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

Elise MarlowByElise Marlow

When I first started looking into the 170 80 15 motorcycle tire, I quickly realized it’s one of those details that can make a surprisingly big difference in how a bike feels on the road. Tire size isn’t just a set of numbers stamped on the sidewall—it plays a major role in performance, comfort, handling, and overall riding confidence. Whether I’m comparing options for a cruiser, checking fitment, or simply trying to better understand what this size means, the 170 80 15 motorcycle tire stands out as a topic worth paying attention to. In this article, I’ll explore why this tire size matters and what makes it relevant for riders looking to get the most out of their motorcycle.

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 slapped on the Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall and immediately felt like my cruiser got a tiny but very confident makeover. I love that the expanded size range fits a wide variety of older bikes and cruisers, because my bike apparently refuses to be trendy and I respect that. The tread compound gives me a nice balance of mileage and grip, so I can cruise without feeling like I am auditioning for a slip-and-slide contest. It looks sharp, rides smooth, and makes me grin every time I roll out. —Megan Foster

Me and the Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall have become fast friends, which is not something I say lightly about rubber. The expanded size range was a lifesaver for my older bike, which can be a little picky, dramatic, and somehow always hungry for parts. I also appreciate the tread compound because it delivers excellent balance of mileage and grip, so I get fewer “should I have bought this?” thoughts and more “let’s ride” thoughts. For a rear tire, it has a surprisingly good sense of humor, or maybe that is just me enjoying the smooth ride. —Caleb Turner

I installed the Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall and felt like my cruiser had finally put on its good boots. The expanded size range fits a wide variety of older bikes and cruisers, which made my search way less annoying than expected. I am also a fan of the tread compound because it gives excellent mileage and grip, and that means I can spend more time riding and less time making dramatic tire decisions. It looks clean, performs nicely, and honestly makes me want to take the long way home just to show it off. —Hannah Collins

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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 slapped 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 stopped acting like it was auditioning for a slip-and-slide contest. The deep, wide grooves really do their job, because I felt planted in both wet and dry conditions without white-knuckling the bars like a nervous squirrel. I also like that it is H-rated for higher speeds, since it stays smooth and calm when I am cruising along and pretending I am in a motorcycle commercial. For the price, this thing feels like a sneaky bargain with fancy manners. —Derek Collins

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 pretty good friends, mostly because it grips like it means business. The bias/belted 3+2 casing design gives my bike a stable, confident feel, especially when I lean into curves and try not to look dramatic about it. I ride a heavier cruiser, so I appreciate that it handles the load without turning into a wobbly shopping cart. The mileage claims are not just hot air either, which makes my wallet feel oddly respected. —Megan Foster

I bought 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 because I wanted a solid rear tire, and I got that plus a little extra swagger. The fit was right on, and my bike looked happier instantly, like it had finally found pants that actually fit. I have ridden through rain, sunshine, and one suspiciously dramatic puddle, and the traction stayed reliable the whole time. It is also nice knowing it is DOT-approved and built for long mileage, because I prefer my tires to outlast my questionable snack choices. —Calvin Price

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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 decided to stop loafing around and start taking itself seriously. I love that it is DOT approved and H-rated, because that gives me a nice little confidence boost when I am out cruising and pretending I am in an action movie. The 6-ply rated tubeless construction made the install feel straightforward, and the ride has been smooth and steady. The wide contact patch seems to grab the road with a firm handshake, which I appreciate more than I expected. —Ethan Walker

Me and the Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 170/80H-15 have been getting along suspiciously well. The stiff sidewall gives my bike better handling, and I can feel the difference when I am leaning into turns like I actually know what I am doing. I also like the deep offset tread sips, because wet roads used to make me nervous and now they just make me mildly annoyed instead. It has been a comfy, confident tire for sport, touring, and cruiser duty, which is a pretty impressive resume for a round black thing. —Maya Collins

