Successor to the Iconic Tire Backed By 40 Years of Experience
With the new TKC 80², Continental introduces the natural evolution of its legendary TKC 80 motorcycle tire—after four decades of proven performance—and sets new standards in the trail and adventure segment with this second generation. The global demand for off-road experiences continues to grow: more and more riders are seeking challenges far from paved roads. At the same time, today’s larger and more powerful adventure motorcycles demand maximum tire performance—greater on-road stability, more traction, and more adventure. As the most robust off-road product in Continental’s motorcycle tire portfolio, the TKC 80² delivers an uncompromising sense of freedom on every ride.
Technical Innovations for the Ultimate Adventure
The Continental TKC 80² has been engineered to meet the demanding requirements of modern adventure motorcycles. At its core lies a completely new tread design: larger, restructured blocks with additional leading edges, stepped outer blocks, and optimized geometry that improve mechanical grip on loose surfaces and ensure excellent self-cleaning ability — a decisive advantage when riding through mud, sand, or gravel. With an increased contact patch, the tire also provides improved stability both in straight-line and leaned-over riding — a key benefit on long-distance journeys.
The front tire’s tread blocks, sharply angled in the direction of rotation, enhance braking grip on off-road terrain, while the rear tire’s blocks, oriented in the opposite direction, ensure optimal traction during acceleration.
Perfect Balance: 50% On-Road, 50% Off-Road
A major focus during development was the optimization of the tire’s carcass construction. Specifically designed for 50/50 on- and off-road use, the new structure provides greater stability under full load at high speeds and on demanding off-road trails. An improved damping characteristic enhances ride comfort across all conditions, whether cruising on asphalt or tackling rough terrain.
New Rubber Compound for Maximum Performance in Dry and Wet Conditions
The new rubber compound strikes a better balance between grip on a wide range of surfaces and resistance to wear. The TKC 80² impresses not only with its long-distance durability but also with its secure grip in cold and wet conditions, thanks to Continental’s RainGrip technology. “Our new flexible rubber compound adapts perfectly to the micro-roughness of the asphalt, providing outstanding grip. At the same time, we worked hard to resolve the traditional conflict between on-road and off-road performance. The tread pattern combines maximum flexibility for wet grip with high block stiffness for stability and mechanical traction,” explains Raphael Michels, Product Manager Motorcycle Tires at Continental.
This makes the Continental TKC 80² the ideal choice for riders who refuse to compromise—whether on asphalt, the Trans European Trail, North America’s Backcountry Discovery Routes, or on round-the-world expeditions. The tire also offers a high level of puncture and damage resistance, further enhancing its adventure-readiness.
Size Range and Availability
With a wide range of sizes — four front tire options in 19 and 21 inches, and six rear tire options in 17 and 18 inches — the TKC 80² is suitable for trail and adventure motorcycles from leading manufacturers such as BMW, KTM, Honda, Yamaha, and Ducati.
“With the TKC 80², we are setting new benchmarks in versatility, durability, and off-road performance. The combination of an innovative tread design, a new rubber compound, and an optimized carcass gives adventure riders the highest levels of safety, control, and riding enjoyment across diverse terrains,” says Christoph Ettenhuber, Head of Continental’s Motorcycle Tires Business Unit.
The new TKC 80², easily recognized by its new sidewall icon, will be available from spring 2026 at all Continental dealers and specialist workshops.
For full technical specifications and size details, visit www.continental-tires.com/motorcycle
