Best Rated Motorcycle Tires for Performance and Safety

As an avid rider who’s logged thousands of miles across diverse terrains and weather conditions, I know firsthand that your tires are the single most critical component connecting you to the road. They dictate everything from your lean angle in a tight corner to your stopping distance in an emergency, directly impacting both performance and safety. I’ve spent countless hours researching, riding on, and even changing motorcycle tires, understanding that choosing the best rated motorcycle tires isn’t just about brand loyalty, but about matching the rubber to your riding style and needs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through some of the top contenders on the market, covering everything from sport-touring versatility to dirt-shredding grip, and even essential maintenance tools to keep your ride safe and optimized. Let’s dive into the rubber that keeps us rolling.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Pirelli Angel ST 120/70ZR17 (58W) Front & 180/55ZR17 (73W)…	View on Amazon
	Pirelli Diablo Rosso II 120/70 ZR 17 M/C (58W) TL…	View on Amazon
	Metzeler Cruisetec V-Twin Motorcycle Front, Rear, Combos…	View on Amazon
	Continental Conti Sport Attack 2 120/70ZR17 Front &…	View on Amazon
	Tusk EMEX T-35® Soft/Intermediate Terrain Dirt Bike Front…	View on Amazon
	Dunlop D605 Dual Sport Motorcycle Tires Multiple Sizes…	View on Amazon
	FADAKWALT Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor, DC 12V…	View on Amazon
	Dunlop D404 Front Motorcycle Tire 130/70-18 (63H) Black…	View on Amazon
	WIG Racing 110/100-18 and 80/100-21 Motocross Dirt Bike…	View on Amazon
	Airmoto and Carrying Case Bundle Deal – Tire Inflator…	View on Amazon

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

The Pirelli Angel ST is a fantastic choice for riders who demand reliable performance across various conditions without sacrificing mileage. Its high silica content compound is specifically designed for sport touring, ensuring superb grip on dry roads and instilling confidence when navigating wet surfaces or colder temperatures. You’ll appreciate its innovative tread pattern that not only offers excellent durability for long tours but also gives your bike a sleek, modern look. The tire’s new front and rear profile ensures a neutral and uniform performance, making it adaptable for different riding styles, from relaxed cruising to spirited canyon carving. Plus, with clear lifespan indicators, you’ll always know when it’s time for a change, maintaining maximum safety throughout its impressive lifespan.

Key features that stand out:
– Sport Touring Compound: High silica content for grip in dry and wet conditions.
– Innovative Tread Design: Balances high mileage with a modern aesthetic.
– Versatile Performance: New profile for consistent handling across various road conditions.
– Long-lasting Durability: Engineered for excellent mileage and sustained performance.
– Clear Lifespan Indication: Tread pattern includes wear indicators for easy monitoring.

Pros:
– Exceptional wet and dry grip.
– Great mileage for a performance-oriented tire.
– Stable and controlled ride.

Cons:
– Might not offer the absolute razor-sharp feedback of a dedicated track tire.

Best for: Sport touring riders looking for a balance of grip, longevity, and all-weather performance.

Expert Opinion: The Angel ST is often praised for its “set it and forget it” reliability, offering riders a predictable and safe experience mile after mile, making it a strong contender for the best rated motorcycle tires in its class.

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

When it comes to sport riding, the Pirelli Diablo Rosso II is a name that commands respect. This tire is engineered for riders who push their limits, offering exceptional handling and grip on both wet and dry surfaces. Its innovative asymmetric tread pattern is not just for show; it effectively displaces water for superior wet traction while maximizing dry grip, making it a truly versatile high-performance option. What really sets it apart is the dual-compound technology, which uses a harder compound in the center for extended wear during upright riding and a softer compound on the shoulders for incredible lean-angle grip. This design provides optimal stability during aggressive cornering and acceleration, ensuring precise handling and confident control. And as a neat bonus, it even comes with a stylish Pirelli keychain!

