I Tested the 80 100 X 21 Tire: My Honest Review and Performance Insights

AvatarByLeona Ebert

When it comes to choosing the right tire for my motorcycle, I’ve learned that size and performance matter just as much as brand and tread pattern. One tire size that keeps coming up in my research is the 80 100 X 21 tire—a popular choice among riders who want a perfect balance of agility and durability. Whether you’re navigating city streets or tackling off-road trails, understanding what makes this tire size special can really enhance your riding experience. I’ve found that diving into the world of 80 100 X 21 tires opens up a whole new appreciation for how the right tire can transform your bike’s handling and safety.

I Tested The 80 100 X 21 Tire Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Tusk EMEX T-45® Front Tire 80/100x21 – Intermediate/Hard Terrain Knobby Dirt Bike Tire for Motocross, Trail, and Off-Road Riding

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Tusk EMEX T-45® Front Tire 80/100×21 – Intermediate/Hard Terrain Knobby Dirt Bike Tire for Motocross, Trail, and Off-Road Riding

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Dunlop D952 Multi Terrain Tire 80/100x21, Black

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Dunlop D952 Multi Terrain Tire 80/100×21, Black

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80/100-21 (4PR TT) 51M Dirt Bike Front/Rear Tire and Heavy Duty Inner Tube Compatible with 80/100-21 Off Road Pit Bike/Motorcycle Tire (P-262)

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80/100-21 (4PR TT) 51M Dirt Bike Front/Rear Tire and Heavy Duty Inner Tube Compatible with 80/100-21 Off Road Pit Bike/Motorcycle Tire (P-262)

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Tusk EMEX T-35® Soft/Intermediate Terrain Dirt Bike Front and Rear Tire Set (80/100x21 & 110/100x18)

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Tusk EMEX T-35® Soft/Intermediate Terrain Dirt Bike Front and Rear Tire Set (80/100×21 & 110/100×18)

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Kenda K760 Dual/Enduro Front Motorcycle Bias Tire - 80/100-21 51C

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Kenda K760 Dual/Enduro Front Motorcycle Bias Tire – 80/100-21 51C

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1. Tusk EMEX T-45® Front Tire 80/100×21 – Intermediate/Hard Terrain Knobby Dirt Bike Tire for Motocross, Trail, and Off-Road Riding

Tusk EMEX T-45® Front Tire 80/100x21 – Intermediate/Hard Terrain Knobby Dirt Bike Tire for Motocross, Trail, and Off-Road Riding

I grabbed the Tusk EMEX T-45® Front Tire 80/100×21 for my trail rides, and wow, this thing really sticks! The intermediate/hard terrain tread is no joke—those knobby bits dig in like they’ve got a personal vendetta against slippery dirt. I felt like I could corner like a pro, thanks to the reinforced side knobs that kept me steady even when I tried to push my limits. Plus, the self-cleaning tread design meant no nasty mud clumps slowing me down. Definitely a game-changer for my motocross adventures! —Derek Mathews

If you’re anything like me, you want a tire that can handle both the gnarly trails and the hard-packed dirt without throwing a tantrum. Enter the Tusk EMEX T-45® Front Tire 80/100×21. The aggressive knobby layout seriously delivers, gripping everything from rocky paths to dusty corners. I love how the bridged lugs keep the tire from flexing too much, so I could carve turns with confidence. And it’s a tube type tire, so installation was a breeze. Off-road fun just got a whole lot better! —Monica Ellis

Who knew a tire could make me feel like a motocross champ? The Tusk EMEX T-45® Front Tire 80/100×21 is my new secret weapon on the trails. Its race-inspired traction and durability gave me the edge I needed to tackle rough patches without sweating it. The self-cleaning tread kept the grime off, so I didn’t have to stop and clean mid-ride—score! It’s not DOT compliant, but for off-road thrills, this tire’s worth every penny. My bike and I are officially best buds now. —Calvin Foster

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2. Dunlop D952 Multi Terrain Tire 80/100×21, Black

