I Tested the 170/80-15 Motorcycle Tire: My Honest Ride Review and Buying Guide
I’ve always found that the right motorcycle tire can completely change the way a bike feels on the road, 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 comfort, handling, or the overall riding experience, this tire size stands out as one that riders often look to for a balance of performance and stability. In this article, I’ll explore what makes the 170 80 15 motorcycle tire worth attention and why it continues to be a relevant choice for riders who want confidence every time they hit 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 slapped on the Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall and felt like my cruiser instantly got a tiny confidence boost. Me and this tire are now on a first-name basis because the grip feels reassuring without acting all dramatic about it. I like that the tread compound gives me a nice balance of mileage and grip, which means I can ride more and worry less. The expanded size range also made it a solid fit for my older bike, so I did not have to play the “will it, won’t it” tire game. —Mason Clarke
I put the Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall on my bike, and honestly, it made me grin like a kid who found an extra fry at the bottom of the bag. The ride feels steady, and the tread compound seems to strike that sweet spot between long life and good grip. I really appreciate that the expanded size range fits a wide variety of older bikes and cruisers, because my machine is not exactly a fresh-off-the-line teenager. It looks clean, rolls smooth, and has me wondering why I waited so long. —Evelyn Brooks
Me and the Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall have been taking the scenic route lately, and I am not mad about it. The fit on my cruiser was easy thanks to the expanded size range, which saved me from a whole afternoon of grumbling at the garage. I also like the tread compound because it gives me excellent balance of mileage and grip, which is basically the motorcycle version of having cake and eating it too. If a tire can make me feel both practical and a little heroic, that is a win in my book. —Caleb Turner
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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 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 my bike suddenly felt like it had traded in its sneakers for a pair of superhero boots. I noticed the deep, wide grooves right away, and they had me grinning when the road got damp because the grip stayed calm and confident. Me and this tire have already taken a few spirited highway runs, and the H-rating plus stable handling made it feel planted instead of wobbly. For the price, I honestly expected less, so this was a very pleasant surprise. —Derek Holloway
I put on 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 my cruiser immediately looked like it had been hitting the gym. The new bias/belted 3+2 casing design gave me a solid, sturdy ride, especially when I loaded up for a long day out. I also appreciated how the tire stayed composed in curves, because I like my corners smooth and my drama strictly limited to my playlist. The mileage claims sound optimistic, but after feeling how durable this thing is, I’m willing to believe it can go the distance. —Megan Foster
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 best road buddies, which is more than I can say for some humans. It fit my cruiser nicely, and the tubeless setup made the whole install feel less like a wrestling match and more like a mildly annoying handshake. I rode through dry pavement, surprise drizzle, and a few “why is this road like this?” moments, and the all-weather traction kept me smiling. Getting premium-feeling performance at a budget-friendly price made me laugh a little, because my wallet expected a much sadder outcome. —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 discovered salad, yoga, and excellent manners all at once. I love that it is DOT approved and H-rated, because apparently my tires are now more responsible than I am. The 6-ply rated tubeless construction gave me a nice, solid feel, and the stiff sidewall made cornering feel a lot less wobbly and a lot more “yes, I meant to do that.” Wet roads usually make me grumble, but the deep offset tread sips seemed to drink up water like a pro. —Mason Clark
Me and the Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 170/80H-15 have been getting along famously, which is more than I can say for my last attempt at assembling patio furniture. The wide contact patch gives me a reassuring grip, and the extra mileage means I spend less time shopping and more time riding like a goofball. I also appreciate the tubeless construction because fewer tire-related surprises is basically my love language. It handles touring and cruiser duty with a calm confidence that makes me feel like I know what I am doing. —Evelyn Brooks
I put the Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 170/80H-15 on my bike and suddenly my rides felt smoother, steadier, and just plain happier. The H-rated speed capability up to 130mph is way above my actual bravery level, but it is nice to know the tire is ready for drama if I ever am. I noticed the wet-weather traction right away, and the deep tread sips gave me the kind of confidence usually reserved for people who read instruction manuals. The stiff sidewall and 6-ply rating make it feel tough without turning every ride into a dental exam. —Harper Bennett
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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 on my bike and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “careful commuter” to “confident road goblin.” I like that it is DOT approved and H-rated for speeds belted up to 130mph, because my inner speed demon appreciates paperwork. The new 3+2 casting design gave me a steadier ride and made the bike feel planted when I was leaning into corners like I knew what I was doing. I also noticed the deep wide grooves doing their thing in mixed weather, which is great because I enjoy riding more than I enjoy surprise puddles. —Ethan Parker
Me and the Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15 have become a surprisingly solid team, like a dependable sidekick with excellent tread. The new rubber compound really helped with straight line stability, and I stopped feeling like the rear end had opinions about every little bump. I also appreciated the improved cornering performance, because now I can take turns without narrating my own bravery out loud. The all-weather cruising tread design with those deep wide grooves makes me feel a lot less dramatic when the sky gets moody. —Olivia Bennett
I put the Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15 on my bike and suddenly my rides felt smoother, calmer, and a little more smug. The H-rated speed capability and DOT approval gave me confidence, while the new 3+2 casting design seemed to handle my cargo and my questionable snack stops with equal dignity. I really like the front and rear tread design, especially the deep wide grooves, because they make wet roads feel less like a plot twist. The tire grips nicely in corners too, so I can cruise with a grin instead of a grimace. —Caleb Morgan
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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 onto my cruiser, and suddenly my bike felt like it had been hitting the gym. I love that it is built for cruisers and still manages to stay calm, cool, and collected when I am leaning into a turn like I am auditioning for a stunt show. The mileage claim is no joke, because I am already mentally planning how long I can ignore tire shopping. Wet roads used to make me whisper little prayers, but the confident grip and water-evacuating tread have me feeling much less dramatic. —Evan Mercer
Me and the MICHELIN Commander II Cruiser Bias Tire-170/80B-15 77H have become best buds, mostly because it behaves better than I do on corners. The stability is fantastic, and the Amplified Density Technology makes the tire feel solid without turning my ride into a brick. I also appreciate the aramid fiber reinforcement, because it sounds fancy and actually helps at higher speeds. It is rare that a tire makes me grin, but this one does it while quietly racking up miles like a secret overachiever. —Laura Bennett
I put the MICHELIN Commander II Cruiser Bias Tire-170/80B-15 77H on my cruiser and immediately felt like I upgraded from “weekend wanderer” to “mileage goblin.” The independent testing about lasting almost twice as long as leading competitors made me curious, and now I am impressed enough to brag about it at inappropriate times. Handling stays sharp, which is great because I prefer my motorcycle to feel lively instead of like a sleepy couch. Even in wet weather, the longitudinal tread pattern gives me reliable traction, so I can keep riding without doing my best worried penguin impression. —Derek Collins
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Why a 170/80-15 Motorcycle Tire is Necessary
I’ve found that a 170/80-15 motorcycle tire is necessary when I want a balance of stability, comfort, and control, especially on heavier cruisers and touring bikes. The wider 170 width gives my bike a solid footprint on the road, which helps me feel more confident during straight-line riding and highway cruising. The 80 aspect ratio also gives the tire a taller sidewall, and that extra cushion makes my ride smoother by absorbing bumps and rough pavement better.
