10 Best Motorcycle Tires 2026 in the United States

The Michelin Commander II Reinforced is a cruiser motorcycle tire sized 150/80-16, designed specifically for American roads and riders. It uses bias-ply construction with a rayon carcass ply, which helps provide a smooth, comfortable ride and stable handling—an advantage for long, relaxed cruiser rides. The rear tire features aramid belts instead of the more common fiberglass, reducing tire growth at high speeds and improving traction and durability.

Its asymmetrical tread pattern balances grip and longevity, contributing to strong wear resistance and confident road holding. The load capacity of 1,102 pounds and maximum pressure rating make it suitable for heavier cruiser bikes. Bias-ply tires generally do not perform as sharply as radial tires in aggressive cornering or sportier riding styles, so this tire is best for riders prioritizing comfort and longevity over high-performance handling.

With a high customer rating and a solid reputation in cruiser tire ranks, the Commander II delivers reliability and good mileage, making it a strong choice for cruiser riders seeking a dependable, long-lasting rear tire.

The Pirelli Diablo Rosso II tire set is designed as a sport performance option for road use, fitting 17-inch wheels with sizes 120/70ZR17 front and 180/55ZR17 rear. Its radial construction supports better stability and handling, which riders will appreciate during cornering and acceleration. The tires feature an asymmetric directional tread pattern that effectively displaces water, improving grip in wet conditions without sacrificing dry road performance.

Thanks to dual-compound technology, the center of the tires uses a harder rubber for longer wear, while the softer shoulders provide enhanced grip when leaning into turns. This balance makes the Diablo Rosso II suitable for both daily commuting and more spirited riding on sport and touring motorcycles. With a load capacity of 520 pounds and a speed rating of 58W (front) and 73W (rear), these tires handle typical street riding demands well. The 2-ply rating and maximum pressure of 36 PSI indicate they are not intended for heavy loads or aggressive track use, so riders seeking extreme performance or heavy touring might want a sturdier option.

These tires are ideal for riders who want reliable, responsive sport tires that perform well in varied weather and road conditions without needing specialized racing features. The included Pirelli keychain is a nice bonus for enthusiasts but does not impact tire performance.

The Pirelli Angel ST tire set is designed mainly for sport touring bikes, offering a solid mix of performance, durability, and safety. These tires come in the common size 120/70ZR17 for the front and 190/50ZR17 for the rear, fitting modern sport touring motorcycles well. Their radial construction delivers better grip and smoother rides compared to bias-ply tires, which suits riders looking for comfort on longer trips. The high silica compound improves traction on dry and wet roads, making them safer in various weather conditions, including cooler temperatures. The directional tread pattern enhances grip and helps with water evacuation, reducing the risk of slipping on wet surfaces.

A notable feature of these tires is their long-lasting design, maintaining good performance over many miles and offering good value for riders who travel extensively. Clear wear indicators allow riders to easily know when it’s time for replacement, adding a practical safety element. The tires support a load capacity of about 330 pounds each and a maximum pressure of 236 psi, suitable for most sport touring motorcycles. The 24-ply rating is relatively high, which may make the tires a bit stiffer than some riders prefer, potentially affecting ride softness.

These tires excel on paved roads with varying conditions but are not intended for off-road use. In summary, the Pirelli Angel ST set is an excellent choice for riders seeking reliable, year-round sport touring tires with good grip, stability, and durability. However, riders looking for softer ride comfort or off-road versatility might want to consider other options.