If you have a two-wheeler and are fairly new to the business, you should know that when it comes time to change tires, there are plenty of choices available on the market. Sticking with the models installed when the bike left the factory is a wise decision. But you could also get more performance, at a lower cost, with other makes and models if you look hard enough. Read our guide to find out more.
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"This is a premium motorcycle tire that combines sporty performance with reliable technology. This tire was designed to provide a reliable ride."
"This is a motorcycle tire with a very good price/performance ratio. This road tire is robust and designed for a safe and comfortable ride."
"You have here a motorcycle tire that ensures on wet ground. It will be perfect for summer road riding. This tubeless tire offers a very…"
"Bridgestone BT016 tires are ultra high performance radial tires designed to maximize the performance of all modern sport bikes."
This is a premium motorcycle tire that combines sporty performance with reliable technology. This tire was designed to provide a reliable ride.
69,98 £ on AmazonYou don't have to be a world champion to get your hands on Michelin race tires. The Pilot Power tire uses a rubber compound originally developed for MotoGP racing and a tread that covers less than 12% of the tire's surface. The result is a maximum lean angle of 50.6° on dry pavement and 41.9° on wet pavement, achieved with an original sportbike. The Moto GP-derived rubber compound normally requires minimal warm-up time, a temperature reached quickly with Pilot Power.
With this motorcycle tire, you get the softest rubber compound in its class for outstanding grip, while maintaining tire performance even at advanced stages of wear. The tire remains flexible even at lower temperatures providing excellent grip from the start of your ride. The Pilot Power is a tubeless (TL) road tire that is very safe on the road, especially in corners. In addition, the compound that makes up the tire uses environmentally friendly materials.
This is a motorcycle tire with a very good price/performance ratio. This road tire is robust and designed for a safe and comfortable ride.
55,17 £ on AmazonLike all Pilot Power series motorcycle tires, this one uses Michelin racing tire technology. It was designed to provide grip and performance. Note the slope angle of 50.6° on dry ground and 41.9° on wet ground (measurements taken on the Michelin test track). This versatile motorcycle tire offers great performance and exceptional grip, especially in corners, but also on wet surfaces.
It has a load index performance of 58 and a tire aspect ratio of 70 mm. The rim width compatible with this tire is 120 mm while the rim size is 17 inches. Ideally, use the Michelin Pilot Power 120/70 ZR17 58W during the summer with a "W" speed performance. It's the economical choice for your sportbike thanks to its unbeatable price/performance ratio.
You have here a motorcycle tire that ensures on wet ground. It will be perfect for summer road riding. This tubeless tire offers a very comfortable and reassuring ride.
98,50 £ on AmazonPirelli has infused its Diabolo Rosso III series with the technology of the motorcycle GP world championship. The Diabolo Rossi III tires are designed with unprecedented handling, the very evolution of sport driving. This tubeless rear motorcycle tire is no exception: it has a tread pattern that offers agile response, quick return and smooth transitions. The "Flash" racing tread pattern promotes even wear for consistent performance throughout the life of the tire.
This motorcycle tire also has a dual compound design with a wide band of racing compounds that provide full grip from the mid-slope angle. High-performance silica compounds improve grip over a wide temperature range for optimal grip in all conditions, wet or dry.
Bridgestone BT016 tires are ultra high performance radial tires designed to maximize the performance of all modern sport bikes.
57,61 £ on AmazonThe Bridgestone BT016 120/70 ZR17 58 W is an ultra-high performance radial tire designed to maximize the performance of all sportbikes on the road today. This motorcycle tire uses GP-derived multi-compound technology that delivers all the grip performance required in all aspects - braking, maximum lateral grip in corners and strong traction out of a corner.
It is a dual compound (3LC) sport tire, which still provides grip in all riding modes. The center compound provides linear handling while the shoulder provides high grip and a solid contact patch feel. The front tire's S-shaped grooves provide optimal cornering force for improved stability, linear handling and bump absorption. The location offers both wet performance and strong traction - high-speed durability is maximized.
