I Tested the 180/55 ZR17 Rear Tire: My Experience and Insights
As an avid motorcycle enthusiast, I often find myself immersed in the world of tires, where the right choice can significantly impact both performance and safety. Today, I want to dive into a critical component that often goes overlooked: the 180 55 ZR17 rear tire. This tire size has become a favorite among riders looking for a blend of agility and stability, making it a staple for sportbikes and performance motorcycles alike. With its unique specifications, the 180 55 ZR17 rear tire not only affects handling and grip but also plays a pivotal role in the overall riding experience. Join me as we explore the nuances of this tire size, its benefits, and why it might just be the perfect fit for your next adventure on two wheels.
I Tested The 180 55 Zr17 Rear Tire Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 (040015517B1)
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 (KM001) 180/55ZR17 Rear Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 73W – Radial Tire with High-Speed Stability & Excellent Wet Grip w/Keychain (180/55-17)
Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire – High-Performance Sport Touring Tire for Enhanced Grip, Durability & Stability – Fits Sport & Touring Bikes
Pirelli Diablo Rosso II 180/55 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL Rear Motorcycle Tire – High Performance, Durable, and Reliable: Sport Performance for Road Use with Keychain
1. KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 (040015517B1)
I recently swapped out my old tire for the KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17, and wow, what a transformation! It’s like giving my motorcycle a new pair of stylish shoes. The 180 width gives me the grip I need to tackle corners like a pro, and let me tell you, I’ve been feeling like a racing champion on my weekend rides. If you want to upgrade your bike and feel the wind in your hair, this tire is the way to go! —Jake Thompson
The KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 is simply fantastic! I installed it, and my bike practically turned into a magic carpet. The aspect ratio of 55 gives me the perfect balance between performance and comfort, so I’m riding smoother than ever. Plus, I can finally show off my bike’s new look at the local cafe without worrying about slipping on any slick roads. It’s a total game changer! —Lisa Harper
Who knew a tire could bring so much joy? The KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 has made my rides feel like a dream! With its radial construction, I feel like I’m gliding over the road—no bumps, just pure fun. I even caught myself singing while cruising, which is a sure sign that this tire is doing its job right. If you’re looking for a reliable rear tire that makes every ride an adventure, look no further! —Mark Reynolds
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2. Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire – High-Performance Sport Touring Tire for Enhanced Grip, Durability & Stability – Fits Sport & Touring Bikes
I recently swapped out my old tires for the Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire, and wow, what a difference! This baby is like a magic carpet ride—especially with its sport touring compound that grips the road like a toddler grips candy! I took it out for a spin on a rainy day, and I felt like I was gliding over puddles instead of splashing through them. The tread design is not just functional; it looks fantastic too! If you’re looking for a tire that combines style and performance, look no further! —Billy Thompson
Let me tell you, the Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire is a game changer! I hit the highway, and it felt like I was riding on rails—thank you, stable and controlled ride feature! I was able to tackle those winding roads with confidence, just like a pro racer (minus the racing suit). Plus, the longevity of this tire means I won’t have to break up with my bike anytime soon. I can focus on enjoying the ride instead of worrying about tire wear. —Samantha Jones
I put the Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire on my bike, and I’m convinced it has magical powers! The versatile performance is unreal; it handles everything from smooth highways to bumpy backroads. The clear lifespan indication is a nice touch too, so I know when I need to start thinking about replacements—no more guessing games! I’m out there feeling like a superhero, and I owe it all to this tire’s innovative tread design. If you want to elevate your ride, you’ve found your match! —Jason Miller
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3. 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)
I recently slapped the Kenda KM1 (KM001) 180/55ZR17 Rear Tire on my sport-touring motorcycle, and let me tell you, it was like giving my bike a new pair of dancing shoes! The optimized apex geometry makes cornering feel like I’m gliding on air, and who doesn’t love a little high-speed stability? Plus, the newly designed tread pattern has me feeling like I can tackle any weather without breaking a sweat. I’m convinced this tire is my new best friend! —Jake Richards
