Hey guys, let's dive into the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T! This tire is a popular choice for adventure and dual-sport motorcycles, and we're going to put it through its paces. In this in-depth review, we'll cover everything from real-world testing to performance metrics, helping you decide if this is the right rubber for your ride. We'll explore the tire's construction, how it handles various terrains, its longevity, and overall value. Buckle up, because we're about to get down and dirty with the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T!

Unveiling the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T: Design and Construction

First off, let's talk about the design. The Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is built with a specific purpose in mind: to excel on both paved roads and off-road trails. This dual-sport tire features a distinctive tread pattern, a crucial element in determining its performance. The tread blocks are strategically arranged to provide a balance of grip, stability, and wear resistance. Typically, you'll see a mix of larger blocks for off-road traction and smaller blocks or sipes for on-road handling. Pirelli uses a specialized compound to enhance both grip and durability, which is a common challenge for dual-sport tires. The construction of the tire involves several layers, including the carcass (the main body of the tire), belts for stability, and the tread compound. The carcass is usually made of multiple plies of nylon or other synthetic materials, offering strength and flexibility. The belts are typically made of steel or aramid fibers (like Kevlar), which enhance the tire's resistance to punctures and provide stability at higher speeds. The tread compound is a crucial part, because it influences grip, wear, and wet-weather performance. The Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is engineered to offer excellent grip on both wet and dry surfaces and good wear characteristics for extended use. Considering all of these features, the design choices reflect Pirelli's intent to create a versatile tire that performs well in a variety of conditions. The goal is to provide a confident riding experience whether you're navigating a winding mountain road or tackling a gravel path. The success of the design is what we'll evaluate with our test ride and performance review.

Tread Pattern and Compound

The tread pattern of the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is a key feature in its performance. Designed with a mix of block and void ratios, the pattern aims to provide good traction on loose surfaces while maintaining sufficient contact area for on-road grip. The block spacing allows the tire to bite into soft surfaces like dirt, mud, and gravel, while the grooves help to evacuate water and improve wet-weather performance. The compound used in the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is another critical element. Pirelli uses a specific blend of rubber and silica to balance grip, durability, and wear resistance. This compound is designed to provide excellent traction on a variety of surfaces and to maintain its performance characteristics over time. The compound also helps with heat resistance, which is important for tires used in demanding conditions. These features are great for providing a long life for the tires. The design ensures it can handle diverse terrains without compromising too much on-road stability.

Construction and Durability

The Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is constructed to withstand the rigors of both on-road and off-road riding. The carcass, typically made of multiple plies of nylon or similar materials, provides the structural foundation for the tire. This construction helps to absorb impacts and maintain the tire's shape under various loads. Reinforcements are often added to the sidewalls to protect against cuts and punctures, especially important for off-road riding. The belts, which are positioned under the tread, add stability and help to resist deformation at higher speeds. The overall construction is designed to balance flexibility for off-road performance with the necessary rigidity for on-road handling. The result is a tire that can handle a range of conditions and provide a durable performance over its lifespan. Durability is a key consideration for dual-sport tires, as they are often subjected to harsher conditions than street tires. The Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is built to withstand these demands, offering a balance of performance and longevity.

Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T: Performance on the Road

Alright, let's hit the pavement. How does the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T handle on asphalt? The good news is, these tires are pretty decent on the road. You can expect predictable handling and decent grip in both wet and dry conditions. This isn't a pure street tire, so don't expect the same level of performance as a dedicated sport-touring tire. The focus here is on balance. The tread pattern, while optimized for off-road, still provides enough contact area to offer reasonable cornering grip. The tire's compound also plays a crucial role, providing a good balance between grip and wear. The Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is designed to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface. This contributes to a smoother experience, especially on longer rides. It's stable at highway speeds and doesn't feel overly squirmy or nervous. However, it's worth noting that the blocky tread pattern can generate more noise than a road-focused tire, and the handling might not feel as sharp. This is just an expected tradeoff for the tire's off-road capabilities. Overall, the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T performs adequately on the road, making it a viable option for riders who spend a significant amount of time on the pavement but still want off-road versatility.

Handling and Grip

On the road, the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T provides predictable handling. The tire's construction and tread pattern offer good stability, especially at highway speeds. Cornering grip is decent, allowing riders to lean into turns with confidence. However, due to its dual-sport nature, the grip isn't as high as a dedicated road tire. The tread design provides enough contact area for good handling on dry roads. The compound helps to maintain grip in both wet and dry conditions. Riders can expect a balance of performance, where the tires provide enough grip for confident riding on paved roads. Overall, you will find the performance quite satisfactory.

Comfort and Noise

When it comes to comfort, the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T performs well. The tire's construction helps to absorb bumps and vibrations, contributing to a smoother ride. This is especially noticeable on rough road surfaces, where the tire's ability to dampen imperfections enhances the riding experience. However, the blocky tread pattern can generate more road noise than a street tire. While the noise is generally not excessive, it's something to be aware of, especially on longer rides. Despite this, the overall comfort level is good. The Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T balances on-road comfort with off-road capabilities.

Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T: Off-Road Capabilities and Testing

Now for the fun part: let's get off the beaten path! The Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is made for adventure, so how does it perform in the dirt and gravel? These tires shine in off-road conditions. The aggressive tread pattern provides excellent grip on loose surfaces, allowing you to confidently tackle trails, gravel roads, and even some muddy sections. The tread blocks dig in and provide traction, making it easier to maintain control. When testing, the tires provide great traction on different surfaces. The tire's construction is robust enough to handle the impacts and stresses of off-road riding. The sidewalls provide additional protection against punctures and cuts. They also offer good stability when navigating uneven terrain. If you're planning on doing a lot of off-roading, the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is a solid choice. Keep in mind that deep mud or extremely technical terrain might require a more specialized tire. Overall, the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T delivers a commendable off-road performance, making it a great option for dual-sport enthusiasts.