Any specific needs?
The best motorcycle tires in 2021
The best entry-level motorcycle tires
The best high-end motorcycle tires
Your guide :
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| THE BEST | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | EXCELLENT | |
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9/10 |
8/10 |
9/10 |
8/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
Michelin Pilot Power 990721 180/55 ZR17 73W
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Michelin Pilot Power 120/70 ZR17 58W
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Pirelli Diabolo Rosso III TL 180/55 ZR17 73W
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Bridgestone BT016 120/70 ZR17 58W
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This is a premium motorcycle tire that combines sporty performance with reliable technology. This tire was designed to provide a reliable ride.
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This is a motorcycle tire with a very good price/performance ratio. This road tire is robust and designed for a safe and comfortable ride.
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You have here a motorcycle tire that ensures on wet ground. It will be perfect for summer road riding. This tubeless tire offers a very comfortable and reassuring ride.
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Bridgestone BT016 tires are ultra high performance radial tires designed to maximize the performance of all modern sport bikes.
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Size
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180/55 R17
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120/70 R17
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180/55 R17
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120/70 R17
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Rim size
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17 inches
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17 inches
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180/55 ZR17 73W
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17 inches
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Load index performance
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73
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58
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73
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58
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Speed performance
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W
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W
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W
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W
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Tire profile
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55
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70
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55
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60
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Position
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Rear
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Front
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Rear
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Front
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The way a motorcycle tire is constructed can greatly affect how it performs when used. There are two main construction methods: bias-ply and radial. Each type of construction has its advantages and disadvantages. Riders can match the type of tire construction to better suit their riding and motorcycle styles.
In some cases, motorcycles can be ridden with a bias-ply tire and a radial tire. When this happens, the bias tire should always be put on the front. This is a good mix for bikes with a high front tire and a wide rear tire, such as for choppers. The radial should never be on the front of the bike.
It is crucial to know what size tire is best for your bike. Normally, it is acceptable to have slightly larger tires, such as, for example, a 160 tire for a bike that originally came with a 150 rear tire.However, be sure to do your research, as making sure your tires fit perfectly on your rims is an essential part of keeping you safe on the road.
As with all other products available on the market, the brand name also guarantees the quality of a tire. As such, some brands are more reliable than others. For example, sport touring tires such as the Metzeler Roadtec 01 or the Pirelli Angel GT tend to offer the best of both worlds when it comes to grip and durability. While most performance-oriented tires have softer compounds that often result in lower overall mileage.
The problem is that there is no clear answer to this question because of the variety of factors that can lead to a need for a tire change. These factors may include:
Every driver faces different conditions and takes care of their car differently. Ultimately, you need to be aware of your own driving habits, environment and tires to ensure you replace them at the right time.
With this type of motorcycle tire, you can wear out the tire block until it is exhausted. And you only need to remove the tube in case of a puncture. Tubed motorcycle tires are mainly used on motorcycles with a spoke. This is because the presence of several rim spaces is not ideal for tubeless rims, as air can escape.
On the other hand, the tubeless tire has more flexibility, which helps absorb excess impact. Tubed tires are suitable for heavy vehicles, as they are more convenient for tire bending, here the tube retains air pressure when the tire bends.
This type of motorcycle tire does not have an inner tube. In fact, the tube is directly integrated into the tire, and it is the bottom membrane and the plating on the rim that provide the seal. The advantage of this type of tire is that it is more robust and has far fewer punctures.
In the event of a puncture, the tubeless tire allows for a slow loss of air, whereas with the tube tire, the vehicle would be blocked immediately. In addition, it is easy to mount, because you do not have to mount the tire and the tube, taking care to avoid pinching. However, it also happens that the tubeless tire cannot be repaired in case of a puncture.
