MXA TEAM TESTED: DUNLOP GEOMAX MX52 FRONT TIRE

Nov 6, 2014

WHAT IS IT? The Dunlop Geomax MX52 front tire is an intermediate-to-hard-terrain tire that was built to replace the Geomax MX51 and MX71.

WHAT STANDS OUT? Here’s a list of things that stand out with the Dunlop Geomax MX52 front tire.

(1) Replacement. Dunlop’s Geomax line has been upgraded for 2014. Instead of having three tires (MX31, MX51 and MX71) for different terrain, Dunlop engineered two tires (MX32 and MX52) that do the job of the three. The MX32 was developed for intermediate-to-soft terrain, while the MX52 is for hard-to-intermediate conditions. Dunlop’s new breed of tires hasn’t been a well-kept secret, as Dunlop has been developing these tires on the AMA Pro circuit for the last few years.

(2) Changes. Dunlop’s biggest advancement in their new breed of tires is the progressive cornering block technology on the rear tire. It is basically a knob within a knob. Dunlop places a small knobby into an existing one. The MX52’s staggered design of the center blocks enables the tire to spread the load to assist with impact damping and stability. Dunlop designed the MX52 to be directional, so be mindful when mounting it.

(3) Performance. The previous MX51 front seemed to be in a consistent state of looseness. The MX71 gripped well on hard dirt but was very terrain specific. To the casual tire aficionado, it seems as if Dunlop mated the MX51 to the MX71 with an eye toward taking the best genes from both to come up with the MX52. In hard-to-intermediate terrain, the MX52 performed exceptionally well. None of the MXA test riders had any issues. What they liked most about the MX52 was that there were never any surprises. You always knew what it was going to do. That is unless you took it out of its intended range—as in sand, mud or deep loam. If this is your terrain of choice, opt for an MX32.

(4) Durability. We had absolutely no issues with durability. The tire held its edges for a sufficient amount of time. All the knobs stayed intact with no breaking or cracking. The MX52 wore evenly. The wrecking crew was impressed that a performance-based tire had this much durability.

(5) Value. With the Dunlop MX52 front, you get what you pay for—performance. Yes, the price does sound high—and it is. However, keep in mind that is just the suggested retail price. Your local dealer’s price will be more reasonable.

WHAT’S THE SQUAWK? The tire is great for the conditions that it is made for. If you get the MX52 out of its comfort zone, make sure you have an MX32 in your arsenal.