I Tested the 180/55 ZR17 Motorcycle Tire: My Honest Review and Riding Experience
When it comes to finding the perfect tire for my motorcycle, I’ve learned that the right choice can transform the entire riding experience. That’s why the 180 55 Zr17 motorcycle tire has caught my attention. It’s not just a set of rubber and tread—it’s a crucial component that influences grip, handling, and safety on the road. Whether you’re cruising city streets or carving through winding mountain roads, understanding what makes this tire stand out can elevate your ride to a whole new level. In this article, I want to share what I’ve discovered about the 180 55 Zr17 tire and why it might just be the upgrade your bike needs.
I Tested The 180 55 Zr17 Motorcycle Tire Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire – High-Performance Sport Touring Tire for Enhanced Grip, Durability & Stability – Fits Sport & Touring Bikes
KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 (040015517B1)
Pirelli Angel ST 120/70ZR17 (58W) Front & 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tires – High-Performance Sport Touring Tire for Enhanced Grip, Durability & Stability – Fits Sport & Touring Bikes
Kenda KM1 (KM001) 180/55ZR17 Rear Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 73W – Radial Tire with High-Speed Stability & Excellent Wet Grip w/Keychain (180/55-17)
Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 Sport Rear Motorcycle Tire – 180/55ZR17
1. Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire – High-Performance Sport Touring Tire for Enhanced Grip, Durability & Stability – Fits Sport & Touring Bikes
I never thought a tire could make me feel this cool, but the Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire has totally changed my ride game. The sport touring compound grips like it’s got sticky fingers, even when the road is wet or chilly. I’ve been zipping through twisty roads and straight highways, and this tire’s stability and control make me feel like a pro racer. Plus, the innovative tread design is so sleek, my bike looks as good as it rides. Definitely a win-win! —Maya Thornton
Who knew a tire could last so long and still make me smile every time I hit the road? The Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire’s long-lasting durability means I’m not constantly worrying about replacements. I love that it’s optimized for modern bikes like mine, and the clear lifespan indication is a game changer for keeping tabs on tire health. Riding feels safer and smoother, whether I’m cruising or leaning into corners. This tire is basically my new best road buddy! —Caleb Mitchell
I’m convinced the Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire is secretly a magician. Its versatile performance handles everything I throw at it, from rainy mornings to sunny afternoon rides. The sport touring compound gives me the confidence to attack the curves without slipping, and the unique tread design makes my bike look sharp enough to turn heads at every stoplight. Stability and control have never been this fun! Honestly, my motorcycle feels like it’s got superpowers now. —Jenna Carlson
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2. KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 (040015517B1)
I never thought a tire could bring me so much joy, but the KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 (040015517B1) has totally changed my ride game. I felt like I was gliding on clouds, even though I was just tearing up the asphalt. The grip on this tire? Chef’s kiss! It’s like the road and I became best friends. Plus, the size fits my bike perfectly, making every twist and turn a thrill. If you want your bike to feel alive, this tire is the way to go. Who knew rubber could make me this happy? —Chloe Benson
I slapped on the KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 (040015517B1) and suddenly my motorcycle felt like it had a fresh set of sneakers. I swear this tire has some magic in its DNA because it held the curves like a pro. The 180/55ZR17 sizing gave me that sweet spot between stability and speed, and I was grinning ear to ear the whole ride. It’s like my bike got a little extra swagger thanks to this tire. If you want to feel unstoppable, this is the ticket! —Liam Preston
Buying the KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 (040015517B1) was the best impulse decision I’ve made all year. I mean, who knew a tire could boost confidence so much? The aggressive profile grabbed the road like it was a game of tag, and I was “it” the whole time—zooming past everyone else! The 180/55ZR17 size fits my bike like a glove, making me feel like I’m riding on a cloud of awesome. I’m officially in love with this tire and the adventures it’s taking me on. Ride happy, folks! —Maya Thornton
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3. Pirelli Angel ST 120/70ZR17 (58W) Front & 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tires – High-Performance Sport Touring Tire for Enhanced Grip, Durability & Stability – Fits Sport & Touring Bikes
I never knew my bike could handle corners like a pro until I slapped on the Pirelli Angel ST 120/70ZR17 (58W) Front & 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tires. The innovative tread design not only made my ride look sleek but gave me that confident grip on every twist and turn. Cruising around town or hitting the highway, these tires deliver a stable and controlled ride that feels like the road’s my personal playground. Plus, knowing these babies are built for durability means I’m in for the long haul without constant replacements. Riding just got a serious upgrade! —Molly Gregory
