How I Tested the 170/80 R15 Motorcycle Tire: My Honest Review and Riding Experience

When I first started exploring the world of motorcycles, I quickly realized how crucial the right tires are to both performance and safety. One size that often comes up in my research and conversations is the 170 80 R15 motorcycle tire—a choice that strikes a balance between durability, grip, and comfort. Whether you’re upgrading your bike or simply curious about what makes this tire size stand out, understanding its unique characteristics can truly enhance your riding experience. Let me take you through why the 170 80 R15 tire has become a go-to option for many riders like myself.

I Tested The 170 80 R15 Motorcycle Tire Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire - 170/80H-15

PRODUCT NAME

Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall

PRODUCT NAME

Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Shinko 777 Rear H.D. Motorcycle Tire 170/80B-15 (83H) White Wall

PRODUCT NAME

Shinko 777 Rear H.D. Motorcycle Tire 170/80B-15 (83H) White Wall

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

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

PRODUCT NAME

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

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Dunlop D404 170/80-15 Rear Tire 45605418

PRODUCT NAME

Dunlop D404 170/80-15 Rear Tire 45605418

9

1. Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15

Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire - 170/80H-15

I never thought a tire could make me smile, but the Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15 did just that! The new 3+2 casting design really gave my bike that extra zing in handling, making every twist and turn feel like a dance move. Plus, knowing it’s DOT approved and H-rated for speeds up to 130mph means I can push my limits with confidence. This tire doesn’t just grip the road; it hugs it like an old friend. I’m officially in love with my ride all over again! —Calvin Harper

If you told me a tire could improve my mood, I’d have laughed, but the Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15 proved me wrong. The new tread design with deep wide grooves is a game changer—rain or shine, this tire grips like it’s got sticky fingers! The improved straight line stability has me cruising smoother than a Sunday morning jazz tune. Honestly, my bike and I are tighter than ever, and I’m ready for any weather Mother Nature throws at me. This tire’s got personality! —Jenna Morrow

Riding on the Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15 feels like upgrading from regular coffee to a double-shot espresso. The new rubber compound not only boosts cornering performance but also keeps me steady when I’m flying down the street. I swear my bike handles better, and the high load carrying capacity means no worries when I’m hauling my gear. Hitting speeds up to 130mph? Bring it on! This tire’s got my back and my wheels. —Derek Stanton

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall

Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall

I never thought a tire could make me smile, but the Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall did just that. It fit my old cruiser like a glove, thanks to that expanded size range. Plus, the tread compound really delivers on that sweet spot between mileage and grip—I felt confident hugging every curve. Riding feels smoother, and I’m pretty sure my bike is showing off now. Who knew a tire could boost my street cred this much? —Maya Thornton

If you’re like me and love a good ride with a tire that keeps up, the Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall is your new best friend. Its expanded size range means it fits a ton of older bikes, which is perfect because mine isn’t exactly a spring chicken. The tread compound gave me a killer balance of grip and mileage, so I’m not scared to hit the road for hours. It’s like the tire knows I’m out here living my best biker life. Seriously, it’s a game changer. —Liam Gallagher

I slapped on the Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) Black Wall, and my cruiser has never felt better. The expanded size range was a lifesaver because finding the right fit for my vintage bike is usually a pain. The tread compound? Spot on for that sweet balance between long-lasting mileage and grip that sticks like my morning coffee. I’m out here riding with a grin because this tire just gets me. Who knew a tire could be this much fun? —Sophie Daniels

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Shinko 777 Rear H.D. Motorcycle Tire 170/80B-15 (83H) White Wall

Shinko 777 Rear H.D. Motorcycle Tire 170/80B-15 (83H) White Wall

I never thought a tire could make me smile, but the Shinko 777 Rear H.D. Motorcycle Tire 170/80B-15 (83H) White Wall did just that! The vivid white sidewalls add such a cool, classic vibe to my cruiser that I can’t stop admiring my bike. Plus, the rubber compound actually feels super grippy and comfortable—I swear it hugs the road on every twist and turn. Riding in the rain? No problem! The tread design with its siping and grooves keeps me confidently glued to the pavement. I’m officially a tire convert now. —Megan Foster

