable for different skill levels
  • Excellent stability

Cons

  • Best for supercross terrain only
  • Pricey


Dunlop Hard Terrain Dirt Bike Tires

Dunlop Hard Terrain Dirt Bike Tires

Who has not heard of Dunlop? Even newbies come to the shop asking for Dunlop tires thanks to the right word that has spread far and wide. Therefore, if you are looking for a reliable manufacturer, then look no further!

Why should you consider Dunlop dirt tire? Well, let’s get technical, shall we? These tires present some unique technologies such as the carcass tension control system and the progressive cornering block technology. 

PCBT helps while sliding to control the bike while the carcass control system comes in handy when you are trying to get the motorbike to move in a line. Also, the set of tires is designed for hard terrain. 

Dunlop tires are specially designed to spread the weight of the bike throughout evenly. Therefore, stability is guaranteed as well as impact dampening. 

Pros

  • Reliable manufacturer
  • Evenly distributes weight
  • Slide control 

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Sizing may be different from the rest


Michelin Starcross 5 Dirt Bike Tire

Michelin Starcross 5 Dirt Bike Tire

Well, guess who made our list again, Michelin! Are you still having doubts about the manufacturer’s reliability? I am positive you are not. So, what does Michelin Starcross % bring to the table?

As with all other Michelin products, our set of wheel guarantee reliability and durability. The materials used to make the tires are the best quality. Michelin has ensured that the materials used are sourced in the country to ensure only the best. 

The manufacturer designed the set of tires with factors such as better braking and acceleration in mind to ensure it offers better than the rest. The tread design has been enhanced for better steering and bike control as well as traction at different angles.

The numerous reviews online can give you a glimpse of what to expect. We can confidently state that no brand can get more recognizable than Michelin. 

Pros

  • Enhanced tread design
  • Durable and reliable
  • Effective on different terrains

Cons

  • Fewer reviews
  • Pricey


Now that you know the best dirt tires available in the market, we should go through the features to look for in dirt tires. We have prepared a comprehensive buying guide to help you in making your purchasing decisions. So, stay with us and learn everything you need to know about dirt bike tires. 

Every bike rider already knows that the environment you take your bike to will determine the type of dirt bike tire you will purchase. If you take a simple bike tire to the dunes in the desert, you will soon be buying a new pair of tires as those tires are designed for the hard-packed track. Also, a dual-sport tire that is built for the trail will wear put faster if used primarily on asphalt. 

Finding a suitable bike tire for your bike is no walk in the park. It is almost an art. Therefore, if you have found a dirt tire that works great for you, best stick to it, so, for those who are still searching, stay with us, and you will leave here a happy person!

If you are a newbie or someone looking to replace a failed tire trial, you are at the right place. Also, if you are looking to try a different set of tires for your bike simply, then be glad that this guide is your first stop. Let’s jump right in with the various bike riding styles that will enable you to determine the type of dirt bike tire you need. 

Motocross

Great Tires Elicit Some Type of Reaction From Fans That Builds the Rider’s Confidence

 

Great tires elicit some type of reaction from fans that builds the rider’s confidence. Therefore, why not get the best? Motocross events are those that take place on a closed-closure dirt race track. The track will in most cases feature several jumps and other man-designed dexterity obstacles meant to test the skills of a rider. 

Motocross tracks are free of large rocks and tree roots which could cause accidents, as well as water crossing and off-road obstacles. So, how do you ensure you get the right tire type and treads for the motocross track rider?

Type of Terrain 

Hard Terrain

There are different types of tires, and we, therefore, have tires that are specially designed for hard ground. Dirt bike tires designed for hard and in most cases dry ground is generally made from soft material. Well, not what you expected? Me too! However, the material is soft and outer rubber compound which provides for an excellent grip between the tire and the surface. 

Also, the knobs, which are also called tread blocks, are usually spaced closely together. The feature enables the tires to have maximum grip. Therefore, both the tread blocks and the material are aimed at achieving maximum grip. 

