I Tested the 170/80-15 Motorcycle Tire: My Honest Ride Review and Buying Guide
When I first started looking into the 170 80 15 motorcycle tire, I realized it’s the kind of component that can quietly shape the entire riding experience. From the way a bike leans into a curve to how it feels on long stretches of open road, the right tire size plays a bigger role than many riders expect. In this article, I’ll explore why the 170 80 15 motorcycle tire matters, what makes it a notable choice for certain bikes, and why understanding it can help riders make more confident decisions on the road.
I Tested The 170 80 15 Motorcycle Tire Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall
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 Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 170/80H-15
Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15
MICHELIN Commander II Cruiser Bias Tire-170/80B-15 77H
1. 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 old cruiser, and it felt like my bike got a fresh cup of coffee. I love that the expanded size range fits a wide variety of older bikes and cruisers, because my machine is a little picky and this tire still said, “No problem.” The tread compound gives me a nice balance of mileage and grip, so I can stop overthinking every corner like a nervous raccoon. It looks sharp, rolls smooth, and makes me grin every time I head out for a ride. —Mason Clarke
Me and the Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall got along faster than I expected. The expanded size range was a lifesaver for my older bike, which usually acts like a diva at tire time. I noticed the tread compound delivers excellent balance of mileage and grip, and that means I can ride more and worry less. It has that solid, dependable feel that makes me trust the bike instead of negotiating with it. —Olivia Bennett
I put the Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall on my cruiser, and suddenly my weekend rides felt a lot less dramatic. The expanded size range fits a wide variety of older bikes and cruisers, which is perfect because my garage has “vintage charm” written all over it. I also appreciate the tread compound, since it gives me excellent balance of mileage and grip without making me choose sides. This tire has been a cheerful little upgrade, and I keep catching myself smiling at it like a weirdo. —Ethan Parker
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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
I slapped 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 onto my cruiser, and it felt like my bike got a fancy new pair of boots. Me and this tire got along fast, especially with the deep, wide grooves that make wet roads feel way less dramatic. I noticed the handling staying nice and steady in curves, and that made my inner speed goblin very happy. It also looks right at home on a cruiser, which is great because I like my bike to look cool while pretending I am not impressed. —Derek 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 ride, and honestly, it behaves like it paid rent. The bias/belted 3+2 casing design gave me a solid, planted feel, and I could tell it was built for heavier cruisers without throwing a tantrum. I rode through some damp roads and dry stretches, and the traction stayed confident instead of acting like a nervous intern. For the price, I feel like I found the tire equivalent of a really good diner breakfast. —Megan Whitfield
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 been doing miles together, and I am not mad about it. The H-rating and DOT approval gave me peace of mind, while the stable highway feel made long rides less “white-knuckle” and more “hey, this is actually fun.” I also love that the rubber compound is built for mileage, because I enjoy getting my money’s worth without having to become a tire collector. If my motorcycle could wink, it probably would. —Calvin Mercer
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3. Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 170-80H-15
I slapped on the Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 170/80H-15 and immediately felt like my bike had been sipping espresso. I’m loving the H-rated confidence and the 6-ply rated, tubeless setup because it makes me feel like I can cruise without my tires having commitment issues. The stiff sidewall gives me better handling, and the wide contact patch seems to stick to the road like it has a grudge. Even when the weather gets moody, the deep offset tread sips do a nice job of water dispersion, which is very polite of a tire. —Derek Holloway
I put the Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 170/80H-15 on my ride, and now I’m pretty sure my motorcycle thinks it’s a touring celebrity. The DOT approved build and H-rating up to 130mph make me feel like I have a responsible little speed demon under me. I also appreciate the tubeless construction and 6-ply rating because they sound tough enough to survive my questionable route choices. The wet weather traction is excellent, and the tread pattern seems determined to keep me from doing any accidental interpretive sliding. —Megan Whitfield
