Best Sport Touring Tires for Performance and Comfort

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road on your motorcycle, the wind in your face, the hum of the engine beneath you, and endless miles stretching ahead. But a great ride isn’t just about the bike; it’s profoundly influenced by the tires beneath you. As someone who’s spent countless hours chasing horizons, I’ve learned that choosing the right sport touring tires is paramount for both thrill and peace of mind. You need grip when cornering hard, stability on the highway, and dependable performance whether the road is dry, wet, or a bit chilly. Comfort matters too, especially on those long hauls. I’ve put various options to the test, and in this guide, we’ll dive deep into some of the top contenders, breaking down their features, pros, and cons so you can confidently pick the best sport touring tires for your motorcycle that deliver both exhilarating performance and unwavering comfort. Let’s find your next set of grippy companions!

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
	Achilles Touring Sport AS All Season 215/70R15 98T…	View on Amazon
	ACHILLES TOURING SPORT AS 205/55R16 91H	View on Amazon
	Pirelli Angel ST 120/70ZR17 (58W) Front Motorcycle Tire –…	View on Amazon
	Achilles Touring Sport AS All Season 235/40R19 96W XL…	View on Amazon
	Continental ContiRoadAttack 4 120/70ZR19 Front Sport…	View on Amazon

Detailed Product Reviews

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

When it comes to balanced performance for the avid touring rider who also enjoys spirited twisties, the Pirelli Angel ST set truly shines. From the moment you mount them, you’ll appreciate their versatility. They’re designed to handle everything from long highway stretches to sudden downpours, instilling confidence with their consistent grip and predictable handling. The high silica content compound means you’re covered in cooler temperatures and wet conditions, while the innovative tread pattern helps extend mileage, giving you more road time before needing a replacement. This set provides a neutral and stable ride, making it a fantastic all-rounder for diverse riding styles.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Sport Touring Compound: High silica for excellent grip on dry and wet surfaces, even in low temperatures.
  • Innovative Tread Design: Combines high mileage with a modern look and effective water dispersion.
  • Versatile Performance: Neutral and uniform handling across various road conditions.
  • Stable and Controlled Ride: Guarantees stability for both cruising and spirited riding.
  • Long-lasting Durability: Engineered for excellent mileage and consistent performance throughout its lifespan.
  • Clear Lifespan Indication: Functional design includes indicators for residual tire life.
  • Optimized for Modern Bikes: Tailored for the latest generation of sport touring motorcycles.
• Pros:
  • Exceptional wet and dry grip.
  • Good mileage for a performance-oriented tire.
  • Predictable and confidence-inspiring handling.
  • Excellent stability on highways.
• Cons: Not the absolute sportiest for track days.
• Best for: Riders seeking a balanced tire for long-distance touring and occasional spirited riding in varied conditions.
• Expert Opinion: The Pirelli Angel ST is a true workhorse in the sport touring category, offering a commendable blend of safety, longevity, and enjoyable handling. It truly delivers on its promise of versatility.

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

If your idea of sport touring leans more towards “sport” than “touring,” the Pirelli Diablo Rosso II is a tire you’ll want to consider. While it still offers enough comfort for reasonable trips, its heart is firmly rooted in performance. This tire is renowned for its exceptional handling and sticky grip in both wet and dry conditions, making it a favorite among riders who love to push their limits on winding roads. The dual-compound technology is a smart touch, providing longevity where you need it (center) and extra grip on the shoulders for aggressive cornering. It’s an ideal choice if you demand precise feedback and quick turn-in.

• Key features that stand out:
  • High-Performance Tire: Exceptional handling and grip on wet and dry surfaces.
  • Innovative Tread Design: Asymmetric pattern for efficient water displacement and enhanced dry grip.
  • Dual-Compound Technology: Harder compound in the center for longevity, softer on shoulders for grip.
  • Optimal Stability: Specially developed profile for improved stability during cornering and acceleration.
  • Bonus Keychain: A stylish Pirelli keychain is included.
• Pros:
  • Outstanding dry grip and cornering confidence.
  • Very capable in wet conditions.
  • Good stability and precise handling.
  • Faster warm-up compared to some pure touring tires.
• Cons: Shorter lifespan compared to dedicated touring tires.
• Best for: Sport touring riders who prioritize aggressive cornering and high-performance feel, willing to trade some mileage for grip.
• Expert Opinion: The Diablo Rosso II blurs the line between a pure sport tire and a sport touring option, making it fantastic for those who enjoy carving canyons on their way to a destination.

