Dunlop Trailmax Mission 4000 Mile Review

This is a tire review of the Dunlop Trailmax Mission after putting 4000 miles on the tires. Most of the miles were on paved roads with only a few hundred offroad. The tires have been wearing remarkably well and are pretty good offroad for a non knobby tire. Watch while I talk about my experience riding on this tire.

[@advmatt]

Update to my experience on this tire. I replaced the rear tire at 9500 miles after a puncture. The front tire has about 5000 miles left in it from what I can tell. Only about 20% of the miles were riding offroad. I probably rode the tire a bit longer than I should. It squared off and I could feel the rear end start slipping a bit in corners at the end of the tires life. Offroad it lost a lot of traction at the end of its of its life. The tire spun up really fast and did not brake well. It still had tread depth left it and looked like it could go another 1000 miles but even without the puncture I planned to replace on that last trip.

[@BikerGirlTraveler]

Very different review from that of Chaparral Motorsports. They really pushed those tires even through snow, they they loved it. Deep sand, snow, baby heads, steep climbs, etc, it handled like a champ. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eojce6eJd6mMmJY

[@advmatt]

@@BikerGirlTraveler I watched the review. Keep in mind they sell tires, I dont. I also dont have the riding skills of Kyle Bradshaw. Their review did not include 1000s of miles fully loaded with camping gear. Thanks for watching.

[@paoloconcina1632]

@@advmatt Hello Matt yes I agree with you Kyle is brilliant, and I have watched all his video's but he only test the tire for about 240km. I ride a S10 and have trailmax rear and a Karoo 3 in front so far that combo is working OK for me especially off road, but I have only did about 750km so far, So guys have an comments on this combo

[@anony955]

@@BikerGirlTraveler Watch their reviews on the K60....dude basically spends 20 minutes talking crap on it, how it sucks, how it's dangerous, and then is like "yeah, this isn't too bad of a 50/50 tire". So read between the lines on the reviews. Ultimately, the goal is to sell tires. Chap also loved Motoz tires. But read the reviews from actual riders -- reports of structural issues with the tires and people talk about poor customer service for warranty claims.

[@txkid1818]

@@anony955 bad quality on the MOTOZ?

[@FanOWater]

Good review! I have a pair on my KTM 790R and they work for everything I do. It handled the So Cal BDR thru Death Valley very well. It is not a great tire in slick mud, but maybe nothing is. Haven't tried it in sand. Cheers

[@olliechristopher467]

Thank you for a good review of this tire Matt. I am still sold on my Anakee Wilds. Of course they won't get the mileage of the Missions. I try to just stick to mellow fire roads. But there always seems to be a deep sand wash or loose rocks to deal with. BTW, my bike is a 2017 Super Tenere. Your bike looks really well set up.

[@justadam1917]

9000 km +on my anarchy wilds now

[@BikerGirlTraveler]

A good rest ride and review of these tires was made Chaparral Motorsports. They also did a review of 25 different tires and rated them based on different qualities. One thing they looked at was the weight of the tires, something that can affect lower horsepower bikes. This Dunlop tires weighted in at 13lbs 7 ounces for the front, and 20lbs 8 ounces for the rear. I believe it was the heaviest tires of all the tires tested. The weight of the tires are important not just because the heavier the tires the more power they "robs" from the bike, but also puts more stress on the chain as it takes more energy to overcome the inertia, and brakes also work harder. On top of that it also affects the suspension, for obvious reasons (do the math). Ride safe!

[@nelsdude]

Good comment....what are the other options for a lighter but good tire? I'm riding a new Honda CB500X and don't want the extra weight...

[@Speedytrip]

Thanks for the review, I installed Shinko 705 on my Super Tenere, and after 3500 miles, rear is shot and front is worn super uneven and generating a head shake under 50km/h. I used to love the Shinkos on my Africa Twin, but it seems they don't do so great on heavier bikes. I will give these Trailmax missions a go!

[@advmatt]

@@Speedytrip these tires are really popular. I noticed after 6k on the rear it had plenty of tread but the performance really degraded.

[@Speedytrip]

@@advmatt 6k miles on any tire, in my book, is quite good :)

[@Lawman-196]

They had me sold on Made in the USA.....thanks Dunlop! Nice bike, I have the same exact bike and love it. The stock seat is terrible though......

[@chrislovett87]

Thanks for the honest review, I ride extremely hard, from what I’m told lol, I wear out rears in 3000 miles no matter the bike or the tire. I’ve been running the TKC 70’s on my KTM 1290 which I’m happy with. That said I think I’ll try these next.

[@erkful]

In the dry these are awesome, in the wet not so good. On asphalt of course. I ride pretty spirited on road and estimate I’ll get about 10k kilometres, one thing I have noticed these get much hotter than my mates tkc 70s On dirt they are about the same as tkc 80s.

[@NitroRoo]

Nice review! I just ordered a set for my R1150GS - replacing Shinko 804/805. Looking forward to trying these out!

[@jerry5736]

Looking to put a set on my 15 KLR. Thanks for doing a review!

[@BeardedManTales]

Thx Great review, just got a set installed this morning and was not really sure what to expect.. thanks again , safe rides

[@GeezerWheels]

Thanks, Matt!!! I was in Moab in Oct (live near Durango, CO). We travelled the TAT there, the road trails there for two and half days, then home. I'm running Mitas E07s on a Kawasaki Versys X300 and like them very well. But I'm considering the Dunlop Trailmax Mission tires for another bike - my Vstrom 650XT. Every review I see gives them a thumbs up and I like the "made in America" aspect. Thanks again for reviewing this tire.

