FIRST IMPRESSION: DUNLOP GEOMAX AT81
There are not a lot of off-road specific tires out there for the bush bashing enduro fraternity. More than likely you will see MX spec tires used because there are not many options to choose from if you want tires designed specifically for off-road and not the moto track.
Dunlop Geomax AT81 - Rear
Dunlop’s AT81, no doubt dubbed ‘All-Terrain’ is an off-road specific hoop that will cater to the rigors and demands of the typical off-road rider and racer. Offering a more ‘all round’ performance as opposed to a Soft terrain or Medium-to-Hard terrain tire, the AT81 is designed to be good across the board.
We have used the AT81 is many different types of events, both races and fun rides, and find the rear tire to provide excellent grip and long life wear no matter what the terrain. The AT81 rear provides a fantastic vertical bite for forward momentum, having its centre blocks arranged in a ladder design, almost scooping the dirt out the back and propelling the bike forward. The side knobs are closer together and seem to provide a nice median between grip and controlled slides.
Dunlop Geomax AT81 - Front
The front hoop uses a more staggered knob design and holds up well right across the board. Better suited to dryer conditions, the AT81 front lacks a little stability and grip in the wetter terrain where traction is very hard to find. We find the Dunlop MX3S is better in these treacherous conditions.
The Dirt
If you are looking for a tire that will perform well over all kinds of terrain, but most importantly give longevity and value for money - the Dunlop Geomax AT81 hoops are worth a shot.
Online Key Features
AT81 rear tread block shape and distribution plus DIRTuitive Grip Design (DGD) knobs help the tyre penetrate down through the surface dirt for extra traction across a broad range of off-road applications.
Newly formulated high-wear-resistant rear tyre compound offers enhanced chipping, tearing and wear appearance.
Geomax AT81 rear tyre carcass features two nylon plies.
Lateral grooves on the shoulder knobs provide additional biting edges and also allow the knobs to be more flexible.
Rear center blocks are arranged in-line to provide a larger contact patch for maximum traction.
Dunlop’s “plush pad” recess design between tread blocks enhances compliance for bump absorption and ride comfort.
Front tyre construction includes two plies of nylon wrapped with a third ply of polyester for a strong base.
Feel free to email - chris@thedirt.co.nz for any more information on how the AT81 tires work across different terrain the more I use them.
Also CLICK HERE to find a Dunlop Geomax dealer near you.