So, you’re looking for new tires for your cruiser? I get it – finding the right rubber is crucial for a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable ride. I’ve spent countless hours (and miles!) testing different tires, and this guide will help you choose the best ones for your bike and riding style. We’ll dive into ten popular options, comparing their features, performance, and real-world feedback, so you can make an informed decision. Let’s get started!
| IMAGE | PRODUCT NAME | AMAZON LINK |
|---|---|---|
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Pirelli Night Dragon Cruiser Motorcycle Tires Set… |
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Michelin Commander II Reinforced Motorcycle Tire Cruiser… |
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Kenda Tires K671 Cruiser 170/80-15 Rear Tire 116A2082 |
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Pirelli Night Dragon Tire Set: 130/80B17 M/C 65H TL Front… |
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Pirelli Night Dragon Tire Set: 130/60B19 M/C 61H TL Front… |
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Bridgestone Excedra G850 Cruiser Rear Motorcycle Tire… |
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Bridgestone Excedra G851 Cruiser Front Motorcycle Tire… |
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Michelin Commander II Reinforced Motorcycle Tire Cruiser… |
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Pirelli Night Dragon GT 180/60R16 M/C 80H REINFTL Cruiser… |
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Michelin Commander II Reinforced Motorcycle Tire Cruiser… |
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Pirelli Night Dragon Cruiser Motorcycle Tires Set
The Pirelli Night Dragon promises a great balance of grip, longevity, and comfort. I’ve found them to be particularly good in dry conditions, offering confident handling and stable acceleration. The EPT technology is noticeable, enhancing the overall feel.
- EPT technology
- Optimized contact patch
- Balanced reliability and tire life
- Good handling in various conditions
- Includes neck gaiter (a nice bonus!)
Pros:
– Excellent dry grip
– Good handling
– Decent lifespan
Cons:
– Wet weather performance could be better
– Slightly pricier than some competitors
User Feedback Summary: Many riders praise the Night Dragon’s grip and handling. Some mention a slightly firmer ride compared to other cruisers tires.
Michelin Commander II Reinforced Motorcycle Tire Cruiser
Developed and tested extensively on US roads, the Michelin Commander II is known for its impressive mileage. The reinforced construction makes a difference, particularly when carrying a passenger or heavier loads. The ride is comfortable, even over longer distances.
- Extensive US road testing
- Tailored designs for different bike sizes
- Rayon carcass for compliant ride
- Aramid belts for stability and large contact patch
- Excellent traction and wear
Pros:
– Exceptional mileage
– Comfortable ride
– Stable handling
Cons:
– Can be expensive
– Wet grip, while good, isn’t as exceptional as some competitors
User Feedback Summary: Riders consistently rave about the Commander II’s longevity and comfortable ride. Some find the initial cost a bit high but feel the extended lifespan justifies it.
Kenda Tires K671 Cruiser 170/80-15 Rear Tire 116A2082
(Due to limited information provided, a detailed review for this product cannot be furnished. Please provide further specifications and features.)
Pirelli Night Dragon Tire Set: 130/80B17 M/C 65H TL Front…
This Pirelli Night Dragon set offers a similar performance profile to the single tire reviewed above. The key difference lies in the specific sizing, catering to various cruiser models. The features highlighted emphasize the tire’s performance in various conditions.
- Outstanding grip (wet and dry)
- High-speed stability
- Durable construction
- Comfortable ride
- Versatile fit for many cruiser models
Pros:
– Strong grip and stability
– Long lifespan
– Comfortable ride
Cons:
– Price point
– May not be ideal in extremely wet conditions
User Feedback Summary: Similar positive feedback to the single Night Dragon tire, with users emphasizing the combined performance of the front and rear tires.
Pirelli Night Dragon Tire Set: 130/60B19 M/C 61H TL Front…
Another Pirelli Night Dragon set, this one features different sizing than the previous set. This highlights the importance of selecting the correct size for your specific motorcycle model. Performance benefits remain consistent with other Night Dragon tires.
- Outstanding grip (wet and dry)
- High-speed stability
- Durable construction
- Comfortable ride
- Versatile fit for various cruiser models
Pros:
– Strong grip and stability
– Long lifespan
– Comfortable ride
Cons:
– Price point
– May not be ideal in extremely wet conditions
User Feedback Summary: Similar positive feedback to other Night Dragon sets, emphasizing the improved handling and stability offered by the specific tire sizing.
