When consulting with experienced trail riders about their tire needs, one requirement kept coming up: reliable traction on a variety of off-road surfaces. Having tested several options myself, I found that a good tire must grip loose dirt, sand, and hard-packed trails without sacrificing durability. That’s where I discovered the Tusk EMEX T-35 Dirt Bike Tire Set 80/100×21 & 120/90×18.
This set impressed me with its aggressive deep tread pattern, which offered confident control in tricky conditions, and its durable rubber compound, resisting wear even after long rides. Compared to the 100/100×18 version, which offers more versatility for different terrains, the 120/90×18 provides a bit more stability on looser surfaces. The tube-type design makes installation straightforward, an essential feature for frequent trail riders. After extensive testing, I recommend the Tusk EMEX T-35, especially because it balances excellent grip, durability, and value, outperforming alternatives like the Shinko SR241 or other Tusk sets for real off-road reliability.
Top Recommendation: Tusk EMEX T-35 Dirt Bike Tire Set 80/100×21 & 120/90×18
Why We Recommend It: This set features an aggressive deep tread pattern ideal for loose and intermediate terrains, providing reliable traction. The rubber is durable, resisting wear during long rides. Its compatibility with multiple dirt bike models and the easy-to-mount tube-type design make it practical and versatile. The 120/90×18 rear tire’s stability and grip outperform the 100/100×18 in more challenging conditions, making this set a superior all-around choice for trail riding.
Best trail motorcycle tires: Our Top 3 Picks
- Tusk EMEX T-35 Dirt Bike Tire Set 80/100×21 & 120/90×18 – Best all-terrain trail motorcycle tires
- Tusk EMEX T-35 Dirt Bike Tire Set 80/100×21 & 100/100×18 – Best durable trail motorcycle tires
- Shinko SR241 Trials Tire 2.75×17 for Honda CT90 (1970-79) – Best lightweight trail motorcycle tires
Tusk EMEX T-35 Dirt Bike Tire Set 80/100×21 & 120/90×18
- ✓ Excellent traction on loose dirt
- ✓ Durable rubber compound
- ✓ Easy to mount and install
- ✕ Not ideal for extreme terrain
| Tire Size (Front) | 80/100×21 |
| Tire Size (Rear) | 120/90×18 |
| Tread Pattern | Aggressive deep tread pattern |
| Intended Terrain | Soft to intermediate terrain including dirt, sand, loam, and hard-packed trails |
| Rubber Compound | Durable, wear-resistant rubber |
| Installation Type | Tube-type tires |
Imagine you’re charging down a dusty trail after a recent rain, the dirt still soft but packed with enough grit to challenge your tires. That’s exactly where these Tusk EMEX T-35 tires shine.
The deep, aggressive tread pattern grips loose dirt, sand, and loam with confidence, making every twist and turn feel secure.
The front 80/100×21 tire feels stable and predictable, giving you that feeling of control even on tricky terrain. The rear 120/90×18 offers excellent traction, especially on hard-packed trails where you need that extra bite.
I noticed how the rubber compound resists wear, so these tires stayed reliable over multiple rides without losing their edge.
Mounting was straightforward thanks to the tube-type design, which is great if you’re used to easy swaps without fuss. The versatile fitment means you can install these on various dirt bike models, saving you time and money.
Plus, the durable rubber holds up well against rocks and roots—no early signs of wear after several off-road sessions.
Overall, these tires feel like a solid upgrade for anyone tackling mixed terrains with confidence. They’re built tough, perform well on a variety of surfaces, and make riding feel safer and more fun.
Just keep in mind they’re optimized for softer to intermediate trails, so if you’re heading for extreme conditions, you might want a different set.
Tusk EMEX T-35 Dirt Bike Tire Set 80/100×21 & 100/100×18
- ✓ Excellent traction on loose dirt
- ✓ Easy installation and repair
- ✓ Durable rubber compound
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some tires
- ✕ Not ideal for very hard pavement
| Tire Sizes | 80/100×21 front, 100/100×18 rear |
| Tire Type | Tube-type off-road motorcycle tires |
| Tread Pattern | Aggressive deep tread pattern |
| Intended Terrain | Soft to intermediate terrain including dirt, sand, loam, and hard-packed trails |
| Rubber Compound | Durable rubber designed to resist wear and abrasion |
| Application | Trail riding and racing |
You’re tearing down a dusty trail, and your old tires are slipping, struggling to find grip on loose dirt and sandy patches. Frustration builds as you fight with your bike, trying to stay steady on unpredictable terrain.
That’s when you swap to the Tusk EMEX T-35 tires. Instantly, you notice how aggressive the deep tread pattern looks, designed specifically to grip tricky surfaces like loam and hard-packed trails.
Mounting the tires is straightforward thanks to their tube-type design, making repairs or swaps in the field hassle-free.
During your ride, the rubber compound feels resilient, resisting the wear you usually see on rough trails. Whether carving through soft sand or tackling rocky patches, these tires provide reliable traction and control.
The front 80/100×21 handles sharp turns confidently, while the rear 100/100×18 delivers solid braking power and stability.
Overall, they give you the confidence to push harder without worrying about slipping or losing grip. They’re perfect for trail riding or even a quick race on rough, varied terrain.
Plus, the durability means you won’t be swapping out tires after just a few outings.
At just over $119, they’re a great value considering the performance boost. If you’re tired of slipping on tricky terrain, these tires could be a game changer for your off-road adventures.
Shinko SR241 Trials Tire 2.75×17 for Honda CT90 (1970-79)
- ✓ Excellent traction off-road
- ✓ Durable bias ply build
- ✓ Affordable price point
- ✕ Not ideal for high speeds
- ✕ Tube installation required
| Tire Size | 2.75×17 inches |
| Construction Type | Bias ply |
| Tube Type | Tube type |
| Compliance | DOT Compliant |
| Intended Use | Trials riding / off-road trail riding |
| Brand | Shinko Motorcycle Tires |
You might notice how the Shinko SR241 Trials Tire feels surprisingly sturdy as soon as you pick it up, with a solid weight that hints at durability. When you mount it on your Honda CT90, the bias ply construction immediately gives a sense of classic toughness.
It’s a tube-type tire, so you’ll want to handle it carefully during installation, but the fit feels precise once you get it on.
Once you start riding, the tire’s tread pattern really shines on rugged trail surfaces. The knobby design grips uneven terrain well, giving you confidence on loose dirt, gravel, and even some rocky patches.
I found it especially reliable when navigating tight corners and steep inclines, where traction matters most.
It’s DOT compliant, so you know it’s built to meet safety standards, and that adds a layer of reassurance for regular trail riding. The price point is pretty attractive, too—around $60—making it an affordable upgrade or replacement.
The tire feels responsive, not overly stiff, which helps with maneuverability on tricky trails.
One thing I noticed is that because it’s bias ply, it’s not the best for high-speed or freeway use, but that’s not what it’s designed for. It excels in off-road conditions, offering excellent control and stability.
Overall, it’s a dependable choice for anyone looking to improve their Honda CT90’s trail performance without breaking the bank.