Key features that stand out:
– High-Performance Tire: Designed for exceptional handling and grip in all conditions.
– Innovative Tread Design: Asymmetric pattern for efficient water displacement and dry grip.
– Dual-Compound Technology: Harder center for longevity, softer shoulders for maximum lean grip.
– Optimal Stability: Specially developed profile for improved cornering and acceleration.

Pros:
– Outstanding grip and handling for sport riding.
– Excellent wet weather performance for a sport tire.
– Good blend of wear and performance thanks to dual-compound.

Cons:
– Lifespan is shorter compared to dedicated touring tires.

Best for: Sport bike riders and those who enjoy spirited riding on road and occasional track days.

Expert Opinion: Many riders consider the Diablo Rosso II a benchmark for sport motorcycle tires, delivering confidence-inspiring performance that’s hard to beat, earning its spot among the best rated motorcycle tires for dynamic riding.

Metzeler Cruisetec V-Twin Motorcycle Front, Rear, Combos

For V-Twin and touring motorcycle owners, the Metzeler Cruisetec is a game-changer, designed to bring modern sport-touring tire technology to heavier bikes. These tires offer exceptional grip in both wet and dry conditions, thanks to advanced tread technology that ensures confident handling through every twist and turn. They’re built with long-lasting performance in mind, engineered for outstanding mileage without compromising safety. What’s truly remarkable is the enhanced comfort; the innovative design works to minimize vibrations and absorb bumps, delivering a remarkably smooth ride, whether you’re on a cross-country adventure or a short commute. Plus, you’ll feel the difference in stability at high speeds, making them perfect for those heavy touring machines and ensuring a secure ride even under demanding loads.

Key features that stand out:
– Exceptional Grip: Advanced tread technology for unmatched traction in wet and dry conditions.
– Long-lasting Performance: Engineered for outstanding mileage and durability.
– Enhanced Comfort: Innovative design minimizes vibrations for a smooth ride.
– Stability at High Speeds: Provides enhanced stability for heavy touring motorcycles.
– Versatile Design: Ideal for cruisers and touring bikes.

Pros:
– Excellent grip, especially for a cruiser/touring tire.
– Impressive mileage and durability.
– Significantly improves ride comfort and stability on heavier bikes.

Cons:
– Premium price point reflects advanced technology.

Best for: V-Twin and touring motorcycle riders seeking modern performance, comfort, and safety.

Expert Opinion: The Cruisetec truly redefines what’s possible for V-twin and touring bikes, bringing a new level of confidence and enjoyment to riders who often felt limited by traditional options. It’s truly among the best rated motorcycle tires for its segment.

Continental Conti Sport Attack 2 120/70ZR17 Front & 180/55ZR17 Rear

The Continental Conti Sport Attack 2 is a serious contender for riders who crave agility and feedback from their sportbike. Featuring an advanced Black Chili compound, this tire delivers maximum grip and optimal traction in both dry and wet conditions, giving you the confidence to push harder. One of its stand-out features is rapid warm-up technology, allowing the tire to reach its optimal operating temperature quickly for immediate performance – crucial for spirited rides. The Continuous Compound Technology ensures consistent performance and improved stability across various lean angles, translating into outstanding handling and precise feedback. While built for performance, its advanced tread design and durable compound also contribute to a longer tread life, making it a smart choice for sport riders who also value longevity.

Key features that stand out:
– High-Performance Grip: Advanced Black Chili compound for maximum traction in wet and dry.
– Quick Warm-Up: Rapid warm-up technology for immediate performance.
– Enhanced Stability: Continuous Compound Technology for consistent performance across lean angles.
– Outstanding Handling: Precise feedback for confident, aggressive riding.
– Longer Tread Life: Advanced tread design extends tire life for sport applications.

Pros:
– Excellent dry grip and feedback.
– Quick warm-up times.
– Surprisingly good mileage for a high-performance tire.

Cons:
– May feel too stiff for some casual riders.

Best for: Aggressive sport riders and track day enthusiasts seeking high grip, quick warm-up, and precise handling.

