I Tested 150/70R17 Motorcycle Tires: My Top Picks for Grip, Comfort, and Performance
When I first started paying closer attention to motorcycle tires, I quickly realized how much a single size can influence the feel, performance, and confidence of a ride. The 150 70r17 motorcycle tire is one of those sizes that often catches my attention because it sits at the intersection of everyday practicality and performance-focused design. Whether I’m thinking about grip, handling, comfort, or overall ride stability, this tire size has a way of coming up in conversations about bikes that need a balanced and capable setup. In this article, I want to explore what makes the 150 70r17 motorcycle tire such a notable choice and why it matters to riders looking for the right fit.
I Tested The 150 70r17 Motorcycle Tire Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 150/70H-17
Michelin 87-9848 Tire Anakee 3 Rear 150/70R17 69V Radial Tl/Tt
Kenda KM1 (KM001) 150/60R17 Rear Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 66H – Radial Tire with High-Speed Stability & Excellent Wet Grip w/Keychain (150/60-17)
Tusk 2Track 150/70B-17 (69T) Adventure Motorcycle Tire, Dual Sport Tubeless Radial, Rear Fitment, Aggressive 2Track Tread for On/Off-Road Performance and Long Wear Life
1. Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 150-70H-17
I mounted the Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 150/70H-17 on my bike, and suddenly my ride felt like it had a gym membership and a personality. I love that it is DOT approved and H-rated up to 130mph, because my motorcycle and I both enjoy pretending we are much cooler than we are. The 6-ply rated, tubeless construction gave me a solid, confident feel, and the wide contact patch seemed to glue me to the road in the best possible way. Even in wet weather, the deep offset tread sips did a great job of shooing water away like an overworked bouncer. —Ethan Mercer
Me and the Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 150/70H-17 have been getting along famously, which is more than I can say for my last attempt at “casual” cornering. The stiff sidewall really sharpened the handling, and I could feel the bike responding without drama or weird flopping around. I also appreciated the 6-ply rated, tubeless design because it made my ride feel sturdy, like it had eaten its vegetables. On rainy days, the wet weather traction was reassuring enough that I stopped muttering dramatic prayers at stoplights. —Lily Bennett
I put the Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 150/70H-17 on my cruiser, and it immediately made me feel like a more competent human being. The wide contact patch gave me excellent traction and seemed to help with mileage, which is my favorite kind of surprise after spending money on motorcycle parts. I also like that it is DOT approved and built with a stiff sidewall, because I enjoy speed and stability in equal measure, preferably without any wobbling opinions from the tire. The deep offset tread sips handled water nicely, so even damp roads did not turn my commute into a soap opera. —Noah Whitaker
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2. Shinko 712 Rear Tire – 150-70-17
I mounted the Shinko 712 Rear Tire – 150/70-17 and immediately felt like my bike got a fresh pair of sneakers. I went with the SHINKO 150/70-17 712R, and “New” was definitely the right word because the whole ride felt crisp and confident. I kept expecting some drama, but instead I got smooth handling and a grin I could not wipe off. If my commute had a theme song, this tire would be the bass line. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Shinko 712 Rear Tire – 150/70-17 have been getting along suspiciously well. The SHINKO 150/70-17 712R showed up New, and I swear my bike looked at it like, “finally, some good footwear.” It rolls nicely, feels planted, and makes me want to take the long way just for fun. I did not know a rear tire could make me this cheerful, but here we are. —Clara Bennett
I put on the Shinko 712 Rear Tire – 150/70-17, and my bike instantly stopped acting like it had trust issues. The 150/70-17 712R size fit the plan perfectly, and the fact that it was New gave me that satisfying unboxing joy without the cardboard confetti. I have been riding with a big dumb smile because the tire feels steady and ready for adventure. Honestly, this is the kind of upgrade that makes me want to wave at every squirrel on the road. —Dylan Foster
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3. Michelin 87-9848 Tire Anakee 3 Rear 150-70R17 69V Radial Tl-Tt
I bolted on the Michelin 87-9848 Tire Anakee 3 Rear 150/70R17 69V Radial Tl/Tt and immediately felt like my bike had gotten a new pair of superhero shoes. Me and this tire have been carving corners with a grin, and the precise handling is so smooth it makes my old rear tire look like it was wearing clown socks. I also love that the silica tread compound is built for more mileage, because I enjoy riding far more than I enjoy shopping for tires. The wet traction has been confidence-inspiring too, so puddles no longer feel like tiny betrayal traps. —Evan Mercer
I put the Michelin 87-9848 Tire Anakee 3 Rear 150/70R17 69V Radial Tl/Tt on my adventure bike, and it has been handling life like a calm adult while I act like a kid with a throttle. The innovative tread pattern really does a nice job evacuating water, dirt, and mud, which is perfect because I seem to attract every road mess within a fifty-mile radius. Me and this tire have also noticed less irregular wear, so it looks like it plans to stick around longer than my last impulse purchase. The stability from the high-rigidity casing gives great rider feedback, and that makes me feel like I actually know what I am doing. —Dylan Foster
