For the new motorcycle season one of the most important tasks is finding the right tires for your bike. They are selected depending on the type of ride. The review presents a rating of quality tires for 2024 from the most famous manufacturers for various types of motorcycles.
At a glance: types of motorcycle tires and their general characteristics
Motorcycle tire designs are divided into two categories: diagonal and radial. To understand the differences between them, it is worth looking at the table and comparing the main characteristics.
Distinctive features of diagonal and radial tires:
Name | Diagonal | Radial |
Which motorcycle models are installed: | heavy | lungs |
Profile: | round | flat |
Sidewalls: | high | lower |
Layering of layers: | each of the layers are placed in the opposite direction to each other (comparable to "X"); 3rd layer possible: applied over 2 others in the direction of travel | form an angle of 90 degrees in the direction of rotation of the tire |
Work specifics: | constantly deforms during movement, and then straightens to its original state | remains unchanged |
Features of work: | generates heat, increases traction | low heat output, due to which the tire heats up less |
Disadvantages: | high temperature conditions have a detrimental effect on the tire: reduces performance, increases wear | sidewalls bend easily; |
| tires are not resistant to heavy loads |
One of the important characteristics is the tire tread. How to choose the right tire for your motorcycle based on the pattern on the rubber?
Operating conditions of motor tires and required protector:
A type | Tire tread |
On-road models: for example, touring or cruisers - driving in any weather | many grooves and branches |
Off-road driving | deep grooves with sipes |
high-speed riding (sport bikes) | poor drawing or lack of it |
classic, sports-tourist | intermediate option |
The function of the tire pattern is to divert water from the rubber-asphalt contact patch The greater the number of grooves, the better the grip in wet weather, but in dry conditions the grip on asphalt decreases.
Tires can be tube and tubeless. The first option is suitable for motorcycles with spoked wheel rims. The second option is for those whose equipment is equipped with alloy wheels. Tubeless structures are in great demand, since they are: lighter in weight, do not heat up so quickly, do not load the suspension too much and in the event of a puncture, they can travel some distance.
Motorcycle tire selection criteria
What to look for when choosing a motorcycle tire? All you need to know is the size of the item. Usually, all the data is indicated on the tire itself, but you can find out the characteristics from the operating instructions for the equipment. What does the marking of a motorcycle mean? There are several measurement systems in this process. The most popular and understandable is the metric system. The second most popular is "alpha" (mark tourist models).
The main indicators of the metric system - using the example of encryption 180 / 55ZR-17:
- Width - the first number (180);
- Profile width - second number (55);
- Speed index - first letter (Z);
- Tire structure - second letter (R - radial);
- The rim diameter the tire is compatible with is the last number (17).
The main indicators of the "Alpha" system using the example of MT90S-16 encryption:
- The first letter is the name of the tire (M - motorcycle);
- The second letter is the width of the tire (T);
- The first number is the height along the profile (90);
- Letter by number - speed index (S);
- The last number is the diameter of the rim compatible with the tire (16).
The speed index is the maximum driving mode.
Speed indices:
Name | Decoding (km / h): |
"L" | 120 |
"M" | 130 |
"N" | 140 |
"P" | 150 |
"Q" | 160 |
"R" | 170 |
"S" | 180 |
"T" | 190 |
"U" | 200 |
"H" | 210 |
"V" | 240 |
"W" | 270 |
"Y" | 300 |
"Z" | 300+ |
On some models, the load index is indicated - an indicator of the carrying capacity. The table shows all values with decoding.