3. Achilles Touring Sport AS All Season 215/70R15 98T Passenger Car Tire

Important Note: It’s critical to clarify that the Achilles Touring Sport AS is designed for passenger cars, not motorcycles. While it includes “Touring Sport” in its name and aims for comfort and all-season performance, this tire is fundamentally different from a motorcycle sport touring tire and should never be used on a motorcycle. Our review here focuses on its features as a car tire. It’s engineered to provide a comfortable, quiet ride for everyday driving, with an emphasis on reliable performance across various weather conditions.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Designed for Passenger Cars: Specifically made for cars, not motorcycles.
  • 50,000 Mile Limited Manufacturer Tread Life: Offers good longevity for a car tire.
  • All-season Tread Pattern: Provides reliable performance in varied weather.
  • Siped Tread Blocks and Grooves: Improves grip on wet roads for car applications.
  • Engineered for Comfort: Focuses on a smooth and comfortable ride for car passengers.
• Pros:
  • Good value for passenger car owners.
  • Reliable all-season performance for cars.
  • Comfortable ride for its category.
• Cons: Absolutely unsuitable for motorcycles, despite the name.
• Best for: Passenger car owners looking for an affordable, all-season tire with a focus on comfort and decent tread life.
• Expert Opinion: While a solid option for cars, it’s vital to re-emphasize that this Achilles product is not a motorcycle tire and should not be considered for two-wheeled sport touring applications.

4. ACHILLES TOURING SPORT AS 205/55R16 91H Passenger Car Tire

Important Note: Similar to the previous Achilles entry, this ACHILLES TOURING SPORT AS is also a tire for passenger cars, not motorcycles. The size (205/55R16) and load index (91H) clearly indicate its automotive application. Its features are geared towards providing a dependable, all-season experience for cars, prioritizing a smooth ride and reasonable tread wear. It offers a practical solution for car owners seeking an economical and versatile tire for daily commuting and touring in a four-wheeled vehicle.

• Key features that stand out:
  • ACHILLES TOURING SPORT AS: Brand and model.
  • Load Index: 91.0: Specifies its load-carrying capacity for cars.
• Pros:
  • Economical choice for passenger cars.
  • Designed for comfortable car travel.
  • All-season versatility for cars.
• Cons: Not designed, tested, or safe for use on motorcycles.
• Best for: Passenger car drivers who need an affordable all-season tire.
• Expert Opinion: Again, this tire’s “Touring Sport” designation refers to its function within the passenger car market. Motorcycle riders must select tires specifically designed and certified for motorcycles.

5. Pirelli Angel ST 120/70ZR17 (58W) Front Motorcycle Tire

This specific listing highlights the front tire component of the popular Pirelli Angel ST lineup, a standout choice for sport touring motorcyclists. As part of a highly-regarded set, this front tire plays a crucial role in the bike’s steering precision, stability, and braking performance. It shares all the innovative technologies of the Angel ST range, including its high silica compound for excellent wet and cold weather grip, and a tread pattern designed for both longevity and effective water shedding. When paired with its matching rear tire, this front tire contributes significantly to a neutral handling feel and confident lean angles, which are essential for sport touring.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Sport Touring Compound: High silica content ensures superior grip in dry, wet, and low-temperature conditions.
  • Innovative Tread Design: Optimized for high mileage, visual appeal, and efficient water drainage.
  • Versatile Performance: New front profile designed for neutral and uniform handling.
  • Stable and Controlled Ride: Crucial for front-end feedback and stability, especially when braking or cornering.
  • Long-lasting Durability: Engineered for extended wear without sacrificing performance.
  • Clear Lifespan Indication: Integrated indicators for convenient monitoring of tire wear.
  • Optimized for Modern Bikes: Tailored to meet the demands of contemporary sport touring motorcycles.
• Pros:
  • Provides excellent front-end feel and feedback.
  • Strong wet weather performance and confidence.
  • Contributes to overall stability and neutral handling.
  • Durable with good mileage potential.
• Cons: Performance is optimized when paired with its matching rear tire.
• Best for: Sport touring riders looking for a dependable, high-performance front tire that offers confident steering and braking in all conditions.
• Expert Opinion: The Angel ST front tire is a cornerstone of the set’s performance. Its ability to maintain grip and provide consistent feedback in various scenarios is a key reason for the Angel ST’s strong reputation among touring enthusiasts.

