Introducing the Continental ContiTrailAttack 2 Tires
When I embarked on the quest for the perfect set of tires for my upcoming 4,000-mile journey from Texas to Montana, I was intrigued by the Continental ContiTrailAttack 2. Being a passionate rider, the prospect of weaving through a multitude of terrains, including both on-road and light off-road conditions, excited me. Having a heavy bike, weighing close to 500 pounds wet weight, I needed a tire that would cater to its unique demands, and from my initial research, the ContiTrailAttack 2 seemed like the perfect match.
Why Not Pirelli?
While on the hunt for tires, another contender that caught my attention was the Pirelli Scorpion YX. However, upon delving deeper into user reviews and expert opinions, it became evident that they might not be the ideal choice for a powerful heavy-duty bike like mine. Some riders pointed out that the Pirelli tires wore out quicker than anticipated, which raised concerns for my long trip.
Thus, I leaned towards the Continental brand, hoping it would rise to the challenge.
First Impressions: Riding with the ContiTrailAttack 2
With about a hundred miles clocked in on the ContiTrailAttack 2, the experience has been quite enlightening. One aspect that stood out was the stiffness of the tires. It was not just my observation; even the technician who installed them remarked on their rigidity. The ride felt a tad bumpier, prompting me to make some adjustments to my bike’s suspension. By tweaking the preload, damping, and compression, I aimed to counterbalance the tire’s firmness and ensure a smoother journey. Time will reveal how these tires cope with the added weight, especially since I’ll be carrying considerable luggage that could weigh up to a hundred pounds.
Anticipations for the Journey Ahead
As I gear up for my grand adventure, I am filled with both anticipation and curiosity. The coming weeks will see the ContiTrailAttack 2 being tested under various conditions, from scorching heat to potential rain showers, and perhaps even icy terrains as I approach the mountainous regions. I also plan to venture onto dirt paths, which will be the real test for these tires’ off-roading capabilities. While it’s still early days, I’m hopeful and excited to document how these tires fare over 4,000 miles, giving fellow riders a comprehensive insight into their performance.
Embarking on the West Texas Journey
About 150 miles into the heart of West Texas, I’ve been captivated by the expansive roads stretching endlessly before me. With each mile, I’ve become increasingly aware of the transformation in my riding experience. Previously known bumps and jolts on these routes now seem to be subdued. The decision to soften the suspension on my bike has evidently paid off. As I cruise along, the stability is commendable. To test the steadiness, I often take my hands off the bars momentarily, and the bike maintains its trajectory with impressive precision. This straight-line stability, especially on such rugged road surfaces, offers a reassuring calm.
Encounters with Wet Surfaces
A segment of my journey also had me navigating wet conditions. Throughout this phase, the Continental ContiTrailAttack 2 tires displayed commendable grip and stability. While I might not have captured the most exhilarating footage of this segment, largely due to the linear path I was on, it was evident that the tires held their own, ensuring a safe and smooth ride.
Experiencing the Twists and Turns of New Mexico
Pushing forward, I found myself on the winding paths outside of Los Alamos, New Mexico. Here, the Continental tires continued to shine. Their grip, even during the more intense bends, instilled confidence. The weight of the extra luggage, an additional hundred pounds, did little to deter the tire’s performance. Sharp turns, quick shifts, and even under intense braking, the tires held firm with no discernible chatter or wobbling.
As I adjusted to the altered power curve of my bike, especially given the elevation at this part of my journey, the tires kept their promise of reliability.
Confronting Gravel and Off-road Paths
As I ventured off the asphalt, the true test for the Continental ContiTrailAttack 2 began. Riding on surfaces resembling gravel or fire roads, I found a newfound appreciation for these tires. The type of speed and confidence I felt on these terrains would have been unthinkable with pure street tires. While the rear did exhibit a slight drift occasionally on the gravel, it’s an expected behavior for any tire on such surfaces. Yet, the overall stability and grip made these moments manageable and kept the thrill alive.
Is Continental ContiTrailAttack 2 tire good in the gravel?
The Continental ContiTrailAttack 2 tire boasts an admirable performance on gravel. As I continued my journey, these tires proved their mettle on hard terrains, especially on clay and gravel patches. However, an unexpected challenge arose when I encountered sandy trails.
The Sand Challenge
While the Continental ContiTrailAttack 2 is efficient on multiple terrains, taking it into sandy environments might not be the best idea. During my recent trail expedition, I was caught off guard by the substantial amount of sand. The result was not pleasant: I dropped my bike five times – two instances on my way in and three on my way out.
The sand rendered the tires almost powerless, offering minimal traction. As an aftermath, my mirror now holds together with a makeshift arrangement of zip ties, and possibly some super glue.
The Majestic Canyonlands National Park
Despite the challenges, the surrounding beauty of the Canyonlands National Park in Utah was awe-inspiring. However, much of my time was spent recovering from bike crashes and making necessary repairs. It was a bittersweet experience, balancing the breathtaking views with the unexpected challenges posed by the sandy trails.