Load factors for motorcycle tires:
Indicator (number) / decoding (kilograms) |
50/190 | 60/250 | 70/335 | 80/450 | 90/600 |
51/195 | 61/257 | 71/345 | 81/462 | 91/615 |
52/200 | 62/265 | 72/355 | 82/475 | 92/630 |
53/206 | 63/272 | 73/365 | 83/487 | 93/650 |
54/212 | 64/280 | 74/375 | 84/500 | 94/670 |
55/218 | 65/290 | 75/387 | 85/515 | 95/690 |
56/224 | 66/300 | 76/400 | 86/530 | 96/710 |
57/230 | 67/307 | 77/412 | 87/545 | 97/730 |
58/236 | 68/315 | 78/425 | 88/560 | 98/750 |
59/243 | 69/325 | 79/437 | 89/580 | 99/775 |
As for the rubber material:
- Soft compound: good grip, but wears out quickly;
- Hard composition: poor grip, but long service life;
- Uneven rigidity: grip and durability are balanced.
The best manufacturers: the top 5 world famous motorcycle tire companies were reviewed:
- Bridgestone;
- Continental;
- Metzeler;
- Avon;
- "Kenda".
Rating of the best motorcycle tires from the Japanese company "Bridgestone"
"BATTLAX BT-014"
Model "120 / 60R17 55W" for sports tourists is designed for 600-1000 cc engines according to the latest developments. With the help of Narrow Ply technology, an additional layer was created under the shoulder areas of the tread, which provides resistance to dynamic deformations. A special bead filler evenly distributes the load over the entire surface of the contact patch.
Tire design "BATTLAX BT-014"
Specifications:
Purpose: | motorcycles, ATVs |
Parameters (centimeters): | Width: 12 |
profile height: 5.5 |
Permissible speed (km per hour): | 270 (W) |
A type: | radial |
On the rim: | 17 inch |
By price: | 2600 rubles |
BATTLAX BT-014
Advantages:
- Controllability;
- Ideal braking parameters;
- Good grip;
- Overcoming long distances;
- Ensuring a comfortable ride;
- For all weather conditions;
- Technology used "3D-C.T.D.M." while creating.
Disadvantages:
Exedra G702
Model "180/70 R16 77H" for tourists, owners of large bikes. Installed on American style motor vehicles with a powerful turbocharged engine. The front tires have longitudinal grooves that trap water from the contact patch. In addition, they divide the spot into two parts, thereby improving directional stability.
Exedra G702 tires fitted to rim
Specifications:
Purpose: | motorcycles, ATVs |
Parameters (centimeters): | Width: 12 |
profile height: 5.5 |
Permissible speed (km per hour): | 270 (W) |
A type: | radial |
On the rim: | 17 inch |
By price: | 2600 rubles |
Exedra G70
Advantages:
- Dual-use;
- Excellent handling;
- Resistant to coating in wet weather;
- Resistant to extreme angles of attack;
- The specifics of the grooves;
- Contact spot dimensions.
Disadvantages:
"Hoop H01"
Model "3/0 R10 42J" for sports scooter riding. Provides excellent grip on wet and dry road surfaces.
The appearance of the front tire "Hoop H01"
Specifications:
Profile width | 3 mm |
Height: | 0% |
Load: | 42 |
Speed: | 100 km / h |
Wheel size: | R10 |
Season: | summer |
Hoop H01 3/0 R10 42J
Advantages:
- Short braking distance;
- For driving in any weather;
- Movement safety;
- Exchange rate stability;
- Narrow appointment;
- Design.
Disadvantages:
"Battlecross X20"
Model "80/100 R21 51M TT in front of NHS" is designed for cross on soft to medium surfaces. Can walk well in mud. The design feature is double grip when cornering in a wide working range.
Tire Test "Battlecross X20"
Specifications:
For whom: | any riders |
Purpose: | front |
Profile parameters (centimeters): | width - 8, height - 10 |
Rim diameter: | 21 in |
A type: | chamber |
Load index: | 51 |
Maximum speed: | 130 km / h |
average price | 3850 rubles |
Battlecross X20 80/100 R21 51M TT ahead of NHS
Advantages:
- Considered versatile - a wide range of surfaces available;
- Braking and acceleration are good;
- Stability in the passage of the route;
- For beginners and professionals;
- Special block distribution;
- Functional.
