Earlier this month, Continental showcased their extensive range of tires for the two-wheel industry at EICMA, including an updated TKC80 Dual Sport rubber. Adventure riders who’ve been riding for any length of time no doubt have tried the TKC80 at one time or another whether as an OEM tire or aftermarket replacement. That’s not hard to believe considering that they’ve been around for nearly 40 years with their characteristic big-block tread pattern. 

The TKC80s are so iconic that they are often used as a benchmark to measure against for any new dual sport tire entering the market. With their versatility and consistent grip on both street and dirt, they’ve been able to remain a popular pick for adventures of the more rugged type, despite stiffening competition. 

While the TKC80’s reputation for consistent performance has gained them a loyal following, they are less often praised for their durability. That is one area Continental is looking to improve on with the latest iteration, now with what they generally describe is the implementation of an updated carcass with new and improved breaker material, along with a new rubber compound, to give it higher tolerance in harsh conditions. Based on internal testing, they state the new tire offers more resistance to chunking and chipping of the knobs.

And perhaps as a response to the previous TKC80 recall, Continental says an entirely new manufacturing process has been implemented with a new compound mixing method, molds, breaker material, and machines to ensure the highest quality. 

The refined manufacturing process has produced gains in performance as well with Conti claiming a 3.8 second faster lap time in wet conditions and more stability than its predecessor. While street performance is said to be improved, the iconic tread pattern that has made it a good off-road tire remains unchanged. According to the tire manufacturer, you can expect the same biting edge performance in the dirt along with a smooth, quiet ride on the road the TKC80s are renowned for. 

Unfortunately longevity hasn’t improved. Continental says mileage should be around the same as the most recent prior version of the tire. For those looking for more longevity, Conti recommends pairing the TKC80 front tire with the TKC70 Rocks rear tire for significantly increased mileage and similar performance to the full TKC80 set. 

Key Features

• Improved carcass and compound for higher tolerance in harsh conditions.
• New building process for higher quality and durability.
• More wet grip – 3.8 seconds faster in wet conditions with more stability than predecessor
• New tire sizes

The new Continental TKC80 will be available starting January 1st, 2025 with two new tire sizes becoming available in the second half of 2025. 

Tire Sizes

• 120/70-19 M/C 60Q TL (Front)
• 90/90-21 M/C 54T TL (Front)
• 120/90-18 M/C 72Q TL (Rear)
• 140/80-18 M/C 70R TL (Rear)
• 150/70 B 18 M/C 70Q TL (Rear)
• 170/60 B 17 M/C 72Q TL (Rear)
• 110/80-19 M/C 59Q TL (Front) [NEW]
• 150/70 B 17 M/C 69Q TL (Rear) [NEW]