Expert Opinion: For those who demand responsiveness and grip, the Conti Sport Attack 2 consistently delivers, offering a direct connection to the road that few others can match. It stands out in the best rated motorcycle tires category for its sporty credentials.

Tusk EMEX T-35® Soft/Intermediate Terrain Dirt Bike Front & Rear Tire Set

For the off-road enthusiast, the Tusk EMEX T-35® tire set is built to tackle challenging dirt bike trails with confidence. This complete front and rear tire set, featuring 80/100×21 front and 120/90×18 rear sizes, is specifically optimized for soft to intermediate terrain riding. The aggressive deep tread pattern is designed to dig in and deliver reliable traction on loose dirt, sand, loam, and even hard-packed trails, giving you the grip needed to power through. Made with a durable rubber compound, these tires resist wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting off-road performance even in punishing conditions. Being tube-type tires, they simplify mounting and maintenance for dirt bike riders, making them a practical choice for adventure.

Key features that stand out:
– Complete Front and Rear Set: Optimized for soft to intermediate terrain.
– Aggressive Deep Tread Pattern: Reliable traction on loose dirt, sand, loam, and hard-packed trails.
– Durable Rubber Compound: Resists wear and tear for long-lasting performance.
– Tube-Type Tires: Simplifies mounting and maintenance.

Pros:
– Excellent traction in a variety of off-road conditions.
– Durable construction for demanding use.
– Cost-effective complete set.

Cons:
– Strictly for off-road use, not street legal.

Best for: Dirt bike riders tackling soft to intermediate off-road terrain.

Expert Opinion: The Tusk EMEX T-35 provides exceptional value and performance for its intended use, making it a popular choice among dirt bike riders looking for reliable off-road grip. It’s a top pick among the best rated motorcycle tires for dirt bikes.

Dunlop D605 Dual Sport Motorcycle Tires Multiple Sizes

The Dunlop D605 is an excellent choice for riders who enjoy the versatility of a dual-sport motorcycle, taking their adventure from pavement to dirt. These tires are designed to offer a good balance of on-road manners and off-road capability, making them suitable for a wide range of riding environments. The aggressive tread pattern provides reliable traction on loose surfaces like gravel and dirt, while still being able to handle highway speeds with acceptable stability. Its durable construction means it can withstand the rigors of mixed-terrain riding, making it a reliable partner for your dual-sport adventures. If you’re looking for a tire that won’t shy away from a dirt path yet still performs adequately on the asphalt, the D605 is a solid contender.

Key features that stand out:
– Dual Sport Versatility: Balanced performance for both on-road and off-road riding.
– Aggressive Tread Pattern: Provides reliable traction on various loose surfaces.
– Durable Construction: Built to withstand mixed-terrain riding challenges.
– Acceptable On-Road Stability: Handles highway speeds adequately.

Pros:
– Good grip on light off-road trails.
– Acceptable performance on paved roads.
– Durable for adventure riding.

Cons:
– Not a specialist in either pure off-road or pure street performance.

Best for: Dual-sport motorcycle riders who frequently ride a mix of paved roads and unpaved trails.

Expert Opinion: For true 50/50 riding, the D605 strikes a commendable balance, allowing riders to transition seamlessly between environments without needing a tire change. It’s a practical choice when considering best rated motorcycle tires for dual-sport use.

FADAKWALT Tire Inflator Portable Air Compressor, DC 12V

While not a tire itself, the FADAKWALT Portable Air Compressor is an absolutely essential tool for maintaining the performance and safety of your motorcycle tires. This DC 12V unit is powered directly by your vehicle, making it incredibly safe and reliable, as it avoids the risks of built-in batteries overheating. Its smart preset and auto-stop function lets you set your desired pressure with accuracy (±1.5 PSI) and it automatically shuts off once reached, preventing over-inflation. It’s incredibly versatile, inflating not just motorcycle tires but also cars, bikes, SUVs, and even air beds. You’ll appreciate its fast inflation capabilities, able to inflate a typical car tire in about 5 minutes, and the clear digital display with LED lighting makes it usable day or night. This compact design easily fits in your glove box or saddlebag, providing peace of mind on every ride.