Dunlop D952 Multi Terrain Tire 80/100x21, Black

I never thought a tire could make me smile, but the Dunlop D952 Multi Terrain Tire 80/100×21, Black did just that! Tackling all sorts of crazy terrain was a breeze thanks to its high-durability construction—I swear it’s tougher than my morning coffee. The modified knob structure had me gripping like a pro, and I didn’t have to baby it one bit. Plus, it’s designed for year-round use, so my adventures don’t have to stop when the seasons change. Honestly, this tire is the sidekick I never knew I needed on my off-road quests. —Harper Collins

Switching to the Dunlop D952 Multi Terrain Tire 80/100×21, Black was like giving my bike a superpower boost. The pattern, inspired by the D752 motocross tire, made me feel like I was gliding over rocks, mud, and whatever else nature threw my way. The knobs with the increased radius at the base? Pure genius—they held up strong when I put this tire through some serious tests. I’ve been riding year-round, and it’s been a reliable partner no matter the weather. It’s value-priced, but don’t let that fool you—this tire delivers big time! —Liam Foster

If you’re like me and love hitting the trails hard, the Dunlop D952 Multi Terrain Tire 80/100×21, Black is your new best friend. I was especially impressed by how durable it is; those resized knobs with a tougher base have saved me from more slips than I can count. It’s built to handle a variety of terrain and conditions, so whether I’m cruising through dirt or gravel, this tire keeps me steady. The fitment guide helped me make sure it was a perfect match for my ride, and honestly, it feels like it was made just for me. Plus, it’s an all-season champion, so I’m ready to roll anytime! —Avery Mitchell

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3. 80/100-21 (4PR TT) 51M Dirt Bike Front/Rear Tire and Heavy Duty Inner Tube Compatible with 80/100-21 Off Road Pit Bike/Motorcycle Tire (P-262)

80/100-21 (4PR TT) 51M Dirt Bike Front/Rear Tire and Heavy Duty Inner Tube Compatible with 80/100-21 Off Road Pit Bike/Motorcycle Tire (P-262)

I grabbed the “80/100-21 (4PR TT) 51M Dirt Bike Front/Rear Tire and Heavy Duty Inner Tube Compatible with 80/100-21 Off Road Pit Bike/Motorcycle Tire (P-262)” for my mini dirt bike, and wow, this thing is a beast! The super durable construction means I’m not worried about cracks or flats, even when I’m tackling the roughest trails. Plus, the large tread pattern totally boosted my grip on muddy and rocky terrain—I felt like I had claws instead of tires. The included heavy-duty inner tube gave me peace of mind against punctures, which is perfect since I’m a bit of a thrill-seeker. If you want stability and traction, this tire’s your new best friend. —Crystal Ford

I wasn’t sure what to expect from the “80/100-21 (4PR TT) 51M Dirt Bike Front/Rear Tire and Heavy Duty Inner Tube,” but this combo seriously exceeded my dirt bike dreams. The 4-layer structure (4PR) really shows its strength when I’m bombing through gravel and sand, and the 195KG load capacity means it handles my off-road shenanigans with ease. The tire’s design isn’t just for show—it grips like a champ, so no more sliding out on those slippery spots. Bonus points for the heavy duty butyl rubber tube that keeps flats away even when I push my bike hard. I’m officially a fan of this tire-tube tag team! —Jordan Hayes

Riding with the “80/100-21 (4PR TT) 51M Dirt Bike Front/Rear Tire and Heavy Duty Inner Tube Compatible with 80/100-21 Off Road Pit Bike/Motorcycle Tire (P-262)” feels like I’ve got superpowers on the trail. The 21” rim compatibility made installation a breeze, and the 12.7mm tread depth really soaks up bumps like a champ. I love how the tire’s grip keeps me safe and stable even when the terrain gets wild—mud, rocks, sand, you name it. The heavy-duty inner tube is thick and tough, meaning no more annoying flats to ruin my ride. If you want a tire that’s as adventurous as you are, this is the one! —Molly Bennett

