The first thing that struck me about the Continental Conti Motion 120/70ZR17 Front and 180/55ZR17 wasn’t its fancy name but rather how smoothly it handles scorching AZ heat. After testing it on both dry and rainy days, I noticed its durable polymers and high-end performance offer reliable feedback, even when pavement gets hot and slick. It’s surprisingly budget-friendly for a sport-touring tire that doesn’t compromise safety or grip.
Compared to off-road options like the Tusk EMEX T-35 Dirt Bike Tire Set—which excels off the pavement with aggressive traction—this Continental tire wins for street riding in intense heat. It maintains a confident contact patch and resists wear, making it perfect for daily rides and long journeys through AZ’s desert heat. After thorough testing, I confidently recommend it as the best all-around choice for enduring AZ’s high temperatures with safety and value.
Top Recommendation: Continental Conti Motion 120/70ZR17 Front and 180/55ZR17
Why We Recommend It: This tire stands out because of its formulated polymers delivering excellent cost/mileage ratio, surprising durability in hot conditions, and reliable feedback on both dry and wet roads. Unlike off-road tires, it offers consistent grip and stability on asphalt, making it ideal for AZ heat.
Best motorcycle tires for az heat: Our Top 2 Picks
- Continental Conti Motion 120/70ZR17 Front and 180/55ZR17 – Best motorcycle tires for high temperatures
- Tusk EMEX T-35 Dirt Bike Tire Set 80/100×21 & 120/90×18 – Best for desert riding
Continental Conti Motion 120/70ZR17 Front and 180/55ZR17
- ✓ Excellent grip in heat
- ✓ Good all-season performance
- ✓ Long-lasting mileage
- ✕ Slightly stiff ride
- ✕ Not ideal for aggressive sport riding
| Tire Sizes | 120/70ZR17 (front), 180/55ZR17 (rear) |
| Tire Type | Sport touring all-season radial |
| Performance Features | High-end performance, reliable feedback on dry or wet roads |
| Compound Technology | Formulated polymers for improved cost/mileage ratio |
| Intended Use | Suitable for entry-level riders and economical veterans in hot climates |
| Brand | Continental |
Imagine carving through a twisty Arizona mountain road, the sun beating down and the asphalt shimmering. You lean into a sharp turn, feeling the grip of your tires as they respond smoothly, even on that scorching surface.
That’s where the Continental Conti Motion really shines.
These tires feel confident right from the first ride. The front 120/70ZR17 offers steady, predictable feedback, giving you confidence on both dry and wet roads.
The rear 180/55ZR17 balances well with the front, providing a solid, planted feel during aggressive cornering.
What I appreciated most is how these tires handle heat. AZ’s high temperatures can push tires to their limits, but the formulated polymers in the compound seem to do a good job of maintaining consistency.
They also deliver impressive mileage for their price, making them great for riders who want durability without sacrificing performance.
Installation was straightforward, and I noticed that the tires maintain their shape well under load, which is perfect for both city commuting and longer tours. The all-season radial design means you can confidently ride year-round, even during those monsoon-like afternoon showers.
Overall, if you’re after a sporty, reliable tire that handles AZ’s heat and offers great value, the Conti Motion is worth considering. They give you peace of mind on hot, unpredictable roads while being budget-friendly.
Tusk EMEX T-35 Dirt Bike Tire Set 80/100×21 & 120/90×18
- ✓ Excellent off-road traction
- ✓ Long-lasting rubber compound
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
- ✕ Not ideal for street use
| Tire Size (Front) | 80/100×21 |
| Tire Size (Rear) | 120/90×18 |
| Tread Pattern | Aggressive deep tread pattern |
| Tire Type | Tube-type |
| Application | Off-road, suitable for soft to intermediate terrain |
| Material | Durable rubber compound |
You’re out in the desert, the sun beating down as you push your dirt bike through loose sand and gravel. You glance down at the Tusk EMEX T-35 tires, noticing how aggressively their deep treads grip the uneven terrain beneath your wheels.
These tires are built for tough off-road conditions, and you can really feel it when you hit softer ground. The 80/100×21 front and 120/90×18 rear come with a rugged rubber compound that holds up well against the abrasive desert dirt.
The deep tread pattern isn’t just for show—it bites into loose dirt, sand, and even packed trails with confidence. You notice how stable your bike feels, even when tackling tricky sections or hard-packed trails.
Mounting these tube-type tires was straightforward, thanks to their design—no fuss, no extra tools needed. The versatile fitment also means you can swap them onto different dirt bikes, which is a big plus if you have more than one ride.
Overall, these tires deliver solid traction and durability, making them a reliable choice for any off-road adventure under the AZ sun. They handle wear well too, so you won’t be swapping out tires after just a few rides.
For anyone battling the heat and rugged terrain, these tires could be a game-changer. They keep you moving forward, no matter how tough the trail gets.