[@rogermeyer860]

Thx Matt! I'm leaning towards these on my new to me 2012 R12GSA. I'll be riding 70/30 and nothing hard core off-road. I love the miles you're getting out of these...

[@brazeagle]

Very nice review. I wanted to know about wet road/rain and a guess you answered. I run OEM Bridgestone Batlax a41, I find the to be VERY good in rain, but any light off road and they do not perform.

[@solodad7999]

I put these on my Africa Adventurer 3 weeks ago and just came back from riding the Pony Express Trail (the real off road one) ride from Ft Bridger Wy, to Eureka Nv. about 1300 miles round trip and I was very pleased how good they handled the rough, rocky portions of the trail & in the rain and mud. Went over Big Bald Mtn pass 7400', rocky, sand, gravel, deep rutted single track with very little issues. They do skid on blacktop very easily, especially with ABS off and the front slides very easy on graded gravel, especially in the corners. On the paved road they were good in the rain but not as good as the factory tires. In deep mud on the Wy., Ut. border they did much better than I thought they would and I was confident in the traction. They are very quiet compared to the factory tires but I didn't like how much wear the rear had on it at 1300 miles when I got home.

[@advmatt]

Your experience seems similar to mine. I found the front tire deflected too easily in really rough terrain. I also didnt like how it slid in gravel. I think this is a good long distance traveling tire, but not the best when when you want the most traction. You will be surprised at how long these tires last.

[@curtahnlund3758]

Very good and insightful review! Got these today on my 1290 KTM.

[@Jrodious_yardious]

Been riding these for about a month on my T7. Awesome 50/50 tire.

[@advmatt]

My initial impressions were the same but after thousands of miles I found the tire compound to be too hard. They will last forever but the traction starts suffering even when they look like they have plenty of tread left.

[@helmutgottschalk7983]

Thank you, great real world review. I'll try them next on my KTM 990 R.

[@daveo9844]

Good review. Sounds like a great compromise. Sick of low mileage knobby tyres on my GS. Thanks.

[@OneOldManRiding]

I just ordered these for my next tire. I am going to ride to a lot of National Forests for camping next year and will be putting on a more road miles than I did this year. Great review, thank you. - Frank

[@plympytheplumber4605]

I just put these on my Africa twin, my first off-road ride with them I was very impressed, the trails around my area in southern Maine that I hit were a lot of loose gravel ,soft sand, hard pack, hill climbs and they performed admirably. Deep sand is sketchy but I think that’s the case with most tires

[@simonholst2165]

Hi plympton ain't easy I am also considering these tyres for my AT but i am conserned regarding road noise. I have the Michelin AA on my bike now, and they are very noisy when i lean to the side at 100 km/h. what is your opinion on this matter. Thanks

[@plympytheplumber4605]

@@simonholst2165 They are fantastic on the street, I’ve not noticed any significant road noise. I highly recommend these tires

[@simonholst2165]

Hi again Many thanks for reply. 💪👍

[@badbruise]

Hey plympton I’m in southern Maine and ride a Africa twin also

[@plympytheplumber4605]

@@badbruise we should link up for a ride sometime....do you do more on road or off road riding?

[@edroberts7344]

Great feedback. Ready for new tires on my Pan America and leaning towards these Dunlop’s.

[@rso1411]

Nice review. I put these on my Pan America right before I left for Deadhorse, Alaska from Southern Ca. They performed excellent on the highway, dirt roads and gravel roads. They also did well in light mud. The trip was 9000 miles and I switched them out at 12,000 miles. Except for the weight, I think they are the best 50/50 tire out there.

[@advmatt]

On my BMW the rear tire got sketchy after 8k miles. This is the only I have had in a decade get a puncture. Two rear tires, two punctures. Maybe bad luck. Super cool trip!

[@vancekeith5642]

I agree with most everything he says having had the same tires on my GSA1250R, but have had them in sand and wet logging roads in the Pacific Northwest and washes in the Mojave desert and haven't got stuck yet. The front snuggles a bit in super fine sand but Mojave sand which is more granular as long as it's not too deep is doable. The rear tire dug me out of talcum powder type volcanic ash in Oregon on the BDR which I could believe but in that same trail had zero steering with the front. Which that said two other bikes with full knobs were also struggling hard. I am on second rear and same original front

[@advmatt]

I really didnt like the steep degradation in performance at the end of the tire life. Offroad the tire would spin really easily and lock up really fast. On road TC and ABS were intervening. I havent had that experience with other tires at the end. The rubber compound is really hard.

[@wipperwil]

Thanks for posting. Seems like a good real-world perspective.

[@Thermoking77]

The 18 inch rear tires have an additional edge for higher staibility! I was not too happy with this, but the dtm is a very save and stable tire! In the wet I am more cautious than I was with other tires.

[@advmatt]

Maybe I will try these out in 18" version. Thanks for letting me know.

[@TheJeepees]

I am super happy with my Dunlop trailmax tires on my super ténéré on road and off-road ( forrest roads, gravel, sand) but I lack total confidence of the rear tire on wet road conditions.. it breaks out in corners on wet roads at almost every slightly more throttle you give.. even while accelerating straight ahead on highways my traction control constantly kicks in in 2nd, 3rd, 4th gear.. .. really abnormal..I don't know about other people but i am afraid taking curves on wet roads!!

