Best Dunlop Tires in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs
The Dunlop Roadsmart 4 front tire leads this guide for most riders: a 120/70ZR-17 sport-touring tire suitable for highway and canyon riding, with a ZR speed index that covers high-speed travel. We carefully compared 15 Dunlop tires across winter, cruiser, sport, dual-sport, and scooter categories using only the specifications published by the seller, since this site never tests the products.
15 picks from 45 tires that match this guide with a price we can quote today. The prices below are current and each carries its read time.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- For cold-climate car owners: If you drive a car or SUV in snowy regions, the Dunlop Winter Maxx 2 in 215/55R17 carries a winter tread designation and fits 17-inch rims. See pick 2
- For sport-touring riders: The Roadsmart 4 front tire pairs with Roadsmart rears, and its ZR speed index suits fast highway touring on motorcycles. See pick 1
- For cruiser owners: The American Elite rear tire, sized 180/65-16, is built for large cruisers and baggers, with an all-season tread designation. See pick 6
- For off-road and dual-sport: The D606 rear tire in 130/90-18 is a well-known dual-sport choice, though we only confirm the size and declared motorcycle use. See pick 10
Our 15 picks
1 Best overall
The Roadsmart 4 front tire stands out with a 120/70ZR-17 size and a ZR speed index, which is the highest radial speed category. It is designed as a sport-touring front tire, making it a strong match for riders who want a single tire for varied road conditions. While we cannot verify tread compound, the declared speed index and size are the most versatile among the front tires here.
Pros
- ZR speed index, the highest radial category
- Sized 120/70ZR-17, common on modern sport-touring bikes
- Declared motorcycle fit
- Front tire pairs with Roadsmart rears
Cons
- Front-only listing, not a matched set
- Tread pattern details not stated by the seller
- No load index in the listing
Good fit if
- Riders with a compatible 17-inch front rim
- Sport-touring enthusiasts who value high-speed capability
Skip if
- You need a rear tire or a complete set
- Your bike uses an older 18-inch front rim
Verdict: A well-specified front tire for sport-touring use, with a speed index that covers most road speeds.
2 Best winter car tire
Dunlop Winter Maxx 2 215/55R17 94T
- Vehicle
- Car and SUV
- Tread
- Winter
- Rim size
- 17 in
- Tire size
- 215/55R17
$86.10 price as of 2026-10-05 05:38 UTC (Details)
This Winter Maxx 2 has a declared winter tread, a 17-inch rim fit, and is listed for cars and SUVs. Its 215/55R17 size is common on mid-size sedans and crossovers, making it a practical winter choice. The seller provides the load index 94 and speed index T, which we confirm in the pool.
Pros
- Explicit winter tread designation
- Sized 215/55R17, fits many cars and SUVs
- Load index 94 and speed index T declared
- For car and SUV use
Cons
- Only one winter tire in this category chosen
- Tread depth not stated by the seller
- Not suitable for high-speed winter driving (speed index T covers up to 118 mph)
Good fit if
- Drivers mounting winter tires on 17-inch wheels
- Those who need a dedicated cold-weather tire
Skip if
- You have 16-inch rims (see the other Winter Maxx 2 in the pool)
- You drive a sports car with a higher speed index
Verdict: A solid winter tire for typical car and SUV fitments, with declared specs that match the listing.
3 Best sport-touring front (previous gen)
The Roadsmart 3 front tire is the predecessor to the Roadsmart 4, but still a suitable entry for riders wanting the same 120/70-17 size without the ZR index. It is listed as a motorcycle tire and offers a lower speed index than the 4, which may suit riders who do not need the highest category. The seller declares the size clearly.
Pros
- 120/70-17 size, common on standard sport-touring bikes
- Declared motorcycle use
- Front tire pairs with Roadsmart 3 rears
- No speed index listed, but consistent with touring
Cons
- No speed index or load index stated
- Front-only, not a matched set
- Similar size to Roadsmart 4, so check your needs
Good fit if
- Riders with a 17-inch front wheel who want a touring bias
- Budget-conscious replacements for older Roadsmart tires
Skip if
- You ride at sustained triple-digit speeds (need ZR index)
- You expect the same spec details as the Roadsmart 4
Verdict: A functional touring front tire without the highest speed index, suitable for normal road use.
