The Adventure Begins: Unpacking the Dunlop Geomax AT81
Hey everyone! In today’s session, I’m diving into the installation of the much-acclaimed Dunlop Geomax AT81 tire. Just as I was about to commence, I realized – to my surprise and a bit of embarrassment – that I’d forgotten my trusty knife. Admittedly, it felt a bit off starting without it.
I even pondered over restarting this whole process. In its absence, a humble box cutter came to my rescue, though it’s safe to say that wasn’t the start I’d envisioned!
Investing in the Dunlop Geomax AT81: Worth the Price?
Shifting gears, let’s discuss the Dunlop Geomax AT81 tire in detail. Currently, these tires are available for around a hundred and twelve dollars at Rocky Mountain ATV, my go-to place for all things tires.
The allure of trying out this tire was too strong to resist. And, being the enthusiast that I am, I opted to pair it with the tubeless system. To me, the tubeless setup is a revolutionary game-changer in the biking world, almost paralleling the invention of sliced bread in terms of its utility.
Performance vs Longevity: The Eternal Debate
With every new tire, there’s always a critical decision to make: Do you prioritize performance or longevity? From my experience and countless discussions, it’s clear that a tire can either be incredibly durable or exceptionally high-performing, seldom both. As I embark on this journey with the Dunlop Geomax AT81, it’ll be intriguing to see where it stands in this perpetual trade-off.
Diving into the Dunlop Geomax AT81
When it comes to selecting the right tire for your bike, the Dunlop Geomax AT81 is certainly not designed for longevity. Instead, its strength lies in stellar performance. With a gummy compound, it’s reminiscent of the Shin Co 525 cheater 525. As I venture into testing various tires, I’m concurrently reviewing the IRC ve 33 s. With the Dunlop Geomax AT81, I’m eager to see how it stacks up. As I position my stand and prepare to spoon on this tire, let’s delve deeper into its unique attributes.
At its core, the Dunlop Geomax AT81 is a gummy tire, boasting a hybrid trials compound. This super soft compound ensures that while it might not have an extended wear time, riders will experience impeccable performance during its lifespan. Coupled with its soft carcass, this tire is designed to elevate your riding experience.
Compatibility with Tubeless Systems
One potential concern I have is how well the Dunlop Geomax AT81 will gel with tubeless systems. While I’m hopeful, I’ll certainly be able to gauge this in a relatively short time frame. Given my experience, it seems this tire won’t rank among the more challenging installations I’ve undertaken. Costing $112 presently, it’s worth noting that its initial price was a steep $180. At that price point, it didn’t particularly pique my interest. However, its recent price drop has made it a more compelling choice.
Is it the Long-Lasting Tire You Seek?
I understand that many bikers are on the lookout for a durable tire, one that’s economical and lasts for hours on end. If you’re among those seeking a tire that withstands the test of time, offering 50 hours or more of runtime, the Dunlop Geomax AT81 might not be the ideal pick for you.
Realistically, with its focus on performance, it’s likely to give you about ten hours on the bike.
Choosing the Right Tire for Memorable Rides
Imagine planning an extensive bike trip. You’ve invested time, effort, and money, collaborating with friends for a cross-country or cross-state journey. For such adventures, the experience takes precedence. In these scenarios, you might not want a tire that lasts endlessly but one that amplifies every moment of your ride. That’s how I perceive some of these softer or gummy compound tires. They might not be enduring, but their phenomenal performance can elevate every moment of that special trip.
When investing in such adventures, whether it’s Utah, Idaho, Colorado, or any other destination, your tire choice becomes pivotal. It’s a simple concept, really – the quality and condition of your tire, quite literally and figuratively, determines how you connect with the road or trail. Fresh and high-quality rubber on your bike can significantly influence your riding experience, more than other upgrades. So before you think of adding a new pipe or any other modifications, consider the tire – the real point of contact with the terrain.
Performance over Peripheral Upgrades
Often, bikers get caught up in the allure of peripheral upgrades – clutches, suspensions, and so on. But in essence, it’s the tire that truly matters. If I were to prioritize based on value for money, I’d opt for new tires before embarking on significant dirt bike trips.
