Dunlop MX71 Dirt Bike Tire Review

I read this interesting article by Damon Huffman on www.motorcycle-usa.com and thought all of you could benefit by reading it too.

In 2009 Dunlop launched the Geomax line of motocross tires. Using the name Geo, meaning dirt or earth, and Max, meaning, to the limit. Dunlop has completed its trifecta of top-of-the-line motocross tires with the all-new Geomax MX71. The new knobby is designed for hard terrain and complements the Geomax MX51(intermediate) and Geomax MX31 (soft) giving Dunlop riders compete coverage for every type of dirt. 

The Geomax MX71 replaces the old Dunlop 745 and 739. Both of these were pretty good tires in hard-pack conditions, but the new MX71 is designed to meet the specific needs of modern equipment and track designs. Combining the latest engineering technology with countless hours of on-track testing and racing with factory race teams, Dunlop has designed this dirt bike tire from the ground up, starting with the carcass. 

The MX71 incorporates a ply of high-density polyester cord engineered and positioned at an angle to strengthen the side wall. What does that mean? Well, you’re able to run a little less air pressure in the rear, resulting in a larger footprint and better traction. Low tire pressure has its drawbacks, but by utilizing a stiffer carcass than previous generations, the MX71 cuts back on tire roll and squirm. 

A hard track tire used to shred up or chunk rather quickly, especially with the power of a 450. Like its siblings, the MX71 has its own Geomax Reinforced Pattern and uses proprietary compounding technology with a blend of nylon and polyester. The tires have a wider dimension (see conversion chart) with asymmetrical block patterns. By placing knobs exactly where needed on every location of the tire, engineers were able to maximize traction during acceleration and braking. 

The rear tire features the “Double Tornado Wave.” This pattern design enhances cornering grip and slide control with better acceleration traction. Just off center are the “camber traction knobs,” which are responsible for leaned-over acceleration. This is an important aspect of the MX71, perfect for roll-on throttle on blue groove. Another benefit of the directional placement and tailored tread compound are a longer life on the edge of your knobs and a resistance to chunking. Wide bases on each knob and a tie-bar connection with other blocks help keep from roosting knobs right off the back tire. 

Cross-stitched block placement on the front tire help with cornering traction, plus give the rider consistent feedback when it does break loose and start to skid. The front tire has recessed biting edges on every knob and the rear has them on each shoulder block. 

Dunlop uses a cross-stitched block pattern on the front to help give a consistent, planted feel, which Ryan Dungey uses to wrap up Supercross titles.