[@advmatt]

I started to experience similar slippage after about 5k miles, but I didnt get as much traction control intrusion that you have experienced.

[@El_Sueno_]

Thanks for the video! Just got some today!

[@louvega8414]

Nice review, thanks man! PS: Why do people Hyde their number plates? Unless you're trying to break land-speed records, I don't get it.

[@advmatt]

People, like me, hide my plate for privacy reasons. I try not to put any of my identifying information on the internet to keep scammers from targeting me. Its overkill, I know, the reality is no one is going to take the time figure out my true identity, but I do it anyway.

[@ryanmalone2681]

Looks good if you’re riding out west. Here in Tennessee you never go for a ride without having some mud and creek crossings. I’m a bit suspect how it would handle all that.

[@advmatt]

It would not handle it well.

[@lucpedneault9724]

Man, I dig your comments! I can relate!

[@advrookie1966]

thanks for the review, i hear this is one of the heaviest adventure tires in the market. Do you think that is a big disadvantage??

[@advmatt]

I am by no means a tire expert so keep that in mind. A heavier tire will have more of a gyroscopic effect resisting being knocked off center when rolling but will also require slightly more power to get rolling, doubtful it would be noticable, especially on big heavy powerful adventure bikes. For the average rider, like myself, I dont know that I could tell the difference between tire weights except when changing them. Not sure if that answers your question, just my thoughts. Cheers.

[@solodad7999]

I just picked up a set. The rear tire does weigh a lot and both have a very stiff sidewall.

[@mikemills5144]

Thanks for the review. I love my Shinko 804/805's but I think these might be my next tire. Please do me a favour and run some of the passes in Colorado and let me know how they perform ;) Do the run up Cumberland pass and let me know your thoughts, purely as a comparison. Would love to do it myself but this stupid Covid...

[@advmatt]

I will do what I can. I might try some of the New Mexico BDR in two weeks and see how they do in more varied offroad terrain. Hope you are staying healthy.

[@colterino]

Thanks, Man. Bought a pair. Hey. Before I mount’em. Reassure me. NOISE on asphalt ? 1-10 ? I’ve run the Conti Escape for 5+ years. Even in some ruff stuff. Maybe I’m spoiled. Almost zero noise.

[@advmatt]

Compared to knobbies I used noise level is a 3, maybe, wind noise is much louder.

[@colterino]

You da man, Matt. To be continued. Thanks

[@mikemaners4411]

Thank you from Montreal! Great review!

[@solodad7999]

Thanks for info. I'm shopping for new treads for my Africa so I can do the White Rim trail again.

[@advmatt]

I did White Rim with the Bridgestone Battle Axe AX41s. I recommend a full knob over this tire on White Rim if you are on a big bike. This tire will get overwhelmed in deep sand and gravel.

[@pedintx]

Great and helpful review, thanks. Paul from Texas

[@4imazupi]

Thank you for your thorough review. Have you tried the Mitas E07 on your GS? If so how does these compare to the E07’s?

[@advmatt]

I ran the Mitas E07 on an F800GS and an F700GS but not on my R1200GS. I had issues with the front tire washing out on me running the E07 on both bikes. I have not had that experience with this tire.

[@LookattheBiggerPic]

What pressures were you running on asphalt? I did find 35ft / 38rr to be decent on street and good off-road - Much thanks for the review - I am running a set of these on my R1200GSA - Liking them very much - have pushed these right to their adhesion limits - important to load rear around corners when nearing limit - very manageable at speed - pretty darn good off-road as well -agree! Much thanks for your presentation!

[@advmatt]

I run around 34 in front and 40 in the rear for all conditions,

[@atvtinker01]

Those tire pressure are a little high for bias ply tires. Should be in the lower 30s. The stiffer construction of bias ply allows them to be run lower without overheating issues.

[@hessrk]

Nice review. Thinking about these for my 1200gs. Did you mount them? If so, how was the experience?

[@advmatt]

I did not mount these myself, I was lazy and took them in.

[@rodmiller8444]

Great review 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@kcrush1]

Good honest review. Thank you for your help with deciding.

[@alvarosolis7837]

Good review. Thanks for sharing! Have you tried the Motoz Tractionator GPS? I’m debating between the Motoz and the Dunlop Trailmax Mission.

[@advmatt]

Thanks. I have not tried the Motoz, but if I had to choose between the two I would take the Motoz.

[@alvarosolis7837]

@@advmatt and why is that? A bit more off-road oriented?

[@advmatt]

@@alvarosolis7837 yes, and the Dynlop is the only tire i have had get a puncture on in the past eight years. I used two rear tires and both had punctures. If it was only one tire I would have said it happens, but both rear tires suffered punctures. The tires past a long time but performance degrades really badly after 5k miles and it still has a lot of tread depth making it appear in good shape. The front tire bothered me offroad. It would unexpectantly lose traction and slip. I didnt experience thisbubtil after the review. I think the Dunlop is over rated.

[@AdventureGlide]

Are you still liking the tires?

[@advmatt]

NO! I grew to hate these tires. After filming this video I put another 10k miles on the front tire, wore out this rear tire and tried one more rear tire. The tread compound is too hard. I grew to hate how this tire felt corning on the road. The rear tire would slowly walk out of corners and I could feel it slightly slipping. On dirt roads as the tread wore down it start locking up really easily and break traction way to easily. The worst part for me, in the last 75k miles of riding I have had two punctures in all the tires I have used. Both of them were on each of these rear tires respectively. I think there are much better tires out there. Just my thoughts. I could go on, but it would be piling on. I won't ever buy these tires again. I am not sure I would install them if I was given them.

