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Features:
The Sportmax Q5A provides incredible all-around performance by building on the legacy and capabilities of Dunlop*s Roadsport and Q Series lines of tires
- Multi-Tread* technology utilizes a long-wearing compound in the center of the rear tread flanked by lateral-grip compounds, giving riders outstanding mileage without sacrificing handling or grip
- JLB technology is utilized in the front and rear to maximize
- A new compound has been developed that implements Carbon R and Hi Silica X to increase both dry and wet grip performance
What we think:
A rider should consider the Dunlop® Sportmax Q5 (Q5a) if they want one of the highest-performing DOT-legal hypersport tires available, especially for aggressive canyon carving or track-day riding.
🏁 Why Consider the Dunlop Sportmax Q5 (Q5a)?
✅ 1. Track-Optimized Performance
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The Q5a offers race-grade grip and handling while still being street legal (DOT-approved).
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Ideal for riders who push hard on track days, advanced riding schools, or twisty mountain roads.
✅ 2. Advanced Compound
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The Q5 uses an ultra-sticky compound derived from Dunlop’s racing slicks, with more silica for cold grip than traditional race tires.
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Enhanced for maximum traction under aggressive lean and hard braking.
✅ 3. Stiff Carcass and Profile
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Revised construction gives razor-sharp handling and lean-angle stability.
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Turn-in is quick and precise—comparable to race tires.
✅ 4. Fast Warm-Up
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Unlike full slicks or race tires, Q5s heat up quickly on the street and don’t require warmers for track use.
✅ 5. Made in USA + Pro Support
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Developed in collaboration with U.S. MotoAmerica racers.
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Excellent availability and tuning support for riders serious about setup.
🔄 Comparison: Dunlop Q5 vs Competing Hypersport/Track Tires
| Tire | Key Strengths | Compared to Q5 (Q5a) |
|---|---|---|
| Michelin Power Cup 2 | Track-first tire, street legal, stunning dry grip | Similar grip, more progressive feel; Q5 slightly quicker to warm up |
| Pirelli Supercorsa SP V3 | Industry benchmark for track-street dual use | More nimble, but wears faster and has limited wet grip |
| Bridgestone RS11 | High track grip, fast steering, needs heat | Q5a has better cold grip and street adaptability |
| Metzeler Racetec RR K3 | Strong lean grip and track consistency | Q5a more flickable and responsive on fast corner entry |
| Michelin Power GP | Hypersport compromise tire for spirited street use | Q5a is more track-oriented, GP is better for daily street riding |
🧪 Q5 vs Q5S – Quick Internal Comparison
| Feature | Q5 (Q5a) | Q5S |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Track-biased street/track tire | Street-biased hypersport tire |
| Compound | Ultra-sticky | Moderately sticky |
| Tread Life | Shorter | Longer |
| Wet Performance | Minimal | Moderate |
| Rider Type | Aggressive/Track day | Street rider with weekend canyon use |
🏍️ Ideal Rider Profile for the Q5
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You ride a high-performance sportbike like a Yamaha R1, Ducati Panigale, BMW S1000RR, or Super Duke R.
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You do track days regularly, or ride very aggressively in the canyons.
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You want confidence under full lean, hard braking, and fast transitions.
⚠️ Consider This:
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If you often ride in the rain or commute, the Q5 is overkill and might be unsafe due to limited wet grip.
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Tread life is significantly shorter than touring or street-focused tires.
🏁 Summary
The Dunlop Sportmax Q5 (Q5a) is one of the top DOT-legal track-ready tires you can buy, delivering razor-sharp precision, elite-level grip, and warm-up characteristics that allow crossover use on the street. It holds its own or exceeds competitors like the Pirelli Supercorsa SP V3 and Michelin Power Cup 2 in American track-day scenarios.