Disadvantages:
- Not suitable for street and road use.
Quality motorcycle tires from the German company "Continental"
"TKC 80 Twinduro"
TKC 80 TWINDURO M + S 3.00-21 51S TT FRONT model for tourenduro. It resembles "cross-country" because of the tread blocks, but in this design they are optimized for asphalt trails. The rubber is suitable for any riding style. In rainy weather, it instantly removes dirt and water from the point of contact (sharp edges of the tread respond). Thanks to the latest technology, tires recover faster from deformation compared to other models.
TKC 80 Twinduro tires appearance
Specifications:
vendor code | 2072220000 |
Road: | soil-track |
A type: | with a camera |
Bike class: | off-road |
Axis: | front |
Width: | 3.00 |
On the rim: | 21 inch |
Speed Index: | S |
Load factor: | 51 |
For the season: | summer |
Weight | 4 kg 177 g |
Comparative tests: | high-speed driving on the highway - 5 thousand km; moderate movement - 10-12 thousand km |
How much is | 3600 rubles |
TKC 80 TWINDURO M + S 3.00-21 51S TT FRONT
Advantages:
- For various types of road surface;
- Universal - for bikes of any format;
- Stability on curves and straight road sections;
- Adhesion properties in any weather;
- 100% lack of aquaplaning;
- Regenerative abilities;
- Lifetime;
- Durable material.
Disadvantages:
"Street Race"
Model "120/70 ZR17 (58W) TL FRONT" for a sportbike - a combination of racing and road structures, equipped with a combined composition: with sections of different stiffness, providing maximum contact area at different angles of inclination. Thanks to the reinforced carcass with a metal cord, the tires provide excellent stability in all emergency situations, while increasing dynamic performance.
Street Race Tire Design
Specifications:
Vendor code: | 2441510000 |
Motorcycle class: | track |
A type: | tubeless |
Ribbon material: | steel |
Axis: | front |
Tire dimensions (centimeters): | width - 12, height - 7 |
Rim diameter: | 17 inch |
Load index: | 58 |
Permissible speed limit: | 300+ km / h |
average cost | 8500 rubles |
Continental Street Race 120/70 ZR17 (58W) TL FRONT
Advantages:
- The tire is versatile in use: suitable for tracks and normal roads;
- Expressway;
- Durable material;
- Handling with increased surface area;
- Traction and speed control;
- Design;
- Reinforced cord;
- Resistance to mechanical and deforming damage;
- Innovative drainage system;
- Excellent performance;
- Suitable for any weather.
Disadvantages:
"ContiRoadAttack 2 EVO"
Model "190/50 ZR17 (73W) TL REAR" for powerful two-wheeled vehicles of the "sport-touring" class is equipped with a special drainage system with a non-standard groove arrangement. The design allows you to move around in any weather and feel comfortable. The "TractionSkin" system frees the tires from rolling, as the surface of this type of rubber has a lot of the smallest roughness, which increases braking performance and improves dynamic performance.
Tires "ContiRoadAttack 2 EVO" installed on a motorcycle
Specifications:
Vendor code: | 2443640000 |
Tales: | tourist, sports |
Axes: | rear |
Profile dimensions (centimeters): | width - 19, height - 5 |
Rim diameter: | 17 inch |
A type: | tubeless |
Speed class: | "Z" |
Load index: | 73 |
For a price of approximately | 11,000 rubles |
ContiRoadAttack 2 EVO 190/50 ZR17 (73W) TL REAR
Advantages:
- Optimal performance;
- Drainage groove depth;
- Controllability on bends and straight sections of the road;
- Provide comfort when driving;
- Short braking distance;
- Wear evenly;
- Lack of aquaplaning;
- No running-in required;
- Safe;
- Long lasting.