[@AdventureGlide]

@@advmatt Thanks for the feedback, Matt. I like the Anakee Wilds on the GSA. I also liked them on my Super Tenere. I've just been wondering if the hype on the trailmax is true.

[@advmatt]

@@AdventureGlide if you like the wilds stick with them. I don't understand the hype. You might get 10k out of a rear tire but the performance will be marginal on all surfaces. It is a more expensive Shinko 704/705 in my opinion.

[@AdventureGlide]

@@advmatt Yeah, I know the wilds are loud and don't last long. But they give me a ton of confidence on and off-road. I think I'm going to order a Rabaconda tire changer. And add to the tire pile behind the shed. Lol.

[@got_to_roll]

I want to love this tire. Had a rear on my V-strom650 and found it breaking loose easily and unexpectedly on cold wet pavement. That's a dealbreaker in northwest Washington. I'm tempted to try a set on my Super Tenere which has traction control my V-strom didn't.

[@advmatt]

I wanted to like these tires too, but at after the front finally wore out and I replaced it with something else, I don't think I will ever use these again. The rubber compound is too hard. Even with traction control I had issues with the rear tire as it wore down.

[@bdraidian6280]

Have you found an adventure tire that does well in cold wet weather?

[@got_to_roll]

@@bdraidian6280 Michelin Anakee Adventure has been fantastic this winter.

[@bdraidian6280]

@Todd cool thank you. I was considering that or the tkc70. Not a fan of how the tkc70 looks and wears.

[@got_to_roll]

@@bdraidian6280 The Anakee Adventure front is cupping on the sides with less than 3,000 miles. It might last 5,000. I'd say great for a winter tire, I'll try something else for summer/ gravel riding. The hunt never ends I suppose. I loved Shinko 804/805s but the low speed rating is not good for my present bike.

[@georgesolomon5696]

Have you ever used the K60 Scout? If so how does the Dunlop Trailmax Mission compare? Thanks for the video..

[@advmatt]

I have seen the K60 but i have not ridden on it more than a few hundred miles so I really cant compare the two. I dont like the Chevron pattern front tire. I have ridden that tread design on Mitas tires and hated it. The front tire likes slide out. I rode that tire on a few bikes and never liked the design.

[@Thomo_qld]

@@advmatt K60 Scouts horrible tyres skate all over the dirt with the solid rubber front and rear no traction in the wet on the road they hydro plane they last for ever l seriously don't recommend them I've been on ADV bikes 30 years

[@jrussell441]

Thanks for the review, but next time I would chose someone else to mount them. You do realize the front is mounted backwards I hope?

[@advmatt]

I noticed front was mounted in the wrong direction a month ago. I think I should start doing it myself. Thanks for letting me know.

[@julito_a]

Matt - Great review and thank you. Along the lines of direction - Did you remount the tire in the correct direction, and did you notice an improvement on bite in the dirt? I’m on Bridgestone AX41s now and love them - and for my average/below avg riding ability, it lets me explore a bit more off-road because the knobs are so aggressive. Thanks for any advice.

[@MindBodySoulOk]

Love my versys-x 300 and will never go back to a heavy ass pig bike

[@advmatt]

I am so with you. I am getting ready to sell my R1200GS. My KTM 390 ADV is so much more fun to ride. Pig bikes are overrated.

[@davidturnbull2999]

I went from an F800GS to an F850GS. Love it. Indeed still a bit heavy on really gnarly off road stuff, but i need a bike that has some power and sporty performance on the twisties. I pondered the R1200GS, tried one briefly...felt huge and cumbersome...not for me.

[@flyingmulerider7166]

I am getting ready to ride from Montana to the Dempster Highway. Would you recommend these tires for this trip? I have a Triumph 1200 Scrambler XE. What about puncture resistance? are the 3 ply on the tread and sidewall? Thanks

[@advmatt]

Tough question. The tires can do the miles for sure but I never felt settled with the front tire. I have had two punctures in the last year over the 4 years I have had my R1200GS and both were in the rear Dunlop Mission tires. Coincidence, maybe. I want to do the same trip, I am thinking TKC80 up front or something like that and Mission as a rear tire, carrying plenty of plugs just in case.

[@sbrooks5683]

Great video, thx! I’m definitely leaning towards these for my gs. Curious, what make are the upper crash bars that protect your plastics? Hoping to find similar for my 700.

[@advmatt]

Givi crash bar uppers. One note on the Dunlop tires. I have experienced a puncture on both of the rear tires I used. Only tire in which I have ever had a puncture. Not sure why.

[@DG-ss1gc]

Really need to find a tire I confidence on , my klr came with knobbys like a dirt bike tire. I just can’t press hard on asphalt to turn , even in a neighborhood I can’t stop thinking about how tiny my tire patch is with those knobs it’s like 1-2 inches square of rubber on the road.

[@advmatt]

Maybe consider continental TKC70 front with rocks rear. Very capable tire. This Dunlop has a really hard tire compound, it might be what you are looking for if you really want road grip.