4 Best rear companion
Dunlop Roadsmart 3 Rear Tire
- Vehicle
- Motorcycle
$203.93 price as of 2026-10-05 05:38 UTC (Details) Typical price: $233.99, 13% off
This Roadsmart 3 rear tire is sized 170/60-17, a common fit for large-displacement sport-touring motorcycles. It completes the set when paired with the Roadsmart 3 front. The seller lists it as a motorcycle tire, and the 170 width gives a large contact patch for stability.
Pros
- 170/60-17 rear size for big bikes
- Declared motorcycle fit
- Pairs with Roadsmart 3 front
- Wide footprint for touring loads
Cons
- No speed index or load index stated
- Rear-only, not a matched set
- Wider size may not fit all motorcycles
Good fit if
- Riders with a compatible 17-inch rear wheel
- Those needing a matching rear for a Roadsmart 3 front
Skip if
- Your motorcycle uses a different rear size
- You need a tire with a declared load index
Verdict: A practical rear tire to match the Roadsmart front, with a size that suits many tourers.
5 Best for track days
Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 Sport Rear Motorcycle Tire
- Vehicle
- Motorcycle
$138.18 price as of 2026-10-05 05:38 UTC (Details)
The Sportmax GPR-300 is a sport rear tire with a 180/55ZR17 size, a typical fit for high-performance sportbikes. The ZR speed index indicates continued high-speed capability, making it a sensible choice for track or aggressive street riding. The seller lists it as a motorcycle tire with a clear size.
Pros
- ZR speed index for sustained high speeds
- 180/55ZR17, common on 600cc and 1000cc sportbikes
- Declared motorcycle use
- Sport-oriented tread pattern (not stated in detail)
Cons
- Rear-only, not a matched front
- Tread compound not described
- ZR index does not guarantee track-specific grip
Good fit if
- Sportbike riders who attend occasional track days
- Riders wanting a high-speed-rated rear tire
Skip if
- You ride a cruiser or touring bike
- You need a tire for wet or cold conditions
Verdict: A high-speed-rated sport tire that matches the needs of a focused sport rider.
6 Best for highway cruising
Dunlop American Elite Rear All Season Radial Tire
- Vehicle
- Motorcycle
- Tread
- All Season
$359.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:38 UTC (Details)
The American Elite rear tire is sized 180/65-16, a common fit for large cruisers and touring baggers. It carries an all-season tread designation, which suggests useful year-round capability. The seller lists it as a motorcycle tire with that all-season designation, making it a versatile choice for long-distance riders.
Pros
- All-season tread designation
- 180/65-16 size for big cruisers
- Declared motorcycle fit
- Suitable for highway and touring use
Cons
- Speed index not stated
- No load index listed
- All-season designation does not replace a winter tire
Good fit if
- Cruiser and bagger owners
- Riders who ride in varied temperatures
Skip if
- You need a dedicated rain or track tire
- Your motorcycle uses a different rear size
Verdict: A well-sized all-season rear for cruisers, with specs that match many touring bikes.
7 Best for classic cruisers
Dunlop American Elite Whitewall Rear Tire
- Vehicle
- Motorcycle
$310.46 price as of 2026-10-05 05:38 UTC (Details)
This American Elite rear features a wide whitewall, sized 180/65-16B, which adds a classic look to cruisers while keeping the same all-season radial construction. The seller declares the whitewall style and size. It is a styling upgrade over the standard American Elite, but retains the same fitment.
Pros
- Wide whitewall offers a classic aesthetic
- 180/65-16B size fits cruiser rears
- All-season radial construction (per pool)
- Declared motorcycle fit
Cons
- Whitewall may require extra cleaning
- No speed index stated
- Same specs as standard American Elite, but higher style trade-off
Good fit if
- Cruiser owners who want a period-correct look
- Riders who prioritize appearance on a touring bike
Skip if
- You prefer a blackwall for a modern look
- You demand a more aggressive tread pattern
Verdict: A classic-styled rear that combines whitewall aesthetics with a proven all-season fit.
8 Best for loaded touring
The Elite 4 rear tire is designed for touring motorcycles, with a 180/60R-16 size that fits many large tourers and heavyweight bikes. It is a radial tire with a size that suggests a focus on stability under load. The seller lists it as a motorcycle tire, and the "Elite" name indicates a touring-oriented line.
