Finding the right rear tire for your dirt bike is essential for traction, braking, and confidence on trails. The rear tire handles most of the power transfer and kickback, so selecting the right knob pattern, tire size, and compound can dramatically improve grip on soft dirt, loam, sand, and hard-packed sections. This guide highlights five top rear tires and tire sets from reputable brands, focusing on common sizes used by American riders. Each entry includes terrain compatibility, durability notes, and fitment considerations to help you choose a tire that matches your bike and riding style.
| Product | Brand | Rear Tire Size | Best For | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tusk EMEX T-35 Soft/Inter Tire Set (Rear 120/80-19) | TUSK | 120/80-19 | Soft to Intermediate | Complete front & rear set |
| WIG Racing 80/100-19 Rear Tire For Electric Dirt Bikes | WIG Racing | 80/100-19 | Electric dirt bikes | Rim-lock and traction notes for off-road use |
| Tusk EMEX T-35 Soft/Inter Tire Set (Rear 80/100-12) | TUSK | 80/100-12 | Pit bikes / small-wheel setups | Compact front/rear set for smaller bikes |
| Tusk EMEX T-35 Soft/Inter Tire Set (Rear 110/100-18) | TUSK | 110/100-18 | Mid-range terrain | Deep, aggressive tread |
| Pirelli Scorpion MX Extra X Tire Set | Pirelli | 110/90-19 | Mid-soft to mid-hard | Two-pack with robust carcass |
Tusk EMEX T-35 Soft/Inter Tire Set (Rear 120/80-19)
This complete front and rear tire set is designed for soft to intermediate terrains, pairing an 80/100×21 front with a 120/80×19 rear tire. The aggressive deep tread pattern delivers strong traction on loose dirt, sand, loam, and hard-packed trails, helping riders maintain control during acceleration and braking. The rubber compound is engineered for durability, resisting wear on demanding off-road routes. This tube-type tire set is well-suited for motocross and trail bikes that run traditional inner-tube configurations.
- Includes front 80/100×21 and rear 120/80×19 tires
- Aggressive deep tread for loose and mixed terrain
- Durable rubber compound to extend life in rugged conditions
Riders seeking a balanced option for soft-to-intermediate surfaces will appreciate the overall grip and stability this set provides on typical MX and trail machines. Check your bike’s wheel sizes to confirm compatibility and consider rim protection in rocky environments to prevent pinch flats.
WIG Racing 80/100-19 Rear Tire For Electric Dirt Bikes
This rear tire is tailored for electric dirt bikes like Sur Ron, Segway, and Talaria models. The tire size is 80/100-19, and the listing cautions riders to verify rim size before ordering since not all bikes use a 19″ rear wheel. The tire features a tough sidewall that permits lower air pressure for enhanced off-road traction and comfort. Riders should consider adding a rim lock to prevent bead slip under heavy torque. For bikes with stock gearing, the larger diameter and lug length may reduce low-end power; adjusting with a sprocket change can help compensate.
- Rear tire size: 80/100-19
- Rim size compatibility note; rim lock recommended
- Lower air pressure for improved traction
This tire excels in loose and uneven terrain typical for off-road electric platforms, offering robust sidewall support while keeping weight reasonable. Ensure the tire is installed with proper tube compatibility and follow torque guidelines to avoid pinch flats on rocky sections.
Tusk EMEX T-35 Soft/Inter Tire Set (Front 60/100×14)
This front-and-rear tire set is engineered for smaller dirt bikes and pit bikes, with a front tire sized 60/100×14 and a rear tire sized 80/100×12. The design emphasizes strong off-road performance across intermediate terrains, aided by an aggressive tread that maintains grip in loose dirt and loamy soils. The set touts a durable rubber compound for repeated sessions on challenging trails, making it a practical option for youth or light-duty off-road riders seeking reliable performance on compact bikes.
- Front 60/100×14 and rear 80/100×12
- Aggressive tread for dirt and loam
- Durable compound for repeated use on smaller bikes
Ideal for pit bikes and smaller motocross machines, this set provides a compact, well-balanced pairing that preserves handling on technical sections while offering solid durability for the class.