The bias-ply construction makes the sidewalls very stiff, making them an excellent choice for heavier bikes or bikes with heavy loads. The stiff sidewalls will also help prevent the tires from slipping in turns. They also have good longevity and can be used with an inner tube, which is necessary for spoked rims and off-road riding.
One of the main drawbacks of bias-ply tires is that they don't dissipate heat very well. They are not an excellent choice for high-speed motorcycles, as they can overheat and deteriorate quickly. The fact that the rigid sidewalls don't flex much when cornering limits the contact patch between the tire and the road.
The sidewalls of radial tires are thinner than bias-ply tires, making them weaker. To strengthen the sidewalls, some manufacturers use materials such as Kevlar for reinforcement. The softer sidewalls, however, help provide a smoother ride by acting as a "spring" to absorb bumps. The tire will also flex more in turns compared to bias ply tires, which helps keep more tread on the tread surface for more traction.
The biggest advantage of belted motorcycle tires is their ability to dissipate heat well. To do this, the weight of the motorcycle is distributed more evenly across the tread of belted radial tires. This allows bikes to go faster because heat does not build up at a critical point. One disadvantage of radial tires is that the thin sidewalls are more susceptible to punctures. They are also not recommended for use with an inner tube.
There is no hard and fast rule to choose from, as it depends on your bike and what the manufacturer recommends. It will also depend on your riding and handling needs. But generally speaking, bias-ply tires last longer and ride "smoother" at the expense of reduced grip, and radial tires are stiffer and offer more traction, but don't last as long.
While the expense of buying new tires may encourage you to keep your old tires as long as possible, driving on worn tires can compromise your safety. Tire failure can be dangerous, especially on busy roads, and can damage your vehicle and put other motorists at risk.
To reduce vibrations that can damage your car
While there are good vibrations, there are also bad vibrations, which should not be ignored if they come from your vehicle. If you're driving on a dirt road or a worn road, chances are you'll feel vibrations. However, if you feel vibrations while driving on freshly paved roads, there may be a problem with your vehicle. There are many things that can cause vibrations, many of which can end up damaging your tires. However, vibrations can also indicate a problem with your tires. If you feel that your car is shaking excessively, you should take it to a mechanic to see what is wrong.
To reduce the risk of an accident
One reason for this is insufficient tread. Tires gain traction on the road because of the tire tread. Not having traction can be dangerous, especially if you drive on wet or icy roads. Insufficient tread can lead to skidding and loss of control of your vehicle. If the tread on your tires falls below 1/16 of an inch, you should definitely replace your tires.
To change damaged tires
Regardless of the age of your tires, it's possible for them to sustain damage other than tread wear. The damage is most visible in the sidewall of the tire, which is easy to check. Cracks in the sidewall can be a sign that your tire is developing a leak or that you have been driving underinflated tires. Other signs of damage to watch for are bulges and blisters. If the tire begins to weaken structurally, it will show symptoms through a bulge in the side of the tire. These bumps can turn into major problems if left untreated, as they could blow out your tire.
To change aged tires
A good age to start considering replacing your tires is 6 years old. While the tread can be a good indicator of the condition of your tires, there may be internal problems that you can't see with the naked eye that can impact your safety. Wear and tear depends on how you drive, the type of roads you drive on, the pressure of your tires, how you brake and how often you drive. Also, if your tires have been repaired for leaks or have been punctured by nails and other sharp objects, they will age more quickly. "Aged" tires can cause problems, as the tread can separate from the inside of the tire while driving, or the tire could blow out. These situations can end with the driver losing control and causing an accident.
In our opinion, the best brands of motorcycle tires in 2022 are :
Michelin was founded in 1889 and has been entirely dedicated to improving mobility. Its tires have never failed to live up to the brand's reputation: strong, durable, high-performance, they are true road companions for those who love motorcycle (or car, for that matter) travel.
Created in 1888, Dunlop is still the leading British manufacturer of tires and other rubber products today. The brand is known for the quality and strength of its products. Its motorcycle tires are particularly valued for their reliability and longevity.
