Ride in western NC so same terrain as you. I really like the Bridgestone 404/403 (or M59 for front) combo. I also like the Michelin S-12 XC. I have heard good things about the Dunlop mx31 front mx51 rear combo as well, but haven't tried it myself yet.
I have been using dunlop 952 front and rear. Good traction and hold up very well in new england trails.
Bridgestone 404 rear and 403 front. Good tires, we can get them pretty cheap and they last. Dunlop 756 also, but harder to find.
Motoz Tracula's front and rear. Of course they have discontinued them Walt PS, I really like the Terrapactor's on my 144
The new Motoz tyre range is out now and are even better. Their prvious weak point-mud has been solved, they still last longer than anything else and are simply amazing tyres. As also said the Dunlop 51 are a surprise package, after showing initial sings of wear they then seem to just not wear down any more for simply ages. bridgestone 404's are always a good reliable back up. my 1, 2 3 in order are Motoz, 51's and Bridgestones.
i just dont like the 51 front as much as the 31....the 403/404 i just never thought did as good as the 756's....and motoz i just dont like the look of the tread pattern....I try to find one thing and stick to it....usually have a few in the garage just in case....
Race mx 904, You really need to at least try the Terrapactor Front tire. It is truly amazing how well they work. Walt
MOTOZ! The Tractionator Enduro S/T is what I've been running in those same conditions and it's the next best thing to a trials tire on root/rocks plus it doesn't choke in mud. Can run really low pressure (5psi) with a Tubliss setup and pretty much cover the bases.
to be honest i dont buy into the trials tire deal....tired it and hated it... plus i always try to support my local dealer...and they dont carry them....I got them to stock what i need cause i buyem... and really really dont like the lug pattern on the front...
I did like the MT43 here in Ct. great on those slick rocks and roots and probally the best dirt road/gravel tire I've tried. But it absolutely sucked in the least bit of mud. Also the knobby depth is pretty shallow brand new. I'll probally go back to the 606 again next time.
We've got a riding area up here called Reiter. That's where I became a believer. Rocks and roots predominately as well as the occasional bike swallowing puddle. The MT43 is a great tire and in addition to roots/rocks it also holds together on asphalt. Forget it in the mud, like all trials tires. Don't know what lug pattern on what front tire you're talking about exactly.
I am very happy with that tire and can't wait for it to wear out so I can try the Tracula Enduro I have waiting to put on. I'm really happy with it and am running 8psi front and rear in south jersey sand/hard pack. With the next set I'll be Tubliss and will probably go around 6psi.
They're nice and sticky in a lot of different terrain! People are always amazed how soft the rubber is on them. Seem to hold up well, so far.
I used to run a M59 Bridgestone in front almost exclusively. S12 Mich once in a while but I always seem to tear those up. Switched to Motoz and will never go back. Love the Enduro ST, Terrapactor and the discontinued Tracula on less muddy stuff. I have not found tires that work better over a large range, are as predictable, and last a LONG time. Love the Motoz. The Enduro IT's are great for harder pack and last nearly forever. Seem very durable as well.
I'd use the Tractionator Enduro I/T in the rear (120/90 R18), correct? Is the Tractionator Enduro I/T available in "90/90-21F FIM 54* ECER75" for the front? http://www.motoz.com.au/shop_content.asp?p=tyrerange
