Choosing the right rear motorcycle tire is essential for grip, stability, and confidence on the road. This guide highlights top rear tires across cruiser and sportbike categories, with a focus on durability, performance, and all-weather capability. Below you’ll find five strong options, each with key features to help you compare at a glance.
| Product | Brand | Size | Top Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 | Dunlop | 170/80-15 | Wide compatibility with older bikes and cruisers; balanced mileage and grip |
| Kenda Kruz K673 170/80H-15 | Kenda | 170/80H-15 | High-speed capability; improved handling and load capacity |
| Michelin Commander II Rear Tire 150/80-16 | Michelin | 150/80-16 | Durability and stable handling with reinforced construction |
| Michelin Commander II Rear Tire 130/90B-16 | Michelin | 130/90B-16 | High mileage with stable, responsive handling |
| Shinko 87-4599 Black Wall SR777 | Shinko | Various sizes | Grip and comfort for cruisers with versatile size options |
Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15
Dunlop D404 rear tire in 170/80-15 size is designed to fit a wide range of older bikes and cruisers. The tread compound balances mileage with solid grip, enabling steady handling in varied conditions. Its bias-ply construction supports comfortable rides and reliable load performance, making it a practical choice for long-haul cruisers and retro builds.
Kenda Kruz K673 170/80H-15
The Kenda Kruz K673 rear tire in 170/80H-15 is DOT approved and H-rated for speeds up to 130 mph. It employs a 3+2 casting design for improved handling and load carrying, with a new tread pattern featuring deep grooves for all-weather cruising. This tire emphasizes versatile performance and reliable street durability for mid-size cruisers.
Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 150/80B-16
In the 150/80B-16 size, the Dunlop D404 continues to deliver an excellent balance of mileage and grip. The tire’s front and rear tread patterns emphasize water evacuation and wet grip, while bias-ply construction supports strong load-carrying capacity and a comfortable ride for touring and everyday cruising.
Shinko 87-4594 777 Rear H.D. Motorcycle Tire
Shinko’s 87-4594 777 rear tire is designed primarily for cruisers, with a wide range of compatible sizes for V-Twin and metric cruisers. The rubber compound emphasizes grip and rider comfort, while the tread design incorporates siping and grooves aimed at dependable traction in both wet and dry conditions.
Michelin Commander II Rear Tire 130/90B-16
Michelin Commander II Rear Tire in 130/90B-16 is cruiser-focused, delivering high mileage with stable handling. Its reinforced architecture, featuring aramid fibers and Michelin Amplified Density Technology, provides strength, responsiveness, and consistent stability at speed, making it a dependable choice for long-distance cruiser riders.
Michelin Commander II Reinforced Cruiser Rear 150/80-16
The Michelin Commander II in 150/80-16 is built for longevity on cruisers, offering exceptional mileage without sacrificing stability. It uses a high-density frame and aramid reinforcement to improve handling and durability, making it a benchmark for cruiser tire longevity and stability across speeds and road conditions.
Michelin Commander II Rear Tire 130/90B-16
Michelin Commander II 130/90B-16 emphasizes cruiser-focused design with excellent mileage. Its reinforced structure and aramid fibers deliver stable handling and a confident ride, even at higher speeds, while maintaining grip in varying weather conditions.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
When selecting a rear motorcycle tire, consider tire type, size compatibility, and riding style. Cruisers benefit from durability, stability, and comfort, while sportbikes demand strong grip and quick response. Weather and road conditions should influence tread design and compound choices. Bias-ply tires often offer a classic ride with good load capacity, while radial tires provide enhanced stability at higher speeds. Ensure correct tire size and load rating for your bike’s specifications. Finally, verify the tire’s compatibility with your wheel width and brake setup to maintain optimal handling and safety.