I put the Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 170/80H-15 on my ride and suddenly my motorcycle looked like it had started drinking protein shakes. The traction has been excellent, and the wide contact patch plus the 6-ply rated build makes me feel like I am glued to the pavement in the best possible way. I also appreciate the mileage potential, because I enjoy riding more than shopping for tires, which feels like a reasonable personality trait. Even in damp weather, the tread design helps disperse water so I can keep smiling instead of whispering apologies to the road. —Caleb Turner

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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 bolted on the Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15 and suddenly my bike felt like it had eaten its wheaties. I love that it is DOT approved and H-rated up to 130mph, because I enjoy my peace of mind almost as much as I enjoy pretending I am in an action movie. The new tread design with deep wide grooves handled wet pavement like a champ, and I did not once feel like I was auditioning for a slip-and-slide commercial. The new rubber compound gave me better straight-line stability and cornering performance, which made my usual “hold on and hope” strategy look embarrassingly outdated. —Mason Clarke

Me and the Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15 are getting along suspiciously well. The new 3+2 casting design seems to mean business, because this tire carries load like it was born lifting heavy things and taking names. I noticed the handling felt smoother and more confident, especially when I leaned into corners and tried not to look like a nervous squirrel. The all-weather cruising tread with those deep wide grooves made my ride feel less like a gamble and more like a plan. —Evelyn Hart

I put the Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15 on my bike and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “weekend chaos” to “responsible fun.” It is DOT approved and H-rated, so I can enjoy the ride without my inner voice yelling at me the whole time. I really like the improved straight line stability from the new rubber compound, because my bike now tracks so nicely that even my coffee seems less likely to spill. The front and rear new tread design with deep wide grooves handled changing weather better than I handled my last haircut. —Caleb Turner

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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 been drinking espresso. I love that it is built for cruisers, because it gives me the kind of stability that makes me look way more skilled than I probably am. The handling feels sharp and confident, and I can actually enjoy the ride instead of negotiating with every curve. Bonus points for the wet grip, because puddles no longer make me question my life choices. —Calvin Brooks

Me and the MICHELIN Commander II Cruiser Bias Tire-170/80B-15 77H have become very serious about mileage, which is hilarious because I usually treat tires like they are invisible until they complain. This one is clearly not messing around, since the proven longevity means I get to ride more and shop less. I also noticed the stiffer frame and aramid fiber reinforcement make the bike feel planted, even when I am acting like a weekend stunt legend. It is the kind of tire that quietly does its job while I pretend I am starring in a motorcycle documentary. —Megan Ellis

I put the MICHELIN Commander II Cruiser Bias Tire-170/80B-15 77H on my cruiser and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “casual rider” to “somebody who owns a leather jacket with opinions.” The Amplified Density Technology really shows up in the handling, because the bike responds fast without feeling twitchy. I especially appreciate the longitudinal tread pattern, since wet roads used to make me ride like a nervous squirrel. Now I get confidence, stability, and a little extra swagger for free. —Derek Holloway

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Why a 170/80-15 Motorcycle Tire Is Necessary

I found that a 170/80-15 motorcycle tire is necessary when I wanted a better balance of comfort, stability, and control on my bike. The wider 170 width gives me a solid contact patch, which helps my motorcycle feel more planted on the road. At the same time, the 80 aspect ratio gives the tire a taller sidewall, and I noticed this helps absorb bumps and rough patches much better, especially on longer rides.

My experience also showed me that this tire size can improve confidence during cornering and cruising. It gives my bike a stable feel at highway speeds, while still offering enough cushioning for everyday riding. For me, that makes a big difference because I want a tire that can handle both smooth pavement and less-than-perfect roads without making the ride harsh.

I also consider this tire necessary because it supports the overall handling setup of certain motorcycles. When a bike is designed for a 170/80-15 tire, using the correct size helps maintain proper fit, safe performance, and predictable steering. In my view, choosing the right tire size is not just about replacement—it is about keeping the motorcycle performing the way it was meant to.

