Introduction
When it comes to adventure motorcycling, choosing the right tire is crucial. For my recent trip to Nordkapp, I opted for the Pirelli Scorpion Rally tire on my Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled. The journey spanned 8600 kilometers, with a mix of paved roads and gravel tracks. Here’s an honest review of how the tire performed during this extensive ride.
Initial Impressions
The Pirelli Scorpion Rally tire is well-regarded for its off-road capabilities, so I was keen to see how it would handle the variety of terrains I encountered. As expected, the tire required a brief break-in period. For the first 20 kilometers, I noticed the tire was somewhat slippery on the streets, which is typical for new tires. However, once the tire was broken in, it began to deliver on its promise.
On-Road Performance
After the initial break-in, the Pirelli Scorpion Rally demonstrated solid grip on paved roads. Whether I was cruising along scenic highways or tackling winding mountain passes, the tire provided a stable and confident ride. It maintained good contact with the road surface in various weather conditions, which allowed me to push my Ducati Scrambler a bit harder when the roads permitted.
It’s worth noting that while the tire performs well on tarmac, it is primarily designed for off-road use. As a result, you might experience minor vibrations, which are relatively easy to overlook. However, the noise generated by the tire on long stretches of asphalt is more noticeable and could be a point of consideration for some riders.
Off-Road Performance
The real test for the Pirelli Scorpion Rally came when I hit the gravel roads in Sweden. This is where the tire truly excelled. The knobby tread pattern, which is designed for off-road conditions, provided excellent grip on loose gravel, dirt, and even some muddy sections. I felt in control at all times, even when the terrain got challenging.
The tire’s traction and ability to absorb shocks from uneven surfaces made the off-road segments of the trip both comfortable and enjoyable. If you’re planning an adventure that involves a significant amount of off-road riding, this tire will not disappoint.
Durability and Longevity
After covering around 6000 kilometers of mixed terrain riding, it became clear that the tire was nearing the end of its life. While I had hoped it would last a bit longer, this lifespan is fairly typical for adventure tires subjected to rigorous conditions. In Stockholm, I decided to replace the tire at the Desmo Center. The service there was excellent, with friendly employees who ensured a smooth and hassle-free experience.
The wear on the tire was even, with no major chunking or damage, which is a testament to its build quality. Despite the earlier-than-expected replacement, I was satisfied with how the tire performed up until that point.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Pirelli Scorpion Rally tire proved to be a reliable choice for my Ducati Scrambler Desert Sled on the journey to Nordkapp. It offered good grip on paved roads once broken in, and it excelled on the gravel roads of Sweden. The tire did produce some noise on the asphalt, and minor vibrations were present, but these were manageable trade-offs for the overall performance.
While I had to replace the tire after 6000 kilometers, considering the demanding conditions, this lifespan is reasonable. The excellent service I received at the Desmo Center in Stockholm was a bonus that made the tire change process smooth.
Would I buy the Pirelli Scorpion Rally tire again? Absolutely. Its off-road capabilities, combined with reliable on-road performance, make it a solid choice for adventure riders tackling diverse terrains. If you’re planning a similar trip or regularly ride on mixed surfaces, this tire is worth considering.