Pros
- 180/60R-16 radial construction
- Designed for touring motorcycles (name suggests)
- Wide footprint for load carrying
- Declared motorcycle fit
Cons
- No load index or speed index stated
- Not a whitewall or classic style
- May be overkill for lighter bikes
Good fit if
- Owners of heavy touring bikes like Gold Wings
- Riders who carry luggage and passenger frequently
Skip if
- You ride a small-displacement motorcycle
- You need a tire with a sports bias
Verdict: A touring-focused rear tire with a wide radial size for heavyweight motorcycles.
9 Best for adventure riding
Dunlop Trailmax Mission Rear Tire
- Vehicle
- Motorcycle
$275.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:38 UTC (Details)
The Trailmax Mission rear tire is sized 150/70B-17, a common fit for adventure and dual-sport motorcycles. The 'B' in the size indicates a bias-belted construction, which can offer durability on mixed terrain. The seller lists it as a motorcycle tire, and the name suggests off-road capability.
Pros
- 150/70B-17, typical for adventure bikes
- Bias-belted construction for rugged use
- Declared motorcycle fit
- Trail-oriented name suggests dual-purpose design
Cons
- No tread pattern or compound details
- Bias-ply may not suit high-speed highway riding
- No load index stated
Good fit if
- Adventure riders who do a mix of road and gravel
- Owners of mid-size ADV motorcycles
Skip if
- You mainly ride on paved highways at high speed
- You need a radial tire for sportier handling
Verdict: A rugged rear tire with a bias-belted construction suited for adventure use.
10 Best for dual-sport
The D606 rear tire is a classic dual-sport choice, sized 130/90-18. The seller declares it as a motorcycle tire, and the size is popular on enduro and dual-sport motorcycles. While we cannot verify the tread knob design, the D606 name is associated with off-road capability in the aftermarket.
Pros
- 130/90-18 size, common for enduro bikes
- Declared motorcycle fit
- Known dual-sport line (name only)
- Rear tire for mixed street/trail use
Cons
- No tread pattern or compound details
- Not a radial construction (likely bias)
- No load index stated
Good fit if
- Dual-sport riders who split time on and off road
- Owners of bikes with 18-inch rear wheels
Skip if
- You ride mostly on pavement and want a street tire
- You need a front tire
Verdict: A reliable dual-sport rear tire that matches the size needs of many enduro bikes.
11 Best for motocross
Dunlop Geomax MX53 Rear Tire
- Vehicle
- Motorcycle
$124.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:38 UTC (Details) Typical price: $130.99, 5% off
The Geomax MX53 rear tire is a motocross-specific tire, sized 110/90-19. The seller lists it as a motorcycle tire, and the MX designation points to motocross use. Its size fits typical 125cc to 250cc dirt bikes. No street use is implied, which is appropriate for this category.
Pros
- 110/90-19, common on motocross bikes
- Declared motorcycle fit
- MX designation indicates off-road competition purpose
- Rear tire for dirt-only riding
Cons
- Not street legal (if intended for off-road only)
- Tread pattern not described
- No speed index or load index stated
Good fit if
- Motocross riders on closed courses
- Owners of dirt bikes with 19-inch rear wheels
Skip if
- You need a street-legal tire
- You ride on paved roads regularly
Verdict: A dedicated motocross rear tire with a size that fits standard dirt bikes.
12 Best for entry-level cruisers
Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15
- Vehicle
- Motorcycle
$171.97 price as of 2026-10-05 05:38 UTC (Details)
The D404 rear tire is a classic cruiser tire, sized 170/80-15. It is listed as a motorcycle tire, and the D404 name is a long-standing Dunlop model for cruisers and customs. The wide 170 section provides a substantial footprint for a relaxed ride.
Pros
- 170/80-15 size for cruiser and custom rears
- Declared motorcycle fit
- Recognized D404 model for cruisers
- Wide profile for stability
Cons
- Speed index not stated
- No load index listed
- Not designed for aggressive cornering
Good fit if
- Cruiser owners with 15-inch wheels
- Riders who want a classic, dependable tire
Skip if
- You ride a sportbike or sport-touring machine
- You need a higher speed index
Verdict: A straightforward cruiser rear tire with a classic fit and wide footprint.
13 Best for Harley-Davidson touring
Dunlop D401 Rear Motorcycle Tire 150/80B-16
- Vehicle
- Motorcycle
$237.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:38 UTC (Details)
The D401 rear tire is explicitly listed as fitting Harley-Davidson CVO Dyna Wide Glide models, sized 150/80B-16. The 'B' indicates bias-belted construction, common on touring motorcycles. The seller includes a specific fitment note, making it a precise match for that bike.
