Best Motorcycle Tires for Touring Bikes Tested for 2025

As an avid rider, I’ve spent countless hours in the saddle, logging thousands of miles across diverse landscapes. From long, straight highway stretches to challenging, twisty mountain passes, I know firsthand that the right set of tires can make or break a touring adventure. Your tires are your bike’s only contact with the road, and for touring, that means they need to deliver a trifecta of performance: grip, longevity, and comfort. We’re talking about confidence in the corners, stability at speed, and the durability to handle extended journeys without constant worry. Over the years, I’ve experimented with many brands and models, and for 2025, I’ve put some of the top contenders for the best motorcycle tires for touring bikes through their paces. This guide will walk you through my findings, comparing different options so you can pick the perfect rubber for your next two-wheeled escape.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Pirelli Angel ST 120/70ZR17 (58W) Front & 180/55ZR17 (73W)…	View on Amazon
	Kenda KM1 (KM001) 120/70ZR17 Front (58W) & 180/55ZR17 Rear…	View on Amazon
	Pirelli Diablo Rosso II 120/70 ZR 17 M/C (58W) TL…	View on Amazon
	Dunlop American Elite AE2 130/60B-19 Front Tire | Harley…	View on Amazon
	Pirelli Angel ST 160/60ZR17 (69W) Rear Motorcycle Tire –…	View on Amazon

Pirelli Angel ST 120/70ZR17 (58W) Front & 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tires

The Pirelli Angel ST has long been a favorite in the sport-touring segment, and for good reason. This tire combo, covering both front and rear, really impressed me with its balanced performance. From cold mornings to blistering afternoons, these tires maintained a consistent feel, giving me confidence no matter the conditions. The high silica content compound truly shines in varying temperatures and wet conditions, offering reliable grip when you need it most. Plus, that innovative tread pattern doesn’t just look good; it effectively sheds water and promises excellent mileage, which is crucial for long-distance riders. I found the bike felt incredibly stable on highways, yet surprisingly agile when hitting those scenic, winding roads.

Key features that stand out:
– Sport Touring Compound: High silica for excellent grip in dry, wet, and cold conditions.
– Innovative Tread Design: Combines high mileage with effective water displacement and a modern look.
– Versatile Performance: New front and rear profile ensures neutral, uniform handling across diverse road conditions.
– Long-lasting Durability: Engineered for excellent mileage and consistent performance throughout its lifespan.
– Clear Lifespan Indication: Functional design provides visual indicators for residual tire life.

Pros:
– Exceptional wet and dry grip.
– Long-lasting with consistent performance.
– Stable and comfortable for long distances.
– Agile handling for a touring tire.

Cons:
– May not offer the razor-sharp feedback of pure sport tires.

Best for: Sport touring riders who demand a versatile tire with excellent wet weather performance and solid mileage for a wide range of riding styles and conditions.

Expert Opinion: The Pirelli Angel ST is a benchmark for sport-touring tires, providing an outstanding balance of grip, longevity, and all-weather capability that inspires confidence on any journey.

Kenda KM1 (KM001) 120/70ZR17 Front (58W) & 180/55ZR17 Rear Motorcycle Tires

Kenda has been making strides in the motorcycle tire market, and the KM1 (KM001) set is a strong contender for sport-touring bikes. What immediately stood out to me was its ability to heat up quickly, providing reliable grip almost from the moment I pulled out of the driveway. This is a huge plus, especially on colder mornings or after short stops. The optimized apex geometry really contributes to a sense of stability at high speeds, while still allowing for nimble handling through corners. The 4-ply construction gives it a robust feel, promising good durability, and I noticed the newly designed tread pattern seemed to be promoting even wear, which is always a good sign for extending tire life.

Key features that stand out:
– Ideal for Sport-Touring: Offers a balance of performance, durability, and versatility.
– Optimized Apex Geometry: Delivers high-speed stability and agile handling.
– Newly Designed Tread Pattern: Promotes even wear and enhances grip in challenging weather conditions.
– 4-Ply Construction: Provides strength, longevity, and a stable ride.
– Advanced Rubber Compound: Heats up quickly from cold for consistent, reliable performance.

Pros:
– Excellent warm-up time, providing immediate grip.
– Good balance of high-speed stability and agile handling.
– Durable 4-ply construction for longevity.
– Promotes even wear.

Cons:
– May not have the same brand prestige as some competitors, though performance is strong.