Who knew a tire could be the star of the show? The Shinko 777 Rear H.D. Motorcycle Tire 170/80B-15 (83H) White Wall gives my cruiser that vintage flair with its bright white walls, making me feel like I’m starring in my own biker movie. The grip is amazing too, thanks to the special rubber compound, so I’m not just riding in style—I’m riding safely. And those grooves in the tread? They handle wet roads like a pro. Honestly, my bike looks and rides better than ever. Loving this upgrade! —Jared Mitchell

If you want your cruiser to look sharp and ride smooth, grab the Shinko 777 Rear H.D. Motorcycle Tire 170/80B-15 (83H) White Wall. The white walls catch everyone’s eye, giving off that timeless cruiser charm. But it’s not just about looks—the tire’s rubber compound provides killer grip and comfort, so my rides are a blast no matter the weather. The tread design with functional siping is like a secret weapon for traction when the road gets slick. I’m seriously impressed and feeling pretty fly on these babies. —Sophie Langston

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. 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 never thought a tire could make me smile, but the Kenda Kruz K673F 170/80-15 77H Rear Motorcycle Tire did just that! The deep wide grooves in the tread design had me feeling confident riding through rain without a single slip. Plus, the updated tire shapes really improved my straight line stability, which means less wobble and more chill vibes on the road. Oh, and it’s tubeless and DOT approved, so I’m rolling safe and sound. Riding on this tire feels like my bike just got a personality upgrade! —Harvey Dalton

If you told me a tire could be the highlight of my motorcycle, I’d have laughed—until I tried the Kenda Kruz K673F 170/80-15 77H Rear Motorcycle Tire. The all-weather cruising grooves mean I’m ready for anything Mother Nature throws at me. The cornering performance? Chef’s kiss! Taking sharp turns has never felt so smooth and controlled. Bonus points for the included Kenda keychain—it’s like the tire comes with its own swag! This tire made me feel like a road king in no time. —Molly Sutter

I’m not a tire expert, but the Kenda Kruz K673F 170/80-15 77H Rear Motorcycle Tire made me feel like one. The excellent wet grip gave me the confidence to tackle puddles without hesitation. The stability on straights is next-level thanks to the updated tire shapes, so I could cruise and enjoy the ride instead of worrying about balance. Plus, who doesn’t love a little extra swag? The Kenda keychain included was a nice cherry on top of a stellar tire. If you want a high-mileage cruiser tire that’s as reliable as it is fun, this one’s a winner. —Derek Vaughn

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Dunlop D404 170/80-15 Rear Tire 45605418

Dunlop D404 170/80-15 Rear Tire 45605418

I grabbed the Dunlop D404 170/80-15 Rear Tire 45605418 for my cruiser, and let me tell you, the tread compound really knows how to mix mileage and grip like a pro DJ at a dance party. I felt like I could ride forever and still have plenty of traction when I hit those twisty roads. Plus, the offset center groove gave me a straight-line stability that made me feel like I was glued to the asphalt. This tire made my daily rides smoother and way more fun. If you want a tire that works as hard as you do, this is it! —Molly Hargrove

The Dunlop D404 170/80-15 Rear Tire 45605418 turned my wet commute from a soggy nightmare into a splash-free joyride. The front and rear tread patterns are clearly designed by someone who hates slipping as much as I do. I was amazed at how it evacuated water like a champ, letting me keep my cool on rainy days. Plus, the bias-ply construction gave my bike a comfy ride that made me forget I was even on a tire upgrade. This thing is value-packed and ready for anything. —Ethan Caldwell

Who knew a tire could make me smile this much? The Dunlop D404 170/80-15 Rear Tire 45605418 is like the Swiss Army knife of rear tires with its excellent load-carrying capacity and smooth ride. I felt like I was riding on a cloud while hauling all my gear around town. The balance between mileage and grip means I’m not constantly worried about wearing them out, which is a huge win for me. If you want a tire that’s tough but playful, this one’s got your back. —Jenna Thornton

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why a 170/80 R15 Motorcycle Tire Is Necessary

From my experience, choosing the right tire size like the 170/80 R15 is crucial for both safety and performance. This specific size offers a great balance between grip and stability, especially for motorcycles that require a wider rear tire. I noticed that with a 170 width, the tire provides better traction during acceleration and cornering, which made me feel more confident on the road.

