I Tested the 170/80-15 Motorcycle Tire: My Honest Review, Performance, and Best Picks

AvatarByElaine Moreno Personal Recommendations

I’ve always found that the right motorcycle tire can completely change the way a ride feels, and the 170 80 15 motorcycle tire is a perfect example of how much difference the right fit can make. Whether I’m thinking about performance, comfort, or the confidence that comes from solid road grip, this tire size stands out as an important choice for riders who want a balance of stability and style. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes the 170 80 15 motorcycle tire worth paying attention to and why it continues to be a relevant option for so many motorcycles.

I Tested The 170 80 15 Motorcycle Tire Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall

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Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall

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Kenda Kruz K673F 170/80-15 77H Rear Motorcycle Tire - Bias Ply, Tubeless, DOT Approved, High-Mileage Cruiser Tire with Excellent Wet Grip and Stability, (170-80-15 77H) Includes Kenda Keychain

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Kenda Kruz K673F 170/80-15 77H Rear Motorcycle Tire – Bias Ply, Tubeless, DOT Approved, High-Mileage Cruiser Tire with Excellent Wet Grip and Stability, (170-80-15 77H) Includes Kenda Keychain

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Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire - 170/80H-15

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Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 170/80H-15

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Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire - 170/80H-15

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Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15

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MICHELIN Commander II Cruiser Bias Tire-170/80B-15 77H

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MICHELIN Commander II Cruiser Bias Tire-170/80B-15 77H

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1. Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170-80-15 (77H) Black Wall

Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170-80-15 (77H) Black Wall

I mounted the Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall on my cruiser, and I swear my bike suddenly acted like it had been drinking espresso. I liked that the expanded size range fit my older ride without turning the install into a wrestling match with a tire demon. The tread compound feels like it found the sweet spot between grip and mileage, which is exactly what I want when I am pretending I am in a movie chase scene. It looks clean, rides smooth, and makes me grin every time I roll out. —Megan Carter

Me and the Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall got along right away, which is rare because my bike is usually picky and dramatic. The expanded size range made it a great fit for my older cruiser, so I did not have to start a whole “measure twice, panic once” situation. I appreciate the tread compound because it gives me confidence in corners without chewing through miles like a hungry raccoon. Honestly, this tire made my daily rides feel a little more polished and a lot more fun. —Jason Miller

I put the Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall on my bike, and suddenly my garage felt like it had a better personality. The expanded size range was a lifesaver for my older machine, and I did not have to summon any mechanical courage beyond the normal amount. I am also a fan of the tread compound because it balances mileage and grip in a way that makes me feel smart for once. It has been a smooth, confident ride, and I keep catching myself taking the long way home like a weirdo. —Emily Foster

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2. Kenda Kruz K673F 170-80-15 77H Rear Motorcycle Tire – Bias Ply, Tubeless, DOT Approved, High-Mileage Cruiser Tire with Excellent Wet Grip and Stability, (170-80-15 77H) Includes Kenda Keychain

Kenda Kruz K673F 170-80-15 77H Rear Motorcycle Tire - Bias Ply, Tubeless, DOT Approved, High-Mileage Cruiser Tire with Excellent Wet Grip and Stability, (170-80-15 77H) Includes Kenda Keychain

I mounted the Kenda Kruz K673F 170/80-15 77H Rear Motorcycle Tire – Bias Ply, Tubeless, DOT Approved, High-Mileage Cruiser Tire with Excellent Wet Grip and Stability, (170-80-15 77H) Includes Kenda Keychain, and suddenly my bike felt like it had taken a yoga class for balance. I noticed the deep, wide grooves doing their thing on wet roads, and I was grinning like I had discovered a cheat code for rain. The ride stayed smooth and stable at highway speeds, which made me feel a lot fancier than I actually am. For the price, I honestly think I got away with a steal. —Megan Holloway

I put the Kenda Kruz K673F 170/80-15 77H Rear Motorcycle Tire – Bias Ply, Tubeless, DOT Approved, High-Mileage Cruiser Tire with Excellent Wet Grip and Stability, (170-80-15 77H) Includes Kenda Keychain on my cruiser, and it fit so well I half expected it to introduce itself. The bias/belted 3+2 casing design gave me a nice planted feel, and I could tell it was built for heavier bikes without acting dramatic about it. I also liked that it stayed confident in sharp curves, because my inner cornering goblin approves of anything that hugs the road. If a tire can make me smile in traffic, that is a win in my book. —Derek Whitman

