Best Motorcycle Tires in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs

Latest update: October 5, 2026

The Pirelli Angel ST set is our top pick overall: it pairs a 120/70ZR17 front with a 180/55ZR17 rear, radial construction, and a tread pattern designed for mixed sport and touring use. We selected it after comparing 60 motorcycle tires across categories, using only the listed specifications and the makers' published details. Prices are live and refresh with each page view; we did not ride or test any of these tires.

15 picks from 224 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 sport riders: If you are looking for a tire designed for high-speed cornering, choose a model with a ZR speed symbol and radial construction, such as the Bridgestone Battlax S22 or the Pirelli Diablo Rosso II set. See pick 2
• For touring riders: For long miles and heavy luggage, prioritize wear life and wet grip. The Michelin Commander III Touring or the Continental ContiRoadAttack 4 set are strong candidates with suitable construction and size options. See pick 4
• For adventure riders: If you split time between pavement and gravel, a dual-sport tire like the Tusk 2Track Adventure with a 90/90-21 front works well on smaller adventure bikes. See pick 9

Our 15 picks

1 Best overall

Pirelli Angel ST Motorcycle Tire Set 120/70ZR17 58W & 180/55ZR17 73W

Vehicle

Motorcycle

$294.96 price as of 2026-10-05 06:09 UTC (Details)

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This set covers the common sport touring sizes 120/70ZR17 and 180/55ZR17, with radial construction and a W speed symbol on both tires. It is the only set in this list that pairs a 58 front with a 73 rear load index, which matches many middleweight and full-size sport tourers. Compared with single-tire picks, buying the set ensures matched compounds and tread patterns from the start.

Pros

• Radial construction for high-speed stability
• Set includes both front and rear in matching sizes
• W speed symbol (270 km/h) on both tires
• Widely used sizes for sport touring bikes

Cons

• Only available as a set, not as individual front or rear
• No bias-ply option for classic bikes
• Front load index 58 is relatively low for some heavy tourers

Good fit if

• Sport tourers in 17-inch sizes
• Riders who want matched front and rear compounds

Skip if

• Riders needing an 18-inch rear wheel
• Those with a classic bike requiring bias-ply tires

Verdict: The Pirelli Angel ST set is the most complete package for sport touring riders who want a matched pair from day one.

2 Best for sport riding

Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 Motorcycle Tire

Vehicle

Motorcycle

$207.00 price as of 2026-10-05 05:30 UTC (Details)

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The Battlax S22 is a 180/55ZR17 rear tire with a 73 load index and a W speed symbol, a size common on middleweight sport bikes. Its radial construction and ZR size designation indicate it is built for speeds above 240 km/h, making it a strong choice for aggressive street riding and occasional track days. It sits between the more track-oriented ContiSportAttack and the street-biased Diablo Rosso II in this list.

Pros

• Radial construction
• W speed symbol (270 km/h)
• Load index 73 supports heavy sport bikes
• Common 180/55-17 size fits many sport bikes

Cons

• Single rear tire, not a set
• No front tire in this listing
• ZR speed symbol may be overkill for purely street riders

Good fit if

• Sport bike owners needing a replacement rear
• Riders who plan occasional track days

Skip if

• Riders needing a matched front tire
• Cruiser or touring bikes with 16-inch rims

Verdict: For a sport bike rear that can handle both street and light track use, the Battlax S22 is a solid choice.

3 Best for long-distance sport touring

Continental ContiRoadAttack 4 Front & Rear Tire Set 120/70 & 190/55-17

Vehicle

Motorcycle

$511.00 price as of 2026-10-05 05:33 UTC (Details)

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This Continental set includes a 120/70 and a 190/55, both in 17-inch, radial construction. The 190/55 rear is wider than most picks here, fitting large-displacement sport tourers and sport bikes. Compared with the Angel ST set, it offers a wider rear option for bikes that need a 190 section.

Pros

• Set with front and rear in matched sizes
• Radial construction
• 190/55 rear size rare in this list
• Suitable for 17-inch sport touring bikes

Cons

• Only 17-inch rim sizes, no 18-inch option
• No load index or speed symbol provided in the listing
• May not fit lighter bikes with narrower rear wheels

Good fit if

• Large sport tourers accepting a 190 rear
• Riders who want a matched set from a single purchase

Skip if

• Riders with 16-inch wheels
• Those needing a specific load index for heavy loads

Verdict: The ContiRoadAttack 4 set is a strong choice for sport tourers that require a wider rear tire.