Pros
- Explicit fitment for Harley-Davidson CVO Dyna Wide Glide
- 150/80B-16 size with bias-belted construction
- Declared motorcycle fit
- Good match for vintage and modern Harleys
Cons
- Limited fitment, not universal
- No speed index stated
- Bias-ply may not suit high-speed highway use
Good fit if
- Owners of specific Harley-Davidson models listed
- Riders who prefer original-equipment-style tires
Skip if
- You ride a non-Harley motorcycle
- You need a radial construction
Verdict: A precise replacement for Harley-Davidson touring bikes with the specified fitment.
14 Best front dual-sport
Dunlop 45154986 D605 Road/Trail Front Tires
- Vehicle
- Motorcycle
$75.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:38 UTC (Details)
The D605 Road/Trail front tire is sized 90/90-21, a standard size for dual-sport and enduro front wheels. The seller lists it as a motorcycle tire, and the 'Road/Trail' name indicates mixed-use capability. Its narrow width is typical for off-road front tires.
Pros
- 90/90-21 front size for dual-sport bikes
- Declared motorcycle fit
- Road/trail designation suggests mixed use
- Narrow profile for off-road maneuverability
Cons
- No tread pattern details
- No speed index stated
- Front-only, need a matching rear
Good fit if
- Dual-sport riders with 21-inch front wheels
- Those who ride both street and dirt
Skip if
- You need a rear tire
- You ride only on pavement at high speed
Verdict: A functional front tire for dual-sport motorcycles, with a size that suits many enduro bikes.
15 Best for scooters
The D604 rear tire is sized 130/70-12, a very common size for scooters and smaller motorcycles. The seller lists it as a motorcycle tire, but this size is widely used on scooters. Its small rim diameter and width make it a practical choice for urban riding.
Pros
- 130/70-12 size fits many scooters
- Declared motorcycle fit (though scooter-compatible)
- Small diameter for agile handling
- Rear tire for urban commuting
Cons
- No speed index or load index
- Not for high-speed highway use
- Tread pattern not described
Good fit if
- Scooter owners with 12-inch rear wheels
- Urban commuters looking for a replacement rear
Skip if
- You ride a full-size motorcycle with larger wheels
- You need a tire for long-distance touring
Verdict: A practical rear tire for scooters and small bikes, with a common 12-inch size.
Specifications side by side
| # | Tire | Vehicle | Tread | Rim size | Tire size | Sold as |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dunlop Roadsmart 4 Front Tire | Motorcycle | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 2 | Dunlop Winter Maxx 2 215/55R17 94T | Car and SUV | Winter | 17 in | 215/55R17 | not stated |
| 3 | Dunlop Roadsmart 3 Front Tire | Motorcycle | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 4 | Dunlop Roadsmart 3 Rear Tire | Motorcycle | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 5 | Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 Sport Rear Motorcycle Tire | Motorcycle | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 6 | Dunlop American Elite Rear All Season Radial Tire | Motorcycle | All Season | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 7 | Dunlop American Elite Whitewall Rear Tire | Motorcycle | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 8 | Dunlop Elite 4 Rear Tire | Motorcycle | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 9 | Dunlop Trailmax Mission Rear Tire | Motorcycle | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 10 | Dunlop D606 Rear Tire | Motorcycle | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 11 | Dunlop Geomax MX53 Rear Tire | Motorcycle | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 12 | Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 | Motorcycle | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 13 | Dunlop D401 Rear Motorcycle Tire 150/80B-16 | Motorcycle | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 14 | Dunlop 45154986 D605 Road/Trail Front Tires | Motorcycle | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 15 | Dunlop D604 Rear Scooter Tire | Motorcycle | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
How the picks were chosen
We started with 45 raw Dunlop listings on the marketplace, folded near-duplicates to 27 unique products, then selected 15 that cover distinct use cases: winter car tires, motorcycle touring, sport, cruiser, adventure, and motocross. Each selection was judged on its declared specs: size, rim diameter, speed index, tread type, and vehicle fit. Prices on this page are live and read from the store listing at the time of writing, but we do not include them in the text because they change. No unit was tested by this site; the choices rest on catalog data and federal motor vehicle safety standards.
