Alright guys, let’s dive deep into the Levorin Dual Sport 90/90-19 tire. If you're in the market for a versatile tire that can handle both your daily commutes and weekend off-road adventures, this might just be the tire you've been searching for. This comprehensive review will cover everything you need to know, from its design and features to its performance, durability, and overall value. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of Levorin Dual Sport Tires

Levorin has been a well-known name in the tire industry for decades, particularly in the Brazilian market. They're recognized for producing reliable and affordable tires that cater to a wide range of vehicles, from motorcycles to agricultural equipment. The Levorin Dual Sport series is specifically designed for riders who need a tire that can perform well on both paved roads and unpaved trails. These tires aim to strike a balance between on-road comfort and off-road traction, making them a popular choice for adventure bikes and dual-sport motorcycles.

The dual-sport category is all about versatility. Riders who choose dual-sport tires typically want something that can handle their daily commutes without sacrificing the ability to explore dirt roads and trails on the weekends. This means the tire needs to offer good grip on asphalt, decent wear life, and sufficient traction on loose surfaces. The Levorin Dual Sport tires are engineered to meet these demands, offering a tread pattern and construction that are optimized for mixed use.

Key features often include a moderately aggressive tread pattern, a durable compound, and a reinforced carcass. The tread pattern is designed to provide enough contact area for good grip on the road while also having enough open space to bite into dirt and gravel. The compound needs to be tough enough to resist wear and tear from the pavement but also flexible enough to provide good traction on varied surfaces. The reinforced carcass ensures that the tire can withstand the stresses of off-road riding, such as impacts from rocks and roots.

Features and Specifications

Let's get into the specifics of the Levorin Dual Sport 90/90-19 tire. Understanding the features and specifications will help you determine if this tire is the right fit for your motorcycle and riding style. We'll break down the size, construction, tread pattern, and other important details.

Size and Compatibility

The 90/90-19 designation refers to the tire's dimensions. The first number, 90, indicates the tire's width in millimeters. The second number, also 90, represents the aspect ratio, which is the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width. In this case, the sidewall height is 90% of the 90mm width. The final number, 19, is the rim diameter in inches. This tire is designed to fit motorcycles with a 19-inch front wheel.

Compatibility is crucial. Before purchasing any tire, always check your motorcycle's owner's manual or the existing tire size to ensure that the Levorin 90/90-19 is the correct size. Installing the wrong size tire can negatively impact your bike's handling, stability, and even safety. Some popular motorcycles that might use this tire size include certain models of adventure bikes, dual-sport bikes, and some older street bikes. Always verify fitment to avoid any issues.

Tire Construction and Materials

The Levorin Dual Sport 90/90-19 features a bias-ply construction. Bias-ply tires are made with layers of fabric cords that run diagonally across the tire. This type of construction provides a strong and durable tire that is well-suited for the demands of dual-sport riding. While bias-ply tires may not offer the same level of high-speed performance as radial tires, they are generally more affordable and offer excellent puncture resistance, which is a significant advantage when riding off-road.

The tire compound is another critical factor. Levorin uses a proprietary rubber compound that is designed to balance wear resistance and grip. This compound is formulated to provide good traction on both wet and dry surfaces while also resisting the abrasion that can occur when riding on pavement. The specific composition of the compound is a trade secret, but it is engineered to offer a good compromise between longevity and performance.

Tread Pattern and Design

The tread pattern of the Levorin Dual Sport 90/90-19 tire is one of its defining features. It's designed to provide a good balance of on-road and off-road performance. The pattern typically includes a series of interconnected blocks and grooves that are arranged to provide ample grip on a variety of surfaces. The blocks offer a large contact area for good traction on pavement, while the grooves help to channel water away in wet conditions and provide biting edges for grip on loose surfaces.

The design often incorporates a center rib or continuous strip down the middle of the tire. This rib helps to improve stability and reduce rolling resistance on the road, which can enhance fuel economy and reduce wear. The shoulder blocks are usually more aggressive, with deeper grooves and sharper edges, to provide better cornering grip on both pavement and dirt. The overall design is intended to inspire confidence in a wide range of conditions.

Performance and Handling

How does the Levorin Dual Sport 90/90-19 tire actually perform in real-world conditions? Let's break down its performance on the road, off the road, and in wet conditions. Understanding how this tire handles in different scenarios will help you make an informed decision.

On-Road Performance

On paved roads, the Levorin Dual Sport tire offers a reasonably comfortable and stable ride. The center rib helps to maintain straight-line stability, and the tire's construction absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road surface. While it may not offer the same level of precision and feedback as a dedicated sportbike tire, it provides adequate grip for everyday riding and commuting. Riders can expect predictable handling and decent cornering performance at moderate speeds.

