Choosing a 170/60ZR17 tire means balancing grip, longevity, and confidence across wet and dry roads. This guide highlights five solid options for sport and touring riders, with clarity on who benefits most from each model. Whether you ride a sportbike or a sport-touring machine, these picks help you weigh performance against value. The buyer-friendly table below summarizes key traits to compare at a glance.
| Product | Brand | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Continental ContiMotion Sport/Touring Rear 170/60-17 | Continental | Entry-level sport-tours and value-focused riders |
| Shinko 005 Advance Radial 170/60Zr17 R005 | Shinko | High-speed stability and aggressive braking |
| Pirelli Diablo Rosso II 170/60 ZR 17 M/C | Pirelli | Sport and road-orientated performance with good longevity |
| Michelin Road 6 Tire Rear – 170/60ZR17 | MICHELIN | Longer tread life and strong wet grip for touring |
| Shinko 009 Raven Radial Tire Rear- 170/60ZR17 72W | Shinko Motorcycle Tires | Long life with balanced wet and dry grip for sport riding |
Continental ContiMotion Sport/Touring Rear 170/60-17
This entry-level radial tire aims at riders seeking reliable feedback on both dry and wet roads. Its formulated polymers are designed to improve cost/mileage, delivering value for money. Best for riders who want dependable daily performance without premium pricing, especially on entry-level sport-touring bikes. A potential limitation is that its wear characteristics may not match dedicated ultra-high-mileage touring tires on long trips.
Best for: Entry-level sport-touring riders needing predictable grip and cost efficiency. Choose this if you prioritize a budget-friendly tire with safe wet and dry performance.
Shinko 005 Advance Radial 170/60Zr17 R005
The Shinko 005 Advance Radial uses reinforced aramid belts to enhance stability at high speeds, with a large-block tread designed for confident braking and acceleration. It is sized specifically for the 170/60ZR-17 rear fitment, offering a balanced sport profile with improved structural integrity. A limitation to note is that some riders may prefer newer compounds in premium brands for long-life performance.
Best for: Riders seeking high-speed stability and strong braking performance on 170/60ZR-17 applications. Choose this if aramid belt construction and a robust tread pattern matter most to you.
Pirelli Diablo Rosso II 170/60 ZR 17 M/C Rear
This tire combines a high-performance profile with an asymmetric tread for efficient water displacement and strong dry grip. Dual-Compound Technology uses a harder center for longer wear and a softer shoulders for enhanced grip, delivering consistent performance through varying road conditions. Best for sport and touring bikes that demand versatile grip and respectable longevity. A caveat is that premium compounds can wear faster under aggressive riding.
Best for: Sport riders who want strong cornering grip and reliable wet performance without sacrificing some touring life. Choose this if you want a balanced performance package with advanced tread design.
Michelin Road 6 Tire Rear – 170/60ZR17
The Road 6 rear tire features Michelin Silica Technology and Water Evergrip for improved wet grip, with an emphasis on longer tread life versus the Road 5. It is designed for riders who log miles and seek stable handling in wet conditions, plus longer durability. The trade-off can be a slightly firmer ride compared with ultra-soft compounds used in some no-mileage-focused sports tires.
Best for: Touring riders and high-mileage commuters who value wet grip and extended tread life. Choose this if you want a long-lasting tire with dependable wet performance.
Shinko 009 Raven Radial Tire Rear- 170/60ZR17 72W
Designed for longevity and performance, the Raven radials offer balanced wet and dry grip with a focus on extended tread life. This makes them well-suited for riders who demand consistent performance over many miles, including sport riders who also do longer weekend rides. The main limitation is that some users report a trade-off in top-end grip compared with ultra-premium sport tires.
Best for: Riders seeking long life with reliable grip across wet and dry surfaces. Choose this if durability and steady performance are paramount.
Buying Guide
What matters most when choosing a 170/60ZR17 tire?
- Riding style: Sport, touring, or a mix? Sport tires emphasize grip and steering response, while touring tires prioritize longevity and consistent wet performance.
- Weather and road conditions: If you ride year-round or in wet climates, prioritize tires with strong wet grip and water evacuation capabilities.
- Mileage vs. grip: Dual-compound or harder centers extend tread life but may feel slightly different in cornering grip. Assess your mileage needs against daily performance.
- Construction: Radial tires with reinforced belts tend to offer improved stability at high speeds and better uniform wear.
- Budget vs. premium: Entry-level options deliver value, but premium compounds may provide longer life and improved grip in aggressive riding.
Comparison snapshot
- Best for entry-level budgets: Continental ContiMotion
- Best for high-speed stability: Shinko 005 Advance Radial
- Best for overall sport-touring performance: Pirelli Diablo Rosso II
- Best for long life and touring: Michelin Road 6
- Best for longevity with sport potential: Shinko 009 Raven
Installation and compatibility tips
- Confirm your bike’s wheel compatibility and load index for the 170/60ZR-17 size.
- Check tire pressure guidelines from your motorcycle’s manufacturer for optimal performance.
- Factor in your riding environment when selecting a tread pattern (steep corners, rain-prone roads, or highway cruising).
Safety and maintenance considerations
- Inspect tread depth regularly and replace tires before reaching legal minimums or noticeable wear indicators.
- Rotate tires if your bike’s maintenance schedule supports it, ensuring consistent wear.
- Avoid mixing tire brands or models on the same axle when possible to maintain balanced handling.
FAQ
- Q: Is 170/60ZR17 the same as 170/60 R17? A: The ZR indicates high-speed capability (usually above 149 mph). Check the exact speed rating on the tire label to confirm compatibility with your bike’s top speed.
- Q: Which tire lasts longest for 170/60ZR17? A: Durability varies by compound and riding style; Michelin Road 6 and Shinko 009 Raven emphasize longevity in this size.
- Q: Can I mix front and rear tire brands? A: It’s generally discouraged, as it can affect handling and stability, especially in wet conditions.
- Q: Do performance tires wear faster than touring tires? A: Often yes, due to compound hardness and tread design, but many models balance grip and life well; read their tech notes for specifics.
- Q: What’s the best rear tire for wet weather? A: Tires with dedicated water evacuation design and advanced compounds typically perform best in wet conditions; Pirelli and Michelin options are strong in this area.