Looking for the right 200/55R17 tire? This guide highlights five strong choices for riders seeking grip, stability, and performance on street and sport bikes. Each option suits different riding styles—from aggressive cornering to long-lasting durability. Use the buyer notes to compare fitment, construction, and intended use, so you can select a tire that matches your bike and riding needs.
| Product | Why It Stands Out | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Full Bore M1 200/55ZR17 Rear | High-performance radial with superior grip and stability at high speeds. | Sport riders who value cornering confidence and longevity |
| Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3 Radial Rear | High-modulus carcass and dual-compound design for lean angles and feedback. | Track-inspired street riding and aggressive cornering |
| DUNLOP D401 Harley-Davidson Series Rear | Harley-approved, wet-grip siping, and stable tread pairing. | Cruisers and touring bikes needing reliable wet performance |
| MICHELIN Power 5 Radial Rear | Premium wet grip with optimized compounds for all-season riding. | Sport-tier street riding with strong wet performance |
| ME 888 Ultra Mara-thon (Rear) | Ultra-high mileage with solid handling and stability across speeds | Long-life tires for daily riders and touring |
Full Bore M1 200/55ZR17 Rear Motorcycle Tire
Features highlight a high-performance radial design with a W-rated construction for stability up to 168 mph. The tire delivers superior grip and responsive handling in both dry and wet conditions, making it suitable for street and sport bikes. Best for riders who want confident cornering and a long-lasting front or rear pairing. A note: while robust, price and availability may vary by region, and performance can depend on tire pressure and load.
Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3 Radial Rear Tire 200/55ZR-17
Designed with patented high modulus fiber and a dual-compound rear for exceptional stability and grip at full lean. Sized precisely for 200/55ZR-17 applications, this tire targets modern high-performance motorcycles seeking premium tubeless radial rubber. Best for riders who demand precise feedback during aggressive cornering. Limitations include its premium price and availability depending on model compatibility.
DUNLOP D401 Harley-Davidson Series Rear Tire
Harley-Davidson approved, with wet-grip siping and a matching front tread pattern for stability. This tire emphasizes broad operating temperature performance and dependable wear for cruiser setups. Choose this if you ride a Harley or cruiser and prioritize predictable handling in mixed weather. Caution: not aimed at track-day performance; intended for street touring and cruising.
MICHELIN Power 5 Radial Rear Tire 200/55ZR17
Michelin’s premium sportbike tire, built for ultimate performance with enhanced wet grip. The Power 5 uses 2CT and 2CT+ silica compounds and a broader void ratio strategy to improve traction in wet conditions. Best for riders seeking top-tier performance in all seasons, especially riders who encounter rain. A potential limitation is premium cost and availability in some regions.
ME 888 Ultra Mara-thon Rear Tire 200/55R17
Meant for long life with Metzeler-level performance and handling, this tire emphasizes consistent performance over a long lifespan. It offers good high- and low-speed stability and smooth handling, making it a practical choice for daily riders and long-distance touring. Best for riders who want dependable mileage without sacrificing handling. Limitation: may not deliver the razor-sharp grip of sport-focused tires in extreme track conditions.
Buying Guide
What should you consider when choosing a 200/55R17 tire?
Consider bike type (sport, cruiser, street) and riding style (daily commuting, track days, spirited weekend rides). Check the tire’s speed rating, wear characteristics, and wet performance. Ensure the tire matches your front tire and wheel size for balanced handling.
How does tire construction influence performance?
Radial designs provide stability at high speeds and improved contact with the road. Dual or multi-compound rear tires can balance grip and longevity. Higher modulus fibers increase stability but may alter feedback. Trade-offs depend on your priorities: cornering grip vs. wear life.
Are high-mileage tires worth it for street riding?
Long-life tires like some Ultra Mara-thon options reduce replacement frequency and are beneficial for daily commuting. However, they may offer slightly less peak grip than ultra-performance sport tires during aggressive cornering. Match tire choice to your typical riding profile and maintenance habits.
What about wet performance?
Tires with specialized siping, silica-rich compounds, or advanced multi-compound rear can improve wet grip. If you frequently encounter rain, prioritize tires with strong wet performance and stable handling in wet conditions.
How do I verify compatibility?
Confirm that the tire size 200/55R17 matches your motorcycle’s rear wheel. Check your bike’s owner manual or consult a professional mechanic for recommended tire models and load ratings for your model year and riding conditions.
What is a quick way to compare these options?
- Best for overall sport performance and grip: Full Bore M1 or Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3.
- Better for cruiser-style stability and wet weather: Dunlop D401 Harley and Michelin Power 5.
- Best long-life option for daily riders: ME 888 Ultra Mara-thon.
FAQ
- Q: Which tire is best for aggressive cornering on a sport bike?
A: Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3 Radial and Michelin Power 5 are strong contenders for high lean angles and precise feedback. - Q: Can I mix tire brands on front and rear?
A: Mixing front and rear tires is possible but can affect handling. Always ensure comparable performance characteristics and consult a professional if unsure. - Q: Are these tires tubeless?
A: The rear tires listed are designed as radial tubeless variants suitable for modern sport and street bikes. - Q: How often should I replace a 200/55R17 tire?
A: Replacement depends on wear indicators, mileage, and riding conditions. Inspect for tread depth, cracking, and uneven wear regularly. - Q: Do these tires support wet performance equally well?
A: Wet performance varies by model; premium sport tires often show improved wet grip, while cruiser-oriented tires emphasize stability in wet conditions. - Q: Should I replace both tires at once?
A: Replacing both rear and front tires maintains balanced handling and consistent performance, especially on sport bikes or touring setups.