Introducing the Michelin Star Cross 5 Medium Tires
Hello everyone, it’s Brandon here. Today, I’m diving deep into a review of the Michelin Star Cross 5 medium tires. These are the ones I’ve been using on Daisy, our 2018 KTM 250 XCW. Right off the bat, I’ll confess my fondness for these tires. So, if you’re in a hurry or about to be distracted by the next viral cat video, here’s your takeaway: I genuinely appreciate these tires. But for those who are keen on understanding the specifics and my experience, do read on.
Mileage and Durability
Having clocked approximately 430 miles on these tires, they’ve held up impressively. The mileage could be slightly off by a few digits, but it’s safely around the 400-mile mark. Visually, they still appear in good condition. Although a few knobs are beginning to show wear and some have chunked off, these incidents only occurred during my last few rides.
And yes, while I did lose a knob here and there, it hasn’t affected the tire’s performance significantly.
One factor worth noting is that I’ve paired these tires with Nitro Mooses, specifically the platinum Nitro boosters. These were in pristine condition when I integrated them. Opting for the 110/118 dimension, it seamlessly aligns with the NM18305 platinum Nitro boost. The installation was snug, but after some use, they’ve adapted well, offering commendable traction throughout.
Michelin Star Cross 5 vs. Bridgestone X30: A Rider’s Perspective
For context, let me provide a glimpse into the terrains and conditions these tires have encountered. From tricky routes laden with roots and rocks, slippery trails, to arid, dusty conditions, these tires have seen it all. In fact, I would rank the Michelin Star Cross 5 among my top favorite tires to date.
In the past, I’ve been quite vocal about my admiration for the Bridgestone X30. When directly comparing the two, the grip of the X30 might slightly edge out, but the distinction has started to blur with time. Cost-wise, the Michelin is priced at $86, a tad more affordable than the Bridgestone’s $97. I always ensure that the tires I sell are priced just 20% over the cost, ensuring value for my customers. Given the performance and the cost-effectiveness of the Michelins, they truly offer a bang for your buck. It’s been heartening to receive affirmations from fellow riders who’ve observed the tire’s superior grip, especially on challenging terrains.
The Value Proposition of Michelin Tires
Once again, I find myself raving about these Michelin tires. From the outset, they’ve been a delightful addition to my rides. Undoubtedly, for the price point, they present as a commendable choice. While some riders might be accustomed to investing around 60-70 dollars on tires, these Michelins might appear on the pricier side. However, in terms of value for money, they undeniably stand out, justifying the premium.
While many prioritize the longevity of a tire, for me, the emphasis has always been on grip. It’s the balance between grip and durability that captivates me, with a slight inclination towards the grip. Essentially, that’s the perspective I approach tires from.
The Perks and Honesty of Being a Dealer
Given my unique position as a dealer, and the subsequent advantages it brings, such as receiving tires free of cost for testing, I realize I might have a different purchasing experience than most. For instance, these Michelin tires were generously provided by Western Powersports and Michelin for which I’m grateful. But I’m always cautious to ensure that such benefits don’t cloud my judgment. At the end of the day, the question remains – would I recommend these to my customers? Absolutely, but only because I genuinely believe in their performance and value.
Being based in a tight-knit community amplifies the importance of trust. Selling subpar products would not just disappoint my valued customers, but word would spread, potentially tarnishing the reputation painstakingly built over time. It’s why I rigorously test products before adding them to my inventory. From my numerous rides and evaluations, I can say with confidence that these Michelin tires are worth every cent. Riding a 252 stroke means there’s considerable tire spinning, yet with these tires, I found the traction predictably responsive. Whether it was throttling through turns or locking the rear brake, I felt in control. The assurance it provides in varied scenarios is remarkable.
A Closer Look at the Front Tire
The front tire deserves its own spotlight. Having endured the same mileage – approximately 430 to 450 miles – its performance has been on par with its rear counterpart. It’s a reliable tire, consistent in its delivery, and undeniably a solid choice for riders who prioritize both grip and durability.
Comparing Bridgestone M59 and Michelin Starcross 5
For those familiar with my preferences, the Bridgestone M59 is undoubtedly my top choice for a front tire. Whenever I’m racing, especially when optimal traction is crucial, the Bridgestone M59 never lets me down. However, given my penchant for exploring different tires to provide comprehensive reviews, I came across the Michelin Starcross 5.