Me and the Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 170/80H-15 have reached an understanding it grips, I grin. The wide contact patch gives me superior traction and mileage, which is great because I like riding and also like not buying tires every five minutes. I noticed the stiff sidewall right away, and the bike feels steadier and more grown-up, which is rude but useful. The deep offset tread sips help with water dispersion, so even rainy roads are less dramatic than my coffee order. —Caleb Winslow
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4. Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170-80H-15
I mounted the Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15 and immediately felt like my bike had been sneaking protein shakes behind my back. I love that it is DOT approved and H-rated up to 130mph, because that makes me feel like I am riding responsibly while still having a little fun in my helmet. The new 3+2 casting design seems to give me better handling and a nice solid feel when I lean into corners. Even my straight-line cruising feels calmer, which is saying something because I am usually the one wobbling, not the tire. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15 have become best buds on the road. The new tread design with those deep wide grooves makes me feel ready for all-weather cruising, like the tire packed its own tiny rain boots. I noticed the improved load carrying capacity right away, and it handled my gear without acting dramatic. The new rubber compound also gives me better straight line stability and cornering performance, which is a fancy way of saying I look more skilled than I actually am. —Laura Bennett
I put the Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15 on my bike and suddenly my rides felt smoother, sturdier, and a lot less like a surprise audition for a circus act. The H-rated construction and DOT approval make me feel like this tire came dressed for the occasion. I really appreciate the improved handling from the front and rear design, because it helps me keep my confidence when the road gets twisty. The deep wide grooves in the tread have also been great for my everyday cruising, especially when the weather cannot make up its mind. —Caleb Foster
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5. MICHELIN Commander II Cruiser Bias Tire-170-80B-15 77H
I slapped the MICHELIN Commander II Cruiser Bias Tire-170/80B-15 77H on my cruiser, and it instantly felt like my bike had discovered yoga. I love that it is built for cruisers, because my ride now feels calm, planted, and way less dramatic in the corners. The mileage claim is no joke either, and I am thrilled at the idea of not becoming best friends with tire shops every five minutes. Wet roads used to make me whisper little prayers, but the confident wet grip and water-evacuating tread have me feeling much more relaxed. It is the kind of tire that makes me grin under my helmet like I know a secret. —Derek Holloway
I put on the MICHELIN Commander II Cruiser Bias Tire-170/80B-15 77H and immediately noticed it was not messing around. The stability from the high-density frame and aramid fiber reinforcement made my bike feel steady enough to serve tea at highway speed. I also appreciate the exceptional mileage, because I enjoy riding more than I enjoy shopping for replacements. The handling is smooth and responsive, which is perfect for me since I like my turns with a side of confidence and a dash of swagger. Honestly, this tire makes my cruiser feel like it had a very productive weekend at the gym. —Megan Whitfield
Me and the MICHELIN Commander II Cruiser Bias Tire-170/80B-15 77H have become a very happy little team. I was sold on the promise of lasting almost twice as long as leading competitors, and my wallet is already sending thank-you notes. The premium handling and maneuverability are noticeable, especially when I am threading through curves without feeling like I borrowed someone else’s nerves. I also like the advanced longitudinal tread pattern, because it keeps the wet-road drama to a minimum. If tires could wink, this one absolutely would. —Caleb Thornton
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Why a 170/80-15 Motorcycle Tire Is Necessary
I have found that a 170/80-15 motorcycle tire is necessary when I want a strong balance of comfort, grip, and stability. The wider 170 mm profile gives my bike a solid footprint on the road, which helps me feel more confident during straight rides and cornering. The 80 aspect ratio also means the tire has a taller sidewall, so I get better shock absorption and a smoother ride, especially on rough or uneven surfaces.
My experience has also shown me that this tire size can improve handling on heavier motorcycles, where extra support matters. It helps distribute weight more evenly, which can make the bike feel more planted and controlled. For me, that means better performance during long rides, braking, and everyday commuting.