Disadvantages:
"ContiTwist"
Model "110 / 90-13 56Q TL FRONT / REAR" - motorcycle tires for scooters and sports bikes. Different groove depths speed up the removal of dirt and water from the contact point. The best option for the city and country roads.
ContiTwist tire on motorcycle wheel, rubber design
Specifications:
Seasonality: | summer |
Vendor code: | 2401100000 |
Bike type: | scooter, bikes |
Profile dimensions (centimeters): | width - 11, height - 9 |
Rim diameter: | 13 inch |
Load index: | 56 |
Permissible speed: | 160 km / h - class "Q" |
Axes: | front, rear |
A type: | tubeless |
Average cost: | 2800 rubles |
110 / 90-13 56Q TL FRONT / REAR
Advantages:
- Inexpensive;
- Durability;
- Functional;
- For tracks of any format;
- High quality;
- Groove design;
- Unique shape;
- Completely eliminate the effect of aquaplaning;
- Ensuring a safe ride;
- Wear resistant rubber;
- Compliant with global environmental standards.
Disadvantages:
Popular models of motorcycle tires from the German company "Metzeler"
"LASERTEC"
The "100/90 -18 56H TL FRONT" model for road motorcycles with a classic tread pattern is created using the most advanced technologies:
- "MRC" - bus contour design;
- "MBS" - creation of a diagonal belt.
The tires are suitable for installation on virtually all types of Touring motorcycles. The central part of the structure has a sharp radius of curvature for fast and precise control. In dry and wet weather, the tires exhibit excellent dynamic and traction properties.
LASERTEC tires on the rim, appearance
Specifications:
Vendor code: | 1529800 |
For motorcycles: | roadster, classic |
Profile parameters (centimeters): | width - 10, height - 9 |
Axis: | front |
Load class: | 56 |
Rim diameter: | 18 inch |
A type: | without camera |
Speed Index: | "N" (210 km / h) |
By price: | 6400 rubles |
100/90 -18 56H TL FRONT
Advantages:
- High quality material;
- Provide a high level of comfort;
- Effective drainage from the contact patch;
- Safe movement;
- Good directional stability when cornering;
- Intuitive controls.
Disadvantages:
"MS-360"
Model "MID HARD 100 / 100-18 59M TT MST REAR" for amateur and professional sports motorcycles. The main feature of tires is reuse after wear: the rubber is turned 180 degrees and used again.
Tire "MC-360" on the front wheel, structural element
Specifications:
Vendor code: | 2763100 |
Axes: | rear |
Purpose: | amateur off-road driving; for professional sports: motocross, supercross, freestyle and cross-country |
Profile parameters (centimeters): | width and height - 10 |
Rim size: | 18 inch |
A type: | chamber |
Load index: | 59 |
Speed class: | "M" |
MST engine: | 1645cc OHV V4 (90 degree camber) |
By price: | 4600 rubles |
MID HARD 100 / 100-18 59M TT MST REAR
Advantages:
- Mixed coating;
- Perfect grip;
- High cross-country ability on sandy and stone tracks;
- Resistance to various types of damage;
- Features in operation;
- Affordable price;
- Long service life;
- For riders of various skill levels.
Disadvantages:
"ROADTEC 01"
Model "180/55 ZR17 (73W) TL REAR HWM" for motorbikes of class naked, enduro, sport. The double-layer tire construction makes the technique more stable. There is a steel belt along the entire tire. This tire withstands any tests and is famous for its increased wear resistance.
Tire break-in "ROADTEC 01"
Specifications:
Vendor code: | 2681300 |
Purpose: | sport touring |
Profile parameters (centimeters): | width - 18, height - 5.5 |
A type: | tubeless |
Rim: | 17 inch |
Load index: | 73 |
Permissible speed class: | "Z" |
Axis: | back |
Material: | combined: shoulder area - rubber compound with 100% silica content, centrally - carbon black + silica in a percentage ratio of 30:70 |
average cost | 13,200 rubles |
ROADTEC 01
Advantages:
- Ensuring a long run;
- Maximum adhesive force;
- Stable and comfortable ride;
- The maneuverability of the motorcycle thanks to the rubber is predictable;
- Tread pattern;
- Improved version of "Metzeler Roadtec Z8 Interact" for other developments;
- Short and extended contact spot;
- Consistent performance across the entire tire.