How do you identify hard terrain? If you can bounce a ball on a surface, then you are looking at hard terrain. The thing to note, however, is that most motocross and supercross tracks do not have this kind of terrain. Therefore, you need to consider whether the hard terrain is what you want to be riding on. 

If you are one who enjoys off-roading, then you will find it pleasurable to participate in this type of riding. Hard terrain is stiff and made from a durable compound. The compound is built tough to endure all the jagged rocks and roots which a hard terrain rider will be cruising over. Therefore, special hard terrain tires will come in handy.

Soft Terrain

On the other hand, we have the soft terrain. As with all dirt bike tires, we have tires which are suited for mild conditions and terrain. Soft ground is characterized by a lot of deep mud and sand. Therefore, what should be the perfect tires for soft terrain?

The design of the tires is challenging from those suited for hatred terrain. The tires feature hard rubber which creates grip with the ground. Also, the knobs of the tires are taller and shaped in a scoop shape of paddle shape. The design creates some form of biting action between the tires and the ground, which makes it suitable for dealing with loam, sand and muddy grounds which are very characteristic of the soft terrain. 

Also, the tires present big spaces between the tire blocks, which makes it difficult for mud to clog the tire and cause difficulty in moving or impact the functionality of the tires negatively. The front tires are unique as they will usually have spiky knobs. The harder compound build of the tires prevents the knobs and the lugs from tearing away. Therefore, these tires are able to stand the test of time as they are durable and sturdy.

Intermediate Terrain

Intermediate terrain seems quite apparent. However, it is the types of conditions that lie between soft and hard terrain. Intermediate terrains are prevalent where you find yourself riding between different land types in an area. 

Therefore, getting intermediate terrain tires is not only suitable when you are riding different grounds. They also come in handy when there is a need to alternate your tires often when you switch terrain while riding. Intermediate tires are very popular with riders as they give you more options. 

Intermediate terrain is suitable for motocross tracks with the right amount of watering and outdoor temperatures. In such conditions, they will perform at their best. However, if the terrain is bound to get too rough, then tires meant for hard terrain will come in handy.

Types of Tires

We also have other types of tires. Let us take a look at each of them and why you should consider getting a set for your bike. 

Hybrid Tires

The hybrid variety is quite a unique design of tires. These tires have a rounded crown and plenty of treads on the tires. The hybrid tires are great for a range of different trails despite the fact that the terrain one is riding on. 

Paddle Tires

Are you planning on going on a ride in the sand dunes? Then paddle tires are great for sand and desert riding. What are the characteristics of these tires?

The paddle tires are designed in an aggressive manner so as to propel the rider forward past the heavy sand. They are designed with particularly large rubber scoops that are meant to give a great deal of traction when riding on the sands.

It is important to remember that these tires are not suited for other terrains other than sandy soils. Also, you should be ready to scoop some right amount of money to get paddle tires. 

Dual Sport

Dual sport tracks are a mixture of a couple of different conditions including open roads, dirt and gravel roads. They are both off-road and street-legal riding bike tires. These bike tires have several features that make them suitable for street-legal equipment such as lights, speedometers, mirrors, horns and mufflers. 

Dual sport tires are however not the go-to tires for dirt racing. The best dual sport tires are durable and will, therefore, resist tearing and chunking. Some dual-sport tires are dot approved while others have reinforced knobs that resist tearing and abrasion from long hours of riding.

Off-road/trail Riding

Off-road Tires Are Designed to Provide a Heavy-duty Framework for Durability

Off-road trails are the best for off-road riding, even though there are others that can be used for off-road trailing. Of-road riding includes anything from riding on the open desert to mountain paths and high-speed wide-open desert riding. Off-road trails include a whole host of natural obstacles such as tree trunks and roots as well as boulders. 

Since there are so many terrain possibilities to deal with, you need to ensure you pick tires that meet your specific needs.

