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BEST MOTORCYCLE TIRES OF 2026

Updated
Updated
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
Continental TKC 80
Continental
TKC 80
Aggressive Adventure Tire
Dual-sport tire built for adventure riders who need reliable traction on both pavement and rugged off-road terrain, making it a favorite for long-distance expeditions and challenging trails.
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Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Outstanding off-road traction
  • Handles well on pavement
  • Durable and puncture-resistant
  • Trusted by adventure riders
CONS
  • Noisy on highways
  • Faster wear on pavement
Pirelli Diablo Rosso III
Pirelli
Diablo Rosso III
High-Performance Sport Tire
High-performance sport tire engineered for superb grip, agile handling, and precise feedback, making it ideal for spirited street riding and occasional track days.
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Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Superb grip in all conditions
  • Quick and precise handling
  • Long-lasting for a sport tire
  • Great for spirited riding
CONS
  • Not suitable for off-road
  • May wear faster with aggressive use
Dunlop D404
Dunlop
D404
Classic Cruiser Tire
Classic cruiser tire designed for reliable performance, comfortable ride quality, and long tread life, making it a popular choice for cruiser and touring motorcycles.
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Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Comfortable ride quality
  • Affordable price
  • Good wet and dry traction
  • Long-lasting tread
CONS
  • Not for high-performance use
  • Limited off-road capability
Shinko 777 Cruiser
Shinko
777 Cruiser
Budget Street Tire
Is an affordable street tire offering reliable grip, comfortable ride, and solid mileage, making it a great value for cruiser and touring motorcycle owners.
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Pros & Cons
PROS
  • Great value for money
  • Comfortable and stable ride
  • Good traction in most conditions
  • Long-lasting for the price
CONS
  • Not for aggressive riding
  • Limited performance in extreme conditions
BEST OF THE BEST
Michelin Pilot Road 4
All-Season Touring Tire
Tire Size: 120/70ZR17 (Front)
Load Index: 58
Speed Rating: W (168 mph)
Tread Depth: 5.2 mm
Weight: 9.5 lbs

Michelin’s Pilot Road 4 is engineered for riders who prioritize safety, comfort, and performance on long journeys. Its advanced silica-based compound and patented XST+ sipes provide outstanding traction on wet and dry roads, reducing braking distances and enhancing control.

The tire’s tread pattern is optimized for even wear, ensuring a longer lifespan and consistent performance throughout its use.The Pilot Road 4 is particularly well-suited for sport-touring motorcycles, offering stability at high speeds and responsive handling in corners.

Its construction minimizes road noise and vibrations, contributing to a smoother, more enjoyable ride. Whether commuting daily or embarking on cross-country adventures, this tire delivers the reliability and confidence that experienced riders expect from Michelin.

PROS
  • Excellent wet and dry grip
  • Long tread life
  • Stable at high speeds
  • Smooth and quiet ride
CONS
  • Premium price point
  • Not intended for off-road use
BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK
Continental TKC 80
Aggressive Adventure Tire
Tire Size: 150/70-17 (Rear)
Load Index: 69
Speed Rating: Q (100 mph)
Tread Depth: 11 mm
Weight: 15.4 lbs

Continental’s TKC 80 is renowned among adventure motorcyclists for its aggressive tread design and dependable performance in a wide range of environments. The large, self-cleaning tread blocks provide excellent grip on loose surfaces such as gravel, mud, and sand, while still maintaining stability and control on paved roads.

This tire is a popular choice for riders who frequently transition between highways and off-road trails. Its robust construction resists punctures and wear, even under heavy loads and extended use. The TKC 80’s balance of off-road capability and on-road manners makes it a top pick for adventure touring and dual-sport motorcycles.

PROS
  • Outstanding off-road traction
  • Handles well on pavement
  • Durable and puncture-resistant
  • Trusted by adventure riders
CONS
  • Noisy on highways
  • Faster wear on pavement
Pirelli Diablo Rosso III
High-Performance Sport Tire
Tire Size: 180/55ZR17 (Rear)
Load Index: 73
Speed Rating: W (168 mph)
Tread Depth: 6.5 mm
Weight: 13.2 lbs

Pirelli’s Diablo Rosso III is designed for riders who demand the highest levels of performance from their sport motorcycles. Utilizing innovative compounds and a bi-compound tread design, this tire delivers exceptional grip in both wet and dry conditions.

The WSBK-derived profile ensures quick turn-in and stable cornering, enhancing rider confidence at high lean angles.The Diablo Rosso III’s tread pattern efficiently disperses water, reducing the risk of hydroplaning and maintaining traction in adverse weather.

Its robust carcass construction provides excellent feedback and stability, making it a favorite among aggressive street riders and track enthusiasts alike. With its combination of cutting-edge technology and proven performance, this tire sets a benchmark in the sport tire segment.