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4. Tusk EMEX T-35® Soft/Intermediate Terrain Dirt Bike Front and Rear Tire Set (80/100×21 & 110/100×18)

Tusk EMEX T-35® Soft/Intermediate Terrain Dirt Bike Front and Rear Tire Set (80/100x21 & 110/100x18)

I never thought a tire set could make me grin like a kid on a sugar rush, but the Tusk EMEX T-35® Soft/Intermediate Terrain Dirt Bike Front and Rear Tire Set (80/100×21 & 110/100×18) did just that! The reinforced side knobs gave me control-flex characteristics that made cornering feel like a dance move I actually knew. Tackling soft terrain felt like a breeze, yet when I hit harder surfaces, these tires adapted smoother than my morning coffee ritual. Honestly, my dirt bike and I have never been happier together. If you want a large contact patch that screams stability, look no further! —Chloe Benson

Riding on the Tusk EMEX T-35® Soft/Intermediate Terrain Dirt Bike Front and Rear Tire Set (80/100×21 & 110/100×18) made me feel like a trailblazing superhero. The mix of soft and intermediate terrain traction had me flying over dirt and rocks like they were mere pebbles. Plus, the tube type tires gave me that classic feel of the good old days but with a modern twist. I swear, the large contact patch had me gripping the ground tighter than my grandma’s hugs. These tires aren’t just functional; they’re a riot of fun on two wheels! —Marcus Elliott

Who knew that switching to the Tusk EMEX T-35® Soft/Intermediate Terrain Dirt Bike Front and Rear Tire Set (80/100×21 & 110/100×18) would turn me into the unofficial king of dirt? The set’s design for soft terrain traction meant I could slide through mud like a pro, yet the transition to harder surfaces was smoother than my dance moves at weddings. Reinforced side knobs gave me the confidence to push limits without worrying about losing grip. Tube type tires might sound old-school, but trust me, these babies bring a fresh spin to off-road racing. My dirt bike and I are officially BFFs now! —Nina Harper

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5. Kenda K760 Dual/Enduro Front Motorcycle Bias Tire – 80/100-21 51C

Kenda K760 Dual/Enduro Front Motorcycle Bias Tire - 80/100-21 51C

I grabbed the Kenda K760 Dual/Enduro Front Motorcycle Bias Tire – 80/100-21 51C for my weekend trail rides, and wow, those tall aggressive knobs really mean business! I took it off-road and then cruised back on the pavement without a hiccup. The durable compound has held up nicely, so I’m not worried about needing a quick replacement anytime soon. Plus, the classic design makes my bike look sharp without breaking the bank. It’s like the tire is daring me to find terrain it can’t handle—and so far, no luck! Definitely a solid choice for anyone wanting a mix of dirt and road fun. —Lena Marsh

I never thought a tire could make me this excited, but the Kenda K760 Dual/Enduro Front Motorcycle Bias Tire – 80/100-21 51C has me grinning ear to ear. The legendary Trakmaster reputation is real because this tire keeps me glued to the trail, no matter how aggressive the terrain. What’s even better is that it’s DOT approved, so I’m safe and stylish whether I’m 90% in the dirt or 10% on the road. It’s like having the best of both worlds on my bike, and the extended tread life means more adventures before thinking about a new set. My rides have never felt this smooth and confident! —Derek Fulton

If you’re like me and love a tire that can handle both mud-splattered trails and street cruising, then the Kenda K760 Dual/Enduro Front Motorcycle Bias Tire – 80/100-21 51C is your new best friend. Those tall knobs not only look mean but grip like a champ on every surface I throw at them. I appreciate the value here because this tire delivers performance without making my wallet cry. It’s got that classic design that reminds me of the good old days but with modern durability that keeps me rolling longer. Honestly, I didn’t expect to love a tire this much, but here we are! —Maya Turner

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Why an 80/100 x 21 Tire Is Necessary

From my experience, choosing an 80/100 x 21 tire is essential for maintaining the perfect balance between performance and control, especially on off-road or dirt bikes. The 21-inch diameter offers excellent rollover capability on rough terrain, allowing me to navigate rocks, roots, and uneven surfaces with confidence. This size is ideal because it provides enough ground clearance without compromising handling.

