For over 40 years, the Conti TKC 80 has been the foundation for the adventures of thousands, if not millions, of enduro riders. 1000PS has also relied on the TKC 80 over the past two decades, whether at the Bosnia Rally or during our Offroad Test Days. While minor tweaks were made to the tire over the years, the classic remained largely unchanged. Come 2026, Continental is set to unveil the TKC 80², the next evolutionary step of its legendary adventure tire. With over 40 years of experience in the adventure touring segment, Conti has thoroughly revamped the tire to meet the demands of modern adventure bikes. According to Continental, the development aims for maximum versatility: 50 percent road, 50 percent trail—a tire designed to appeal to long-distance travelers as well as true adventurers.
Continental TKC 80² - Revamp of the Off-Road Tire Legend
New All-Terrain Off-Road Tire for Street and Trail
Continental introduces the TKC 80², the successor to the legendary off-road classic, the TKC 80. This tire has been completely redesigned to offer a balanced relationship between street performance and trail capability.
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Gregor
published on 10/29/2025
Like many other adventure riders, we too have often relied on the Conti TKC 80 for our motorcycle adventures.
Conti TKC 80² - New Tread Design for Enhanced Grip and Control
At the heart of the new TKC 80² is the completely redesigned tread pattern. Larger, staggered knobs featuring additional biting edges and optimized block geometry are engineered to boost mechanical grip on loose surfaces and enhance self-cleaning capabilities. According to Continental, this offers significant advantages, particularly in off-road conditions like mud, sand, or gravel. The front tire's tread blocks are sharply sloped downwards in the direction of travel to improve braking grip, while the rear tire's profile is designed for maximum traction during acceleration.
The new tread pattern of the Conti TKC 80² closely resembles that of the TKC 80 at first glance, but it's designed to enhance braking performance and grip on loose terrain.
Casing and Compound: Stability Meets Flexibility
The carcass construction of the Continental TKC 80² has been specifically optimized for 50:50 use. It is designed to ensure stable performance under heavy loads and at high speeds on the road, without compromising off-road capability. A newly developed rubber compound featuring Continental's RainGrip technology is intended to perform well on both dry and wet surfaces. It adapts to the micro-texture of the asphalt, offering improved wet grip while maintaining high wear resistance—an essential factor for long-distance travelers and year-round riders.
As a 50-50 tire, the TKC 80² must perform well both off-road and on-road.
Sizes and Compatibility
The TKC 80² is available in a wide range of sizes, with four front tire dimensions (19 and 21 inches) and six rear sizes (17 and 18 inches). This range covers all popular adventure touring and adventure bikes, including models from BMW, KTM, Honda, Yamaha, and Ducati. The tire will be available from spring 2026 at specialist retailers and all Continental partners.
The adventure touring segment is now massive, ranging from small A2 adventure tourers to the 150+ hp top class. The Conti TKC 80² is designed to cater to the entire market.
Conclusion: Proven Concept, Newly Interpreted
With the TKC 80², Continental continues its off-road tradition with conviction. The combination of a revamped structure, new rubber compound, and adjusted tread design is intended to better achieve the balance between on-road comfort and off-road traction than ever before.
We're eager for more adventures with the new Conti TKC 80².
FAQ - Continental TKC 80²
How is the Continental TKC 80² positioned?
The TKC 80² is the successor to the TKC 80, designed for 50:50 use on road and trail.
What's new about the Continental TKC 80²?
It features an entirely new tread design, an improved carcass, and a new rubber compound with Continental RainGrip technology.
When will the Continental TKC 80² be available?
According to the manufacturer, the tire will be available from spring 2026.
Which motorcycles is the TKC 80² suitable for?
It is designed for popular adventure touring and adventure bikes, such as models from BMW, KTM, Honda, Yamaha, and Ducati.
How does the TKC 80² differ from the TKC 80?
According to Continental, the successor offers greater stability, better wet grip, and improved self-cleaning in off-road conditions.
What sizes are available?
Four sizes for the front (19 and 21 inches) and six for the rear (17 and 18 inches).
What does RainGrip technology mean?
RainGrip is a special Continental rubber compound intended to provide more traction on wet surfaces.
What is the off-road ratio of the TKC 80²?
It is designed for a balanced ratio of 50% road and 50% off-road.
What characterizes the tread of the TKC 80²?
Larger, staggered knobs with additional biting edges for enhanced traction and self-cleaning.
Where is the TKC 80² manufactured?
Continental manufactures motorcycle tires worldwide; the exact production location is not specified.