Choosing the right 120/80-19 dirt bike tire can significantly impact traction, handling, and overall confidence on both motocross tracks and off-road trails. This guide highlights five well-regarded options that cover rear tires and front/rear sets to fit varying terrains and riding styles. The selections emphasize reliable grip, stability, and durability for soft to intermediate conditions and hard-packed surfaces alike. Explore the table below for quick comparisons, then dive into detailed product sections to compare features and ideal use cases.
| Product | Size/Config | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tusk EMEX T-35 Tire Set | Front 80/100×21, Rear 120/80×19 | Front & Rear Set | Soft/Intermediate terrain, good soft-ground traction, versatile |
| Pirelli Scorpion MX 32 Mid Soft Rear | Rear 120/80-19 | Rear Tire | Excellent traction, stable braking, all-conditions use |
| Artrax MX-Pro Rear Tire | Rear 120/80-19 | Rear Tire | Racing-oriented grip, value-focused |
| Pirelli Scorpion MX 32 Front/Rear Set | Front 80/100-21, Rear 120/80-19 | Front & Rear Set | Two-pack convenience, consistent performance across tires |
| Dunlop Geomax MX53 Rear | Rear 120/80-19 | Rear Tire | Versatile across terrains, improved cornering control |
Tusk EMEX T-35 Tire Set (120/80-19)
The Tusk EMEX T-35 set includes a front tire sized 80/100×21 and a rear tire sized 120/80×19, designed for soft and intermediate terrain. This pairing supports motocross-style racing and off-road events where traction on loose ground is critical. The tread profile emphasizes grip in soft soil while maintaining predictable handling as you move to harder sections of a track or trail.
These tires aim to balance bite and durability. The front and rear combination helps maintain consistent feedback during mid-to-high-speed turns, reducing sudden steering changes on uneven surfaces. The composition and tread spacing are optimized for quick transitions between soft patches and firmer ground, aiding consistent lap times without sacrificing wear resistance on typical motocross courses.
Pirelli Scorpion MX 32 Mid Soft Rear 120/80-19
This rear tire in 120/80-19 is built for mid-soft conditions, delivering strong traction and reliable power transfer. Pirelli’s MX 32 pattern emphasizes stability in braking and confident cornering across varied terrain. It performs well in competition, training, or casual riding, with a block arrangement designed to improve grip when you lean into turns and apply throttle out of corners.
In practice, the MX 32 is known for balancing grip with durability, making it a solid choice for riders who frequently switch between looser dirt and firmer sections. Its design helps maintain predictable behavior at higher lean angles, reducing unexpected skids on uneven ground while preserving tire life in mixed-use environments.
Artrax MX-Pro Rear Tire 120/80-19
The Artrax MX-Pro Tire targets competition-style performance with a focus on grip under pressurized acceleration in soft to intermediate terrain. While aimed at racing use, its price point provides accessibility for riders who want reliable performance without premium-cost investments. The rear tire’s compound and tread geometry emphasize traction where soft ground can sap power, helping you maintain momentum in contested sections of a course.
Designed for durability on demanding tracks, the MX-Pro rear tire prioritizes grip during hard braking and aggressive cornering. For riders who practice or race on mixed surfaces, this tire offers predictable feedback and consistent behavior as you transition between dirt patches and compact surfaces.
Pirelli Scorpion MX 32 Front/Rear Set (80/100-21 & 120/80-19)
This two-pack from Pirelli includes both front and rear tires: 80/100-21 front and 120/80-19 rear. The MX 32 front/rear set is designed to deliver balanced handling across a range of conditions, from loamy soft sections to harder pack. The front tire provides precise steering, while the rear offers strong traction and predictable slides when the course demands throttle control through turns.
Across competition, training, and fun rides, the Scorpion MX 32 front/rear set aims to maintain consistent grip under varied loads. The integrated design supports smooth transitions between sections of uneven ground, enabling riders to maintain line discipline and confident corner exits on mixed terrain.
Dunlop Geomax MX53 Rear Tire 120/80-19
The Dunlop Geomax MX53 rear tire is engineered for a broad spectrum of off-road conditions, offering versatility in hard-packed tracks and intermediate terrain. Its design emphasizes a progressive cornering action with reliable slide control, helping riders manage grip as terrain changes mid-course. The MX53 is a popular choice for riders who want a single rear tire capable of performing well on multiple surfaces.
In practice, MX53 combines a robust tread pattern with a construction that stands up to rugged riding. While not focused exclusively on the softest soil, it maintains solid traction and predictable handling as you push through a range of real-world dirt conditions, making it a dependable rear option for mixed-use environments.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when selecting a 120/80-19 dirt bike tire focus on terrain, front vs rear use, tire construction, and maintenance. Correct sizing is essential, as mismatched front and rear tires can compromise balance and handling. For soft to intermediate soils, softer compounds provide better grip but may wear faster on hard surfaces. For hard-packed tracks or mixed terrain, mid-soft compounds tend to deliver balanced behavior and longer life.
Terrain compatibility matters most. If you ride predominantly on soft or loamy soils, a rear tire with aggressive blocks and a softer compound can improve bite in acceleration and braking. For tracks with firm sections, incorporate a front tire with enough rigidity to maintain steering precision. When choosing a front/rear pair, look for consistent handling across lean angles and mid-circuit transitions.
Fragile or reinforced construction affects wear and puncture resistance. Tubed tires are common in off-road bikes, though tubeless setups exist on certain rims. Be mindful of bead and sidewall strength, especially on aggressive terrain where rocks and roots are present. Tire mounting and balancing should be performed correctly to avoid tires slipping on the rim during hard cornering or high-speed stretches.
Grip, stability, and wear are balanced by tread pattern. Skid resistance improves with appropriate block spacing and siping in wet or muddy conditions. However, too aggressive a tread can reduce stability on harder surfaces. Review rider feedback and track conditions to prioritize traction in the ground you encounter most often.
Brand and model consistency can influence predictability. If you already ride a brand ecosystem, sticking with a compatible front/rear set may yield more uniform handling across tire changes. Finally, consider your budget and maintenance routine; higher-end tires often offer better consistency and longer life, while more affordable options can be ideal for practice and substitution schedules.