However, it's important to remember that this is a dual-sport tire, not a sport tire. Pushing it too hard in corners can lead to a loss of grip, especially at higher speeds. The tire's blocky tread pattern can also generate some noise and vibration on the road, which may be noticeable at highway speeds. Overall, the on-road performance is acceptable for a dual-sport tire, but riders should be aware of its limitations.

Off-Road Performance

Off-road, the Levorin Dual Sport 90/90-19 tire shows its versatility. The aggressive shoulder blocks and deep grooves provide good traction on dirt, gravel, and other loose surfaces. The tire is capable of biting into the terrain and propelling the bike forward, even in challenging conditions. Riders can expect decent performance on trails, dirt roads, and fire roads. The tire's durable construction also helps to resist punctures and damage from rocks and other obstacles.

However, it's not a dedicated off-road tire. It may struggle in very muddy or sandy conditions, where a more aggressive knobby tire would be more suitable. The tire's relatively small size (90/90-19) may also limit its performance in deep sand or mud. Overall, the off-road performance is good for a dual-sport tire, but riders should choose their terrain carefully and avoid extreme conditions.

Wet Weather Performance

Wet weather performance is always a critical consideration for motorcycle tires. The Levorin Dual Sport 90/90-19 tire features grooves that help to channel water away from the contact patch, reducing the risk of hydroplaning. However, the tire's wet grip is not as confidence-inspiring as a dedicated rain tire. Riders should exercise caution in wet conditions, reducing their speed and increasing their following distance.

The tire's compound and tread pattern provide adequate grip on wet pavement, but it's essential to avoid sudden acceleration, braking, and cornering. The tire may be more prone to slipping in wet conditions than a tire specifically designed for wet weather. Overall, the wet weather performance is acceptable for a dual-sport tire, but riders should always prioritize safety and ride accordingly.

Durability and Longevity

Durability and longevity are important factors to consider when choosing a motorcycle tire. The Levorin Dual Sport 90/90-19 tire is known for its robust construction and durable compound, which contribute to a decent lifespan. However, the actual mileage you can expect from this tire will depend on several factors, including your riding style, the type of roads you ride on, and how well you maintain the tire.

Factors Affecting Tire Life

Several factors can impact the lifespan of the Levorin Dual Sport tire. Aggressive riding, such as frequent hard acceleration and braking, can accelerate wear. Riding primarily on pavement can also reduce tire life, as the tire's compound is designed for a mix of on-road and off-road use. Improper inflation pressure is another common cause of premature wear. Underinflated tires tend to wear more quickly on the edges, while overinflated tires wear more quickly in the center. Regular tire maintenance, such as checking and adjusting the inflation pressure, can help to maximize tire life.

Expected Mileage

With proper care and maintenance, riders can typically expect to get between 5,000 and 8,000 miles from a Levorin Dual Sport 90/90-19 tire. However, this is just an estimate, and your actual mileage may vary. Riders who primarily ride on pavement may get less mileage, while those who ride mostly off-road may get more. The key is to monitor the tire's condition regularly and replace it when the tread depth reaches the legal limit or when the tire shows signs of damage or wear.

Wear Patterns and Maintenance Tips

Monitoring the tire's wear patterns can provide valuable insights into its condition and performance. Uneven wear, such as excessive wear on one side of the tire, can indicate alignment issues or suspension problems. Cupping, which is a scalloped pattern of wear, can be caused by worn shocks or improper tire pressure. Regular tire maintenance, such as checking the inflation pressure, inspecting the tire for damage, and balancing the wheels, can help to prevent premature wear and extend the tire's lifespan.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, here's a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the Levorin Dual Sport 90/90-19 tire:

Pros

• Affordable price point
• Versatile performance on- and off-road
• Durable construction
• Decent lifespan
• Good traction on a variety of surfaces

Cons

• Not ideal for aggressive riding
• Can be noisy on pavement
• Wet grip is not as confidence-inspiring as a dedicated rain tire
• May struggle in very muddy or sandy conditions

Final Verdict

The Levorin Dual Sport 90/90-19 tire is a solid choice for riders who need a versatile tire that can handle both on-road and off-road conditions. It offers a good balance of performance, durability, and affordability. While it may not be the best choice for aggressive riding or extreme off-road conditions, it's a reliable option for everyday commuting and weekend adventures. If you're looking for a budget-friendly dual-sport tire that can handle a variety of terrains, the Levorin Dual Sport 90/90-19 is definitely worth considering. Just remember to always prioritize safety and ride within your limits.