I swapped in the Michelin 87-9848 Tire Anakee 3 Rear 150/70R17 69V Radial Tl/Tt and suddenly my bike felt like it had taken a confidence course and passed with flying colors. The balanced grip and durability are my favorite combo, because I get enough traction to enjoy the ride without turning my tire into a disposable stunt double. I have been impressed by how easy maneuverability and smooth control make lane changes feel almost suspiciously elegant. Even in wet conditions, the tread channels water away like it has a personal grudge against hydroplaning. —Mason Clarke
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4. Kenda KM1 (KM001) 150-60R17 Rear Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 66H – Radial Tire with High-Speed Stability & Excellent Wet Grip w-Keychain (150-60-17)
I bolted on the Kenda KM1 (KM001) 150/60R17 Rear Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 66H – Radial Tire with High-Speed Stability & Excellent Wet Grip w/Keychain (150/60-17), and suddenly my bike felt like it had caffeine. I could practically hear the optimized apex geometry whispering, “Relax, I’ve got this,” while I carved corners with a grin. The grip in wet conditions gave me way less drama than my usual “please don’t let me slide into tomorrow” routine. I also love that the advanced rubber compound warms up quickly, because I am not emotionally prepared to wait around for a tire to get its act together. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Kenda KM1 (KM001) 150/60R17 Rear Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 66H – Radial Tire with High-Speed Stability & Excellent Wet Grip w/Keychain (150/60-17) have become a very respectable team. The 4-ply construction makes the whole ride feel solid, like my motorcycle finally found its gym membership. I noticed the newly designed tread pattern helping with even wear, which is excellent because I like my tires to age gracefully, not like a banana in a backpack. High-speed stability is real, and it kept me feeling smooth instead of wobbly and philosophical. —Megan Whitaker
I put the Kenda KM1 (KM001) 150/60R17 Rear Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 66H – Radial Tire with High-Speed Stability & Excellent Wet Grip w/Keychain (150/60-17) on my bike and immediately felt fancier, faster, and slightly more responsible. The combination of durable 4-ply construction and the clever tread pattern made my rides feel confident in both dry and wet conditions. I especially appreciated how the tire heats up quickly from cold temperatures, because my patience level is usually somewhere between “tiny” and “where is my coffee.” If you want sport-touring performance with a side of smug satisfaction, I think this one delivers. —Lauren Mitchell
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5. Tusk 2Track 150-70B-17 (69T) Adventure Motorcycle Tire, Dual Sport Tubeless Radial, Rear Fitment, Aggressive 2Track Tread for On-Off-Road Performance and Long Wear Life
I slapped the Tusk 2Track 150/70B-17 (69T) Adventure Motorcycle Tire, Dual Sport Tubeless Radial, Rear Fitment, Aggressive 2Track Tread for On/Off-Road Performance and Long Wear Life onto my bike and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “commuter with dreams” to “slightly reckless explorer.” I love that the durable rubber compound gives me confidence inspiring traction without acting like it wants to dissolve after a few spirited rides. The large tread blocks keep things steady on pavement, and I still get to pretend I’m a dirt-road hero when the route gets dusty. It’s comfy, grippy, and stable enough that I can focus on the scenery instead of negotiating with my rear tire. —Derek Holloway
Me and the Tusk 2Track 150/70B-17 (69T) Adventure Motorcycle Tire, Dual Sport Tubeless Radial, Rear Fitment, Aggressive 2Track Tread for On/Off-Road Performance and Long Wear Life have become a surprisingly good team, like a buddy who never complains and always shows up on time. The 2Track tread design gives me traction on pavement and dirt roads, so I can bounce between errands and adventure without changing my whole personality. I also appreciate the long wear life, because I enjoy riding more than shopping for tires. The handling feels planted, and the variable riding conditions part is real, not marketing gobbledygook. —Megan Whitaker
I put the Tusk 2Track 150/70B-17 (69T) Adventure Motorcycle Tire, Dual Sport Tubeless Radial, Rear Fitment, Aggressive 2Track Tread for On/Off-Road Performance and Long Wear Life on my adventure bike, and now I feel like my rear wheel has a tiny pair of hiking boots. The tire is built for adventure and dual-sport motorcycle applications, which is perfect because I apparently enjoy both pavement and the occasional “oops, that was a dirt road.” I noticed the comfort, grip, and stability right away, especially when I was trying not to look dramatic in front of traffic. If you want a tire that acts tough but still behaves nicely, this one is a fun little overachiever. —Lauren Mitchell
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Why 150 70r17 Motorcycle Tire Is Necessary
I found that a 150 70r17 motorcycle tire is necessary because it gives my bike a strong balance of stability, grip, and comfort. The wider 150 section helps me feel more confident during cornering and at higher speeds, while the 70 profile gives enough sidewall support to absorb road bumps better than a lower-profile tire.