Traction and Stability

Off-road, the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T excels in traction. The tread pattern is designed to bite into loose surfaces, providing excellent grip in dirt, gravel, and mud. The blocks and voids help to displace the debris, enhancing traction. The tires offer good stability, even on uneven terrain. The robust construction and reinforced sidewalls contribute to the tire's ability to handle the rigors of off-road riding. The Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is a great choice for riders seeking confidence on off-road adventures. Overall, the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T provides excellent traction and stability in off-road conditions.

Terrain Suitability

The Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is versatile, making it suitable for a variety of terrains. It performs well on gravel roads, forest trails, and moderately muddy conditions. The tire's design provides a good balance of grip and durability. However, it's not ideal for extremely technical or muddy terrain. For such demanding conditions, specialized off-road tires might be necessary. The Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is a great choice for riders looking to explore a range of surfaces without compromising too much on-road performance. It's a capable tire that can handle diverse terrains, making it a great choice for dual-sport enthusiasts. Overall, the tire offers excellent versatility, making it a great choice for riders.

Durability and Wear of the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T

Alright, let's talk about the long haul. How long will the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T last? Durability is a key factor when choosing tires, so you want something that will last. The lifespan of these tires can vary depending on riding style, the type of terrain, and how well you maintain them. Generally, you can expect a decent mileage from the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T. On-road, the tires tend to wear evenly, especially if you maintain proper tire pressure. Off-road use will naturally accelerate wear, particularly on abrasive surfaces. Regular inspections for cuts, punctures, and uneven wear are essential. Proper inflation and avoiding excessive acceleration and braking can help to extend the tire's life. Tire rotation, if applicable for your motorcycle, can also promote even wear. Overall, the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T offers a reasonable balance of performance and longevity. Regular maintenance and mindful riding habits can help you get the most out of your investment.

Wear Characteristics

The Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T displays good wear characteristics. On-road, the tires tend to wear evenly, provided they are properly inflated and maintained. Off-road use will naturally accelerate wear, particularly on abrasive surfaces. Proper inflation is crucial, as under-inflation can lead to increased wear. Avoiding aggressive riding and sudden braking or acceleration can also extend the tire's lifespan. Tire rotation can help promote even wear, maximizing the tire's overall life. Overall, the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T offers a balance of wear and performance.

Longevity and Expected Mileage

The longevity of the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T varies. Riding style, road conditions, and maintenance play a significant role. On-road, you can expect a reasonable mileage, typically ranging from 3,000 to 6,000 miles, depending on the factors mentioned above. Off-road use will reduce this mileage, especially if the terrain is particularly abrasive. Regular maintenance, including proper inflation and inspections, can help to maximize the tire's lifespan. Avoid aggressive riding habits, and consider tire rotation to promote even wear. By following these guidelines, you can get the most out of the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T and ensure a good return on your investment.

Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T: Pros and Cons

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here's a quick rundown of the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T's strengths and weaknesses. This should help you decide if it's the right tire for you. The pros of the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T are its excellent off-road grip, good on-road handling, and versatile performance. The cons include more road noise, and less grip compared to pure street tires. Here's a detailed view of its advantages and disadvantages.

Pros

• Excellent Off-Road Grip: The tread pattern excels on loose surfaces, providing confident traction. Perfect for trail adventures.
• Good On-Road Handling: Offers predictable handling on pavement, suitable for mixed riding. It provides a good blend of on and off-road capabilities.
• Versatile Performance: Suitable for a variety of terrains, making it a great choice for dual-sport enthusiasts.
• Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of both on and off-road riding. The robust build and reinforced sidewalls contribute to the tire's ability to handle tough conditions.

Cons

• More Road Noise: The blocky tread pattern generates more noise than dedicated street tires. Something to consider if you do mostly road riding.
• Less Grip than Street Tires: On-road grip isn't as high as dedicated street tires, limiting performance on pavement.
• Off-Road Wear: Off-road use will accelerate wear, especially on abrasive surfaces. So, it's not the best choice if you're looking for ultra-long tire life.

Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T: Final Verdict and Recommendations

So, what's the bottom line? The Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is a solid choice for dual-sport riders seeking a versatile tire that performs well both on and off the road. It offers a good balance of grip, handling, and durability. It's an excellent option if you split your riding time between the pavement and the trails. If your focus is primarily on-road riding, you might consider a more street-oriented tire for better handling and reduced noise. The Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is best suited for riders who enjoy exploring a variety of terrains and want a tire that can handle both paved roads and off-road adventures. Overall, the Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is a great option for those looking for a versatile dual-sport tire. It provides a balanced performance suitable for various riding conditions.

Who is this tire for?

The Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is perfect for dual-sport riders who enjoy a mix of on-road and off-road riding. It's a great choice for those who frequently ride on gravel roads, forest trails, and other unpaved surfaces. If you prioritize versatility and want a tire that can handle both paved roads and off-road adventures, this tire is an excellent choice. It’s also suitable for riders who are looking for a tire that offers a good balance of performance, durability, and value.

Where to buy and pricing

The Pirelli Scorpion MT 90 A/T is readily available from various motorcycle tire retailers, both online and in physical stores. You can find it at major retailers, specialty shops, and online marketplaces. Pricing varies depending on the size and the retailer. Prices are usually a bit higher for bigger sizes. Always check for current prices and compare offers before making a purchase. Remember to factor in any additional costs like mounting and balancing when budgeting for your new tires. Look for sales and promotions to get the best deals. When you are buying the tires, ensure the retailer is reputable and offers good customer service. This way, you can get the best experience possible.