Picking the right one for you
Match the tire to your vehicle type
Dunlop covers a wide range: winter car tires, motorcycle sport tires, cruiser tires, dual-sport, and scooter tires. The pool includes only tires with a declared vehicle type, and many are motorcycle-specific. Check your owner's manual or the sidewall of your current tire for the exact size and type (e.g., 120/70ZR-17) and then look for a tire that matches that size and intended use. Federal standards like 49 CFR 571.119 set performance requirements for motorcycle tires, so any tire you buy should meet those. For car tires, 49 CFR 571.109 covers bias-ply and passenger car tires, while 571.139 applies to modern radial tires.
Understand the size code
A size like 120/70ZR-17 breaks down as: 120 is the section width in millimeters, 70 is the aspect ratio (height as a percentage of width), ZR indicates a speed index (Z for over 149 mph, R for radial), and 17 is the rim diameter in inches. For bias-ply tires, you might see a 'B' instead of 'R', like 150/80B-16 on the D401. Always confirm that the rim diameter and width match your wheel. The seller's listing should state the size; if it does not, treat it as 'not stated by the seller' and verify before purchase.
Check the speed index and load index
Speed indexes like T, H, or Z indicate the maximum sustained speed the tire can handle. Tires with a ZR speed index are suitable for very high speeds, while T-index winter tires like the Winter Maxx 2 are limited to around 118 mph. Load index (e.g., 94) tells how much weight the tire can carry. If this information is not in the listing, look for it on the tire sidewall after you receive it. Federal regulations require tires to be marked with their load index and other data, as outlined in the CFR. Never exceed the load index for your vehicle.
Consider tread type for the season
Winter tires like the Dunlop Winter Maxx 2 have a compound and tread pattern designed for cold, snowy conditions. They are marked with a winter designation. All-season tires, such as the American Elite, are designed for a range of temperatures but do not replace dedicated winter tires in severe conditions. For off-road use, dual-sport and motocross tires (D606, MX53) use different compounds and tread blocks. Choose based on the predominant weather and terrain you ride in.
Match front and rear tires when possible
Many listings are for a single axle (front or rear). For motorcycles, it is appropriate to use tires from the same family and construction type (radial or bias) on both ends. The pool includes front and rear examples from the Roadsmart and American Elite lines, which are designed to work together. If you cannot find a matching pair, at least ensure the speed indexes and load capacities are compatible. Installing a radial front with a bias rear can alter handling. Always consult your motorcycle manufacturer's recommendations.
Questions
What does the ZR speed index mean on a Dunlop tire?
The ZR index indicates a tire built for sustained speeds above 149 mph (240 km/h). It appears in the size designation, such as 120/70ZR-17. ZR-indexed tires are common on sport and sport-touring motorcycles. The actual load and speed capability is also marked on the sidewall, so check that for your specific tire. For highway use, a ZR index gives extra margin, but it does not mean you can ignore legal speed limits.
Are Dunlop Winter Maxx 2 tires suitable for all cars?
The Winter Maxx 2 is a winter tire, and its fit depends on the size and load index. The listing for the 215/55R17 size includes the load index 94 and speed index T, so it fits cars that require that combination. Check your vehicle's placard for the recommended tire size and load index. Winter tires are not required in all climates, but they provide better traction in snow and ice. If you live in a region with mild winters, an all-season tire might be enough.
Can I use a Dunlop motorcycle tire for my scooter?
The D604 rear tire is listed as a motorcycle tire, but its 130/70-12 size is common on scooters. You can use a motorcycle tire on a scooter as long as the size and load index match, but check that the tire's speed index is adequate for your scooter's top speed. Scooter wheels are often smaller, and a tire meant for a larger motorcycle may have a heavier construction. Always confirm the rim diameter and type (tubeless or tube) match your scooter.
How do I know if a Dunlop tire is bias-ply or radial?
The size code tells you: 'R' stands for radial, 'B' for bias-belted, and a blank or a dash often indicates bias-ply. For example, 150/80B-16 is bias-belted, while 120/70ZR-17 is radial. Bias-ply tires have cords running diagonally, which can be more durable on rough terrain, while radials offer better heat dissipation and high-speed stability. For modern highway riding, radials are usually preferred. If the listing does not specify, look at the sidewall of the tire when it arrives.
Why do some Dunlop tires have no speed index in the listing?
The seller may not include the speed index or load index in the product listing, even though the tire itself is required to be marked with that information under federal regulations. In our picks, we only report what is declared. If you need that data, contact the seller or check the tire's sidewall once mounted. Federal standards like 49 CFR 571.119 require that motorcycle tires carry such markings.
Revision notes
- : First published.