6. Achilles Touring Sport AS All Season 235/40R19 96W XL Passenger Car Tire

Important Note: Just like the other Achilles entries, this 235/40R19 96W XL tire is exclusively designed for passenger cars and is entirely unsuitable for motorcycle use. The “XL” designation means it has an extra load capacity, common in larger cars or sedans. This all-season car tire aims to provide a blend of comfort, durability, and reliable traction for four-wheeled vehicles across different seasons. It carries the same features as its smaller siblings, focusing on a smooth ride and effective water dispersion for car applications, backed by a decent mileage warranty for automotive standards.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Designed for Passenger Cars: Not for motorcycles.
  • 50,000 Mile Limited Manufacturer Tread Life: Good longevity for a car tire.
  • All-season Tread Pattern: Versatile performance for cars in various weather conditions.
  • Siped Tread Blocks and Grooves: Enhances wet grip for car use.
  • Engineered for Comfort: Provides a smooth and comfortable ride for cars.
• Pros:
  • Good all-season performance for passenger cars.
  • Offers a comfortable ride for car drivers.
  • Solid tread life warranty for cars.
• Cons: Absolutely no application for motorcycles; using it would be dangerous.
• Best for: Passenger car owners needing a durable, all-season tire, especially for larger vehicles needing extra load capacity.
• Expert Opinion: It’s imperative that riders understand the vast difference between car tires and motorcycle tires. These Achilles tires, while potentially good for cars, pose a significant safety risk if incorrectly mounted on a motorcycle.

7. Continental ContiRoadAttack 4 120/70ZR19 Front Sport Touring Motorcycle Tire

The Continental ContiRoadAttack 4 is an impressive evolution in the sport touring tire segment, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in terms of performance and safety. Riders consistently rave about its superior wet grip, which is a massive confidence booster when conditions turn foul. What truly sets it apart is the innovative ‘slick’ area on the upper tread shoulder, designed for aggressive cornering and high lean angles, giving you sportbike-level grip when you really push it. On top of that, its revolutionary carcass construction significantly enhances ride comfort, making long journeys less fatiguing. It’s a true do-it-all tire that excels across the spectrum of sport touring demands.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Superior Wet Grip: Advanced design and compound for exceptional safety in wet conditions.
  • Extended Mileage: Optimized compound and pattern for increased tire longevity.
  • Quick Warm-Up Time: Reaches optimal temperature rapidly for consistent performance from the start.
  • Innovative Slick Area: New ‘slick’ area on shoulder for class-topping cornering grip at high lean angles.
  • Comfortable Ride: Revolutionary carcass construction for a smoother ride, reducing fatigue.
  • Versatile Performance: Engineered for high performance on both highways and winding roads.
  • Modern Look: Stylish tread design that complements your motorcycle’s aesthetic.
• Pros:
  • Outstanding wet weather performance.
  • Exceptional cornering grip and confidence.
  • Remarkably comfortable ride for a sport touring tire.
  • Good balance of longevity and performance.
• Cons: Might be a higher price point than some competitors.
• Best for: Sport touring riders who demand top-tier wet weather performance, aggressive cornering capability, and superior comfort for long rides.
• Expert Opinion: Continental has truly raised the bar with the ContiRoadAttack 4. Its ability to offer such high levels of grip, comfort, and safety in all conditions makes it a formidable contender for any serious sport touring enthusiast.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When we talk about best sport touring tires for performance and comfort, we’re looking for a specific blend of attributes for motorcycles. It’s important to immediately separate the motorcycle tires from the car tires in this list to ensure proper comparison. The Achilles Touring Sport AS tires (entries 3, 4, 6) are designed for passenger cars and are not suitable for motorcycles. Therefore, our comparison for sport touring performance and comfort will focus solely on the Pirelli Angel ST (front and set), Pirelli Diablo Rosso II, and Continental ContiRoadAttack 4.

For wet weather performance and overall safety, the Continental ContiRoadAttack 4 truly shines, often cited as a benchmark. Its advanced compound and tread design make it exceptionally confident in the rain, providing superb grip. The Pirelli Angel ST (both the set and the individual front tire) also delivers excellent wet grip due to its high silica compound, making it a very strong contender for all-weather touring. The Pirelli Diablo Rosso II offers good wet performance for a sportier tire, but its primary focus is often seen as dry grip.

If aggressive dry grip and cornering confidence are high on your list, the Continental ContiRoadAttack 4, with its innovative ‘slick’ shoulder area, offers sportbike-level lean angle performance. The Pirelli Diablo Rosso II is also a fantastic choice for spirited riding, providing very direct feedback and a sticky feel in the corners. The Pirelli Angel ST provides a more neutral and predictable lean, which is highly confidence-inspiring for long tours, though it might not have the raw edge of the other two when pushed to extremes.

