Here’s an overview of the Best Motorcycle Tires that we’ll explore today:
Motorcycle tires are the single most critical contact point between bike and road, influencing grip, braking, stability, and overall ride quality. In this comparison, we evaluate five rear/front tire options from leading brands to help riders choose based on handling characteristics, durability, and intended use. Our methodology combines manufacturer specifications, consumer review signals, and engineering considerations (tread design, compound, construction, and fit) to assess performance potential in real-world riding scenarios. The range includes budget-friendly options and premium-tier models from Continental, Bridgestone, and Dunlop, with a focus on cruiser and sport-touring applications. Price range is tightly focused at $180.99 to $180.99 to reflect a single-budget context for this analysis, while noting each tire’s design intent and compatible bike segments.
1. Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall
- Brand: DUNLOP
- Manufacturer: DUNLOP
Overview: The Dunlop D404 is a long-running standard for cruiser riders, offering a broad size range that fits many older bikes. Its symmetrical tread and balanced compound emphasize mileage with reliable grip, making it a practical choice for daily commuting and casual cruising. This rear tire is positioned as a versatile, value-oriented option within the Dunlop lineup, with a reputation for predictable feedback and easy mounting on 17-inch rims. Key specs such as a 170/80-15 size, 908-pound load capacity, and radial construction underline its compatibility with a wide variety of cruiser platforms. Prospective buyers will appreciate the familiar Dunlop feel and broad aftermarket support.
In real-world use, the D404 delivers stable handling at moderate lean angles and dependable wet-weather performance for its class. Its tread pattern and compound balance grip and wear, yielding solid all-around performance rather than specialized sport or aggressive street performance. The model DNA favors comfort and longitudinal stability over ultra-high-speed cornering, which aligns with cruiser riding styles. The tire’s longevity and consistent performance in mixed road conditions make it a practical choice for riders prioritizing predictable feedback and low maintenance.
Pros
- Broad compatibility with older cruisers and a wide range of bikes
- Balanced mileage and grip with a proven, predictable feel
- Strong aftermarket availability and serviceability
- Radial construction offers stable high-speed feel
Cons
- Not optimized for aggressive cornering or sportier riders
- Wet grip may not match newer, performance-focused tires
- Tire weight and profile may influence suspension tuning on some bikes
2. Bridgestone Excedra G850 Cruiser Rear Motorcycle Tire 180/55-18
- Brand: Bridgestone
- Manufacturer: Bridgestone
Overview: The Bridgestone Excedra G850 is designed for high-performance cruisers seeking strong grip and high mileage, leveraging a silica-enriched compound and Kevlar mono-spiral belt for stability at speed. The 180/55-18 rear size emphasizes a modern stance for mid-to-large cruisers and touring bikes, with ratings and construction supporting sustained highway use. Its asymmetrical tread aims to balance wet and dry performance while maintaining durability for long-distance rides.
Performance-wise, the G850 excels in highway confidence, with improved high-speed stability due to the Kevlar belt and a silica-rich compound that enhances wet and dry grip. While it’s tailored for performance cruiser applications, riders should note the size is specific to certain models (e.g., V-Rod, Mean Streak, Roadstar Warrior, VTX1800), and compatibility should be verified for older bike architectures. The tire’s premium construction translates to higher resistance to impact and better shock absorption, contributing to ride comfort on long tours.
Pros
- Silica-enriched compound improves wet and dry grip
- Kevlar mono-spiral belt enhances speed stability
- High mileage potential for cruiser use
- Designed for strong highway performance
Cons
- Rear size (180/55-18) may not fit all cruisers
- Price may be higher due to premium materials
- Limited availability for older or less common models
3. Bridgestone G722 170/70-16 Rear Tire 129277
- Brand: Bridgestone
- Manufacturer: Bridgestone
Overview: Bridgestone’s G722 is a directional tread rear tire sized for 170/70-16, reflecting Bridgestone’s approach to sport-touring and street performance on mid-sized bikes. The directional tread suggests a performance-oriented bias with emphasis on optimized grip in lean angles and efficient water evacuation. The tire’s weight and construction indicate a robust build intended for stable highway dynamics and responsive handling in everyday riding conditions.
In practice, the G722 focuses on predictable grip with improved feedback at mid-range lean, suited for riders who value sport-touring capability without sacrificing everyday comfort. Its 16-inch rim fit makes it a common choice for many late-model sport-tours and naked bikes. However, its availability and pricing may vary, and as with many Bridgestone models, performance will be most evident under consistent street conditions rather than extreme track-like scenarios.
Pros
- Directional tread for confident cornering and water dispersion
- Solid everyday grip with stable highway feel
- Good fit for mid-sized sport-touring motorcycles
- Reputable Bridgestone build quality
Cons
- Not a dedicated race or ultra-high-performance tire
- Limited explicit price data in current listing
- May require careful selection to match bike dynamics
4. Continental ContiMotion Sport/Touring Motorcycle Tire Front 120/70-17
- Brand: Continental
- Manufacturer: Continental
Overview: Continental’s ContiMotion is positioned as an entry-level sport/touring front tire, with a 0° steel-belt rear construction note in related references indicating emphasis on stability. The 120/70-17 front size targets standard street bikes and light sport-touring machines, delivering a balance of safety and mileage. The tire is marketed for value-driven riders who want reliable performance with modern polymer compounds and confident wet/dry feedback.
From a performance perspective, the ContiMotion front offers reliable steering response, predictable braking feel, and solid wet-weather behavior for an entry-level option. The 0° steel belt concept (noted in rear descriptions) contributes to ride stability and ride comfort by dampening deflections, while Continental’s polymer formulation aims to extend mileage without sacrificing grip. Given its discontinued status in some listings, buyers should verify current availability and warranty coverage, especially for older model motorcycles.
Pros
- Reliable, predictable steering and braking
- Good value for money with modern polymer compounds
- Solid wet and dry performance for entry-level sport/touring riders
- Front tire design supports stable highway cruising
Cons
- Discontinued status in some markets may affect support
- Rear-specific notes may complicate cross-referencing for some bikes
- Not a premium-tier option for aggressive riders
5. Bridgestone Excedra G701R Cruiser Front Motorcycle Tire 150/80-17
- Brand: Bridgestone
- Manufacturer: Bridgestone
Overview: The Bridgestone Excedra G701R brings a front-specific cruiser solution with a 150/80-17 bias-ply design and directional tread. This front tire is aimed at touring and cruiser riders who prioritize a smoother ride, stable straight-line tracking, and dependable wet-weather performance. The G701R line carries Bridgestone’s emphasis on long-haul comfort and consistent handling across varied road conditions.
In use, the G701R front provides confident feedback with a focus on stable steering and long-distance comfort. The directional tread pattern supports confident water evacuation and consistent grip in both dry and wet scenarios. Its bias construction and 1999.6-pound load capacity few might cite as standout, though it implies strong structural integrity. This tire is well-suited for riders who value smoothness and endurance on extended tours, rather than aggressive cornering or track-day performance.
Pros
- Front-specific cruiser design for stable steering
- Reliable wet-weather performance
- Bias construction enhances ride comfort on long trips
- High load capacity for heavier cruisers
Cons
- Front cruiser design may limit aggressive cornering
- Availability may vary by region
- Not aimed at sportier performance riders
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about motorcycle tiress to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
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Final thoughts here.