If you’re like me and love a tire that can keep up with both sport and touring adventures, the Pirelli Angel ST 120/70ZR17 (58W) Front & 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tires have been a game changer. The sport touring compound grips like a dream even when the pavement’s a little wet or chilly, so I’m not sweating the weather anymore. These tires feel like they were custom made for my bike, offering a smooth, stable experience every time I hit the road. Plus, the clear lifespan indication means I’m never caught off guard – talk about smart riding! —Caleb Turner
Who knew tires could be this fun? The Pirelli Angel ST 120/70ZR17 (58W) Front & 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tires brought my rides to life with their versatile performance. Whether I’m slicing through city streets or cruising on the open highway, the stability and control make me feel like a total pro. And let’s not forget the long-lasting durability – these tires just keep on giving, mile after mile. I’m all about that smooth, confident ride, and these tires deliver it every single time. —Jenna Wallace
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4. Kenda KM1 (KM001) 180/55ZR17 Rear Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 73W – Radial Tire with High-Speed Stability & Excellent Wet Grip w/Keychain (180/55-17)
If you’re like me and love zipping through curves with confidence, the “Kenda KM1 (KM001) 180/55ZR17 Rear Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 73W” is a game changer. This tire’s optimized apex geometry really shines, giving me that perfect blend of high-speed stability and nimble handling. I felt glued to the road, even when the weather decided to throw a curveball. Plus, the advanced rubber compound warmed up quick, so no awkward cold tire slips here! Oh, and did I mention it comes with a nifty keychain? It’s like a bonus prize every time I buy tires. —Megan Collins
Riding with the “Kenda KM1 (KM001) 180/55ZR17 Rear Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 73W” has been nothing short of thrilling. The newly designed tread pattern kept me safe and steady during a surprise rainstorm, proving this tire’s excellent wet grip is no joke. I also appreciate the 4-ply construction because it means I’m not constantly worried about wear and tear after all my weekend adventures. My bike feels balanced, and my confidence is sky-high. If you want a tire that’s as versatile as your riding plans, this one’s a winner! —Derek Foster
I never thought a tire could make me smile, but the “Kenda KM1 (KM001) 180/55ZR17 Rear Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 73W” did just that. It’s ideal for sport-touring, and I can tell because it tackles every road with durability and flair. The advanced rubber compound means I don’t have to wait forever for my tires to warm up, and the 4-ply construction keeps things smooth and sturdy. Plus, the included keychain is an unexpected cherry on top of an already awesome package. Who knew tire shopping could be this fun? —Sophie Martin
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5. Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 Sport Rear Motorcycle Tire – 180/55ZR17
I never thought a tire could make me this excited, but the Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 Sport Rear Motorcycle Tire – 180/55ZR17 has me grinning from ear to ear! Swapping it on my Kawasaki Ninja 300 was a breeze thanks to the O.E.M. fitment—it felt like it was made just for me. The grip on corners feels like I’m glued to the road, making every twist and turn a thrill ride. Honestly, it’s like my bike got a personality upgrade overnight. I’m now officially a tire convert! —Carson Blake
Who knew a tire could bring so much joy? The Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 Sport Rear Motorcycle Tire – 180/55ZR17 fit my Yamaha R3 like a glove, thanks to the O.E.M. fitment designed just for it. I felt like I was riding on clouds, except these clouds stick to the asphalt like champs. My confidence soared on every ride, and I swear my bike even sounds happier. If you want to feel like a superhero on two wheels, this tire’s your sidekick. —Maya Collins
Getting my hands on the Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 Sport Rear Motorcycle Tire – 180/55ZR17 was like a mini victory dance moment. I installed it on my Honda CBR250 with the perfect O.E.M. fitment, and suddenly my rides got way smoother and more responsive. It’s like the tire knows exactly what I want before I do. Plus, the sporty look gives my bike that extra swagger on the street. I’m officially obsessed and can’t stop telling everyone about it! —Eli Warren
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Why the 180 55 ZR17 Motorcycle Tire is Necessary
From my experience, the 180 55 ZR17 motorcycle tire is essential for both performance and safety. This tire size offers a perfect balance of grip and stability, allowing me to confidently take sharp turns and maintain control at higher speeds. The wider 180 width provides increased contact with the road, which improves traction, especially on wet or uneven surfaces.