[@somestuffithoughtyoumightl6985]

Still struggling with the need for anything more than an 80/20 for the distances I have to take on the way to dirt. You can easily ride fire roads on full street tires, a 50/50 is overkill and there’s usually a sacrifice. If this tire is more like a magic 70/50, or 80/50, then I’m sold. Tire life is style and weight of the bike. I ride a heavy bike hard on street and mostly need it to perform there.

[@advmatt]

I have spent most of the time riding this tire on the road. I have almost 9000 miles on the rear. You can see what I ridden on this tire by watching the New Mexico BDR in the Spring. Front and rear tires will need to be changes at the same time.

[@baldandbiking]

Im getting these put on my ATAS next month. I've read and watched nothing but good reviews. I think these tires can still handle technical trails too, maybe just not quite as good as full knobby, but I wouldn't be afraid to try.

[@advmatt]

I found the front tire deflected more frequently than a knobby which really is only a problem in the most aggressive if terrain. On hard pack dirt roads with pea gravel over the top i felt the front tire slip from time to time. I never had a complaint with the rear tire until the end, but it was the end of its life. I think if you are doing 60% or more on the road this is a good choice.

[@discoveror9576]

how do the TrailMax Missions compare off-pavement to the original TKC70's ?

[@advmatt]

Good question. I used the Trailmax Mission on my GS and the TKC70s on my KTM 390 Adv. Very different bikes. Keeping that in mind I preferred the TKC70s. I think the TKC70 front tire is better than the Trailmax Mission on and offroad. The trailmax Mission front tire could be unpredictable at times and didn't always track where I wanted it. It was on a much bigger heavier bike. After many more miles on the Trailmax Mission tires after this review I grew to really dislike them.

[@discoveror9576]

WoW ! I'm shocked! My KTM/GasGas dealer (Billings, MT) would have me believe that the TrailMax Missions were the greatest thing since inventing the wheel (the Parts guy said they sell more TrailMax Missions than anything else)! I'm 72, started studying cycle riding (for sight-seeing) in September, got a Grom in February (to learn on a lightweight bike), passed my license test (1st try) in May and `got a 390 Adventure just before the July 4 weekend. Because I'm 6'2" with ~35" inseam, I was hunched over, trying to stand on pegs; I just put a 30 mm (~1.2") riser on ... hope to try it, this weekend. Local unpaved roads are gravel-covered (purportedly to inhibit rutting the roads, particularly when wet/snow covered), making front-wheel tracking FAR more important to me than rear-wheel propulsion. My off-pavement pace would surely make you look like a motocross champion. I put Maxxis M6024 knobbies on the Grom ... and have, initially, been disappointed in the difference/improvement over the stock siped street slicks ... on that loose gravel. Due to the distances to get anywhere (for sightseeing), here in Wyoming, I wouldn't/couldn't put full knobbies on the 390 Adventure. Thanks - for steering me away from the TrailMax Missions, though, especially regarding that front tire tracking. Now, what REALLY is the best 50/50 choice, especially for front-wheel tracking?@@advmatt

[@advmatt]

My favorite front tire is the Bridgestone Battle AX41. The knobs handle the road well, but more importantly this tire behaves very well offroad. The knobs are big enough to penetrate into loose road conditions and give you bite. It will improve your deep gravel experience, but keep in mind deep gravel will still keep the bike moving around with just about any tire.

[@discoveror9576]

THANKS, again - for 'steering me straight'.@@advmatt

[@ore59ore]

I mounted a set of Trailmax mission on my CB500X Honda but I think they are very hard on dirt. What air pressure do you suggest?

[@advmatt]

On dirt with these tires 4 to 6 psi lower than rapid pressure. I never really liked how these tires felt on dirt. They floated and hunted too much.

[@rofu7213]

IN THE VIDEOS MINUTES (6:O2 TO 6:07) SHOWS THAT WITH 4000 MILES OF USE AND THE 30% OUTSIDE RUBBER TREAD STEAL HAVE THE RUBBER HAIRS INTACT YOU ONLY RIDE THIS BIKE STRAIGHT WAY YOU MAKE ANY CURVE NO DEEP SAND...... STRANGE

[@advmatt]

I dont ride hard or fast on the road. I ride within my limits. As for sand, the rides I took didnt have sandy sections. Since the video i have ridden some sand and the tires did okay, but not as good as full knobby.

[@tvmotocrazy5178]

how is it perform on road compared with Michelin Anakee adventure and Pirelli rally str? Thanks!

[@advmatt]

I havent road the Anakees so I cant compare it to those. I thought the Pirelli STR was a better road tire. The tire compound is softer and the tires felt like they provided more grip on the road. Offroad about the same.

[@amerpaisa6920]

Hi good information. I'm riding a 2020 r 1250 adventure. Please share your opinion of the Trailmax Mission's "cold wet handling performance" specifically on concrete/cement roads. Thanks 🏍️✌️🏍️

[@advmatt]

I thought the tire handled fine. I got caught in a snow storm. The roads were wet and near freezing on concrete highway. I never noticed the tires, meaning no slippage, nothing that caused me any concern or made me notice there was any issue.

[@JonBecker81]

Does any of that wear on the back tire include carrying full camping gear for a week and/or two up? That’s pretty great wear or lack of wear for 4K miles! Edit: never mind you answered at the end. I think I’m sold on these. Actually I’m pretty excited about them.

[@advmatt]

Both, camping gear and two up. I have almost 8500 on the rear now. Can get to 10k easily. May change just because rubber is starting to crack.