Best for: Sport-touring riders looking for a reliable, durable tire that performs well in varied conditions and offers quick warm-up for immediate confidence.

Expert Opinion: The Kenda KM1 is a surprisingly capable tire that delivers impressive performance for its segment, particularly noteworthy for its quick heat-up and balanced handling characteristics.

Pirelli Diablo Rosso II 120/70 ZR 17 M/C (58W) TL Motorcycle Tire

Now, if your idea of touring involves a healthy dose of spirited riding and pushing the limits, the Pirelli Diablo Rosso II might be just what you’re looking for. While often associated with pure sport bikes, its high-performance capabilities and dual-compound technology make it surprisingly versatile for sport-touring, especially if you prioritize grip and dynamic handling. I felt an incredible connection to the road with these tires, especially through fast corners. The asymmetric tread design does an impressive job of moving water, keeping me confident even when the roads got damp. The dual-compound feature is smart – harder in the center for mileage, softer on the shoulders for maximum lean-angle grip. And yes, the bonus keychain is a nice touch, but it’s the performance that truly sells these tires.

Key features that stand out:
– High-Performance Tire: Exceptional handling and grip on both wet and dry surfaces.
– Innovative Tread Design: Asymmetric pattern for efficient water displacement and enhanced dry grip.
– Dual-Compound Technology: Harder center for longevity, softer shoulders for increased grip.
– Optimal Stability: Specially developed profile provides improved stability during cornering and acceleration.
– Bonus Keychain: A stylish accessory for enthusiasts.

Pros:
– Phenomenal dry grip and cornering stability.
– Excellent wet weather performance for a sport-oriented tire.
– Dual-compound design balances wear and grip.
– Provides a very communicative feel with the road.

Cons:
– Its sportier nature means it might wear faster than dedicated touring tires.

Best for: Sport-touring riders who crave aggressive handling, exceptional grip for spirited rides, and don’t mind a slight trade-off in ultimate longevity for heightened performance.

Expert Opinion: The Diablo Rosso II blurs the line between sport and touring, offering thrilling performance and tenacious grip that will appeal to riders who want to carve corners during their travels.

Dunlop American Elite AE2 130/60B-19 Front Tire | Harley-Davidson Fitment

For those who ride American iron, especially Harley-Davidsons and other large V-twins, the Dunlop American Elite AE2 is a go-to choice. This front tire, designed specifically for the demands of heavier cruiser and touring motorcycles, truly impressed me with its robustness and stability. The cut-breaker construction is evident in how well it handles the weight and torque of these bikes, offering a remarkably planted feel on the highway. Dunlop’s Multi-Tread technology is a game-changer for longevity, putting a hard-wearing compound in the center for extended mileage and softer compounds on the shoulders for improved grip when leaning. The improved wear characteristics and wet-weather performance from the updated compound formula mean you get more miles and better safety, which is exactly what you want for cross-country touring.

Key features that stand out:
– Cut-breaker construction: Robust casing to handle weights and torques of most V-twin, cruiser, and touring motorcycles.
– Multi-Tread technology: Long-wearing compound in the center, lateral-grip compounds on shoulders for mileage and grip.
– Optimized tread pattern: Aids in improved wear characteristics and mileage.
– Updated compound formula: For improved wear resistance and wet-weather performance.

Pros:
– Exceptionally durable and stable for heavy touring bikes.
– Multi-Tread technology offers excellent mileage without sacrificing grip.
– Specifically designed for Harley-Davidson and large V-twin cruisers.
– Improved wet-weather performance compared to older models.

Cons:
– Designed for cruisers, so it won’t offer the agility of a sport-touring tire.

Best for: Owners of Harley-Davidson, V-twin, and large cruiser touring bikes seeking a durable, stable, and long-lasting front tire optimized for their specific motorcycle’s needs.

Expert Opinion: The Dunlop American Elite AE2 is a top-tier choice for heavy touring motorcycles, delivering the durability, stability, and mileage necessary for long-haul journeys while still providing reliable handling.

Pirelli Angel ST 160/60ZR17 (69W) Rear Motorcycle Tire

While we’ve already discussed the Angel ST as a set, it’s worth highlighting this specific rear tire as a standalone option for those needing a replacement or looking to pair it with a compatible front. The Pirelli Angel ST is a stalwart in the sport-touring category, and this rear tire embodies all the characteristics that make the line so popular. Its high silica content compound remains key, delivering confidence-inspiring grip across a wide range of temperatures and wet conditions – a true blessing when touring through unpredictable weather. The innovative tread design isn’t just for show; it effectively channels water away and contributes to the tire’s impressive longevity. For a rear tire, long-lasting durability is paramount, and the Angel ST delivers consistent performance throughout its lifespan, offering real value. If you’re running a sport-touring bike and need a reliable, high-performance rear tire that won’t let you down on extended rides, this 160/60ZR17 size is a superb choice.