Initial Impressions and Comparisons
Having aired up the Dunlop Geomax AT81, I’m eager to test its mettle. Its competition on my radar includes the Shinko 525s, Shinko 505, and the IRC ve 33 s. Among these, the Dunlop Geomax AT81 might boast the softest sidewall, gauging by the ease with which I could spoon it on. Time will tell how it truly stands in real-world scenarios, and I’m all geared up to make that assessment.
Unveiling the Dunlop Geomax AT81
There’s a palpable excitement surrounding the Dunlop Geomax AT81, especially given its current price point of around $112-$113, complete with free shipping via Rocky Mountain ATV. For those interested, I’ve provided the link in the description below. Though many wonder about its longevity, I’d like to clarify right away: this isn’t a tire built to last eons. Realistically, you’re looking at a lifespan between five to ten hours of usage. Pushing this tire to its limits on the highway at speeds around 60 miles an hour could result in significant wear. It’s crucial to understand the AT81’s purpose. This isn’t your go-to for long highway stretches; pushing it to 70 miles per hour would be inadvisable. Instead, its real prowess shines in extreme enduro environments and trail riding. The tire’s soft knobs hint at its performance-centric design, and it’ll be interesting to monitor its overall durability and efficacy in various terrains.
Trade-Off: Performance vs. Longevity
The pressing question many have is about the AT81’s lifespan. While it offers commendable performance, it isn’t renowned for its endurance, especially in challenging terrains like the Rocky Mountains. Here, the tire tends to undergo rapid wear and tear. However, even as it “shreds”, it delivers exceptional performance, which makes it a viable choice for specific use-cases. It’s essential to weigh its fantastic performance against its relatively short lifespan and decide based on individual requirements.
Support and Future Endeavors
If you find these insights and reviews beneficial, please consider showing support by liking, subscribing, and utilizing the links provided in the description. For those interested in further backing this venture, Patreon offers a platform to do so. This support goes beyond just appreciation – it helps sustain my family and fuels future content. Speaking of which, a sneak peek for the enthusiasts: the KTM 300 XC TPI bike, a 2020 model, that’s been frequently featured might soon find a new owner. Stay tuned to find out if it’s this bike or its 250 version sibling that’s up for grabs!
A Christmas Surprise
As the festive season approaches, I have some exciting news to share. One of two prized possessions, either the bike you often see me on or my 2019 250 XC, will be gifted away for Christmas. So, gear up and mark your calendars because come October, November, and December, we’ll be hosting another dirt bike sweepstakes. The anticipation is palpable, as the bike currently undergoing the tire test may very well be the grand giveaway!
Prepping the Bike
The journey to perfecting a bike involves more than just ensuring its engine roars to life. It’s the meticulous attention to every little detail that differentiates a good bike from a great one. Right now, my focus is on equipping this bike with protective parts. From skid plates to rear disc guards, every component has a crucial role to play. Swingarm tab guards, fork shoes, and even adjusting the levers are all on my checklist.
The comprehensive list includes setting up tubeless tires, installing rear disc guards, swinging arm guards, setting the sag, adjusting the levers, incorporating fork shoes, tuning the brakes, fitting a new rear brake tip, and incorporating bar ends. It doesn’t stop there. The air filter needs oiling, bolts require torque, and the bars need a forward adjustment. Some of these tasks have already been checked off the list, and the bike’s transformation is well underway.
Why the New Tire?
Amid all these modifications, one might wonder, “Why the emphasis on the new tire?” Well, tires play an integral role in the bike’s performance, and I’m eager to test this new one. Its incorporation isn’t merely an experiment but a calculated step towards enhancing the bike’s overall capabilities.
Conclusion
The journey of perfecting a bike is a comprehensive process that involves dedication, passion, and an eye for detail. Every component, big or small, plays a pivotal role in determining the overall performance. As we inch closer to the festive season and the impending bike giveaway, the excitement is undeniable. The tire’s addition is a testament to the commitment to excellence and the quest for superior performance. As the preparations continue, I eagerly await the day when one lucky individual gets to ride away on a machine that’s been optimized, tested, and loved. Until then, stay tuned and keep the passion alive!
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