Key features that stand out:
– Safe & Reliable Power: Powered directly by vehicle DC 12V, no internal battery to overheat.
– Smart Preset & Auto-Stop: Set desired pressure, and it stops automatically.
– Multi-Purpose: Inflates cars, bikes, motorcycles, SUVs, and more.
– Fast Inflation & Durable: Inflates quickly (up to 150 PSI) with durable construction.
– Digital Display & LED Lighting: Clear, readable gauge with light for low-light conditions.

Pros:
– Extremely safe with no internal battery.
– Accurate and easy to use auto-stop feature.
– Versatile for various inflation needs.

Cons:
– Requires a 12V power source, so no standalone cordless operation.

Best for: Any rider needing a reliable, safe, and portable way to maintain optimal tire pressure on the go.

Expert Opinion: An essential piece of kit for any rider serious about tire longevity and safety, the FADAKWALT inflator offers peace of mind and precision, complementing the best rated motorcycle tires with proper maintenance.

Dunlop D404 Front Motorcycle Tire 130/70-18 (63H) Black

The Dunlop D404 is a classic choice, particularly for riders of cruisers and older bikes, known for its dependable performance and broad fitment range. What makes this tire stand out is its expanded size range, which caters to a wide variety of older motorcycles and modern cruisers, ensuring that many riders can find a perfect fit. The tread compound delivers an excellent balance of mileage and grip, providing long-lasting durability for touring while still offering confident traction for everyday riding. Its proven tread pattern is designed for efficient water dispersal, contributing to reliable performance in varying weather conditions. If you’re looking for a dependable, no-frills tire that gets the job done reliably on your cruiser, the D404 is a time-tested option.

Key features that stand out:
– Expanded Size Range: Fits a wide variety of older bikes and cruisers.
– Balanced Tread Compound: Delivers excellent balance of mileage and grip.
– Reliable Performance: Proven design for consistent handling.

Pros:
– Great mileage for cruiser applications.
– Reliable grip in typical riding conditions.
– Affordable and widely available.

Cons:
– Not designed for aggressive sport riding or heavy wet weather.

Best for: Cruiser and classic motorcycle owners looking for good mileage, solid grip, and a wide range of fitment options.

Expert Opinion: The D404 is a staple in the cruiser segment for a reason – it consistently delivers reliable performance and value, making it a go-to choice among the best rated motorcycle tires for its category.

WIG Racing 110/100-18 and 80/100-21 Motocross Dirt Bike Tire & Tube Set

For motocross and serious dirt bike enthusiasts, the WIG Racing Tire & Tube Set offers a complete package designed for aggressive off-road performance. This set includes a 110/100-18 rear tire, an 80/100-21 front tire, and crucially, both 4.10×18 and 2.75×21 inner tubes, ensuring you have everything you need. These tires feature a durable intermediate rubber compound that is engineered for resilience and performance across diverse off-road conditions. With an emphasis on excellent grip on all surfaces, the tread spacing is specifically designed to work exceptionally well in mud, loose dirt, and sand, giving you maximum control and drive. Importantly, these are Off-Road use ONLY tires, optimized purely for the demands of motocross and trail riding.

Key features that stand out:
– Complete Tire & Tube Set: Includes front and rear tires with matching inner tubes.
– Durable Intermediate Rubber Compound: Built for resilience and performance.
– Excellent Grip on All Surfaces: Tread spacing optimized for mud and loose dirt/sand.
– Off-Road Use ONLY: Specifically designed for motocross and dirt biking.

Pros:
– Great traction in mud and loose terrain.
– Comes as a convenient tire and tube package.
– Durable for aggressive off-road riding.

Cons:
– Not street legal and unsuitable for paved roads.