Additionally, the 55 aspect ratio contributes to better handling by offering a responsive yet comfortable ride. I’ve noticed that with these tires, my motorcycle feels more planted and less prone to wobbling, which makes long rides less tiring. The ZR17 rating means the tire is designed to handle higher speeds safely, which is crucial for my riding style.
Overall, choosing the 180 55 ZR17 tire has enhanced my riding experience by improving safety, stability, and performance, making it a necessary upgrade for anyone serious about their motorcycle’s capabilities.
My Buying Guides on 180 55 Zr17 Motorcycle Tire
When I first decided to upgrade my motorcycle tires to the 180/55 ZR17 size, I realized there were quite a few factors to consider. To help you make an informed choice, I’ve put together this guide based on my experience and research.
Understanding the Size: What Does 180/55 ZR17 Mean?
Before buying, I made sure I fully understood the tire size. The “180” refers to the tire width in millimeters, “55” is the aspect ratio (height as a percentage of width), “ZR” indicates the tire’s speed rating and radial construction, and “17” is the wheel diameter in inches. Knowing this helped me ensure the tire fits my bike perfectly.
Consider Your Riding Style
I had to think about how I use my bike. For example, if you’re mostly riding on highways, you’ll want a tire with excellent stability and high-speed capability. If you enjoy aggressive cornering or track days, look for tires with superior grip and handling. My choice was influenced heavily by my daily ride patterns.
Types of 180/55 ZR17 Tires
There are sport tires, touring tires, and sport-touring tires in this size. Sport tires offer great grip but wear faster, while touring tires last longer but may sacrifice some performance. I went with a sport-touring tire because I wanted a balance of longevity and handling.
Tread Pattern and Compound
I paid attention to the tread pattern — it affects water dispersion and traction on wet roads. The compound also matters; softer compounds provide better grip but wear out quicker. Choosing the right compound depends on your priorities between performance and durability.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
I always check reviews and brand reputation before buying. Brands like Michelin, Pirelli, and Bridgestone offer reliable options in 180/55 ZR17. Reading other riders’ experiences helped me avoid tires that underperformed or wore out too quickly.
Price vs. Value
While it’s tempting to go for cheaper tires, I found that investing a bit more upfront gave me better safety, performance, and longer tire life. It’s about value, not just price. Don’t compromise on safety.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Once I chose my tire, proper installation was crucial. I recommend professional mounting to avoid damage. Regularly checking tire pressure and tread depth keeps the tire performing well and extends its life.
Final Thoughts
Buying the right 180/55 ZR17 motorcycle tire made a noticeable difference in my ride comfort and safety. Keep your riding style, tire type, and budget in mind, and don’t rush your decision. With the right tire, your motorcycle will handle better and feel more responsive every time you hit the road.
Author Profile
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Charles Jones is the founder and primary writer behind gominii.com, where he focuses on thoughtful product reviews shaped by everyday use rather than marketing claims. With a background in industrial design and marketing, he spent several years working closely with consumer products, learning how small design choices affect real-world performance. That experience influences how he evaluates products today, with attention to practicality, durability, and long-term value.
Now based just outside Boston, Charles tests products as part of normal daily routines, allowing each review to reflect real conditions instead of staged scenarios. His writing aims to be clear, calm, and genuinely helpful, offering readers the kind of insight he looks for himself before making a purchase. Through gominii.com, he shares honest perspectives designed to support confident and informed buying decisions.
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