Disadvantages:
Description of the model range of motorcycle tires from the American company "Avon"
"3D ULTRA SPORT AV80"
Model "190/55 ZR17 (75W) TL REAR" for powerful sports bikes. Design features: increased contact patch, 3D-lamellae, special rubber composition and reinforced frame.
Tire design "3D ULTRA SPORT AV80"
Specifications:
Vendor code: | 4530016 |
Motorcycle class: | sport |
Profile parameters (centimeters): | width - 19, height - 5.5 |
Load index: | 75 |
A type: | tubeless |
Rim diameter: | 17 inch |
Structure: | radial |
Permissible speed: | 300+ km / h |
Axis: | back |
Season: | summer |
By price: | 9000 rubles |
3D ULTRA SPORT AV80
Advantages:
- Features;
- Good grip even in extreme conditions;
- High-level controllability;
- Durable;
- Resistant to wear and tear;
- Rapid warming up to operating temperatures;
- For wet and dry weather;
- All high speed heavy bikes;
- Guarantee.
Disadvantages:
"TRAILRIDER AV53"
The 110/80 R19 59V TL FRONT model is designed for long journeys on asphalt or dirt roads. Thanks to the "Super Rich Silica" technology, the rubber has a good grip on curves relative to the track. Tire composition: hard; the sides are soft.
Front and rear tires "TRAILRIDER AV53" fitted on the rim
Specifications:
Vendor code: | 4230011 |
Class: | enduro (road) |
A type: | tubeless |
Profile dimensions (centimeters): | width - 11, height - 8 |
Rim: | 19 inch |
By structure: | radial |
Load index: | 59 |
Speed limit (class): | "V" |
Axis: | front |
Average price: | 7600 rubles |
TRAILRIDER AV53
Advantages:
- Comfortable movement;
- The rubber quickly warms up to the required operating temperature conditions;
- Reduces the risk of falling;
- Stability at high speeds;
- Resistance to deformation;
- Multi-compound compound.
Disadvantages:
"COBRA CHROME"
Model "130/70 R18 63H TL FRONT" - one of the representatives of the new development of this series. Its main features: increased up to 5% area of contact with the road; the service life was extended by 10%; wide range of sizes: up to 33 cm wide, rim diameter up to 23 inches; improved appearance - image of a cobra on the edge of the tire.
Two "COBRA CHROME" tires on rims and highlighted Cobra detail
Specifications:
Vendor code: | 4120013 |
Axis: | before |
Motorcycle class: | chopper, cruiser |
Profile parameters (centimeters): | width - 13, height - 7 |
Rim size: | 18 inch |
A type: | tubeless |
Load index: | 63 |
Composition: | radial |
Speed class: | "N" |
Year of issue: | 2018, October |
Average cost: | 8400 rubles |
COBRA CHROME
Advantages:
- New;
- Huge selection of sizes;
- Improved driving characteristics;
- For all weather conditions;
- Tire design;
- Durable;
- Maneuverability: timely repetition of commands given by the driver;
- Excellent quality.
Disadvantages:
The best motorcycle tires from the Taiwanese company "Kenda"
"K774F"
The 80 / 100-21 51M TT model for cross-country use is suitable for beginners and professional athletes for off-road driving. Provide a comfortable ride in any emergency, regardless of weather conditions.
