Find the right 170/80H-15 tire for cruiser and touring bikes with strong wet-weather grip, stability, and load handling. This guide highlights five solid choices, explaining who each is best for and why. It’s tailored for riders seeking durable rear tires that balance mileage, traction, and comfort on long rides. The table below compares key details to help buyers decide quickly.
| Product | Brand | Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire – 170/80H-15 | Kenda | Street, H-rated | Balanced everyday cruising with all-weather capability |
| Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15 (77H) | DUNLOP | All-round cruiser | Older bikes and cruisers needing broad size support |
| Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 170/80H-15 | Kenda | Tubeless, 6-ply | Sport, touring, and cruiser riders seeking wet traction |
| Shinko SR777 HD Black Wall Bias Rear Tire – 170/80B15 83H | Shinko | Rear bias, heavy-duty | Heavy-cruiser bikes needing stability and mileage |
| Shinko 777 Rear H.D. Motorcycle Tire 170/80B-15 (83H) White Wall | Shinko | Rear, aramid belt reinforcements | Wide-fit cruisers requiring durable construction |
Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire
The Kruz K673 is DOT approved and H-rated for speeds up to 130 mph. It features a new 3+2 casting design aimed at improved handling and high load carrying capacity for front and rear applications. The tread design includes deep, wide grooves for all-weather cruising. Best for riders who want a versatile street tire with solid stability and a robust construction. Caution: some cruisers with narrower rims may require wheel compatibility checks before installation.
Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15
The Dunlop D404 rear tire emphasizes an expanded size range to fit a broad set of older bikes and cruisers. Its tread compound is designed to balance mileage with grip, providing dependable wet and dry performance. Best for riders with classic or vintage cruisers and those who prioritize predictable handling and comfort. Limitation: older bike models may require professional mounting to ensure proper fitment.
Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire – 170/80H-15
The K671 Cruiser K671 is DOT approved with a 6-ply tubeless construction suitable for sport, touring, and cruiser bikes. It delivers deep offset tread sips to improve water dispersion and wet weather traction. Best for riders who want reliable wet performance and a sturdy ride for long-distance trips. Caution: tread wear may vary with riding style and road conditions.
Shinko SR777 HD Black Wall Rear Tire – 170/80B15 83H
Designed for cruiser motorcycles, the SR777 HD uses a rubber compound for maximum grip and comfort. Its tread includes siping and grooves for solid traction in both wet and dry riding. Best for riders who want a rugged, long-lasting rear tire with steady handling. Limitation: may feel firmer at very low speeds on soft pavement due to its heavy-duty construction.
Shinko 777 Rear H.D. 170/80B-15 (83H) White Wall
The Shinko 777 HD rear tire features reinforced aramid belting for stability under heavy cruising loads. It emphasizes enhanced stability and longevity, aiming for high mileage and consistent handling across the tire’s life. Best for riders with large cruisers needing dependable, long-wearing rear tires. Caution: White-wall styling may require cleaning maintenance to keep aesthetics on show bikes.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations For 170/80-15 Rear Tires
What matters most when choosing a 170/80-15 rear tire? Consider these factors to match tire performance to riding needs.
- Riding style: For casual cruising, choose tires with balanced mileage and grip (Kruz K673, K671). For longer tours, opt for durability (Shinko 777 HD). For classic bikes, consider older-model compatibility (Dunlop D404).
- Construction: Tubeless and 6-ply options offer strong load handling and puncture resistance; aramid belting can improve stability on heavy cruisers (Shinko 777 HD).
- Grip and weather: Tread design and siping influence wet traction. All-weather treads help in rain and light winter conditions.
- Rim compatibility: Verify wheel diameter (15-inch) and aspect ratio (80) for your specific bike model.
- Maintenance and replacement: Patterned wear and tread depth impact braking and cornering. Plan replacements in line with riding season and mileage expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does 170/80-15 mean on motorcycle tires?
It describes tire width (170 mm), aspect ratio (80% of width), and wheel diameter (15 inches). - Which tire is best for wet weather on cruisers?
Models with deep grooves and siping, like Kruz K673 or K671, tend to offer better water dispersion and traction. - Are aramid-belt tires worth it for large cruisers?
Yes, they provide enhanced stability and longevity on heavy bikes. - Can I mix tires on a cruiser?
Typically not recommended; choose matched front and rear tires for consistent handling. - What should I check before mounting a new 170/80-15 tire?
Verify compatibility with your rims, speed rating, load rating, and alignment requirements. - How do I maximize tire life on 170/80-15 tires?
Maintain proper tire pressure, rotate if needed by bike design, and avoid aggressive cornering that exceeds tread design limits.