Halfway Point Observations
Reaching the halfway point of my review of the Continental ContiTrailAttack 2 tire, I clocked approximately 2,400 miles on my trip odometer. Although there might be a minor discrepancy in this reading due to non-stock gearing and the tire’s height, the tread life still appears promising. Using the classic penny test, a substantial portion of Lincoln’s head remains obscured, hinting at decent tread depth. The tire does exhibit some flattening, likely resulting from prolonged straight-road travels and the additional weight of around 80 pounds of luggage. My journey ahead promises the thrilling curves of South Dakota, offering a chance to further test the tire’s prowess.
Is Continental ContiTrailAttack 2 tire good in the mud?
As I journeyed through various terrains, the Continental ContiTrailAttack 2 tire showcased impressive mud performance. Simultaneously, while riding through the twisties in dry conditions, the tire didn’t disappoint. I haven’t yet encountered significant rain or cold conditions, so commenting on its wet or cold grip would be premature.
Though this bodes well for a rider’s preference, it presents limitations for a comprehensive review. Nevertheless, with a week left on my journey, there’s ample time to assess its performance in the scenic Black Hills of South Dakota.
Performance in the Twisties of Black Hills
Navigating the twisties in the Black Hills of South Dakota presented a rigorous test for the Continental ContiTrailAttack 2. The terrains here, abundant with elevation changes and blind corners, require immense trust in one’s tires. Fortunately, these tires bolstered my confidence, allowing for an exhilarating ride with commendable speed and lean angles. The rear tire, even under acceleration, remained stable without any squirm.
To enhance the tire’s sport performance, I dropped the pressures to 34 in the front and 36 in the rear. This adjustment was made post my ride to the picturesque Mount Rushmore, a must-visit destination for any traveler. Despite a minor hiccup at a low speed, the tire’s overall sport performance left me content.
Riding through the twisties, I reflected on the tire’s strengths and areas for potential improvement. Exiting the twisties, the tire gave evidence of its prowess — the obliteration of the chicken strips and an unfortunate speeding ticket. A testament to its capability, I found myself exceeding speed limits with ease.
Final Insights
Post my extensive journey, I took a two-month hiatus from riding due to an unfortunate racing accident that left me with two shattered bones in my hand. This break gave me time to reflect on the Continental ContiTrailAttack 2. After covering 4,500 miles, the rear tire exhibited a squared-off pattern. However, it’s far from being rendered unusable, and I anticipate extracting another 1,000 to 2,000 miles from it. The tread depth, reaching Lincoln’s hairline, remains satisfactory. Overall, these tires have excelled in wet and dry conditions, providing reliable and confident handling. They firmly stand their ground during acceleration and braking, aligning perfectly with the demands of adventure touring.
Is the grip good in the Continental ContiTrailAttack 2 tires?
In the vast world of motorcycle tires, the Continental ContiTrailAttack 2 stands out as a notable option for riders. Like any tire, its performance varies depending on specific conditions. During my rides, I noticed a few particularities when it comes to grip, which are worth delving into for potential buyers.
Performance during Acceleration and Braking
When it comes to pure acceleration and braking, the ContiTrailAttack 2 performs admirably. However, challenges arise when combining these actions with an incline. Specifically, if you’re braking downhill or accelerating uphill, the grip may not meet your highest expectations. For instance, my near high-side incident while powering uphill is a testament to the limitations in such scenarios. Yet, by recognizing and adjusting for these nuances, riders can manage well and make the most of the tire in varied conditions.
Off-Road Capabilities
Venturing off-road, the ContiTrailAttack 2 showcased its strengths and weaknesses. Gravel roads and loose dirt terrains were where the tire excelled, offering a reliable grip. However, sand proved to be its Achilles heel. It’s essential to remember that this tire isn’t designed for sandy terrains; its 80/20 on-road bias means it’s better suited for roads and light off-road scenarios. Sand requires a more balanced 50/50 tire for optimal performance.
Tire Longevity and Profile
Moving to the front of the bike, the tire maintained its round profile without noticeable squaring. The Lincoln test, a popular measure for tire wear, suggests that the front tire possesses slightly more life than its rear counterpart.
Initially, the front treads aren’t as deep as the rear ones, but over time, they’ve held up commendably.
The Rising Market of Adventure Touring
Adventure touring is gaining traction in the motorcycling world, with brands like Yamaha and Ducati releasing models like the FJ 09, Versys, Hyperstrada, and Multistrada. This emerging market remains in need of dependable tires. Considering the Continental ContiTrailAttack 2’s performance on heavy bikes, even with added luggage weight, it emerges as a strong contender in this segment.
Conclusion: Should You Invest in the Continental ContiTrailAttack 2?
After extensively testing the Continental ContiTrailAttack 2 on various terrains and conditions, my verdict is positive. Its performance on gravel and loose dirt makes it a reliable choice for light off-roading, while its on-road capabilities ensure a smooth ride in regular conditions. Though challenges may arise when accelerating or braking on inclines, awareness and adjustment can mitigate these. For those planning adventure touring or similar journeys, the ContiTrailAttack 2 offers a blend of durability, grip, and versatility. If you’re in the market for a tire that balances on-road reliability with off-road prowess, the Continental ContiTrailAttack 2 is worth considering. Safe travels!
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