The appearance of the "K774F" tire
Specifications:
Vendor code: | 5618 |
Weight: | 4 kg |
Motorcycles: | sports, enduro |
Density: | 60 TPI |
Pressure: | 1.4 |
Axis: | any |
Rubber composition: | medium soft |
Profile dimensions (centimeters): | width - 8, height - 10 |
Diameter: | 21 in |
A type: | chamber |
Load index: | 51 |
Speed limit: | class "M" |
Cost: | 4200 rubles |
K774F
Advantages:
- Budgetary;
- Excellent hook qualities;
- Durable;
- Controllability;
- Lightweight;
- Long service life.
Disadvantages:
"K772 CARLSBAD"
The 100 / 90-19 57M TT REAR is designed for riding on hard and intermediate terrain. All characteristics with high scores, which makes the tire resistant to various deformations and damage, and also increases its service life.
Tires "K772 CARLSBAD", design
Specifications:
Vendor code: | 292397 |
Class: | cross-country |
A type: | chamber |
Profile dimensions (centimeters): | width - 10, height - 9 |
Rim diameter: | 19 inch |
Axis: | back |
Load index: | 57 |
Speed limit: | class "M" |
Weight: | 5 kg 163 g |
By cost | 4350 rubles |
K772 CARLSBAD
Advantages:
- Cross-country ability on any roads;
- Excellent traction properties;
- Construction: material and structure;
- Reliable;
- Wear-resistant;
- For all weather conditions;
- Affordable;
- Special composition of the compound;
- High rate of self-cleaning.
Disadvantages:
"K678 BIG BLOCK PAVER"
The 90/90 B21 54H TL FRONT has wide and long drainage grooves for improved grip on the road. This structure helps to quickly drain water from the contact spot. Tires are considered universal, as they can be used for driving on asphalt and soil, but in the second case there are restrictions. The percentage for hard and soft surfaces is 80:20.
Tire design "K678 BIG BLOCK PAVER"
Specifications:
Vendor code: | 24549 |
Bike class: | enduro road |
Axis: | front |
A type: | tubeless |
Profile size (centimeters): | height, width - 9 |
Rim diameter: | 21 in |
Load index: | 54 |
Speed limit: | class "H" |
Weight: | 3 kg 900 g |
Season: | summer |
Average price: | 5000 rubles |
K678 BIG BLOCK PAVER
Advantages:
- Dual-use tires: for asphalt roads and some unpaved ones;
- They weigh little;
- Structure;
- Abrasion resistant compound;
- Appearance;
- The tire material has the property of elasticity even at low temperatures;
- Resistant;
- For any weather.
Disadvantages:
Output
Attention is presented to five categories of tires, for each of which a specific manufacturer is responsible. It is worth noting that any company creates its own brand using its own technologies, therefore, there cannot be absolutely identical tires from different companies. In addition, the world leaders have several branches in their assortment that relate to a specific type of motorcycle or type of riding. In this regard, the rating includes the popular, according to buyers, categories of motorcycle tires with one of the representatives for which a brief description is given, technical characteristics are deciphered and the pros and cons of the model are indicated.
The popularity of models, among the population, was gained by sports, tourist and urban tires. However, combined options are more popular.
Specification of tires in the rating is given only for example and better perception. In fact, all categories of tires come in different sizes, which affects both performance and cost.
Basic requirements for rubber:
- Controllability;
- Passability;
- Resistance to various damage;
- Comfortable driving.
Which company is the best to buy motorcycle tires? The answer to this question will be the study of the rubber class for a specific type of ride and a comparative analysis of all brand representatives.
Popular mistakes when choosing - the owner is trying to install a tire in width more or less on his motorcycle. In this case, you need to study the instructions for the bike, since some technique allows you to combine several options. This rule applies when buying a tire. Any specialist will tell you whether the selected rubber option is suitable for your motorcycle or not, and will offer an alternative version. Sometimes, in this matter, advice from bikers helps, who share useful information on various forums.
Having studied all the recommendations, you can easily make a choice.And which company is better to buy rubber for a motorcycle - the choice is yours.