Continental AG, or simply Continental, is a German company founded in 1871. This automotive supplier is best known for its very high quality tires. This company is also known for its automotive parts and for being dedicated to rubber recycling. You can trust its motorcycle tires, they are very reliable.
Bridgestone corporation is a Japanese company established in 1931 that specializes in providing sustainable solutions to offer optimal mobility modes for people. In particular, by designing, producing and distributing quality tires, whether for cars, bikes, or even motorcycles. This brand is synonymous with reliability and durability.
Pirelli is a company founded in Italy (Milan) in 1872. It was in 1901 that the company began producing automobile tires. Today, its tires are among the best available on the market, the brand offers one of the best quality/price ratios in the field.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Make sure you check the pressure of your motorcycle tires
Proper tire pressure is the most important thing to check and monitor once your tire is installed. Typically, the manufacturer's "recommended tire pressure" is clearly marked on the sidewall of all motorcycle tires and indicates a "maximum load of XXX kg at XX PSI cold". Another common reading would be "Maintain XX PSI". Depending on the load you carry or the style of riding you do, tire pressure can be adjusted. Caution: using reduced tire pressure will potentially result in uneven and premature tire wear. To get the most out of your tires, follow the manufacturers' recommended pressures. Check your motorcycle tire pressure often with an accurate tire pressure gauge.
Wash your motorcycle tires regularly
Especially if you've just taken a long ride on a muddy road, for example. Wash your motorcycle tires regularly, don't wait for routine maintenance to do so. Those muddy roads can take a toll on the bike's tires. If not washed properly, bike tires can skid on the road due to accumulated dirt.
If one of your tires is damaged, don't wait
If you find, for example, that a nail or sharp rock has embedded itself in your tire, don't wait. Avoid driving further and solve the problem as soon as possible. It is suggested that you do not drive a long distance with a nail in your tire and that you do not take a passenger. The goal is not to make the situation worse and risk irreparably damaging the affected tire.
Don't be stubborn, replace the defective tire
No matter how much you want the motorcycle tires to continue to serve you forever, they are bound to lose their grip. They're bound to wear out. When you feel them start to lose their grip, consider a replacement plan. Remember, a tire without traction can lead to accidents, especially if the road is wet.
Buy appropriate motorcycle tires
You don't buy roadster tires to put on an enduro bike! Use the right tire for your type of bike and type of riding. This will preserve your bike, your tires, and save you from mishaps on the road. For example, don't put a dirt bike tire on a bike that is suitable for city riding.
You must replace motorcycle tires if they are more than 5 years old. However, this is a general guideline to follow and does not apply to all situations. You may be able to use tires older than five years if they have been properly stored for one to three years without significant damage. Conversely, you may need to replace a new tire that has suffered damage, etc.
The legal tread depth limit for motorcycles in the UK is a minimum of 1.6 mm over three-quarters of the tread width, and the visible tread always remains on the other quarter. At this point, however, your tire's ability to disperse water will be limited and its performance will be less than optimal in dry conditions. You'll also need more braking distance compared to a new tire (which will have about 8 mm of tread).
The production date of any tire made since 2000 can be found on one sidewall at the end of the "DOT" code. The last four digits - usually after other letters and numbers - indicate the production date. The first two digits indicate the week of production and the last two digits indicate the year. The production date will allow you to already assess the reliability of the tire you want to buy.
The idea is that with wider tires, you'll get more contact patch and therefore more grip. This can happen, but there are all sorts of rules of physics involved, so it's not always true. On the other hand, there may be mounting and clearance issues, and that could also affect handling. Unless there is a very good reason, backed up by expert evidence (not just a friend's advice), we wouldn't recommend it.
Bike owners sometimes worry about getting a flat tire if they leave their bike standing for a while. In fact, the most important thing to do is simply keep them properly inflated; with your tires at the right pressure, there's no need to lift the bike off the ground.
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