[@JonBecker81]

ADV Matt yeah sorry. I saw you talked about that at the very end. I think I’m sold on these. Sounds like you do the same kind of riding I do except I will ride it like a sports bike when I’m with my crew. There’s 2 s1000xr’s, a Yamaha FZ1, and a GSX-s1000. I’m able to keep up with them in the twisties on the fat ass GS but like to leave them when there’s dirt. Just rode the Burr trail out in Utah last week. This tire sounds perfect.

[@norcaldroneworks3299]

Thanks for the review Matt. I put these on my r1250gs about 2500 miles ago and your correct hardly showing wear. About a third of my miles are on dirt / gravel / they are by far the best tire I’ve run for adventure riding Only thing I noticed was on road in aggressive sweeper turns you can definitely feel a transition point in the front tire when increasing your lean. Nothing super bad but for sure can notice it.

[@advmatt]

I dont think I lean hard enough to notice. I am at 5500 miles now with a lot of offroad miles in the last 1500. I am still really impressed with a few hundred left to go. Best all around tire I have used.

[@billmcnamara5942]

How do you compare them to the Mitas E07 ?

[@cassin11]

Try it in wet gravel roads. Then compare if you have a chance the mitas e07+

[@advmatt]

I will see what I can, it has been raining a bunch here. I have ridden Mitas E07, not the plus, and I would choose the Dunlop over the Mitas.

[@cassin11]

@@advmatt e07+ is a lot different than standard e07. I think it can outperform Dunlops. I rode 2 up with luggage on r1250gs using the mitas. It worked well except the front on wet deep gravel roads.

[@IAmYourReflection]

@@cassin11 can you safely lean the bike over and push hard in the twisties on eo7 plus rear?

[@cassin11]

@@IAmYourReflection After 5000 miles on e07+, I finally came to conclusion that you can't lean safely with this tire. It's unstable and you can easily lose grip when leaning. The stock tires I can use all the rubber edge to edge but here I have half an inch of chicken strips!

[@IAmYourReflection]

@@cassin11 guess I'll try something else then. Thanks!

[@bva8252]

Thanks for review. I am in the Midwest heading for Utah in May. Lots of highway miles to get to my destination of off-road stuff and then back. Trying to find that right tire for compromise between highway and trail. You mentioned you would not recommend these for White Rim, well that is exactly where I am heading. I was liking these tires until you said that. Do you have a tire you recommend for my r1200gs for my upcoming trip? I just dont want to ruin my ride getting there and back with too aggressive of a loud knobby tire.

[@advmatt]

I think these would be ok on white rim, if you are not fully loaded like I was. You will give up some performance in the sandy sections, I dont know of a tire that you can ride from the midwest to Utah and back and get maximum traction offroad. A knobby will be worn out by the time you get there. I also think it will depend on your riding skills, you can over come some offroad deficiencies. We ask a lot of our tires.

[@bva8252]

ok. hopefully i still have my fillings after 2,000 miles of highway pavement

[@stefanodegresti3791]

Thanks for the review,can you make a comparison with the Michelin anakee Adv?

[@advmatt]

I havent used the Michelen Anakee Adv tires. It will be awhile before I change tires again, but I do want to give those a try.

[@krispy1k]

Thanks for the review. Getting these put on my vstrom 650 this week.

[@advmatt]

I have 6.5k on them and the rear has a few more hundred to go. Front will last two rear tires for sure.

[@krispy1k]

@@advmatt Thats what I like to hear. I plan on riding this bike mostly on road but wanted something for the occasional fire road but need longevity and it seems Dunlop may have come the closest to the unicorn tire we all want.

[@chriskneifl3290]

@@krispy1k How are you liking the tire on your V-Strom? I have the same bike and am trying to decide between the Trailmax or Anakee Wild for my front tire.

[@krispy1k]

@@chriskneifl3290 I broke my finger right after that post and didn't ride for 2 months. I did have the front already on so when I was able to ride I put about 1200 miles on the front but only road miles. It was great on road and doesnt look worn much at all. Then winter hit. Will have rear put on in Spring.

[@ionutd84]

Hi Matt! please help me find the 50-50 / 60-40 or even 70-30 tires that have the best grip on the asphalt. I don't get into the big mud, occasionally I only go on forest roads, grass, paths. my motorcycle is a bmw f800gs. i was looking for battlax adventurecross ax41 but it is no longer manufactured. thank you!

[@advmatt]

I am still seeing the AX41 listed on U.S. outlet stores. My recommendation based on the description of your riding is the TKC70 front tire and the TKC70 Rocks rear tire. These handle great on the road and do all right offroad if you ride slower and dont try to push them. There are a lot of other tires out there, I just havent ridden them. Good luck.

[@ionutd84]

@@advmatt I am in europe, Romania. I already put in basket the tkc70rocks, but i wish something more agresive than tkc70 in front like battlax ax41, anakee wild, shinko 804.

[@advmatt]

@@ionutd84 install the TKC80 up front. Its loud but wears well and good both onroad and off.

[@autoinnovationsuk]

All well and good but how much do you ride in the wet on tarmac ? most of these reviews are very dry terrains.....

[@advmatt]

I rode in several rain storms and in snow. I never felt the tire slip but my bike has traction control and I adjust my riding for wet conditions.

[@vegancorrxyz]

Is that an annoying background music or I'm being crazy?

[@advmatt]

Annoying background music.

