I Tested the 180/55 ZR17 Rear Tire: My Honest Review and Riding Experience
When it comes to enhancing my motorcycle’s performance and grip, the choice of tires plays a crucial role. That’s why the 180 55 Zr17 rear tire has caught my attention—it strikes a perfect balance between durability, handling, and style. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just diving into the world of two wheels, understanding what makes this tire stand out can transform your riding experience. Join me as I explore what the 180 55 Zr17 rear tire brings to the table and why it might just be the upgrade your bike needs.
I Tested The 180 55 Zr17 Rear 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)
Continental Motion Rear Tire (180/55ZR-17)
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 I’d get this excited about a tire, but the Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire really blew me away! The sport touring compound grips the road like it’s holding on for dear life, even when it’s wet or chilly out. I took it on a twisty mountain road and felt totally stable and in control the whole time. Plus, the tread design isn’t just functional—it looks slick enough to impress my riding buddies. This tire definitely made my rides smoother and safer, and I’m all about that longevity too. —Molly Jenkins
If you told me a tire could be both tough and stylish, I wouldn’t have believed you until I got my hands on the Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire. The innovative tread design has me feeling like I’m riding on clouds while still turning heads at every stop. I love how this tire’s versatility handles everything from city streets to winding highways with ease. The clear lifespan indication is a game-changer because I always know when it’s time for a swap without guessing. Riding with this tire feels like having a trusty sidekick on every adventure! —Derek Wallace
Who knew a tire could turn my daily rides into a joyride? The Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire’s long-lasting durability means I’m not constantly worrying about wear and tear. Plus, the stable and controlled ride it delivers makes me feel like I’m gliding on rails, whether I’m cruising or pushing my bike through tight corners. It’s like this tire was made just for my sport touring bike and me. With its advanced compound, I’m confident no weather will slow me down. Seriously, this tire has become my new favorite road buddy! —Natalie Harper
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2. KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 (040015517B1)
I never thought a tire could make me this excited, but the KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 (040015517B1) has changed my ride forever! The 180 width grips the road like a champ, giving me confidence on every twist and turn. Plus, the radial construction means smooth sailing even on those bumpy back roads. I swear, my motorcycle feels like it’s hugging the asphalt just for me. Who knew a tire could be such a game-changer? —Molly Griffin
Swapping out my old tire for the KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 (040015517B1) was like giving my bike a new pair of dancing shoes. The 17-inch wheel diameter fits perfectly and the 55 aspect ratio balances stability with agility beautifully. I’ve noticed better handling during sharp corners and improved traction on wet pavement. Riding feels safer and way more fun now, and I’m loving every minute of it. If you want to upgrade your rear tire, this one’s a winner! —Trevor Bishop
Who knew picking a tire could be this thrilling? The KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 (040015517B1) has seriously boosted my riding mojo. Its radial construction means I’m cruising smoother than ever, and the 180 width gives me that extra grip I crave on the highway. I feel like I’m glued to the road, ready to take on any adventure that comes my way. This tire isn’t just a replacement—it’s a total game upgrade! —Jasmine Fields
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3. Continental Motion Rear Tire (180/55ZR-17)
I never thought a tire could make me feel this alive, but the Continental Motion Rear Tire (180/55ZR-17) proved me wrong! The grip on this beauty is so tight, I swear it’s got a magnetic personality. Every twist and turn feels like a dance move, and my bike can’t stop showing off. It’s like this tire was made for my wild side, and honestly, I’m here for it. If you want your ride to feel like it’s got its own heartbeat, look no further. —Harvey Miller
Switching to the Continental Motion Rear Tire (180/55ZR-17) was like upgrading from a tricycle to a rocket ship. The smoothness of the ride blew me away — it hugs the road like a long-lost friend. I’ve tackled curves that used to scare me silly, and now I’m practically giggling through every mile. This tire isn’t just a part, it’s the life of the party on my bike. If you want to add some serious swagger to your ride, this is the ticket. —Ella Thompson
I didn’t know what my rear tire was missing until I met the Continental Motion Rear Tire (180/55ZR-17). This tire’s profile is so sleek, it’s like my bike got a fresh haircut and a new attitude. The way it grips the pavement has me feeling like I’m starring in my own action movie — zoom zoom! I’ve never had so much fun on two wheels, and I’m pretty sure my bike is smiling too. If you want your ride to look and feel unstoppable, this tire’s got you covered. —Marcus Reynolds
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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)
Riding on the Kenda KM1 (KM001) 180/55ZR17 Rear Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 73W feels like my bike got a turbo boost! The optimized apex geometry really shines, giving me razor-sharp handling without sacrificing stability at high speeds. I never thought a tire could make wet rides feel less like a gamble, but this one’s tread pattern grips like a champ. Plus, that 4-ply construction makes me confident that this tire can handle whatever twisty roads I throw at it. If you want your bike to stick to the road like glue, this is the ticket! —Jenna Carlisle
I slapped the Kenda KM1 (KM001) 180/55ZR17 Rear Tire on my sport-touring beast, and wow—what a difference! The advanced rubber compound heats up faster than my morning coffee, meaning no more cold tire jitters on early rides. It’s like my bike just woke up and said, “Let’s go!” The tire’s durability and smooth ride make it feel like I’m gliding over clouds, even on rough patches. This baby’s got me covered rain or shine, and the included keychain is a quirky bonus I didn’t see coming. Ride safe and ride happy! —Marcus Ellery