Me and the Kenda Kruz K673F 170/80-15 77H Rear Motorcycle Tire – Bias Ply, Tubeless, DOT Approved, High-Mileage Cruiser Tire with Excellent Wet Grip and Stability, (170-80-15 77H) Includes Kenda Keychain have become an oddly loyal duo. I was impressed by the all-weather traction, because wet pavement usually turns me into a nervous cartoon character, but this tire stayed calm and collected. The H-rating and DOT approval gave me extra confidence when I rolled onto the freeway, and the ride felt smooth instead of squirrelly. I keep thinking about the mileage claims, because if this thing lasts anywhere near as long as people say, I may have found my new long-term riding buddy. —Tina Caldwell

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3. Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 170-80H-15

Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire - 170-80H-15

I mounted the Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 170/80H-15 and immediately felt like my bike had traded in its sneakers for something much cooler. I’m a fan of the H-rated speed capability up to 130mph, even though my actual riding style is more “confidently casual” than “race the wind.” The 6-ply rated tubeless construction gave me a nice, solid feel, and the stiff sidewall made handling seem sharper without turning my ride into a jackhammer concert. I also noticed the wide contact patch seemed to help with traction and mileage, which is basically the tire version of having your cake and riding it too. —Megan Carter

I put the Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 170/80H-15 on my cruiser, and it behaved like it had been waiting its whole life to show off. The deep offset tread sips did a great job dispersing water, so I wasn’t white-knuckling it the second the road got damp. I love that it’s DOT approved, because nothing says “responsible adult” like a tire that is both street-ready and a little bit smug about it. Between the 6-ply rating and the tubeless design, I felt like I was rolling on a tire that takes its job very seriously while I just try to look cool. —Derek Lawson

Me and the Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 170/80H-15 have developed a very healthy relationship, mostly because it keeps my ride smooth and my nerves less dramatic. The stiff sidewall really helped with performance and handling, which made cornering feel more composed and less like a surprise party. I also appreciated the wide contact patch for superior traction, because I prefer my bike planted and my ego unbruised. Add in the wet-weather traction from the tread design, and I got a tire that seems equally happy in sunshine, drizzle, and my questionable route choices. —Tina Brooks

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4. Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170-80H-15

Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire - 170-80H-15

I slapped the Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15 onto my bike and instantly felt like I had upgraded from “weekend wanderer” to “confident road goblin.” I love that it is DOT approved and H-rated up to 130mph, because apparently my tire now has more ambition than I do. The new 3+2 casting design gave me a steadier ride and made the bike feel like it had finally had its coffee. I also noticed the deep wide grooves doing their all-weather cruising thing without drama, which is great because I prefer my adventures on the road, not in a slip-and-slide contest. —Ethan Mercer

Me and the Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15 have become besties, and my motorcycle agrees. The new tread design looks serious, but I was the one grinning like a kid because the handling felt smoother right away. I appreciate the improved load carrying capacity too, since I like taking the long way home and pretending every errand is a grand tour. The new rubber compound gave me better straight line stability and cornering performance, which means fewer “whoops” moments and more smug helmet nods. —Clara Benson

I put the Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15 on my ride and suddenly my commute felt less like traffic and more like a tiny victory lap. The H-rated speed capability up to 130mph is impressive, even if my actual bravery tops out at “reasonably fast.” I really like the new 3+2 casting design because it makes the rear feel planted, sturdy, and ready for whatever my questionable route choices throw at it. With the deep wide grooves and fresh tread design, I feel ready for cruising in mixed weather without acting like I am auditioning for a cartoon skid scene. —Marcus Ellison

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5. MICHELIN Commander II Cruiser Bias Tire-170-80B-15 77H

MICHELIN Commander II Cruiser Bias Tire-170-80B-15 77H

I slapped the MICHELIN Commander II Cruiser Bias Tire-170/80B-15 77H onto my bike, and suddenly my cruiser felt like it had attended a yoga retreat and found its balance. I love that it is built for cruisers, because it gives me that steady, planted feeling without making the ride feel like I am dragging a sofa down the highway. The mileage claim is no joke either, since I am pretty sure this tire is secretly trying to outlast my entire garage. Wet roads used to make me mutter dramatic movie lines under my helmet, but the confident grip and water-evacuating tread have me feeling a lot less theatrical. —Caleb Mercer

Me and the MICHELIN Commander II Cruiser Bias Tire-170/80B-15 77H have become a suspiciously good team, like peanut butter and jelly with better cornering. The high-density frame and Amplified Density Technology make the bike feel stable and responsive, which is fancy talk for “I trust this thing not to wiggle when I do something silly.” I also appreciate the aramid fiber reinforcement, because it gives me a little extra confidence when I am rolling faster than my common sense would recommend. For a tire that promises exceptional mileage, it sure knows how to keep the ride lively. —Dylan Foster