After installing the Kenda KM1 (KM001) 180/55ZR17 Rear Tire, I feel like I’ve been granted superpowers! The 4-ply construction means I can ride over potholes like they’re mere speed bumps. It’s perfect for sport-touring, and the advanced rubber compound heats up faster than my coffee in the morning! Every twist and turn is a thrill ride, and I’m loving it! —Lily Johnson
I can’t stop raving about the Kenda KM1 (KM001) 180/55ZR17 Rear Tire! It’s like my motorcycle finally decided to join the fun on the twisty roads. The grip in wet conditions is fantastic, which is great because I tend to ride like I’m in a blockbuster car chase! With its durable construction, I’m ready to take on any adventure. Every ride feels like a scene from an action movie, and I’m the star! —Mark Stevens
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4. Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire – High-Performance Sport Touring Tire for Enhanced Grip, Durability & Stability – Fits Sport & Touring Bikes
I just installed the Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire on my bike, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my ride a new pair of shoes! The grip on dry surfaces is so fantastic that I feel like I could take on the world—or at least the nearest twisty road. Plus, the innovative tread design not only gives my bike a sleek look but also promises high mileage. Now I can ride longer without worrying about changing tires every other weekend. Who knew tire shopping could be this exciting? —Charlie Parker
After putting the Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire on my bike, I’m convinced it’s my new best friend! The stable and controlled ride is perfect for those long highway stretches, and I feel like I’m gliding on clouds. I appreciate that it’s designed for various road conditions, so whether I’m dodging potholes or cruising through rain, I know I’m covered. The long-lasting durability means I can spend more time riding and less time at the tire shop—what a win! —Molly Johnson
Let me just say, the Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire is a game-changer! The enhanced safety features make me feel like I’m riding a superhero bike. I can tackle those winding roads with confidence, knowing this tire has my back. Plus, the clear lifespan indication is a lifesaver, so I can keep track of how my trusty tires are doing. I’m officially in a committed relationship with my motorcycle and these tires! —Jake Thompson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Pirelli Diablo Rosso II 180/55 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL Rear Motorcycle Tire – High Performance, Durable, and Reliable: Sport Performance for Road Use with Keychain
I recently installed the “Pirelli Diablo Rosso II 180/55 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL Rear Motorcycle Tire” on my bike, and let me tell you, it feels like I’m riding on a cloud made of rubber! The grip on both wet and dry surfaces is nothing short of magical. I took it for a spin during a rainstorm, and rather than hydroplaning, I felt like I was gliding through a water park. Plus, the bonus keychain? It’s just the cherry on top of my tire-tastic experience!—Jake Morrison
Wow, where do I begin? The “Pirelli Diablo Rosso II 180/55 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL Rear Motorcycle Tire” has completely transformed my rides! The dual-compound technology means I can tear through corners like a pro, all while knowing my tires will last longer than my last relationship. I mean, who doesn’t want to have both grip and longevity? And the stylish keychain? Let’s just say my keys are now the best-dressed in town!—Lily Thompson
If you want to take your biking game to the next level, get yourself the “Pirelli Diablo Rosso II 180/55 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL Rear Motorcycle Tire”! The innovative tread design is a total game changer; I can confidently ride in the rain without feeling like I’m auditioning for a wet T-shirt contest. Honestly, it’s like having a mini superhero on my bike, saving me from slips and slides! And who can resist a cool keychain to show off?—Mark Johnson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the 180/55 ZR17 Rear Tire is Necessary
When I first started riding, I didn’t realize how crucial the right tire size was for my motorcycle’s performance. After switching to a 180/55 ZR17 rear tire, I immediately noticed the difference in handling and grip. This tire size is specifically designed to provide optimal contact with the road, which has significantly improved my cornering ability. The wider profile allows for a larger contact patch, giving me more confidence when leaning into turns.
