Pirelli MX Tyres: A Rider’s Breakdown

Available now at Bike Wise

Over the weekend at the Zone National, I had the chance to fit a wide variety of Pirelli motocross tyres, and more importantly, to chat with riders about what they like, what they don’t, and what they’re really looking for in a tyre. It was an insightful experience that left me with a new perspective on Pirelli’s off-road range — and I’m excited to share my thoughts with you.

Today, I’m highlighting two key combos from the Pirelli Scorpion MX lineup:

• Scorpion MX32 Mid Soft

• Scorpion MX Extra X

Both are game changers, but they serve different needs depending on your riding style, track conditions, and how often you’re replacing tyres.

The Scorpion MX32 Mid Soft – The Performance Pick

The MX32 Mid Soft 80/100-21 (front) and 80/100-19 (rear) are the tyres you'll most commonly see in GP races and high-level national motocross. And there’s good reason for that.

The front MX32 Mid Soft gives incredible front-end confidence and grip — in my opinion, it’s one of the best options available. It feels like riding on chocolate cake — smooth, sticky, and forgiving.

Now, some riders have pointed out that the knobblies tend to wear or even break off over time. But here’s the thing — that’s actually a sign of the tyre doing its job. Like Pirelli’s road racing performance tyres, the Scorpion MX32’s aggressive hook-up means it bites the track so effectively that it can shear knobblies under intense use. This isn’t a flaw — it’s performance. If you’re racing at a high level and prioritising grip over longevity, this tyre is your go-to.

The Scorpion MX Extra X – The Weekend Warrior’s Dream

Now, let’s talk about the Scorpion MX Extra X (80/100-21 front) — a tyre I hadn’t tried before, but one that has seriously piqued my interest.

Side-by-side with the MX32 Mid Soft, the tread pattern is strikingly similar, especially in the centre row of knobblies. But the difference lies in the construction. The MX Extra X features a more reinforced, squared-off shoulder design, particularly in the side knobblies, which see the most wear and impact. The bridgework between knobs is also more robust, providing additional durability.

If you’re someone who doesn’t want to replace tyres too often, or if you’re looking for a solid training or practice combo, this is an amazing option. It’s also ideal for more varied terrain, especially tracks that transition between soft soil and harder, rocky patches.

Quick Breakdown: When to Choose Which

Tyre	Best For	Key Benefit
Scorpion MX32 Mid Soft	High-performance racing, soft track conditions	Unmatched grip and precision
Scorpion MX Extra X	Weekend warriors, practice sessions, mixed conditions	Reinforced durability and value

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My Final Thoughts

If you’re racing at a top level and need maximum grip and front-end feel, the MX32 Mid Soft is unmatched. But if you’re more focused on training, value for money, or you ride on tougher, mixed tracks, the MX Extra X is a tyre you’ll want to try. Personally, I’ll be fitting a set soon to see how it performs under pressure.

Both options are available now from Bike Wise — so whether you’re chasing podiums or just want a tyre that’ll last a few more motos, they’ve got you covered.

 

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