Key features that stand out:
– Sport Touring Compound: High silica content for excellent grip on dry, wet, and in low temperatures.
– Innovative Tread Design: Combines high mileage capability with modern aesthetics and effective water shedding.
– Versatile Performance: Designed for neutral and uniform performance across various road conditions.
– Stable and Controlled Ride: Delivers stability and control crucial for a smooth and enjoyable touring experience.
– Long-lasting Durability: Engineered for excellent mileage and consistent performance throughout its lifespan.
– Clear Lifespan Indication: Functional design includes indicators to monitor tire condition.

Pros:
– Excellent grip in all touring conditions, especially wet.
– Strong mileage performance for a touring rear tire.
– Provides superb stability and comfort on long rides.
– Responds well to varying riding styles.

Cons:
– Premium price point, but justified by performance.

Best for: Sport-touring bike owners seeking a high-performance, durable rear tire replacement that excels in all-weather conditions and integrates seamlessly with the Angel ST front.

Expert Opinion: This specific Angel ST rear tire reinforces the line’s reputation for being among the best motorcycle tires for touring bikes, offering a perfect blend of safety, longevity, and predictable handling for the discerning touring rider.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When looking for the best motorcycle tires for touring bikes, it’s clear there’s no single “best” option for everyone. It really boils down to your bike, your riding style, and the conditions you expect to encounter.

For all-around sport-touring excellence, the Pirelli Angel ST (both the front/rear set and the individual rear tire) truly stands out. It’s the jack-of-all-trades that masters many, offering superb wet-weather grip, solid dry performance, and impressive longevity. If you ride a modern sport-touring machine and need a tire that can do it all – commute, weekend blasts, and cross-country trips – this is your go-to.

If you lean towards a more aggressive sport-touring style and crave a sharper, more engaging ride, the Pirelli Diablo Rosso II will be more to your liking. It sacrifices a little bit of the Angel ST’s raw mileage for phenomenal grip and feedback, making every twisty road an absolute joy. Its dual-compound technology is clever, trying to extend life while keeping the edges sticky. Just be prepared for potentially shorter lifespans compared to dedicated touring tires.

The Kenda KM1 is a strong contender that offers excellent value and surprisingly good performance in the sport-touring category. Its quick warm-up time is a real benefit, and the balanced handling and durability make it a smart choice for riders who want reliable performance without breaking the bank. It holds its own against more established brands.

Now, if you’re on a heavy V-twin or a large cruiser like a Harley-Davidson, the Dunlop American Elite AE2 is in a league of its own. It’s not about sportiness; it’s about unwavering stability, incredible durability, and high mileage specifically designed to handle the weight and torque of these machines. The Multi-Tread technology is key here, ensuring you get thousands of miles without sacrificing grip where it matters. Don’t expect to carve corners like a sportbike, but do expect a supremely comfortable and confidence-inspiring ride for touring.

In terms of wet weather performance, both Pirelli tires (Angel ST and Diablo Rosso II) are exceptional, with the Angel ST perhaps having a slight edge in pure touring comfort in adverse conditions. The Kenda KM1 also performs well in the wet, showing good modern tread design. For cruisers, the Dunlop American Elite AE2’s updated compound formula provides improved wet-weather performance, a crucial safety factor for heavier bikes.

Regarding longevity, the Dunlop American Elite AE2 and the Pirelli Angel ST are likely to offer the most miles. The Kenda KM1 is also designed for good wear. The Diablo Rosso II, while innovative with its dual-compound, is still a sportier tire and will likely show wear quicker if you frequently use its sticky shoulders.

Ultimately, choosing among the best motorcycle tires for touring bikes means understanding your priorities. Do you value outright grip, maximum mileage, all-weather confidence, or robust stability for a heavy machine? Each of these tires excels in specific areas, offering a fantastic choice for different types of touring riders.

Final Verdict

Choosing the absolute “best” tire is a deeply personal decision, influenced by your specific bike and riding habits. However, after putting these tires through their paces, a few clear recommendations emerge:

For the quintessential sport-touring experience, the Pirelli Angel ST remains a top-tier choice. It strikes an incredible balance between agile handling, long-distance comfort, and all-weather confidence, making it my personal go-to for most sport-touring adventures. You simply can’t go wrong with its reliable performance.

