The MX 53 is a significant upgrade from the previous MX 52. Upon its release, the MX 52 received mixed reviews from riders who believed it was designed exclusively for hard-packed terrain despite being marketed as a tire suitable for intermediate and hard terrains.
Dunlop has addressed these concerns with the MX 53 by optimizing it for intermediate and hard-packed terrains.
Tire prices vary significantly, ranging from roughly $33 to $108, reflecting the broad spectrum of available sizes. These tires can fit a diverse range of bikes, from children’s to full-sized motocross vehicles.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best dirt bike tire for you? Let’s find out!
Dunlop Geomax MX53 Review
Pro & Cons
- Enhances grip and braking performance
- New horseshoe pattern on central lug
- Contributes to superior braking performance
- Standard 80/21 profile
- Ensures a steady tracking through corners
Key Changes and Updates
You’ll observe noticeable modifications in the compound and the tread pattern of the MX 53. For those riding in softer conditions, Dunlop offers the MX 12 and MX 33, which are specialized for sandy, muddy, and soft terrains.
However, the primary purpose of the MX 53 dirt bike tire is to provide a genuine intermediate to hard-pack tire, filling a void that many riders believed the MX 52 failed to fill.
While Dunlop has always been quite secretive about the specifics of their compounds, it is the changes in the tread pattern that are immediately discernible.
Front Tire Features
The foremost thing you’ll perceive is the tie bar design at the base of many knobs. The front tire exhibits an almost horseshoe pattern, designed to enhance grip and stability, particularly when cornering.
Dunlop asserts that this additional tie bar design significantly reduces flex. Furthermore, the knobs on the tire’s exterior feature what Dunlop refers to as a ‘block within block’ design aimed at improving stability and control during slides.
| Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Tread lug height increased by one millimeter | Enhances grip and braking performance |
| New horseshoe pattern on central lug | Contributes to superior braking performance |
| Standard 80/21 profile | Ensures a steady tracking through corners |
Front Tire Performance
I must admit that the front tire pleasantly surprised me. Its performance under braking was exceptional due in part to an increase in tread lug height by one millimeter.
This contributed to the tire’s tenacious grip, whether soft and loamy or hard-packed, regardless of the track’s condition. This steadfast adherence to the ground gave the tire a reliable and predictable slide.
The central lug pattern of the front tire adopts a novel horseshoe shape, contributing significantly to the tire’s admirable braking performance.
One element that might require a period of adjustment is the tire’s seemingly slender profile, despite retaining the standard 80/21 dimensions. Nonetheless, the tire tracks well through corners, staying firmly planted when leaning over.
Rear Tire Features
When considering the rear tire, you’ll find the tie bar design extends further into the tire’s sidewall, which is intended to maximize the stability of the base knobs.
The ‘block within block’ design is further utilized, providing additional grip and bite during cornering in harder terrains. The rear tire also showcases staggered center blocks, offering another layer of strategic design.
| Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| New ‘tornado’ tread design | Enhances traction on hard-packed terrains |
| Available in all sizes, including 120/90-19 | Offers variety and customization for rider preference |
| Thinner, taller sidewall | Provides increased comfort and flexibility |
Rear Tire Performance
First, let’s delve into the specifics of the rear tire. Importantly, Dunlop has simultaneously released the MX 53 in all sizes, covering big bikes down to minis, including the larger 120/90-19 size.
This size is popular among Supercross riders due to its taller sidewall that provides additional comfort through increased flexibility.
The tread design of the MX 53 diverges significantly from its predecessor, with Dunlop introducing their new ‘tornado design.’
This design aims to maximize the amount of rubber in contact with the ground at any given moment, thereby enhancing traction under hard-packed conditions.
The test results confirmed that Dunlop achieved their goal of maintaining performance under hard-packed conditions while also improving performance on softer, loamier terrains.
Conclusion
All these adjustments that Dunlop has implemented have significantly enhanced the versatility and functionality of this tire.
The focus has been on providing a tire capable of handling different terrains with improved grip and stability, particularly when cornering.
While it is not the best dirt bike tire overall, it is primarily intended for motocross. For those in need of a more dual sport tire or different compounds, other options should be considered.
Dunlop’s MX 53 has generated substantial positive feedback online from riders who have noted and appreciated the improvements over the MX 52. If you’re an avid motocross rider, the Dunlop Geo Max MX 53 is definitely worth considering.
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