Off-road tires are designed to provide a heavy-duty framework for durability. They are compatible with motocross tires for knobby layouts. These tires are the most diverse riding displaying many terrain types and naturally occurring obstacles. 

There are so many tips on dirt bike tires that we cannot exhaust them all today. Therefore, we have mentioned the ones we found to be the most important so that you do not miss out on the best dirt tires. So, what are we waiting for?

When to Replace Your Dirt Bike Tires

In most cases, knobs equal effectiveness. When your rear tire has begun to lose its sharp knobs, then it is a clear indication that you should have replaced your tire a long time ago. Tires wear out with every use; therefore, the knobs will tend to wear out. 

For a rear, it is mandatory to replace tires each day for better functionality. Therefore, when the knobs lose their sharp edges, then it is time to get new ones. However, do not wait until all your knobs are worn out to wee rubber. And again, a general rule of thumb is that you should replace both your tires at the same time and always ensure that they are a matching brand. 

Brand Of Tires

Well, the brand may not seem so important when you are looking for a dirt bike tire. However, a reputable brand may come as a guarantee of getting a quality dirt bike tire. Therefore, you should go for a dirt tire from a reliable brand. You can also get a better warranty and quality materials if you shop from a reputable brand. 

So, how do you know which brand to get? We have popular brands such as Michelin, Dunlop, Kenda, Bridgestone and Pirelli. However, reading customer reviews will also tell you the nitty grittiest of the product you want to buy.

Air Pressure

The pressure in your tires must never be standard on different kinds of grounds. Therefore, when riding on sand or mud, you should lower your pressure to around 10psi for the fear tire and 12 psi at max for the front tire. The pressure at these points allows more surface area on the tires to contact and grip the sand.

If you are riding on harder conditions on the motocross track, then you are likely to come across stones and branches. You should, therefore, inflate your tires to 13psi or 14psi at a maximum. If your tires pressure is too low on hard terrain you will you may risk getting a puncture or damaged rims.

Where Can One Buy Bike Tires? 

Dirt bikes can be bought from literally anywhere you can think about! You can find dirt tires from review sites where they have already done all the research for you. You can also find them on many e-motors stores which offer the same products. These stores are rather popular as they allow you to order and purchase the tire from the comfort of your home. 

Online e-motors also allow you to choose whether to have the dirt tire delivered to your home or to pick it up from their stores. These stores usually offer a wide variety of brands to choose from. They also offer incentives such as free shipments and a free return policy. 

Finally, you can buy these tires from local dirt bike dealers. The good thing with such places is that you get to fit the tire right there. Therefore, there is no chance of taking home the wrong size. 

Another thing is you will save the money you will otherwise use as a shipment fee. Above all, you get to be a good citizen by promoting your local economy!

Why Are Dirt Bike Tires Different From Other Bikes? 

There are lots of reasons why dirt bike tires might be different than, say, bicycle tires. Dirt bikes typically have a much wider tread to give them better grip and stability while they’re driving up steep hills or turning around sharply in the mud. They also often require more air pressure because their speed is faster on uneven terrains, like many found at a motocross track.

Traditional bike tires are cross-country, so they aren’t designed to handle bumps or puddles the same way dirt bike tires are. The treads on a traditional tire have “siping,” which is what gives them more grip on pavement, but when it rains, that siping clogs up with mud and water.

Dirt bike tires are also different because the rubber is thicker and more durable than most bicycle tires, so they can handle a lot more wear and tear. Finally, dirt bikes usually have disc brakes instead of rim brakes like bicycles do for better stopping power in all conditions – wet or dry.

The differences in traditional bike and dirt bike tires go beyond just one. They’re constructed to how they grip the terrain. These two types of bicycles demand different tires for optimum performance.

Which Tire is Better for Dirty Bikes, Fat or Thin Tires?