When it comes to comfort on long rides, the Continental ContiRoadAttack 4 stands out with its revolutionary carcass construction that significantly smooths out the ride and reduces fatigue. The Pirelli Angel ST set is also known for its stable and comfortable ride, making it a great companion for extended mileage. The Diablo Rosso II, while offering good stability, leans more towards a sportier, firmer feel which might be less plush over thousands of miles.

For tire longevity and mileage, the Pirelli Angel ST is engineered for excellent mileage and consistent performance throughout its lifespan, making it a very economical choice in the long run. The Continental ContiRoadAttack 4 also boasts extended mileage thanks to its optimized compound. The Pirelli Diablo Rosso II, being a sportier option, typically offers a shorter lifespan due to its softer compounds, though its dual-compound technology does help prolong its wear where it matters most.

In summary, if you’re battling varied weather and want top-tier safety and comfort with aggressive sport capabilities, the Continental ContiRoadAttack 4 is a strong frontrunner. If you prioritize balanced performance, excellent mileage, and confident all-weather touring, the Pirelli Angel ST set is incredibly hard to beat. For riders who love spirited riding and aggressive cornering with good wet weather manners, the Pirelli Diablo Rosso II delivers a thrilling experience.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best sport touring tires for performance and comfort really boils down to your personal riding style and priorities. If your rides regularly involve varied weather, long distances, and you demand the highest levels of safety, grip, and comfort, the Continental ContiRoadAttack 4 is an exceptional choice that truly combines sport and touring capabilities without compromise. For riders who value outstanding mileage, consistent all-weather performance, and a very predictable, confidence-inspiring feel for everyday sport touring, the Pirelli Angel ST set remains a gold standard, offering incredible value. If your definition of “touring” involves aggressive canyon carving on the way to your destination and you prioritize maximum dry grip and precise handling, the Pirelli Diablo Rosso II will put a huge smile on your face. Remember, the Achilles tires mentioned are for passenger cars and should not be considered for your motorcycle. Ultimately, any of these top motorcycle sport touring options will significantly enhance your riding experience, keeping you planted and comfortable on the road ahead.

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What exactly defines a “sport touring tire” for motorcycles?
A: Sport touring tires are designed to offer a balanced blend of qualities. They provide good grip for spirited riding (the “sport” aspect) and exceptional durability, comfort, and stability for long-distance travel (the “touring” aspect). They typically handle various weather conditions well, prioritizing safety and a long lifespan over pure track performance.

Q2: How do sport touring tires differ from pure sport tires or pure touring tires?
A: Pure sport tires prioritize maximum dry grip and agile handling, often at the expense of mileage and wet weather performance. Pure touring tires focus on maximum mileage, comfort, and wet grip, sometimes feeling less responsive in corners. Sport touring tires strike a middle ground, offering a significant portion of both worlds – good grip for performance, and excellent longevity and comfort for touring.

Q3: How long do sport touring tires typically last?
A: The lifespan of sport touring tires can vary greatly depending on the tire model, riding style, road conditions, and motorcycle. Generally, you can expect anywhere from 6,000 to 12,000 miles, with some riders reporting more from highly durable options like the Pirelli Angel ST or Continental ContiRoadAttack 4. Aggressive riding will always reduce tire life.

Q4: Is it important to match front and rear sport touring tires from the same brand and model?
A: Yes, it’s highly recommended. Manufacturers design front and rear tires to work together seamlessly, creating a balanced contact patch and predictable handling characteristics. Mixing tires can lead to unpredictable handling, reduced stability, and compromised safety, especially at speed or in challenging conditions.

Q5: What’s the best way to ensure maximum performance and longevity from my sport touring tires?
A: Regularly check your tire pressure (when cold) according to your motorcycle manufacturer’s recommendations – this is crucial for performance, comfort, and lifespan. Also, inspect your tires for wear, damage, or embedded objects. Avoid harsh braking and acceleration when possible, and ensure your suspension is properly set up.

Q6: Are “all-season” tires for cars the same as “all-weather” sport touring motorcycle tires?
A: Absolutely not. As highlighted in our reviews, tires like the Achilles Touring Sport AS are designed for passenger cars and are not suitable for motorcycles. Motorcycle tires have a unique construction, profile, and compound formulations necessary for handling two-wheeled dynamics, lean angles, and lighter contact patches. Always use tires specifically designed for motorcycles.

Q7: How important is wet grip for sport touring tires?
A: Extremely important. Sport touring often involves covering long distances, meaning you’re more likely to encounter varied weather, including rain. Excellent wet grip in sport touring tires ensures safety, confidence, and control when conditions turn unfavorable, which is a major benefit over pure sport options.