Best for: Motocross riders and serious dirt bike enthusiasts seeking maximum off-road grip and a complete tire/tube solution.

Expert Opinion: WIG Racing delivers a robust package for the demanding off-road rider, providing the aggressive grip and durability needed to conquer tough trails, earning its place among the best rated motorcycle tires for dirt applications.

Airmoto and Carrying Case Bundle Deal – Tire Inflator & Pump

Just like the Fadakwalt, the Airmoto Tire Inflator and Carrying Case Bundle is an indispensable companion for any motorcyclist focused on tire performance and safety. This portable tire inflator is built with highest quality materials for quick and accurate inflation, getting your tires to precision accuracy up to 120 PSI in just minutes. Its auto shut-off feature ensures you can set your desired pressure, connect, and walk away, with the unit automatically stopping when the correct pressure is reached. Riders will appreciate its main highlights like easy unit changes (PSI, kPa, BAR, KG/CM), a large LCD, digital tire pressure gauge, a built-in LED flashlight for low-light conditions, and a powerful 2000 mAh rechargeable battery. The included strong and durable carrying case, made from cut and tear-resistant polyurethane with a velvet mesh interior, protects your Airmoto and keeps all your accessories organized in its mesh pocket, making it the perfect travel companion.

Key features that stand out:
– Quick & Accurate Inflation: Inflates tires with precision up to 120 PSI in minutes.
– Auto Shut Off: Automatically stops when desired pressure is reached.
– Main Highlights: Multiple pressure units, large LCD, LED flashlight, deflate button, rechargeable battery.
– Strong and Durable Carrying Case: Protects the inflator and stores accessories.

Pros:
– Cordless and rechargeable for ultimate portability.
– Highly accurate with convenient auto-shutoff.
– Durable carrying case keeps everything organized and protected.

Cons:
– Battery life may be a concern for inflating multiple very flat, large tires.

Best for: Riders seeking a premium, highly portable, and accurate cordless tire inflator with excellent protection for travel.

Expert Opinion: The Airmoto bundle offers convenience and reliability in a compact, protected package, making tire pressure maintenance incredibly easy and contributing significantly to the lifespan and safety of the best rated motorcycle tires.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When choosing among the best rated motorcycle tires for performance and safety, it’s clear that your riding style is the most important factor. For instance, if you’re primarily a sport touring rider, tires like the Pirelli Angel ST stand out with their exceptional balance of wet/dry grip and impressive mileage. They prioritize stability and comfort over long distances, making them ideal for road trips with some spirited cornering. In contrast, for pure sport performance and track days, the Pirelli Diablo Rosso II or the Continental Conti Sport Attack 2 deliver razor-sharp handling, quicker warm-up times, and maximum lean-angle grip. These tires thrive on aggressive riding but will typically offer less mileage than their touring counterparts.

Cruiser and V-Twin owners will find that the Metzeler Cruisetec truly elevates their riding experience by bringing modern tire technology to heavier bikes. It offers a significant upgrade in grip and comfort compared to traditional cruiser tires, particularly enhancing stability at high speeds and in corners. For those with older cruisers or who prefer a more classic feel with reliable performance, the Dunlop D404 offers an affordable and proven option with good mileage.

If your adventures take you off the beaten path, the distinction between dual-sport and pure off-road tires becomes critical. The Dunlop D605 is a versatile choice for dual-sport bikes, offering a compromise that allows for both on-road commuting and light trail riding. However, for dedicated dirt bike and motocross riders, the Tusk EMEX T-35® or WIG Racing sets are specifically engineered with aggressive tread patterns and durable compounds for superior traction in mud, sand, and loose dirt. These are not street-legal and are designed for specific off-road challenges, providing the specialized grip needed to excel.