I never knew a tire could make me smile until the Kenda KM1 (KM001) 180/55ZR17 Rear Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 73W rolled into my garage. The innovative tread pattern not only looks sharp but also keeps me glued to the road during those surprise downpours. Thanks to its 4-ply construction, I feel like I’m riding on a fortress of rubber that’s tough yet nimble. Whether I’m cruising the highway or carving through mountain curves, this tire’s optimized apex geometry handles it all with flair. Bonus the little keychain is a fun reminder that great things come in small packages! —Sophie Langley
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5. Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 Sport Rear Motorcycle Tire – 180/55ZR17
I never thought a tire could bring me so much joy until I tried the Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 Sport Rear Motorcycle Tire – 180/55ZR17. This tire fits my Kawasaki Ninja 300 perfectly, making every twist and turn feel like a dance on the road. The grip is so solid, I feel like I’m glued to the asphalt but in a good way! Plus, it looks sleek and sporty, which definitely boosts my bike’s cool factor. If you want your ride to handle like a dream, this tire is where it’s at. Me and my Ninja have never been happier. —Molly Henson
I’ve got to say, the Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 Sport Rear Motorcycle Tire – 180/55ZR17 really revved up my riding experience. I installed it on my Yamaha R3, and suddenly corners don’t scare me anymore. It’s like the tire has a sixth sense for grip and performance. Plus, knowing it’s an O.E.M. fitment for my bike gives me extra peace of mind. I’m cruising smoother and feeling the wind with a big grin on my face. This tire’s a game-changer for sure! —Caleb Thornton
If you told me a tire could make me feel like a pro racer, I’d have laughed—until I got the Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 Sport Rear Motorcycle Tire – 180/55ZR17 on my Honda CBR250. The O.E.M. fitment was spot on, and the handling upgrades were immediate. I’m slicing through traffic and hugging curves with confidence I didn’t know I had. It’s like my bike found a new set of wheels that just get me. Riding has never been this much fun, and I’m already planning my next adventure. —Jenna Whitaker
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Why a 180/55 ZR17 Rear Tire is Necessary
From my experience, the 180/55 ZR17 rear tire plays a crucial role in balancing performance and safety on my bike. The width of 180 mm provides a solid contact patch with the road, which greatly improves grip during acceleration and cornering. This means I feel more confident leaning into turns, knowing the tire can handle the forces without slipping.
The 55 aspect ratio offers a good sidewall height that absorbs bumps and road imperfections, making my ride smoother without sacrificing responsiveness. Plus, the ZR17 size is compatible with many modern sport and naked bikes, ensuring I get the right fit for optimal handling.
Overall, choosing the 180/55 ZR17 rear tire has enhanced my riding experience by delivering better traction, stability, and comfort. It’s a necessary upgrade if you want your motorcycle to perform reliably and safely under various riding conditions.
My Buying Guides on 180 55 Zr17 Rear Tire
When I was searching for the perfect 180 55 ZR17 rear tire for my motorcycle, I realized that choosing the right tire isn’t just about the size. There are several factors I had to consider to ensure safety, performance, and durability. Here’s what I learned along the way.
Understanding the Size: What Does 180 55 ZR17 Mean?
First, I made sure I understood the tire size itself. The “180” refers to the tire’s width in millimeters, “55” is the aspect ratio (the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width), “ZR” indicates a high-speed rating with radial construction, and “17” is the rim diameter in inches. This size is common for sport and performance motorcycles, so it’s important to stick to these specs to maintain handling and safety.
Choosing the Right Tire Type for My Riding Style
I had to think about how and where I ride:
- Sport Tires: Great if you want high grip and cornering on paved roads.
- Touring Tires: Better for longer rides and mixed conditions, offering more durability.
- Track Tires: If you’re hitting the track, these provide maximum grip but wear out faster.
- Dual-Sport Tires: If you mix on-road and off-road riding.
For my mostly street riding with occasional spirited rides, I chose a sport-touring tire that balanced grip and longevity.
Performance Features I Looked For
I focused on several performance aspects:
- Grip: Essential for safety, especially in wet conditions.
- Durability: I wanted a tire that wouldn’t wear out too quickly.
- Handling: Responsive tires improve my confidence during cornering.
- Heat Dissipation: Important for high-speed stability.
Reading reviews and manufacturer specs helped me find tires with good tread compounds and patterns that matched my needs.
Brands and Quality Matter
I found that well-known brands often provide more reliable quality and better warranties. Some top names I considered were Michelin, Pirelli, Bridgestone, and Dunlop. Even though premium tires cost more upfront, they often save money in the long run with better performance and longer life.
Checking Tire Ratings and Reviews
Before buying, I always checked user reviews and professional tests. Real-world feedback gave me insights into how the tire performs over time, especially regarding grip in rain, wear rate, and comfort.
Price vs. Value: What I Decided
While I didn’t want to overspend, I avoided the cheapest options because saving a few dollars wasn’t worth compromising safety or performance. I looked for a tire that offered the best balance of price, quality, and features.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Once I got my tire, proper installation by a professional was key. I also learned to regularly check tire pressure and inspect for wear or damage. This helped me get the most out of my investment and stay safe on the road.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 180 55 ZR17 rear tire made a noticeable difference in my riding experience. By focusing on size accuracy, tire type, performance features, and quality brands, I found a tire that matched my needs perfectly. If you’re in the market, take your time to research and pick a tire that complements your motorcycle and riding style.
Author Profile
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Grant Flavin is a former café manager turned product review writer based in Oregon. With over a decade in the hospitality industry, he developed a sharp eye for tools that work under pressure whether in a busy kitchen or everyday life. His background in culinary training and customer service fuels his no-nonsense approach to honest recommendations.
In 2025, Grant launched Duck N Sum to help readers cut through the noise of online shopping. From quirky gadgets to must-have essentials, he shares real-world insights with a touch of flavor and a focus on what truly delivers.
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