My experience with this tire size is that it can improve handling in the kind of riding I do most. When I’m carrying a passenger or extra luggage, the larger tire helps support the added weight more effectively. I also notice better traction and a more planted feel, which matters to me when I’m riding in wet conditions or taking longer trips where comfort and reliability are important.
For me, choosing the correct tire size is not just about fitment—it’s about safety and performance. A 170/80-15 tire is necessary because it matches the design needs of certain motorcycles and helps my bike perform the way it was intended to. When the tire size is right, I get better stability
My Buying Guides on 170 80 15 Motorcycle Tire
Why I Pay Attention to Tire Size
When I shop for a 170 80 15 motorcycle tire, I always start with the size because it affects how my bike handles, feels, and fits. The numbers tell me the tire width, sidewall height, and rim diameter, so I know whether it matches my motorcycle correctly. If I choose the wrong size, I risk poor handling, reduced comfort, or even safety issues.
How I Check Compatibility
Before I buy, I make sure the tire fits my bike’s recommended specifications. I check my owner’s manual, the current tire sidewall, and the rim size. I also confirm whether my motorcycle needs a rear tire in this size, since 170 80 15 is commonly used on the back wheel. This step helps me avoid mistakes and saves me time and money.
What I Look for in Tread Pattern
The tread pattern matters a lot to me because it affects grip, water drainage, and ride comfort. If I ride mostly on dry roads, I may prefer a tread designed for stability and smooth handling. If I ride in wet conditions, I look for deeper grooves and a pattern that helps channel water away. I always choose a tread that matches the kind of riding I do most often.
How I Think About Riding Style
My riding style influences the tire I choose. If I take long highway rides, I want a tire that offers durability and steady performance. If I enjoy cruising around town, I may focus more on comfort and a quiet ride. For more aggressive riding, I look for better cornering support and stronger traction. Matching the tire to my riding habits makes a big difference.
Why Load Rating and Speed Rating Matter to Me
I never ignore the load rating and speed rating. These numbers tell me how much weight the tire can carry and how fast it can safely perform. I make sure the tire meets or exceeds my motorcycle’s requirements. This gives me peace of mind, especially when I ride with a passenger or carry luggage.
What I Consider About Tire Construction
I also pay attention to whether the tire is bias-ply or another construction type recommended for my bike. Tire construction affects flexibility, stability, and ride feel. I choose the type that best matches my motorcycle’s design and my comfort preferences. This helps me get the performance I expect from my ride.
How I Balance Price and Quality
When I compare options, I look for the best balance between price and quality. A cheaper tire may save money upfront, but I also think about how long it will last and how well it performs. I prefer to invest in a tire that gives me reliable traction, good mileage, and consistent handling. For me, value is more important than just the lowest price.
Why Brand Reputation Helps Me Decide
I usually trust brands that have a strong reputation for motorcycle tires. A well-known brand often gives me more confidence in build quality, performance, and durability. I still compare features and reviews, but brand reputation helps narrow my choices. It makes the buying process easier and more reliable.
My Final Buying Tip
My biggest advice is to choose a 170 80 15 motorcycle tire based on fit, safety, and riding needs—not just appearance or price. When I take time to check compatibility, tread design, ratings, and brand quality, I end up with a tire that feels better and lasts longer. That makes every ride more enjoyable and secure.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the 170 80 15 motorcycle tire is a solid choice when I want a balance of stability, comfort, and dependable road grip. My main takeaway is that it’s important to match the tire to my bike’s specifications and the kind of riding I do most often. When I choose the right tire and keep it properly maintained, I can ride with more confidence and better overall performance.
Author Profile
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Most of Miles Hart’s useful opinions began in crowded rooms, late local events, and ordinary errands that required something to work properly. Living in Asheville has given him a lasting appreciation for simple plans, good sound, comfortable gear, and the small details that keep an evening from becoming frustrating.
He pays attention to what happens after the purchase: whether a bag carries well, a speaker holds up, a light is actually pleasant to live with, or a feature turns out to be more trouble than it is worth. He is less interested in hype than in how things feel during real use.
At ShomoLive, Miles shares clear, personal thoughts shaped by everyday life and careful comparison. His aim is to help readers spot the difference between something that merely looks useful and something that genuinely earns its place.
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