4 Best for touring cruisers

MICHELIN Commander III Touring Rear Tire

Vehicle

Motorcycle

$326.99 price as of 2026-10-05 06:00 UTC (Details)

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This Michelin Commander III Touring is a 180/65B-16 rear tire with a load index of 81 and speed symbol H. The 16-inch diameter suits many V-twin cruisers and touring models, and the H speed symbol (up to 210 km/h) is adequate for highway riding. Compared with the Metzeler ME888, it offers a more touring-specific tread pattern.

Pros

• H speed symbol (210 km/h)
• Load index 81 for heavier touring loads
• 16-inch rim size common on cruisers
• Touring-specific construction

Cons

• Single rear tire, front sold separately
• Bias-ply construction (not radial) based on the 'B' in size
• May be overkill for light cruisers

Good fit if

• Cruiser riders doing long highway miles
• Those with 16-inch rear wheels

Skip if

• Sport bike riders needing a 17-inch rear
• Riders who prefer radial construction

Verdict: The Commander III Touring rear is a dependable choice for touring cruisers needing a robust, highway-friendly tire.

5 Best for heavyweight cruisers

Metzeler ME888 Marathon Ultra Rear 180/65-16 Motorcycle Tire

Vehicle

Motorcycle

$303.94 price as of 2026-10-05 06:00 UTC (Details)

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The Metzeler ME888 Marathon Ultra is a 180/65-16 rear tire, a size used on many large cruisers and touring bikes. Its 'Ultra' designation suggests a heavy-duty compound for high mileage. Compared with the Michelin Commander III Touring, it is a similar size but from a brand known for cruiser-specific rubber.

Pros

• 16-inch rim size for full-size cruisers
• Wide 180 section for stable cornering
• Tubeless construction (likely, based on common cruiser fitment)
• Marathon line implies long-wear design

Cons

• No speed symbol or load index in the listing
• Single rear tire only
• Not suitable for sport bikes with 17-inch wheels

Good fit if

• Heavy cruisers and baggers
• Riders prioritizing mileage and stability

Skip if

• Riders needing a matched front tire
• Those with 18-inch rear wheels

Verdict: The ME888 Marathon Ultra is a reliable pick for heavyweight cruisers that need a wide, durable rear tire.

6 Best for classic cruisers

Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15

Vehicle

Motorcycle

$171.97 price as of 2026-10-05 05:38 UTC (Details)

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The Dunlop D404 rear is a 170/80-15 bias-ply tire with a load index 77 and speed symbol H. The 15-inch diameter fits many older cruisers and customs, while the H speed symbol supports highway speeds. Compared with the Shinko 777, it is a more established model with a classic tread pattern.

Pros

• 15-inch rim size for classic cruisers
• H speed symbol (210 km/h)
• Bias-ply construction for a traditional look
• Load index 77 adequate for lighter cruisers

Cons

• Bias-ply, not radial
• Single rear tire, front sold separately
• Narrower than some modern sport touring tires

Good fit if

• Owners of Honda, Yamaha, or Harley cruisers with 15-inch wheels
• Riders wanting a period-correct tire

Skip if

• Sport riders needing radial performance
• Those with 17-inch wheels

Verdict: The D404 is a sensible choice for classic cruisers that need a reliable bias-ply rear tire.

7 Best budget sport

Shinko 009 Raven Radial Tire Rear 160/60-17 160 60 ZR 17

Vehicle

Motorcycle

$133.71 price as of 2026-10-05 06:16 UTC (Details)

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The Shinko 009 Raven is a 160/60-17 radial rear tire, a size common on sport bikes and some standards. It offers radial construction at a lower price point than many competitors in this list. While it lacks the speed symbol of premium models, it covers speeds up to 240 km/h with a ZR size designation.

Pros

• Radial construction
• ZR speed symbol for high-speed use
• 160/60-17 fits many sport bikes
• Budget-friendly alternative to premium brands

Cons

• Single rear tire, no front
• No load index specified
• May not match the grip of premium sport tires

Good fit if

• Budget-conscious sport bike riders
• Those with 17-inch rear wheels

Skip if

• Track enthusiasts needing a matched set
• Riders requiring a specific load index for heavy bikes

Verdict: The 009 Raven is a cost-effective radial rear for sport bikes if you can verify the load index from the maker.

8 Best budget cruiser

Shinko 777 Front H.D. Motorcycle Tire 130/90B-16

Vehicle

Motorcycle

$125.46 price as of 2026-10-05 06:16 UTC (Details) Typical price: $139.36, 10% off

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The Shinko 777 Front H.D. is a 130/90B-16 bias-ply front tire with a load index 73 and speed symbol H. This size fits many Harleys and metric cruisers with 16-inch front wheels. It is a budget-friendly option compared with the Dunlop D404, but still offers a classic look.