Finally, while not tires themselves, the FADAKWALT and Airmoto tire inflators are invaluable for ensuring your tires consistently perform at their best and last longer. Proper tire pressure is paramount for safety and handling, regardless of the tire type. The FADAKWALT offers a reliable, vehicle-powered option with auto-stop, while the Airmoto provides the convenience of a cordless, rechargeable unit with a protective case for on-the-go accuracy. Investing in one of these tools is just as important as choosing the right rubber.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best rated motorcycle tires for performance and safety is a deeply personal decision, influenced heavily by your motorcycle type, riding environment, and personal preferences.

For the Sport Tourer: You’ll be delighted with the Pirelli Angel ST. It’s the consummate all-rounder, offering exceptional safety and longevity without compromising the thrill of the ride, whether it’s dry or wet.

For the Adrenaline Seeker: Go with either the Pirelli Diablo Rosso II or the Continental Conti Sport Attack 2. Both deliver exhilarating performance, superb grip, and precise handling for those spirited rides and track days where every millisecond counts.

For the Cruiser Enthusiast: The Metzeler Cruisetec is a standout, transforming the handling and comfort of V-Twin and touring bikes with its advanced technology. For a more traditional, value-focused choice, the Dunlop D404 remains a solid, reliable option.

For the Off-Road Adventurer: The Dunlop D605 is your go-to for dual-sport versatility. If you live for the dirt and motocross, the specialized grip of the Tusk EMEX T-35® or WIG Racing sets will provide the traction you need to dominate the trails.

And remember, no matter which incredible tires you choose, maintaining optimal tire pressure is non-negotiable for both performance and safety. An investment in a FADAKWALT or Airmoto tire inflator ensures your top-rated tires always perform exactly as they should. Ride safe, ride smart, and enjoy the journey!

FAQ Section

Q1: How often should I check my motorcycle tire pressure?
A: You should check your motorcycle tire pressure before every ride, or at least weekly. Proper pressure is crucial for the best rated motorcycle tires for performance and safety, as it affects handling, stability, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity.

Q2: What’s the difference between radial and bias-ply motorcycle tires?
A: Radial tires have cords running across the tire from bead to bead, making them more flexible in the sidewall and more stable at high speeds, often found on sport and touring bikes. Bias-ply tires have cords crisscrossing each other, leading to a stiffer sidewall and often used on cruisers or older motorcycles. Matching tire type (radial/bias-ply) is vital for performance and safety.

Q3: How do I know when my motorcycle tires need replacing?
A: The most common indicators are tread wear indicators (small bars molded into the tread grooves), visible cords, cracks in the sidewall, or significant punctures. Always refer to your tire’s specific wear indicators and manufacturer recommendations. Worn-out best rated motorcycle tires compromise both grip and safety.

Q4: Can I mix different brands or models of motorcycle tires on my bike?
A: Generally, it’s strongly recommended to use matching front and rear tires (same brand and model) to ensure optimal handling characteristics. Mixing tires can lead to unpredictable handling and compromise the best rated motorcycle tires for performance and safety features designed by manufacturers.

Q5: Are high-performance sport tires safe in wet weather?
A: Modern high-performance sport tires, like the Pirelli Diablo Rosso II or Continental Conti Sport Attack 2, have advanced compounds and tread designs that provide surprisingly good wet grip. However, no tire can defy physics, and caution should always be exercised when riding in wet conditions, as overall grip is significantly reduced compared to dry surfaces.

Q6: What benefits do dual-compound motorcycle tires offer?
A: Dual-compound tires (like the Pirelli Diablo Rosso II) offer the best of both worlds: a harder, more durable compound in the center for extended tire life during upright riding (highway cruising), and a softer, grippier compound on the shoulders for maximum traction and confidence during aggressive cornering. This helps achieve a better balance of performance and safety without compromising too much on either.

Q7: How important is tire temperature for performance?
A: Tire temperature is incredibly important. Tires, especially performance-oriented ones, are designed to operate within a specific temperature range to provide optimal grip. Too cold, and they won’t grip well; too hot, and they can lose integrity or wear excessively. Tires with quick warm-up technology (like the Conti Sport Attack 2) help you reach optimal temperatures faster for immediate performance and safety.