Time for new Tires

[eprovenzano]

I need to replace the tires on my KTM 300 (Yes, I know its orange, but I value the opinion of the members here).  I've been looking at the IRC MB5, size 120/80/18 or 130/80/18.  I'm concerned with the sidewall being smaller then I used to.  I'm currently running a Bridgestone M59 110/100/18.  Would the smaller sidewall lend itself to more pinch flats, or am I worrying too much? 

What's the general census on tires.  I usually run tight single track, I prefer a mud to intermediate terrain tire.  I'm planning on running a few hare scrambles next season, and I need to let Mrs. Claus know what tires I need under the tree.  I have a Dunlop 773 on the KX.  I like the tire, its performed well, its help up pretty well.  I can get it in a 110/100/18. The 952 come's in a 120/100/18. These are just a few of the different tires I've looked, but I know there are many different choices out there.

[maddoggy]

i like the IRC M5B in the 140/80-18 size if it will fit in your swing arm. it is a nice big tire with lots of tire surface and tall sidewall which helps protect the rim.  MADDOGGY

[don46]

My issue with the IRC m5b and the ve33 is the knobs chunk off after awhile. Having said that I run the M5B in the 140 size, cut on one of my hillclimbers. for trail riding I like the Bridgestone tires.

[The Flyin Hawaiian]

I used to use the M5Bs a long time ago. They worked well in the sand and mud but chunked the knobs badly in the rocks. Up until a few years ago I used Pirelli's. I had a tire sponsorship and would use the MT44 front everywhere and the MT44 Laguna Cross rear in the sand and mud. I think I used the MT18 or 16 in the rocks as well as the old MT320, which was a one race tire for me, but hooked up well. I now swear by Mitas tires, I know that people are afraid of the unfamiliar, but these tires work EXCELLENT! EF06 in the front everywhere and the C10 rear in the sand/mud. C16 Stoneeater in the rocks. www.werproducts.net

[The Flyin Hawaiian]

Do you use heavyduty tubes? Id run them if you are worried about flats. I have 19 inch rims on my KXs and I havent had a flat rear in a while. Ofcourse, I just jinxed myself!

[eprovenzano]

I've heard good things about the MB5's.  Thanks for the suggestion Flyin Hawaiian I'll make sure to run heavyduty tubes. 

How about the Kenda's.  Any one had any success on those?

[maddoggy]

keep in mind that certain tires are made to be run in specific materials. the M5B is made to run in soft material or mud, you cannot run it in rocky or hard stuff and expect it to last. MADDOGGY

[eprovenzano]

Most of what I ride is wet, muddy, sloppy, with lost of rock and roots thrown in just for fun.  That's why I keep thinking I should consider a soft to intermediate terrain tire.

[KXcam22]

I ran the 140x18 MB5 on an old CR500.  Was a wicked tire but was noticably heavy. For intermediate I swear by the Kenda Millville front and back.  Thats all I run - I really like how they feel on a 500 and the wear is decent.  Many people I meet are happy with the Maxxis IT though I havent tried them. 

[Hillclimb#42]

I'm telling you guys, Kenda Washougal. I have them on my k5 and 250. It says "Washougal Sticky" on the sidwalls and they mean it. Went on a winning streak with those tires and they hold up to trail riding and sand. Cheaper than most tires also. Great control tire for turns and hooks up like the Laguna cross on the straights. It is an intermediate terrain tire. Kenda also has good front tires. Don't forget about fronts for picky single track lines.

[MadKaw]

Kenda Milleville is for soft/intermediate. you can reverse the tire on the rim depending on which of those you are in. haven't bothered reversing it, but it works good on either.
www.rockymountainmc.com has them in their catalog for 59.99 for the 120/90/19 size.

[dmstarr]

Kenda tires are awesome. I prefer the Millville myself, but I have run the Washougal once with good success. For sand/mud, you cannot beat the Southwick. It will slide a bit on grass track, but it is the best mud tire i've used.