Pros

• 16-inch front size for cruisers
• H speed symbol (210 km/h)
• Bias-ply construction
• Low price point

Cons

• Front tire only, rear sold separately
• Bias-ply may wear faster than radial
• No load index specified

Good fit if

• Cruiser owners needing a front replacement
• Budget riders who accept bias-ply

Skip if

• Sport riders needing a radial front
• Those with 17-inch front wheels

Verdict: The Shinko 777 front is an inexpensive way to keep a cruiser rolling without sacrificing essential speed or load capabilities.

9 Best for adventure

Tusk 2Track Adventure Front Motorcycle Tire 90/90-21 54T

Vehicle

Motorcycle

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The Tusk 2Track Adventure is a 90/90-21 front tire with a speed symbol T (up to 190 km/h) and load index 54. The 21-inch diameter is standard on many dual-sport and adventure bikes. Its tread pattern is designed for mixed off-road and highway use, according to the listing.

Pros

• 21-inch front size for adventure bikes
• T speed symbol (190 km/h)
• Load index 54
• Dual-purpose tread for gravel and pavement

Cons

• Front tire only, rear sold separately
• Bias-ply construction (not radial)
• May be too aggressive for pure highway use

Good fit if

• Adventure riders mixing dirt and road
• Owners of smaller dual-sport bikes

Skip if

• Sport riders needing a street-focused tire
• Riders with 17-inch front wheels

Verdict: The 2Track Adventure is a solid entry-level front for adventure bikes that see varied terrain.

10 Best sport-touring front

Michelin Pilot Road 4 GT Front Tire

Vehicle

Motorcycle

$204.00 price as of 2026-10-05 06:00 UTC (Details)

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The Michelin Pilot Road 4 GT front is a 120/70ZR17 radial tire, a size that fits many sport touring bikes. The 'GT' in the name indicates a version designed for heavier bikes, though the load index is not stated in the listing. Compared with the Pirelli Angel ST set, it offers a front-only option for riders who already have a rear.

Pros

• Radial construction
• 120/70ZR17 common sport touring size
• GT version suggests suitability for heavy tourers
• ZR speed symbol for high-speed stability

Cons

• Front tire only, rear sold separately
• No load index or speed symbol shown
• May be overkill for light bikes

Good fit if

• Sport tourers needing a front replacement
• Riders who want a matched front to a Pilot Road 4 rear

Skip if

• Riders needing a set with matching rear
• Those with 18-inch front wheels

Verdict: The Pilot Road 4 GT front is a sensible choice for sport tourers that need a reliable, high-speed front tire.

11 Best for track days

Continental ContiSportAttack Rear Motorcycle Tire 180/55ZR17 Sport

Vehicle

Motorcycle

$126.96 price as of 2026-10-05 05:33 UTC (Details)

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The Continental ContiSportAttack rear is a 180/55ZR17 radial tire, a size used on many sport bikes. Its 'SportAttack' name indicates a performance-oriented compound, and the ZR size designation supports speeds above 240 km/h. Compared with the Bridgestone S22, it is more track-focused, though it lacks the S22's load index of 73.

Pros

• Radial construction
• ZR speed symbol for track use
• 180/55-17 fits most sport bikes
• Reputable performance brand

Cons

• Single rear tire, no front
• No load index specified
• May wear faster on street rides

Good fit if

• Track-day riders needing a sporty rear
• Sport bike owners replacing a worn rear

Skip if

• Touring riders seeking longevity
• Those with 16-inch wheels

Verdict: The ContiSportAttack is a strong pick for riders who prioritize grip over mileage.

12 Best all-weather front

Dunlop Roadsmart 4 Front Tire

Vehicle

Motorcycle

$215.99 price as of 2026-10-05 05:38 UTC (Details)

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The Dunlop Roadsmart 4 front is a 120/70ZR-17 radial tire, a size common on sport touring bikes. Its tread pattern is designed for wet and dry conditions, according to Dunlop's product line, though the pool listing does not specify the pattern. Compared with the Pilot Road 4 GT, it is a newer model with similar specifications.

Pros

• Radial construction
• 120/70ZR-17 standard sport touring size
• ZR speed symbol for high-speed use
• Reputable Dunlop touring line

Cons

• Front tire only, no matching rear in this list
• No load index or speed symbol provided
• May require a Dunlop rear for best performance

Good fit if

• Sport tourers needing a quality front
• Riders who ride in varied weather

Skip if

• Riders wanting a matched set from one purchase
• Those with 16-inch front wheels

Verdict: The Roadsmart 4 front is a well-known choice for sport touring riders who want a dependable front tire.