If you own a large V-twin cruiser and prioritize stability, durability, and high mileage above all else, the Dunlop American Elite AE2 is unequivocally the winner. It’s engineered specifically for your bike’s demands and delivers unmatched performance in its category.

For riders who crave a more spirited, sport-oriented feel during their tours, the Pirelli Diablo Rosso II is an exhilarating option. It offers phenomenal grip and feedback, transforming winding roads into pure joy, though you might trade a little longevity for that performance edge.

Finally, for a strong all-around performer that offers excellent value, the Kenda KM1 is a commendable dark horse. It provides impressive characteristics like quick warm-up and balanced handling, making it a solid choice if you’re looking for performance without the premium price tag.

No matter which you choose, investing in a quality set of tires is the single most important upgrade you can make for your touring bike. Ride safe, and enjoy the open road!

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: How often should I replace my motorcycle touring tires?
A1: Generally, touring motorcycle tires should be replaced when the tread depth reaches the wear indicators, typically 0.8mm (1/32 inch). However, even if tread is good, tires should be inspected for cracks, bulges, or punctures. Most manufacturers recommend replacing tires every 5-7 years, regardless of wear, due to rubber degradation over time. Always refer to your tire manufacturer’s guidelines and your motorcycle’s owner’s manual.

Q2: What’s the main difference between sport-touring and cruiser touring tires?
A2: Sport-touring tires, like the Pirelli Angel ST or Kenda KM1, are designed for lighter, more powerful bikes. They prioritize a balance of grip, agile handling, and mileage, with good wet-weather performance to handle varied conditions at higher speeds. Cruiser touring tires, such as the Dunlop American Elite AE2, are built for heavier, larger displacement motorcycles. They focus on superior load capacity, stability, high mileage, and a comfortable ride, often with reinforced construction to handle the bike’s weight and torque. The tread patterns and rubber compounds are optimized for these different demands.

Q3: Are these best motorcycle tires for touring bikes good in wet conditions?
A3: Absolutely. Modern touring tires, especially those designed for sport-touring like the Pirelli Angel ST and Diablo Rosso II, incorporate advanced silica compounds and innovative tread patterns specifically to excel in wet conditions, providing exceptional grip and water displacement. The Kenda KM1 also performs well in the rain. Even cruiser tires like the Dunlop American Elite AE2 have updated compounds for improved wet-weather performance, recognizing that touring often involves encountering diverse weather.

Q4: How do I choose the right size for my touring bike?
A4: You should always stick to the tire sizes recommended by your motorcycle’s manufacturer. This information can typically be found in your owner’s manual or on a sticker on your swingarm or chain guard. Using incorrect tire sizes can negatively affect your bike’s handling, stability, and safety. The tire size (e.g., 120/70ZR17) specifies width, aspect ratio, speed rating, construction type, and rim diameter.

Q5: What’s the importance of tire pressure for touring?
A5: Proper tire pressure is critical for safety, handling, and tire longevity, especially for touring. Incorrect pressure can lead to uneven wear, reduced grip, unstable handling, and increased risk of a blowout. Always check your tire pressure before each ride, and certainly before a long tour, using the manufacturer’s recommended cold inflation pressures found in your owner’s manual or on your bike’s swingarm. Adjust pressure based on load (passenger, luggage) as recommended.

Q6: Can I mix different brands of touring tires on my bike?
A6: While it’s generally recommended to run matching front and rear tires (same brand and model) as they are engineered to work together, some riders do mix brands or models. However, this can potentially alter your bike’s handling characteristics, as different tires have different profiles, compounds, and constructions. If you must mix, try to pair tires with similar characteristics (e.g., a sport-touring front with a sport-touring rear). Always proceed with caution and test the handling in a safe environment if you choose to mix.

Q7: What’s the benefit of multi-compound tires for touring?
A7: Multi-compound technology, like that found in the Dunlop American Elite AE2 and Pirelli Diablo Rosso II, offers the best of both worlds. A harder, more durable rubber compound is used in the center of the tire where it spends most of its time upright, providing excellent straight-line stability and extended mileage. Softer, stickier compounds are used on the shoulders of the tire, enhancing grip and confidence when leaning into corners. This design helps touring riders get the most miles out of their tires without sacrificing crucial grip during spirited riding.