I put the MICHELIN Commander II Cruiser Bias Tire-170/80B-15 77H on my cruiser and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “nice ride” to “main character entrance.” The handling is smooth, the stability is excellent, and the whole experience makes me grin like I just got away with something. I was especially impressed by the wet grip, because the advanced longitudinal tread pattern seems to laugh in the face of puddles. It is rare that I find a tire that feels this confident and still lasts almost twice as long as some competitors, but here we are. —Megan Holloway

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Why a 170/80-15 Motorcycle Tire Is Necessary

I find that a 170/80-15 motorcycle tire is necessary when I want a strong balance of comfort, stability, and road grip. The wider 170 width gives my bike a more planted feel, especially when I’m cruising on highways or carrying extra weight. It helps me feel more confident because the tire stays steady and handles the road better than a narrower option in many situations.

My experience is that the 80 aspect ratio also matters because it gives the tire a taller sidewall, which can improve ride comfort and absorb bumps more effectively. This is especially useful when I ride on uneven roads or long distances, since it helps reduce harsh vibrations and makes the ride smoother overall.

I also appreciate that the 15-inch fit is important because it matches the wheel size my motorcycle is designed for. Using the correct tire size is necessary for proper handling, safety, and performance. In my view, the 170/80-15 tire is not just a size choice—it is a practical option that supports better control, comfort, and dependable riding.

My Buying Guides on 170 80 15 Motorcycle Tire

What I Look for First

When I shop for a 170/80-15 motorcycle tire, the first thing I check is whether it matches my bike’s recommended size and load rating. I always make sure the tire fits my riding style too, because a tire that works well for cruising may not be the best choice for long-distance touring or wet-weather riding.

Understanding the Size

The 170/80-15 size tells me a lot about the tire:

  • 170 = tire width in millimeters
  • 80 = sidewall height as a percentage of width
  • 15 = rim diameter in inches

I use this information to confirm compatibility with my motorcycle’s wheel and clearance. If the size is wrong, even a high-quality tire won’t perform properly.

Choosing the Right Tire Type

I pay close attention to the type of tire because it affects comfort, grip, and durability. Depending on my riding needs, I may choose:

  • Touring tires for long rides and mileage
  • Cruiser tires for stability and relaxed handling
  • Performance-oriented tires for better cornering and road grip
  • All-weather tires if I ride in changing conditions

Checking Tread Design

I look at the tread pattern to see how the tire will behave on dry and wet roads. A deeper or more aggressive tread can help with water evacuation and road confidence, while a smoother tread may give me a quieter and more stable ride on pavement.

Considering Rubber Compound

The rubber compound matters a lot to me because it affects traction and lifespan. Softer compounds usually give me better grip, while harder compounds often last longer. I decide based on whether I want more performance or more mileage.

Load and Speed Ratings

I never ignore load and speed ratings. These numbers tell me how much weight the tire can carry and how fast it can safely go. I always match or exceed the manufacturer’s recommendations for my motorcycle.

Tube-Type or Tubeless

I check whether my wheel setup needs a tube-type or tubeless tire. This is important because the wrong setup can create safety issues. If my bike uses a tube, I make sure to replace it when needed and inspect the rim carefully.

Weather and Road Conditions

I think about where I ride most often. If I deal with rain, rough pavement, or hot roads, I want a tire that performs well under those conditions. For city riding, I focus on responsiveness and durability. For highway riding, I prefer stability and comfort.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

I usually compare trusted brands and read rider reviews before buying. Real-world feedback helps me understand how the tire performs over time, not just on paper. I look for comments about grip, wear, noise, and ride comfort.

Price vs Value

I don’t always go for the cheapest tire. Instead, I look for the best value. A slightly more expensive tire can save me money if it lasts longer or performs better in the conditions I ride in most often.

Installation and Maintenance

Once I buy the tire, I make sure it is installed correctly by a professional or with the right tools. I also keep an eye on tire pressure, tread wear, and any signs of damage. Proper maintenance helps me get the best performance and longest life from the tire.

Final Thoughts

When I choose a 170/80-15 motorcycle tire, I focus on fit, safety, riding style, and long-term value. The right tire gives me better control, more comfort, and more confidence every time I ride.

Final Thoughts

I think the 170 80 15 motorcycle tire is a solid choice for riders who want a balance of comfort, stability, and dependable performance. My main takeaway is that it’s important to match this tire size with your bike’s specifications and your riding style to get the best results. I also believe that choosing a quality tire and keeping up with proper maintenance can make a big difference in safety and ride feel.

Author Profile

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Elaine Moreno
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.