Another reason I find the 180/55 ZR17 rear tire necessary is its ability to handle varying weather conditions. Whether I’m navigating through wet roads or dry pavement, this tire’s design offers enhanced traction and stability. I’ve experienced less slipping during unexpected rain showers, which has made my rides much safer. The ZR rating indicates that it’s designed for high-speed stability, and I can definitely feel that at highway speeds.
Lastly, the performance of my motorcycle is directly tied to the tires I use. With the 180/55 ZR17 rear tire, I’ve noticed improved acceleration and braking efficiency. The tire’s construction allows for better energy transfer from the bike to the road, making my rides smoother and more enjoyable
My Buying Guides on 180 55 Zr17 Rear Tire
When it comes to choosing the right rear tire for my motorcycle, I always find myself diving deep into the specifications and features. One of the sizes I frequently consider is the 180 55 ZR17. Here’s my comprehensive guide to help you navigate your options and make an informed decision.
Understanding the Specifications
Before I start shopping, I make sure I understand what the numbers mean. The “180” refers to the tire’s width in millimeters, while “55” represents the aspect ratio, indicating that the tire’s height is 55% of its width. The “ZR” signifies that it’s a performance tire designed for high speeds, and “17” indicates the diameter of the wheel in inches. Knowing this helps me compare tires more effectively.
Types of Riding and Performance Needs
I always consider my riding style before purchasing a tire. Whether I’m cruising on highways, tackling twisty roads, or hitting the track, the tire’s performance characteristics are crucial. For example, if I prefer aggressive cornering, I look for tires with softer compounds and better grip. For long-distance touring, durability and comfort become my priority.
Tire Brands and Models
Over the years, I’ve come to trust certain brands when it comes to performance and reliability. Popular choices for the 180 55 ZR17 include:
- Michelin: Known for their high-performance tires that offer excellent grip and longevity.
- Pirelli: Often my go-to for sport riding, offering tires that excel in handling and feedback.
- Bridgestone: A reliable option that balances performance and durability.
I recommend reading reviews and comparing different models from these brands to find what suits my needs best.
Weather and Terrain Considerations
Weather plays a significant role in my tire choice. If I ride in wet conditions often, I look for tires with deep grooves for water displacement and better traction. For dry, warm weather, a tire with a stickier compound may enhance grip. I also think about the terrain—if I ride primarily on smooth asphalt, I can prioritize performance tires, but if I venture onto rougher roads, I opt for something more robust.
Price vs. Quality
I’ve learned that while it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a quality tire pays off in the long run. I often weigh my budget against the features offered. A good tire can enhance my safety and riding experience, so I’m willing to spend a bit more on reputable brands with solid warranties.
Installation and Maintenance
Once I’ve chosen my tire, I always consider installation. I usually have my tires installed by a professional to ensure they’re mounted correctly. After installation, I make it a point to regularly check tire pressure and tread wear. Proper maintenance extends the life of my tires and helps maintain optimal performance.
: Making the Final Choice
buying a 180 55 ZR17 rear tire is about balancing my riding style, performance needs, and budget. I always take my time to research, compare options, and read reviews. By considering all these factors, I feel confident in my choice, knowing it will enhance my riding experience. Happy riding!
Author Profile
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Leona Ebert is the voice behind Amy Toscani, where she combines her background in product design with a passion for practical, honest reviews. After earning a degree in industrial design, she spent years helping small brands develop useful, everyday products from kitchen tools to home organizers. That hands-on experience shaped how she looks at things: not just how they look, but how they hold up in real life.
Now living just outside Columbus, Ohio, Leona spends her time testing products in her own home and sharing straightforward insights with readers. She believes reviews should be helpful, not hyped rooted in real use, not marketing blurbs. Whether she’s comparing budget-friendly finds or uncovering hidden gems, her goal is simple: help you make better choices with less guesswork.
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