PROS
  • Superb grip in all conditions
  • Quick and precise handling
  • Long-lasting for a sport tire
  • Great for spirited riding
CONS
  • Not suitable for off-road
  • May wear faster with aggressive use
Dunlop D404
Classic Cruiser Tire
Tire Size: 130/90-16 (Rear)
Load Index: 73
Speed Rating: H (130 mph)
Tread Depth: 8.5 mm
Weight: 14.8 lbs

Dunlop’s D404 tire is tailored for riders of cruisers and touring bikes who value comfort, stability, and mileage. Its tread pattern is optimized for smooth, predictable handling and effective water dispersion, ensuring safety in both dry and wet conditions.

The tire’s bias-ply construction provides a plush ride, absorbing road imperfections and reducing rider fatigue on long journeys.The D404 is available in a wide range of sizes to fit many popular cruiser models.

Its robust design resists uneven wear, extending the tire’s lifespan and maintaining consistent performance. For riders seeking a dependable, affordable tire for their cruiser, the Dunlop D404 remains a trusted option.

PROS
  • Comfortable ride quality
  • Affordable price
  • Good wet and dry traction
  • Long-lasting tread
CONS
  • Not for high-performance use
  • Limited off-road capability
Shinko 777 Cruiser
Budget Street Tire
Tire Size: 130/90-16 (Front)
Load Index: 67
Speed Rating: H (130 mph)
Tread Depth: 7.8 mm
Weight: 12.6 lbs

Shinko’s 777 Cruiser tire is designed for riders seeking a cost-effective solution without sacrificing safety or performance. Its tread pattern provides dependable traction in both wet and dry conditions, while the reinforced carcass ensures stability and comfort on long rides.

The tire’s construction promotes even wear, extending its service life and reducing maintenance costs.The 777 Cruiser is available in a variety of sizes and whitewall options, catering to a wide range of cruiser motorcycles.

Its combination of affordability, reliability, and comfort has made it a popular choice among budget-conscious riders who still demand quality and performance from their tires.

PROS
  • Great value for money
  • Comfortable and stable ride
  • Good traction in most conditions
  • Long-lasting for the price
CONS
  • Not for aggressive riding
  • Limited performance in extreme conditions

How our picks compare

SpecificationMichelin Pilot Road 4Continental TKC 80Pirelli Diablo Rosso IIIDunlop D404Shinko 777 Cruiser
Tire Size120/70ZR17 (Front)150/70-17 (Rear)180/55ZR17 (Rear)130/90-16 (Rear)130/90-16 (Front)
Load Index5869737367
Speed RatingW (168 mph)Q (100 mph)W (168 mph)H (130 mph)H (130 mph)
Tread Depth5.2 mm11 mm6.5 mm8.5 mm7.8 mm
Weight9.5 lbs15.4 lbs13.2 lbs14.8 lbs12.6 lbs

Choosing the right motorcycle tires is one of the most important decisions you can make for your bike. The tires you select affect not only your safety but also your comfort, handling, and overall riding experience. With so many options on the market, finding the best motorcycle tires can seem overwhelming. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process and make an informed decision.

Start by considering your riding style and the type of motorcycle you own. Sport bikes, cruisers, touring bikes, and adventure motorcycles all have different requirements. For example, sport bikes demand tires that offer exceptional grip and stability at high speeds, while cruisers benefit from tires that provide a smooth ride and long-lasting durability. Touring motorcycles often require tires that can handle long distances and varying weather conditions, whereas adventure bikes need tires capable of tackling both pavement and off-road terrain.

Next, think about the conditions in which you typically ride. If you frequently encounter wet roads, look for tires with tread patterns designed to channel water away and reduce the risk of hydroplaning. For those who ride in hot climates, heat-resistant compounds can help maintain performance and extend tire life. Riders who face cold or unpredictable weather should prioritize tires that maintain flexibility and grip even at lower temperatures.

Tread pattern is another crucial factor. Tires with a more aggressive tread are better suited for off-road or mixed-surface riding, as they provide better traction on loose or uneven ground. On the other hand, smoother tread patterns are ideal for street riding, offering a larger contact patch for improved grip and stability on paved surfaces.

Pay attention to tire construction as well. Radial tires are common on modern motorcycles and are known for their superior handling and comfort, especially at higher speeds. Bias-ply tires, while less common, can offer a smoother ride on rough roads and are sometimes preferred for heavy touring bikes or classic motorcycles.

Brand reputation and reviews can provide valuable insight. Established manufacturers such as Michelin, Pirelli, Bridgestone, Dunlop, and Continental have a long history of producing high-quality motorcycle tires. Reading reviews from other riders who have similar bikes and riding habits can help you gauge real-world performance and reliability.

It’s also important to check the age of the tires you’re considering. Even if a tire looks new, rubber compounds degrade over time, which can compromise safety and performance. Always check the manufacturing date stamped on the tire’s sidewall and avoid purchasing tires that are more than five years old.

Finally, don’t overlook proper sizing. Consult your motorcycle’s owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure you select the correct tire size and load rating. Installing the wrong size can negatively impact handling, braking, and overall safety.

In summary, finding the best motorcycle tires involves understanding your bike, your riding habits, and the conditions you’ll face. By considering these factors and doing a bit of research, you can confidently choose tires that will enhance your ride and keep you safe on the road. Regularly inspect and maintain your tires, as even the best tires require proper care to perform at their best.