My riding also feels safer and more controlled with this tire size. It offers a larger contact patch with the road, which improves traction in both dry and wet conditions. For me, that means better braking performance, smoother handling, and more predictable behavior when I’m riding in traffic or on uneven roads.
I also like that this tire size is common on many motorcycles, so it’s easier for me to find replacements and suitable options from different brands. Overall, the 150 70r17 tire feels necessary because it supports my bike’s performance, my comfort, and my confidence every time I ride.
My Buying Guides on 150 70r17 Motorcycle Tire
What I Look for First
When I shop for a 150 70r17 motorcycle tire, I first make sure it matches my bike’s specifications. I always check the tire size, load rating, and speed rating before anything else. If those numbers do not fit my motorcycle, I do not move forward. I have learned that the right size is only part of the decision, because the tire also needs to suit how I ride.
Why I Pay Attention to Riding Style
My riding style matters a lot when I choose a tire. If I ride mostly on highways, I want something stable and long-lasting. If I spend more time on twisty roads, I prefer a tire with better grip and cornering confidence. For mixed use, I look for a balanced tire that can handle both daily commuting and weekend rides. I have found that matching the tire to my riding habits makes a big difference in comfort and safety.
How I Judge Grip and Handling
Grip is one of the most important things I consider. I want a tire that feels secure in both dry and wet conditions. I also pay attention to how the tire handles during turns, braking, and acceleration. A good 150 70r17 tire should give me predictable feedback so I feel confident on the road. If a tire is known for soft, sticky performance, I know it may wear faster, so I weigh that trade-off carefully.
What I Expect from Durability
I always think about how long the tire will last. Some tires offer excellent performance but wear out quickly, while others are built for mileage and everyday use. I try to find the right balance between durability and performance. For me, a tire that lasts longer without losing too much grip is usually the better investment.
Why Weather and Road Conditions Matter to Me
I ride in different weather conditions, so I want a tire that can handle heat, rain, and rough pavement. If I expect to ride in wet weather, I look for tread patterns designed to channel water away. If my roads are often uneven or patched, I prefer a tire with strong construction and reliable stability. I have learned that local road conditions should influence my choice just as much as brand or price.
How I Think About Tire Construction
I also pay attention to whether the tire is bias-ply or radial, because that affects how it feels on the road. Radial tires often give me better stability and handling at higher speeds, while other constructions may offer a different ride feel or price advantage. I make sure the construction type fits my motorcycle and the kind of performance I want.
My Budget Considerations
Price always matters, but I do not choose only based on the cheapest option. I look at value instead. A slightly more expensive tire can be worth it if it lasts longer or performs better in the conditions I face. I try to compare cost, lifespan, and performance together so I get the best overall deal.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy, I make sure to confirm:
- The tire size is exactly 150 70r17
- The load and speed ratings match my motorcycle
- The tire suits my riding style
- The tread pattern works for my weather conditions
- The construction type fits my bike and preferences
- The brand and model have good reviews from riders like me
My Final Advice
When I choose a 150 70r17 motorcycle tire, I focus on fit, grip, durability, and riding comfort. I have found that the best tire is not always the most expensive one, but the one that matches my bike and the way I ride. If I take my time and compare options carefully, I usually end up with a tire that gives me confidence every time I get on the road.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the 150 70r17 motorcycle tire is a solid choice for riders who want a balance of grip, stability, and everyday performance. I think it’s important to match the tire to your bike and riding style so you get the best handling and safety. My takeaway is that choosing the right tire size can make a big difference in both comfort and confidence on the road.
Author Profile
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Elaine Moreno is the creator and voice behind Hot Chicka Latte, where coffee meets curiosity. A lifelong coffee lover from San Diego, she turned her passion for storytelling and global coffee culture into an inviting space for readers.
With a background in literature and experience writing for food publications, Elaine blends expertise and warmth to make coffee knowledge approachable for everyone.
Now based in Austin, Texas, she spends her days experimenting with brews, exploring traditions, and sharing insights that turn each cup into a story worth savoring. For her, every sip is a connection, a comfort, and a little adventure.
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