While the Michelin Starcross 5 is impressive in its own right, it doesn’t entirely measure up to the Bridgestone M59 in terms of predictability during turns. To illustrate, when taking a sharp, possibly wet turn with uncertain terrain, I always know what to expect with the Bridgestone. Its behavior is consistently reliable. On the contrary, with the Michelin Starcross 5, there were moments when its response caught me off-guard. Although I’d say it’s trustworthy nine times out of ten, that one unpredictable instance could be disconcerting for a rider. While it’s essential not to blame a tire entirely for any mishaps, predictability while navigating challenging terrains is invaluable.
The Durability and Performance of the Starcross 5
Upon closer inspection, I noticed that the Michelin Starcross 5 started showing signs of wear, with some knobs beginning to come off. This wear pattern is consistent with the mileage I’ve put on it. Worth noting, I’ve paired this tire with platinum nitro mooses, specifically the nm2120 in the front. I’ve always steered clear of fatter front tires, as my past experiences with them haven’t been favorable. I’ve become so averse to them that I wouldn’t even consider bearing the shipping cost for one.
Despite my reservations about its predictability, the Michelin Starcross 5 front tire excels in a variety of conditions, from wet terrains and rocky paths to dry and slick surfaces. Priced at $80, the complete set, when combined with the rear tire, totals around $166 before tax. While this isn’t the most affordable option in the market, the performance it delivers is on par with Michelin’s renowned quality and standards.
Michelin’s Track Record and the Starcross 5
There’s no doubt about Michelin’s reputation in the tire industry. They have consistently manufactured high-quality tires, be it for cars, trucks, motorcycles, or even bicycles. The Starcross 5 is Michelin’s latest addition to their Starcross series. Though it has been on the market for some time now, I continue to be impressed by its performance, especially in combination with the platinum mooses. I’d like to extend my gratitude to Nitro Moose for the mooses and to Western Powersports and Michelin for the tires. It’s essential to note that my positive remarks aren’t influenced by receiving the tires complimentary.
In fact, I’ve been upfront about my displeasure with the front tire from this set. Despite that, the overall setup is commendable.
The Perfect Tire Combination for Mountainous Terrains
Considering mountain terrains and their unique challenges, I believe that an ideal tire combination would be the Michelin Starcross 5 medium for the rear and the Bridgestone M59 for the front. I’m eager to test out this combo soon, especially given the wear on my current set. Although these are nearing the end of their life, the mooses remain in impeccable condition.
In fact, I’ve already stocked up on the Michelin Star Cross 5 medium, with four of them ready to go. For those skeptical about my recommendations or suspect any underlying biases, I invite them to look at the tires I stock. After all, I purchase these and need to sell them to my customers. Currently, in addition to the three front tires, I have four 18″ rears with more 19″ rears on the way. I genuinely believe in the Michelin Starcross 5 and its performance. It’s rapidly becoming one of my top tire choices.
Real-World Performance
For a more in-depth look at the tire’s capabilities, I encourage viewers to check out some footage showcasing the riding I’ve been doing with these tires. It offers a first-hand perspective on their performance in various terrains and conditions.
Performance in Diverse Terrains
Living in the mountains and frequently riding in the desert, I’ve been on the lookout for a tire that could adeptly handle both terrains. The Michelin Starcross 5, to my delight, has proven to be a strong performer in these distinct landscapes. Whether navigating the rugged mountain trails or the shifting sands of the desert, this tire has consistently delivered on its promise of durability and grip.
Ratings and Comparisons
On a scale, if I were to rate the rear tire, I’d confidently give it a solid five stars or, if using a 10-point scale, a rating between 9 to 9.5 out of 10. Its performance has been nothing short of impressive, demonstrating both resilience and stability. However, the front tire didn’t quite match the excellence of its counterpart. I’d assign it a four-star rating or, in a 10-point framework, about 7.5 out of 10. To put this into perspective, my benchmark has always been the Bridgestone M59. This tire, in my experience, comes very close to achieving a perfect 10 out of 10 rating.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving world of biking, having reliable equipment is paramount. The Michelin Starcross 5, with its impressive performance in both mountainous and desert terrains, has solidified its place in my list of top tire recommendations. While the rear tire emerges as a star performer, the front tire, though not perfect, is still commendable. As riders, it’s essential to consider our terrain and individual needs when choosing a tire, but for those traversing both mountains and deserts, the Michelin Starcross 5 proves to be a worthy contender. And though the Bridgestone M59 remains a benchmark for many, including myself, the Starcross 5 holds its ground with admirable poise.
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