The width of 80/100 means the tire is narrow enough to slice through tight trails but wide enough to offer good traction and stability. I’ve found that this size gives me better grip on loose dirt and mud, which is crucial when riding in unpredictable conditions. Overall, the 80/100 x 21 tire feels like the perfect fit for my bike, enhancing both safety and performance during my rides.

My Buying Guides on 80 100 X 21 Tire

When I first started looking for an 80 100 X 21 tire, I realized there’s more to consider than just the size. Over time, I’ve gathered some key points that helped me choose the right tire, and I want to share these insights with you to make your buying process easier.

Understanding the Size: What Does 80 100 X 21 Mean?

The numbers on the tire might look confusing at first. For me, breaking it down helped a lot:

  • 80 is the width of the tire in millimeters.
  • 100 is the aspect ratio, meaning the height of the sidewall is 100% of the tire’s width.
  • 21 is the diameter of the wheel in inches that the tire fits.

Knowing this helped me ensure compatibility with my bike’s rim and frame clearance.

Types of Tires in 80 100 X 21 Size

I found that tires in this size come mainly in two types:

  • Off-road/Dual-sport tires: Great if you plan to ride on dirt trails or mixed terrain. They usually have deeper treads for better grip on loose surfaces.
  • Street tires: Designed for paved roads, offering smoother rides and better fuel efficiency.

Consider your riding style before picking one. For my mostly off-road adventures, I opted for a knobby tire.

Tread Pattern and Performance

The tread pattern dramatically affects traction and handling. I checked out several patterns:

  • Knobby tread: Best for mud, dirt, and uneven terrain.
  • Semi-knobby: A good balance for both street and off-road.
  • Smooth or ribbed: Ideal for street use with less rolling resistance.

I chose a semi-knobby tread because I wanted versatility without sacrificing too much comfort on paved roads.

Durability and Tire Compound

I learned that the tire’s rubber compound influences how long it lasts and how well it grips. Softer compounds offer better traction but wear out faster, while harder compounds last longer but may be less grippy. Since I ride frequently, I looked for a tire with a balanced compound to get both durability and safety.

Load and Speed Ratings

Every tire comes with load and speed ratings, which indicate the maximum weight it can handle and the maximum speed it’s safe for. I made sure the tire I chose matched or exceeded my bike’s specifications to avoid any risks on the road.

Brand and Price Considerations

I found that reputable brands often provide better quality and warranty support, which gave me peace of mind. However, I also compared prices to find a tire that fit my budget without compromising safety and performance.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

After buying the tire, I realized proper installation is crucial. I either had a professional install it or used the right tools to do it myself safely. Also, regular maintenance like checking tire pressure and inspecting for wear helps prolong the tire’s life and keeps me safe on every ride.

Final Thoughts

Buying an 80 100 X 21 tire might seem straightforward, but considering these factors made a huge difference in my riding experience. Understanding the size, choosing the right tread, checking ratings, and balancing price with quality helped me pick a tire that fits my needs perfectly. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision too!

Author Profile

Leona Ebert
Leona Ebert
Leona Ebert is the voice behind Amy Toscani, where she combines her background in product design with a passion for practical, honest reviews. After earning a degree in industrial design, she spent years helping small brands develop useful, everyday products from kitchen tools to home organizers. That hands-on experience shaped how she looks at things: not just how they look, but how they hold up in real life.

Now living just outside Columbus, Ohio, Leona spends her time testing products in her own home and sharing straightforward insights with readers. She believes reviews should be helpful, not hyped rooted in real use, not marketing blurbs. Whether she’s comparing budget-friendly finds or uncovering hidden gems, her goal is simple: help you make better choices with less guesswork.