Off-Road Tires: The Basics
When you're ready to leave the pavement behind, off-road tires provide the traction and stability you need. With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to figure out which one is best for you. To help you figure out the right option, we've put together a handy introductory guide. If you need more assistance selecting the best tires for your bike, call us at Tracy Motorsports, or visit our location in Tracy, California, serving Stockton and Modesto.
Types of Off-Road Tires
Before you start shopping, it's helpful to understand which type of off-road tire you need. If you're planning to ride on loose surfaces such as dirt or gravel, look for soft-terrain tires. They feature deep, wide-set lugs that help you power over challenging terrain. For slickrock, packed dirt, and two-track roads, hard-terrain tires feature a tight tread pattern for excellent traction. Do you like to ride on a wide range of surfaces? Medium-terrain off-road tires maintain a solid grip on both soft and hard ground.
For demanding riding conditions, manufacturers also make specialty tires. You can find off-road models for hard-surface time trials, desert terrain, and deep sand.
How to Read the Sidewall Information on Off-Road Tires
When you look at the sidewall of an off-road tire, you'll see a group of three numbers separated by a backslash and a dash. One common size is 110/90-19. These numbers help you find the right fit for your bike.
The first number tells you the width of the tire. It's expressed in millimeters. The next number is the tire's aspect ratio. If the aspect ratio is 90, it means that the height of the sidewall is 90 percent of the width of the tire. The final number is the most important — it indicates the inner diameter of the tire. This number should always match your bike's rim size.
Most dirt bikes accept a limited number of off-road tire sizes. Check your manual to find a list of acceptable sizes.
When you go to mount a new off-road tire, check the sidewall for an arrow. This marking lets you know the direction of rotation when the bike is moving forward. Some tires have arrows; others do not.
The right off-road tires are essential to safe, high-performance riding. Whether you're on a dirt track or exploring the backcountry, a quality tire can protect you and the rims on your bike. At Tracy Motorsports, our experienced team is happy to help you select the perfect off-road tires for any model. Simply give us a call or come down to our location in Tracy, California. We serve customers from around the Stockton and Modesto areas.