 

Fat-walled Tires Are Better Equipped for This Kind of Abuse Because They're Much More Durable

Dirt bikes are tough on tires. They’re constantly traversing through dirt, sand, mud, and other debris that clings to the wheels as they spin around in corners or off jumps. So the question is: fat or thin?

Thin-walled tires have a harder time with this kind of abuse because if there’s too much material inside the tire when it goes over something hard like rocks (tiny ones), then you’ll get pinch flats where the rim might be touching rubber instead of air.

This can create a lot more pressure than what was intended during manufacture, which will lead to blowouts. Thin tubes also don’t hold up well against sharp objects like thorns either since they puncture easily and usually end up leaking.

Fat-walled tires are better equipped for this kind of abuse because they’re much more durable. They can also be run at lower pressures which put less strain on the rim to hold things up, and you’ll have a much larger contact patch with the ground, so traction is improved too.

It’s a lot tougher to get pinch flats since there’s less rubber material inside the tire that needs to go over something hard like rocks or thorns before it fails. If anything happens, it just bulges outwards instead of leaking air from within like thin tubes would.

Most people ride bikes in areas where these conditions don’t exist, but some adventurers may find themselves biking through rough terrain as part of their journey.

How Do I Know My Bike’s Tyre Size?

When you check to see if your tire size is the same as the bike’s wheel, make sure that you measure from where the treads start. You’ll need this measurement for when it comes time to purchase tires and wheels.

First off, find out what size tire your bike needs by measuring its diameter in inches – (diameter x pi) = circumference or (circumference / 12) = diameter in feet.

Then multiply that number by .004. That will give you how many inches are on one side of the tire, which should be written down somewhere on your old tires, so act accordingly with these numbers while shopping around for new ones. For example, an 18-inch bicycle has a tire width of the MX 24 inches.

Next, make sure your tires are the same size on both sides for safety reasons and to be able to replace them when one wears out easily.

Finally, you need to have enough tire pressure not to wear down prematurely or flat out blow off because that will mean a lot more money spent on things like new tubes and tires, which is what most people want less of!

You can find a bike pump at any bicycle store near you or even online if they’re willing to ship internationally. Still, many articles are available with different methods, so use whatever works best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Wider Dirt Bike Tire Better?

Wider dirt bike tires are often preferred for their versatility. They provide a better grip on a range of surfaces, and they can be used in more conditions than narrower ones.

However, wider dirt bike tires also have some disadvantages – especially when it comes to speed. A wider tire is heavier, which means there’s more surface area touching the ground, and that reduces the amount of power transferred from your engine to the wheel with each rotation (unless you’re riding uphill).

If you ride fast or compete seriously, this may not be what you want but if all-terrains are your thing, then go right ahead.

A narrow tire will typically propel you faster over flat terrain because there’s less rolling resistance as well as an increased contact patch with the ground. In addition, narrower tires are lighter and more nimble, so they can be better for jumping large obstacles or riding through technical terrain, but if you’re mostly on the road, then wider ones may suit you better.

How Many Miles Do Bike Tyres Last?

It’s not always easy getting a straight answer from bike shops or distributors because they want us to buy new ones (hint hint). But here are some key points:

Bike tires have an average life span between 4000-6000 miles – however many kilometers. This equates to will vary depending on your country/region. The safe bet is 6000 km for those outside North America. Tires last longer when inflated properly.

Conclusion

Are you feeling ready to get a new pair of wheelies for your bike and go out for a ride? You definitely are! We are positive that you have learned everything there is to know about dirt bike tires. 

So, before we let you go, how about a final verdict? We have had the pleasure of having you on this journey. So, we saved the best for the last. Which is the best dirt bike tire?

Bridgestone motocross dirt bike tire is the best tire in the market. Why did we choose these tires? The tread pattern design offers an improved racing experience, driving performance and better slide control.

The tread pattern is actually race-proven, making it suitable for professional riding. They are durable and reliable thanks to the quality materials used to make them. 

So, what are you waiting for? Get the Bridgestone Motocross today at a store near you!