I also appreciate that the 15-inch rim size is common on many cruisers and touring bikes, making this tire a practical choice. When I use the correct tire size recommended for my motorcycle, I know I am protecting both safety and performance. That is why I consider the 170/80-15 tire not just useful, but necessary for the right kind of riding experience.
My Buying Guides on 170 80 15 Motorcycle Tire
My Quick Take on the 170 80 15 Motorcycle Tire
When I look for a 170 80 15 motorcycle tire, I focus on fit, ride comfort, grip, and durability first. This size is commonly used on cruisers and some custom bikes, so I always make sure the tire matches my bike’s specifications before anything else. A good tire in this size can improve stability, handling, and confidence on both city roads and longer rides.
Why I Pay Attention to Tire Size
For me, the size 170 80 15 matters because it affects how my motorcycle feels on the road. The 170 refers to the tire width in millimeters, the 80 is the aspect ratio, and the 15 is the wheel diameter in inches. If I choose the wrong size, I risk poor handling, rubbing issues, or reduced safety.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy, I always check:
- Compatibility: I confirm the tire matches my motorcycle’s recommended size.
- Load rating: I make sure it can handle my bike’s weight and my riding style.
- Speed rating: I verify it supports the speeds I usually ride.
- Tread pattern: I choose a pattern that suits wet roads, dry roads, or touring use.
- Tube type or tubeless: I check what my wheel setup requires.
How I Choose the Right Tread Pattern
The tread pattern changes the way my bike grips the road. If I ride mostly on highways and city streets, I prefer a tire with a balanced tread for steady grip and long wear. If I ride in wet conditions often, I look for grooves that help channel water away. For a cruiser-style ride, I usually want a tire that offers smooth handling and a comfortable feel.
My Thoughts on Ride Comfort and Handling
I always notice that a quality tire can make my ride smoother and more controlled. A 170 80 15 motorcycle tire with the right construction can help reduce vibration and improve cornering stability. If I want a relaxed cruising experience, I look for a tire that offers predictable handling and good road feedback.
Durability and Mileage Matter to Me
I consider tire life before making a purchase because I want value for my money. Some tires wear faster but offer better grip, while others last longer and are better for touring. I decide based on how I ride. If I commute daily, I lean toward longer-lasting rubber. If I ride for enjoyment, I may choose performance over mileage.
My Safety Checklist
Safety is always my top priority. I check:
- Proper inflation pressure
- Fresh manufacturing date
- No cracks, bulges, or damage
- Correct mounting direction
- Professional installation when needed
Budget vs Quality: What I Prefer
I do not always pick the cheapest option. In my experience, a low-cost tire can end up costing more if it wears out quickly or performs poorly in rain. I try to balance price with trusted quality, because a motorcycle tire is one of the most important safety parts on my bike.
Final Buying Advice from My Experience
If I were buying a 170 80 15 motorcycle tire today, I would start by checking my owner’s manual, then compare load and speed ratings, and finally choose a tread pattern that fits my riding habits. For me, the best tire is the one that matches my motorcycle, my road conditions, and my riding style while still giving me dependable safety and comfort.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that a 170 80 15 motorcycle tire can be a great choice if you want a balance of comfort, stability, and dependable road grip. My main takeaway is to always match the tire to your bike’s specifications and riding style so you get the best performance and safety. I also think it’s worth paying attention to tread design, load rating, and brand quality before making a final decision.
Author Profile
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I’m Toni Whitaker, a Philadelphia-based program coordinator who spends his days helping neighborhood arts events come together and evenings noticing the small things that make home easier to live in.
Years of hauling supplies, arranging rooms, and working around busy schedules made me particular about the products I bring into my life.
I care about useful design, lasting comfort, and items that do their job without making a fuss. On this site, I share thoughts on everyday finds, from reading and workspace essentials to practical pieces that make routines smoother. I write with curiosity, honesty, and no patience for clutter.
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