Tusk EMEX T-35 Soft/Inter Tire Set (Rear 110/100×18)
This front-and-rear tire set uses a rear 110/100×18 pairing with a front 80/100×21 to cover intermediate to hard terrain. The aggressive knob pattern is designed to maintain traction on mixed surfaces, including loam, sand, and hard-packed trails. The rubber compound emphasizes durability for longer wear on rugged courses, while the tube-type construction remains compatible with traditional dirt bike setups. Riders who need a rear tire capable of sustained traction on firmer ground will find this set efficacious.
- Rear 110/100×18; Front 80/100×21
- Aggressive knobs for mixed terrain
- Durable compound for extended life
Consider this option for riders who frequently traverse intermediate-to-hard terrains and prefer a two-wheel setup that resists abrasion during aggressive cornering and braking on rocky sections.
Pirelli Scorpion MX Extra X Tire Set
The Pirelli Scorpion MX Extra X set includes a front 80/100-21 and rear 110/90-19, forming a two-pack designed for a wide range of competition and training on dirt tracks. The tire features a carbon-black-based knob profile to balance stiffness and flexibility, enhancing grip and stability through jumps and landing impacts. The multi-ply carcass provides puncture resistance while preserving enough flexibility to absorb forces during aggressive maneuvers. This combination makes it a solid choice for riders seeking dependable performance and durability across varied off-road courses.
- Front 80/100-21, Rear 110/90-19
- Two-pack designed for training and MX riding
- Multi-ply carcass with high puncture resistance
Riders aiming for a versatile MX-grade tire with strong all-around performance on a range of dirt surfaces will benefit from this Pirelli option, especially those who value a balance between longevity and grip on both transitions and acceleration.
Buying Guide
Terrain and Traction
Choose rear tires based on terrain first. Soft to intermediate surfaces favor deeper, more widely spaced knobs that bite into loose soil and provide predictable braking. Hard or mixed terrain benefits from tighter, robust tread patterns that resist chunking and offer stability during high-speed runs. Consider a tire with a tread design that aligns with your typical riding environments—trail riding, MX practice, or pit-bike sessions.
Tire Construction: Tube Type vs Tubeless
Dirt bikes commonly use tube-type tires, particularly in traditional motocross setups, but tubeless configurations are becoming more common in open-wheel adventure bikes. Tube-type tires can be forgiving in pinch-flat scenarios when paired with inner tubes, yet they require careful inspection for bead seating and proper inflation. Tubeless setups simplify repairs but require compatible rims and sealants if used with certain tire types. Review your bike’s rims and manufacturer recommendations to choose correctly.
Size, Fitment, and Rim Compatibility
Rear tire size must match your wheel diameter and width. Common sizes include 19″, 18″, 21″, and 14″ or 12″ on pit bikes and smaller machines. Verify the recommended rim width range for the tire to ensure a proper seal and safe bead seating. Mismatched sizes can degrade handling and risk tire failure. For electric models, confirm any wheel-size variations that may affect traction and torque response on specific terrains.
Tread Pattern and Durability
Deeper, more aggressive tread patterns deliver superior traction in soft soils but can wear faster on hardpack. A multi-ply or reinforced carcass improves puncture resistance, which is beneficial in rocky or rough trails. If you ride aggressively or frequently hit jumps, opt for a tire with reinforced sidewalls and a durable compound to extend life without sacrificing grip.
Maintenance, Safety, and Accessories
Proper tire pressure is crucial for grip and load distribution. Lower pressure can increase traction on loose surfaces but risks pinch flats on rocks; higher pressure reduces rolling resistance but can compromise traction in soft dirt. Always carry a patch kit or spare tube if using tube-type tires, and consider rim locks on heavier electric bikes to prevent bead slippage. Check alignment and inspect knobs for wear after hard sessions to prevent unexpected failures on the trail.
Performance vs. Budget
Premium tires from brands like Pirelli can offer a blend of grip, durability, and predictable feedback, often at a higher price. Other manufacturers like TUSK provide solid, value-focused options that perform well across a range of terrains. When evaluating tires, weigh expected mileage, repairability, and ride quality against cost. For riders who train regularly or ride in harsh environments, investing in a higher-quality tire may reduce downtime and improve on-track performance over time.