13 Best for supersport rears

Kenda KM1 190/50ZR17 Sport Touring Motorcycle Tire 73W

Vehicle

Motorcycle

$127.96 price as of 2026-10-05 05:54 UTC (Details)

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The Kenda KM1 is a 190/50ZR17 rear tire with a W speed symbol (up to 270 km/h) and load index 73. This wide size fits many modern supersport bikes, and the ZR size designation indicates it is built for speeds above 240 km/h. Compared with the ContiRoadAttack 4 set, it offers a similar wide rear as a single tire.

Pros

• 190/50ZR17 fits many supersport bikes
• W speed symbol (270 km/h)
• Load index 73
• Radial construction

Cons

• Single rear tire, no front
• No matching front from Kenda in the pool
• May be too wide for standard sport bikes with narrower rims

Good fit if

• Supersport owners needing a replacement rear
• Riders who accept a mixed brand set

Skip if

• Riders needing a front tire
• Those with 16-inch wheels

Verdict: The KM1 is a solid budget-friendly option for supersport rear tires, provided the width fits your bike.

14 Best sport set

Pirelli Diablo Rosso II Motorcycle Tire Set 120/70 ZR17 & 160/60 ZR17

Vehicle

Motorcycle

$244.96 price as of 2026-10-05 06:09 UTC (Details)

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The Pirelli Diablo Rosso II set includes a 120/70 ZR17 front and a 160/60 ZR17 rear, both with radial construction. This combination fits many middleweight sport bikes and offers a matched pair from a reputable brand. Compared with the Angel ST set, it uses a wider rear for a sportier feel, though it lacks the Angel's touring focus.

Pros

• Set includes both front and rear
• Radial construction
• ZR speed symbol on both
• 200/160 sizes common on sport bikes

Cons

• Rear size 160/60 may not fit larger bikes
• No load index specified
• Sport compound may wear faster than touring

Good fit if

• Middleweight sport bike owners
• Riders who want a matched performance set

Skip if

• Riders with 180/55 rear bikes
• Touring riders prioritizing mileage

Verdict: The Diablo Rosso II set is a great option for sport riders who want a matched pair at a reasonable price.

15 Best for classic standards

Bridgestone Battlax BT46 Rear Tire

Vehicle

Motorcycle

$176.92 price as of 2026-10-05 05:30 UTC (Details)

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The Bridgestone Battlax BT46 is a 120/90-17 rear tire with a 64 load index and a V speed symbol. This size is common on vintage and standard motorcycles, and the V speed symbol (up to 240 km/h) is more than adequate for typical use. Compared with the Dunlop D404, it offers a radial option for classic bikes.

Pros

• V speed symbol (240 km/h)
• Load index 64
• 17-inch size fits many classic standards
• Radial construction

Cons

• Single rear tire, no front
• Size 120/90 may be narrower than modern sport tires
• No matching front in the pool from Bridgestone

Good fit if

• Classic standard bikes with 17-inch wheels
• Riders who want a radial upgrade

Skip if

• Sport riders needing a wider rear
• Those with 18-inch wheels

Verdict: The BT46 is a reliable choice for classic motorcycle owners seeking a modern radial rear tire.

Specifications side by side

How the picks were chosen

We pulled every entry from the catalog that matched the vehicle type 'Motorcycle', which gave us 60 tires. We then excluded near-duplicate listings of the same model and entries that did not appear to be motorcycle tires based on size designations (for example, car-style sizes). The remaining list was shortlisted by intended use: sport, touring, cruiser, adventure, and budget-oriented models. We gave preference to tires from established makers and to sets when they are the natural way to buy (front and rear together). The prices shown on this page are drawn live from the store listing and update with each visit; we did not test any of these tires, and our picks are based on the published specifications and the maker's product information.

Picking the right one for you

Match the tire size to your wheel

The first rule is to fit the exact size your motorcycle's manufacturer specifies. Sizes like 120/70ZR17 include the width (120 mm), aspect ratio (70 percent), construction (ZR for radial), and rim diameter (17 inches). A mismatched width or diameter can cause handling issues or even fit failure. Always check your owner's manual or the sidewall of the current tire for the size designation. If you are unsure, a local dealer can confirm, but do not guess: the tire must match the rim and the bike's load capacity.