[@viperrc535]

Wet roads

[@advmatt]

At the time of this review I did not have experience with these tires on wet roads. Later on I found the front tire was fine on wet roads but the rear tire broke lose easily and tried lock up from braking really easily. Keep in mind that was after 6k miles. I used the rear tire to 8k miles. I hated it the last 3k miles. There was plenty of tread depth, but the handling really degraded.

[@jimwms1able]

Do you notice vibration through the handlebar or rear tire?

[@advmatt]

Not at all. This tire has a smooth profile. It does feel like a knobby tire.

[@ecocaresystem5780]

How's the road pavement handling on wet weather? During on road does it makes loud noise?

[@advmatt]

Road handling has been fine in the rain. I adjust my riding. It is a quiet tire compared to most other tires I have used.

[@micromelis]

What full knobby would you pick for something a bit more aggressive than this one?

[@advmatt]

Bridgestone Battle Axe Adventure Cross AX41. I loved this tire for offroad riding. However, the life of the tire is short.

[@paoloconcina1632]

Hello Matt so if you had a option of a big lug front tire only, which would prefer The Karoo 3 or the Trailmax

[@advmatt]

I have not tried the Karoo 3 so I am cant compare. I know I would prefer the Bridgestone Battle Axe AX41 over the Trailmax. It is a great knobby tire.

[@Mightycaptain]

The mission is a better front tire than the karoo 3 imo. Ran both on a ktm 790. The mission front tire in really good is varied conditions. The karoo gets the nod in mud but nothing else.

[@cobblecrazy]

They remind me of the Shinko 705's. I've run the TKC80's, and the Shinko's, on the GS800, and 1200 Adv. I've recently tried the Mitas E-07+ on a LC1200GSA, and I think they're the best of the bunch so far.

[@TheTripleDubya]

Just a question, isn’t the Mitas E07 a Hidenau copy ?

[@cobblecrazy]

@@TheTripleDubya There are similarities in the outer portion of the tread, but the inner/center is where they deviate. The Heidenau K60 has a center "flat" section which makes it a little smoother on the highway, but it also causes some of it's reported suffering in wet/muddy conditions. Still a great tire, but the Mitas 07+ keeps the voids throughout it's design. The lugs are longer than, say a TKC80, but that gives it a slightly smoother road characteristic than the TKC. Both the Heidenau and Mitas are reportedly giving 7000-8000 miles, or at least twice of what I got out of a TKC rear (I could usually get one front to two rears, but the front was pretty cupped by changing time). I have not run the Heidenau personally, but I have a good friend (who's also a MC instructor) who ran them and gave me a pretty detailed rundown of the things he liked and did not. I'm using that info to compare with what I've found with the Mitas'. I'm really interested in the MotoZ Tractionator Adventure and the RallZ, but they're certainly more dirt oriented. I've always toyed with the idea of getting a second set of wheels to put a DOT knobby onto, and then have a wheel set with a set of Tourance or Shinko 705's (a very underrated tire that I've used on a 1200GSA and a 800GS).

[@TheTripleDubya]

cobblecrazy ok, thanks for the info, I’m running the tyres the bike came with, a friend of mine said to me to order the bike with tkc 70s but even though I’d heard good reports, I’d seen the way they were wearing (the rear mostly) on other bikes and I wasn’t so keen. I’m more of a road rider but there are plenty of gravel roads around, so these Dunlop’s look like a good thing to me. I know very little about off road tyres, my last dirt bike was over 25 years ago and it was just that, a dirt bike. We seem to all get bigger bikes and ask more of them and their tyres, the GSA is my first non cruiser/sport tourer road bike in 30+ years, although some will argue that it covers a lot of ground depending on your skill level. Anyway, thank you for your reply. 👍

[@harald2962]

How they work in wet and rainy weather?

[@advmatt]

I thought the tires were okay on wet roads and cold conditions, but keep in mind my bike has traction control and I use it. I didn't spend much time riding in wet conditions. Hope this helps.

[@avalanx]

Perfect tire for a GS!

[@advmatt]

Initially I thought that but after 1000s more miles after the review my experience with this tire changed. The front often jumped around on hard packed roads. The rear tire, even with plenty of tread depth started slipping around offroad both braking and accelerating. All tires are a compromise, this one is no different. The best things going for this tire is how many miles you can get out it.

[@avalanx]

Thanks for the reply! That's valuable feedback, I've been considering it, purely because of the rate at which my KTM demolishes rear tires. The thing is I need a fairly capable tire off-road for the terrain in Southern Africa. What's your pick then? For a 50/50 that has good on and offroad characteristics as well as strong puncture resistance.

[@advmatt]

@@avalanx I really like the Bridgestone Battleax Ax41 front tire. It is really great offroad and handles road riding well. Rear tires are challenge. The AX41 rear tire won't last long. I am having difficulty thinking of a good tire for the rear. It seems like you have to choose between long mileage or traction. I might pair the AX41 front with a TKC70 Rocks rear. Finding a rear tire is hard on a big powerful bike. I have not tried Motoz tires. Maybe try the tractionator rear.

[@larrynarunsky4432]

What is the noise like when travelling between 35 and 50 mph?

[@advmatt]

I have to say about average. Not as noisy as a knobby tire but not as quiet as a more road oriented tire. I really couldn't hear tire noise or over wind noise.