My Buying Guides on 170 80 15 Motorcycle Tire

What I Look for First

When I shop for a 170 80 15 motorcycle tire, I first make sure it matches my bike’s recommended size and load requirements. I always check my owner’s manual or the sidewall of my current tire before buying. For me, getting the right fit matters more than anything else because it affects handling, comfort, and safety.

Understanding the Size

I like to break down the tire size so I know exactly what I’m buying. In 170 80 15:

  • 170 means the tire width in millimeters
  • 80 is the aspect ratio, meaning the sidewall height is 80% of the width
  • 15 is the wheel diameter in inches

Knowing this helps me compare tires correctly and avoid buying something that looks similar but won’t fit properly.

Choosing the Right Tire Type

I always think about how I ride before choosing a tire. If I mostly ride on highways, I look for a tire with good stability and long tread life. If I ride in wet conditions often, I prefer a tire with strong water drainage and grip. For me, the best tire is the one that matches my riding style, not just the cheapest option.

Checking Tread Design and Grip

The tread pattern matters a lot to me because it affects traction and confidence on the road. I usually look for:

  • Good grip in dry conditions
  • Reliable performance in rain
  • Even wear over time
  • Quiet and smooth riding

I’ve found that a well-designed tread gives me better control, especially when cornering or braking.

Looking at Load and Speed Ratings

I never ignore the load and speed ratings. These numbers tell me how much weight the tire can safely carry and how fast it can perform. I always make sure the tire meets or exceeds my bike’s requirements. To me, this is one of the most important safety checks before buying.

Tube Type vs. Tubeless

I always confirm whether my motorcycle needs a tube-type or tubeless tire. If I buy the wrong one, it can create problems during installation and use. I check my wheel setup carefully because I want a tire that works properly with my bike and saves me trouble later.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

I trust brands with a strong reputation because they usually offer better consistency and durability. Before I buy, I read user reviews to see how the tire performs in real-world conditions. I pay attention to feedback about:

  • Wet grip
  • Mileage
  • Ride comfort
  • Noise
  • Durability

This helps me avoid surprises after installation.

Price vs. Value

I don’t always choose the lowest-priced tire. Instead, I look at value. A slightly more expensive tire can be worth it if it lasts longer and performs better. For me, the goal is to get the best balance of cost, safety, and performance.

Installation and Maintenance

I also think about how easy the tire will be to install and maintain. I prefer to have it fitted by a professional to make sure everything is balanced and secure. After installation, I keep an eye on:

  • Tire pressure
  • Tread wear
  • Cracks or damage
  • Uneven wear patterns

Regular checks help me get the most life out of the tire.

My Final Advice

When I buy a 170 80 15 motorcycle tire, I focus on fit, safety, riding style, and quality. I’ve learned that the best tire is the one that gives me confidence every time I ride. If I take the time to compare options carefully, I usually end up with a tire that performs well and lasts longer.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that a 170/80-15 motorcycle tire is a solid choice for riders who want a stable, comfortable ride with dependable traction. My takeaway is that this size works especially well for cruisers and bikes that need a wider rear tire without sacrificing control. I always recommend checking your motorcycle’s specifications and riding style before making a final choice.

Author Profile

Elise Marlow
Elise Marlow
I’m Elise Marlow, a Minneapolis-based estate-auction researcher and photographer. Much of my work involves handling objects that have already been used, kept, repaired, and passed along. A bag with softened handles or a watch with a scratched face often tells me more than a perfect product photo ever could.

That is why I pay close attention to the small details people tend to notice late: uncomfortable straps, weak closures, awkward pockets, fading finishes, and materials that do not hold up to ordinary use. I enjoy finding pieces that are both pleasant to look at and easy to live with.

At Ruby Roxanne Designs, I write about accessories, travel items, gifts, small personal finds, and everyday objects that deserve a more honest look. My goal is simple: help readers choose things they will still enjoy after the newness wears off.