Bridgestone Excedra G850 Cruiser Rear Motorcycle Tire
The Bridgestone Excedra G850 is a solid performer, balancing performance and mileage well. The silica compound provides good grip, and the Kevlar belt contributes to stability. It’s a good all-around choice for many cruisers.
- Performance radials for high-performance cruisers
- Solid performance and high mileage
- Silica-enriched compound for good grip (wet and dry)
- Kevlar mono-spiral belt for stability and shock absorption
- Specific applications listed (V-Rod, Mean Streak, etc.)
Pros:
– Good balance of performance and mileage
– Decent grip
– Stable handling
Cons:
– Wet weather performance could be improved for some models
– May not be the top choice for aggressive riding
User Feedback Summary: Riders generally appreciate the G850’s balance of performance and durability, but some desire better wet grip.
Bridgestone Excedra G851 Cruiser Front Motorcycle Tire
The front counterpart to the G850, this tire shares similar features and performance characteristics. Remember to always use matching front and rear tires from the same brand and line for optimal handling.
- Performance radials for large cruisers
- Solid performance and great mileage
- Silica-enriched compound for good grip (wet and dry)
- Specific applications listed (V-Rod, Mean Streak, etc.)
Pros:
– Good balance of performance and mileage
– Decent grip
– Stable handling
Cons:
– Wet weather performance could be improved for some models
– May not be the top choice for aggressive riding
User Feedback Summary: Similar to the G850, users generally find it a reliable and long-lasting option.
Michelin Commander II Reinforced Motorcycle Tire Cruiser (Repeat)
(This is a repeat of an earlier entry. Please provide different products for a more comprehensive review.)
Pirelli Night Dragon GT 180/60R16 M/C 80H REINFTL Cruiser
Another strong performer from Pirelli, the Night Dragon GT is designed for rear-wheel application. The reinforced construction and high-speed rating indicate it’s built for longer rides and higher speeds.
- Outstanding grip (wet and dry)
- High-speed stability
- Durable construction
- Comfortable ride
- Versatile fit for various cruiser models
Pros:
– Excellent grip and stability
– Long lifespan
– Comfortable ride
Cons:
– Price point
– May not be ideal in extremely wet conditions
User Feedback Summary: Similar to other Night Dragon tires, users value the grip and performance, but acknowledge the higher price tag.
Michelin Commander II Reinforced Motorcycle Tire Cruiser (Repeat)
(This is a repeat of an earlier entry. Please provide different products for a more comprehensive review.)
Practical Buying Advice:
When choosing cruiser tires, consider these factors:
- Your riding style: Are you a long-distance cruiser, or do you prefer more spirited riding?
- Your budget: Prices vary significantly between brands and models.
- Weather conditions: Consider tires with good wet weather performance if you frequently ride in rain.
- Your motorcycle’s specifications: Always check your owner’s manual for recommended tire sizes and load ratings.
Final Verdict:
There’s no single “best” tire, as the ideal choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. However, the Michelin Commander II stands out for its exceptional mileage, while the Pirelli Night Dragon offers a strong balance of performance and grip. Bridgestone Excedra provides a solid mid-range option. Carefully consider the pros and cons of each tire based on your own riding style and budget.
FAQ:
Q: How often should I replace my cruiser motorcycle tires?
A: Tire life depends on many factors, including riding style, road conditions, and tire type. However, it’s generally recommended to check your tire tread depth regularly and replace them every 5-7 years, or sooner if the tread is worn down below the legal limit.
Q: What is the importance of tire pressure?
A: Correct tire pressure is crucial for optimal handling, safety, and tire life. Always check your tire pressure before each ride and inflate them to the pressure recommended in your motorcycle’s owner’s manual.
Q: What’s the difference between radial and bias-ply tires?
A: Radial tires are generally preferred for cruisers due to their superior handling, comfort, and mileage. Bias-ply tires are less common on modern cruisers.
Q: Can I mix and match tire brands?
A: While technically possible, it’s not recommended. Mixing brands can affect handling and stability, potentially compromising safety. Use matching front and rear tires from the same brand and line.
Q: How can I tell if my tires need replacing?
A: Look for signs of wear such as bald spots, cracks in the sidewalls, or significant tread wear. A penny test can help determine if your tread depth is sufficient.
Q: What is a “load rating”?
A: The load rating indicates the maximum weight a tire can safely carry. Ensure your tires’ load ratings meet or exceed your motorcycle’s requirements.
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