[@calartian85]

I have a new set. 200 road miles on them as of yesterday. I switched from a 60/40. 35mph noise is good. Definitely more noise as they wind up through 40-55. At least for now. Then the wind noise takes over, at least for me. They are heavier for sure. The bigger blocks also seem to slow faster than a more road oriented tire. You let off the gas and the bike slows right away. Also the tip in point is very different and I’m adjusting. Slower to tip in until it’s not slower...then it’s faster, all of a sudden, if you know what I mean. Next weekend the fire roads! BMW R1200 GSA

[@aarsenalfan]

PRICE PLEASE, compared to tires you had before 👌

[@advmatt]

Prices vary a lot between tires. A set of these tires cost around $400. The tires I had before were full knobbies so it is not a fair comparison in price.

[@calartian85]

I just had a set mounted and balanced at BMW two weeks ago. $540.

[@zap5936]

If it's not dual compound it's already obsolete...

[@01rip]

Would you put these on your KTM 390 Adventure? I am considering these on my new spoked wheels as an addition to the stock rims...

[@advmatt]

It depends on the kind of riding you plan to do. I think they would be fine for light offroad duty. These tires on the 390 Adv will last forever. You will easily get 10k miles on the rear, probably close to 15k. I plan to keep knobby tires on my 390. I think the tire compound is a bit hard for a bike as light as the 390. The Pirelli Scorpion STR Rally would be a good choice that is similar to the Dunlop with a softer tire compound for better road grip and equal offroad performance.

[@advmatt]

Quick question. Where did you find spoked wheels for the 390 Adv? I have been looking for a set and havent seen anything released yet. Thanks.

[@01rip]

@@advmatt Thanks, for me the use will be travel and a mix of on-road and off-road. I also have the Shinko 804/805 in mind or the Motoz Tractionator GPS. I don't want to get stuck in the middle of nowhere but also want good performance on the tarmac.

[@01rip]

@@advmatt It's a KTM Power Parts: www.ktm.com/en-sk/parts---wear/powerparts/products/wheels/wheel-set-1002150969.html It's available now in some countries in Europe, don't know about the US...

[@advmatt]

@@01rip Thanks for the link. If you are worried about getting stuck in the middle of nowhere, go with the knobbiest tire you can. Its better to have the traction when you absolutely need it to get out of trouble than to wish you had it.

[@2moomoo11]

Any noticeable difference in gas mileage?

[@advmatt]

No, not really.

[@2moomoo11]

@@advmatt guess I know which tire I’m getting next haha. I use my bike as a commuter but also like to just explore random trails

[@robbessell5704]

Hey Matt, can you do me a favor and try them on gravel at 20 psi and tell me if it still wanders? Also did you take it up to 100mph speeds on the road?

[@advmatt]

I have gone as fast as 95mph on these tires passing semi trucks. Didnt notice anything from them. When I do ride this fast I pay much more attention to the feel of the tires, especially any front end wobble. Nothing ever notices. Sorry but I am not comfortable lowering tire pressure down to 20psi. I typically dont lower tire pressures because it puts my wheels at more risk of damage. I tend to plow through rocky sections with no finesse. I do think lowering the pressure will help with the wandering feeling. I rode in some deeper gravel over the weekend and the tires were at full pressure and it rode fine. Actually, better than expected and these tires continue to impress me.

[@Kevin_Ho70]

@@advmatt so what tire psi are you running off road front/rear?

[@advmatt]

On this bike I dont change tire pressure when I go offroad. This bike is too heavy to safely reduce pressure when it is fully loaded. The risk of suffering wheel damage is too high. I run 34 psi in the front and 40 in the rear. If I have a lot of sand to ride I might lower each 4 psi. It is just too rocky where I ride.

[@Kevin_Ho70]

@@advmatt Thank u!

[@Frontireadventures]

Nice..going to buy a couple sets. Are they tubeless?

[@advmatt]

Yes these tires are tubeless.

[@kevinking1417]

Thank you Matt. Do you find vibration at 63 mph plus (compared to a more street tire)?

[@advmatt]

I felt no vibrations at all, but I had them properly balanced and the tire doesnt feel like a knobby.

[@tomquaker]

was looking for more street road review, two up riding, but overall great review, thank you

[@advmatt]

I ride pretty conservatively on the road so it's hard for me to say much about these tires. I have never felt them slip or give in corners. Braking has felt fine. Wet roads and riding in heavy have been fone as well, ut I have traction control. I rode some two up and didnt really notice the tires, which is a good thing in my mind. I have ridden other tires two up and I could feel them squirm in corners. I havent noticed that with these tires. They use a really hard compound to get the miles out of them, so keep that in mind for road riding. I have 6.5k on the tires now with at least another 1k to go. Cheers.

[@charlessykes6927]

Are these tires considered 50/50 tires, Thanks for the review, I know you can lower the tire pressure off road, can you let us know what pressure your running off road. Thanks

[@advmatt]

I am not sure what Dunlop considers these tires to be rated for on road offroad but 50/50 may be too aggressive. I dont lower my tire pressure offroad. On these big heavy bikes the risk of wheel damage is too high for me. I tend to plow through rocky sections. Many of the offroad instructors also dont recommend lowering pressures on these bikes. I run 32 psi in the front and 40 in the rear. If I was faced with long sand sections than I would lower my pressures but for everything I dont.

[@brutussapiens6319]

@@advmatt i agree. Don't touch psi with this heavy beast.

[@richardsprings1414]

Does the weight of the tire of fact the unsprung weight as the wheel

[@advmatt]

I am not sure about your question but this tire weighs more than the average tire of this size.