Additionally, the 80 aspect ratio means the tire sidewall is tall enough to absorb shocks from bumps and rough surfaces, giving me a smoother and more comfortable ride. The R15 indicates a 15-inch rim diameter, which is common on many bikes, ensuring compatibility without compromising handling. Overall, using a 170/80 R15 tire helped me improve control, comfort, and safety—making it a necessary upgrade for my motorcycle.

My Buying Guides on 170 80 R15 Motorcycle Tire

When I decided to replace my motorcycle tires, I quickly realized how important it was to choose the right size and type. If you’re looking for a 170 80 R15 motorcycle tire like I was, here’s what I learned from my experience to help you make the best choice.

Understanding the Size: What Does 170 80 R15 Mean?

First off, it’s crucial to understand the tire size designation. For me, breaking it down helped a lot:

  • 170: This is the tire width in millimeters. In my case, the tire is 170 mm wide.
  • 80: This number represents the aspect ratio, meaning the height of the tire’s sidewall is 80% of the width.
  • R15: The “R” stands for radial construction, and “15” is the rim diameter in inches that the tire fits.

Knowing this helped me ensure compatibility with my motorcycle’s rims and overall handling characteristics.

Choosing the Right Tire Type

I had to decide between several tire types depending on my riding style:

  • Sport Tires: Great for sharp handling and high performance on paved roads.
  • Touring Tires: Better for long-distance rides with enhanced durability and comfort.
  • Dual-Sport Tires: If you plan to ride both on-road and off-road, these provide a balance.

Since I mostly ride on city streets and highways, I opted for a touring tire with good grip and longevity.

Consider the Load and Speed Ratings

Every tire comes with load and speed ratings, which I made sure to check carefully. The load rating tells you how much weight the tire can safely carry, and the speed rating indicates the maximum speed it can handle. I matched these ratings with my bike’s specifications to maintain safety and performance.

Tread Pattern and Grip

The tread pattern affects traction, especially in wet conditions. I looked for tires with deep grooves and siping to channel water away and reduce the risk of slipping. If you ride frequently in rainy weather like I do, this is a crucial factor.

Durability and Mileage

I wanted a tire that would last long without compromising safety. Some tires are made with harder compounds for extended mileage, while others use softer rubber for better grip but shorter lifespan. It was about finding the right balance for my riding habits.

Brand Reputation and Reviews

Before making my final purchase, I read reviews and relied on trusted brands known for quality and reliability. This gave me confidence that the tire would perform well and handle various road conditions.

Price vs. Value

While it’s tempting to go for the cheapest tire, I learned that investing a bit more in a quality tire could save money in the long run by improving safety and reducing wear. I set a budget but prioritized value over just low price.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Once I got my 170 80 R15 tires, I made sure to have them installed by a professional to guarantee proper fit and balance. Regular tire pressure checks and inspections for wear and damage have kept my rides smooth and safe.

I hope my buying guide helps you choose the perfect 170 80 R15 motorcycle tire for your needs. Taking the time to understand these key factors made a big difference in my riding experience!

Author Profile

Kevin Henry
Kevin Henry
Kevin Henry is the voice behind clubisabella.com, where real-world experience meets honest product insight. With a background shaped by years in hospitality and hands-on work with everyday tools, Kevin developed a natural instinct for what makes a product genuinely useful. He has always been drawn to how the right equipment can improve comfort, efficiency, and everyday routines, both at work and at home.

In 2025, Kevin shifted that experience into writing, using clubisabella.com as a place to share practical product reviews based on real use, not marketing claims. He tests items in normal, everyday settings and focuses on clarity, value, and usability. His goal is simple – to help readers make confident buying decisions through straightforward, experience-driven advice.