Understand speed symbols and load indices

Every tire carries a load index and a speed symbol. For example, '73W' means a load index of 73 and a speed symbol of W (up to 270 km/h). Using a tire with a lower load index than your bike requires can lead to overloading and failure. Speed symbols are not a performance suggestion: they are a safety limit for sustained speeds. A tire with a V symbol (240 km/h) is sufficient for most street bikes, while ZR is for high-performance machines. Always use a tire with at least the original speed symbol.

Radial versus bias-ply

Radial tires have cords placed at 90 degrees to the direction of travel, which allows the sidewall to flex separately from the tread. This usually improves grip and heat dissipation at high speeds. Bias-ply tires have cords laid at overlapping angles, making them stiffer and often more durable for cruiser loads. Many classic bikes and some cruisers are designed for bias-ply tires; using a radial on a bike that expects bias-ply can alter handling. Check your motorcycle's specifications to know which construction it requires. The pool includes both, and our picks note the construction from the size code (B for bias-ply, R for radial).

Choose a tread pattern for your riding

Sport tires have fewer grooves and a softer compound for maximum grip on dry pavement, but they wear faster. Touring tires have deeper sipes and a harder compound for long mileage and wet grip. Adventure tires use a blocky pattern to shed mud and gravel while still handling pavement. If you ride mostly on highways, a touring tire will outlast a sport tire. If you occasionally hit gravel, a dual-sport tire is the right compromise. Our picks are grouped by use case so you can match the tread to your typical route.

Buying a set versus a single tire

Sets come with matched compounds and tread patterns for both ends, a common manufacturer recommendation. If only one tire is worn, you can replace just that one, but many manufacturers recommend replacing in pairs for optimal handling. In our list, the Pirelli Angel ST and the Continental ContiRoadAttack 4 are available as complete sets. For single-tire purchases, look for a matching front or rear from the same brand and model. A mismatched set is not dangerous if the sizes and load indices are correct, but it may change the bike's feel.

Check the DOT code and manufacturing date

Every tire sold in the U.S. must carry a DOT code that identifies the maker and the week and year of manufacture (for example, '2319' means the 23rd week of 2019). The code also indicates the tire meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard for its category (see the sources below). Old tires, even with full tread, may have degraded rubber and should be replaced. When you receive a tire, check the DOT code to ensure it is recent. Sales of new tires should have codes within a few years; do not accept a tire that is more than about five years old.

Questions

What do the numbers in a motorcycle tire size mean?

A size like 120/70ZR17 breaks down as: 120 is the section width in millimeters (the widest point of the tire when mounted and inflated), 70 is the aspect ratio (sidewall height as a percentage of width), ZR denotes a radial construction with a speed symbol above 240 km/h, and 17 is the rim diameter in inches. Load index and speed symbol come after the size, e.g., '73W' where 73 is the load index and W is the speed symbol (270 km/h). Always match these numbers to your bike's placard.

Can I use a car tire on a motorcycle?

No. Car tires are not designed for the lean angles or load distribution of a motorcycle. They have different construction and tread patterns that can cause instability in corners. Our pool includes one entry that appears to be a car tire (Hankook Kinergy H436), but we did not include it in our picks because its size and specification do not match typical motorcycle fitment. Always use tires that are specifically designed for motorcycles.

How long do motorcycle tires last?

Lifespan depends on compound, riding style, and maintenance. Sport tires may last 3,000 to 5,000 miles, while touring tires can exceed 10,000 miles. The manufacturer's warranty (if any) and the DOT date code are better indicators than a hard rule. Under-inflation increases wear and reduces fuel economy, so check pressures regularly. The U.S. Department of Energy notes that properly inflated tires improve gas mileage by up to 3 percent, and the same principle applies to motorcycles.

Do I need to replace both tires at the same time?

It is not strictly necessary, but it is recommended. A new front and a worn rear have different grip characteristics, which can affect handling. If the worn tire is near the wear indicators, replace it. If you choose to replace only one, match the new tire to the other end in brand and model when possible. Some manufacturers design sets with specific front and rear compounds, so keeping the set together preserves the intended balance.

Are no-name tires safe?

Tires sold in the U.S. are required to comply with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) for their category. For motorcycles, that is Standard No. 119. However, a cheap tire may use a harder compound that gives poor wet grip, or a weaker carcass that flexes more. Our picks favor established brands like Pirelli, Bridgestone, Michelin, and Dunlop. If you choose a budget tire, verify its load index and speed symbol, and inspect it for any defects before mounting.

Revision notes

• 2026-10-04: First published.

Sources

• 49 CFR § 571.119 - New pneumatic tires for motor vehicles, specialty tires, and tires for motorcycles
• 49 CFR Part 574 - Tire Identification and Recordkeeping
• Gas Mileage Tips: Keeping Your Vehicle in Shape