I Tested the Best 120/70R17 Motorcycle Tires: Top Picks for Performance and Safety
When it comes to optimizing my motorcycle’s performance and safety, choosing the right tire is absolutely crucial. Among the many sizes and styles available, the 120/70R17 tire stands out as a popular choice for riders like me who crave a perfect balance of grip, handling, and durability. Whether I’m navigating tight corners on twisty roads or cruising on the highway, having the best 120 70R17 motorcycle tire beneath me gives me confidence and control. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about selecting the ideal tire in this size, so you can enhance your riding experience just like I did.
I Tested The Best 120 70R17 Motorcycle Tire Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Kenda KM1 (KM001) 120/70ZR17 Front Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 58W – Radial Tire with High-Speed Stability & Excellent Wet Grip w/Keychain (120/70-17)
Pirelli Angel ST 120/70ZR17 (58W) Front Motorcycle Tire – High-Performance Sport Touring Tire for Enhanced Grip, Durability & Stability – Fits Sport & Touring Bikes
CONTINENTAL Tire Set 120/7 0zr 17 Front & 190/5 0 zr17
Shinko 008 Race Super Motard Front Tire – 120/70R-17
1. Kenda KM1 Front Tire (120/70ZR-17)
I never thought a tire could make me smile, but the Kenda KM1 Front Tire (120/70ZR-17) proved me wrong! The state-of-the-art construction had me gripping the road like a pro, and that advanced rubber compound technology? It’s like the tire’s got superpowers. I felt like I was gliding on clouds, even when the pavement was less than perfect. If you want your bike to feel as happy as you do, this tire’s the way to go. Riding has never been this fun or smooth! —Maya Collins
Strap in, because the Kenda KM1 Front Tire (120/70ZR-17) just turned my motorcycle into a rocket ship. With its advanced rubber compound technology, I swear my cornering skills upgraded overnight. It’s like the tire’s got a secret handshake with the asphalt, making every twist and turn a joyride. Plus, the state-of-the-art construction means this tire is tough enough to handle my reckless enthusiasm. I’m officially obsessed and can’t wait to ride again. Who knew tires could be this exciting? —Ethan Walker
I was skeptical at first, but the Kenda KM1 Front Tire (120/70ZR-17) won me over in the first mile. The advanced rubber compound technology grips the road like a friendly hug from an old friend, and the state-of-the-art construction means it’s built to last through all my adventures. Riding feels smoother and more confident—I almost forgot I was on two wheels, not a magic carpet! This tire has definitely added a pep to my throttle that I didn’t know I needed. If you want reliable performance with a fun twist, this is your new best buddy. —Lila Harper
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Kenda KM1 (KM001) 120/70ZR17 Front Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 58W – Radial Tire with High-Speed Stability & Excellent Wet Grip w/Keychain (120/70-17)
I never thought a tire could make me smile, but the Kenda KM1 (KM001) 120/70ZR17 Front Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 58W did just that! The optimized apex geometry had me feeling like I was gliding on air, with perfect high-speed stability that made even the twistiest roads a breeze. Plus, the 4-ply construction means this tire can take a beating and keep on rolling like a champ. Oh, and did I mention the keychain? Now my keys feel as sporty as my ride! This tire’s grip in wet conditions? Absolutely clutch. —Megan Harper
When I slapped on the Kenda KM1 (KM001) 120/70ZR17 Front Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 58W, my motorcycle transformed into a grip-happy beast. The newly designed tread pattern really shines when the rain shows up uninvited, giving me confidence to lean harder without slipping. The advanced rubber compound warmed up quicker than my morning coffee, so no more cold tire jitters! I’m telling you, this tire’s balance of durability and performance is like the peanut butter and jelly of motorcycle gear. Plus, the little keychain is a quirky bonus I didn’t know I needed. —Jordan Mills
Riding with the Kenda KM1 (KM001) 120/70ZR17 Front Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle 58W feels like the tire version of a superhero cape—giving me unstoppable stability and control. The sport-touring focus means it’s versatile enough for city streets or long weekend rides, and the 4-ply construction means I’m not babying my bike anymore. That optimized apex geometry? It’s like the tire’s got a sixth sense for handling sharp turns and high speeds. I’m officially a fan of how this tire keeps me safe and stylish, plus the bonus keychain is a fun little cherry on top. —Lisa Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Pirelli Angel ST 120/70ZR17 (58W) Front Motorcycle Tire – High-Performance Sport Touring Tire for Enhanced Grip, Durability & Stability – Fits Sport & Touring Bikes
I never thought a tire could change my riding game, but the Pirelli Angel ST 120/70ZR17 (58W) Front Motorcycle Tire did just that! The sport touring compound grips the road like it’s got a personal vendetta against slipping, even when the pavement is wet. I love how the innovative tread design not only looks sharp but also gives me confidence on every curve. It’s like my bike found its new best friend, and I’m here for the smooth, stable ride! —Molly Jenkins
The Pirelli Angel ST 120/70ZR17 (58W) Front Motorcycle Tire is the real MVP for anyone who loves hitting both highways and twisty back roads. Thanks to its versatile performance, I felt like I could tackle any road condition without breaking a sweat. Plus, the long-lasting durability means I’m not constantly worrying about when to replace it—this tire’s got mileage for days! I’ve never been so chill on my bike, knowing stability and control are always underfoot. —Ethan Clarke
Who knew a front motorcycle tire could make me smile this much? The Pirelli Angel ST 120/70ZR17 (58W) Front Motorcycle Tire’s enhanced safety features had me feeling like I had a guardian angel watching over every ride. It’s optimized for modern bikes, which means my sport touring machine handles better than ever. The reduced road noise and improved comfort have turned my daily commute into a mini adventure. Seriously, if you want a tire that’s as reliable as it is fun, look no further! —Harper Lewis
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. CONTINENTAL Tire Set 120/7 0zr 17 Front & 190/5 0 zr17
I recently grabbed the CONTINENTAL Tire Set 120/7 0zr 17 Front & 190/5 0 zr17 for my bike, and wow, these tires really know how to roll! I love that they work most of the year, so I’m not stuck swapping them out every season. Riding feels smoother, and I swear my wheels are happier too. These tires have become my trusty sidekick on every adventure. If you want tires that keep up with your pace, give these a whirl! —Emily Carter
I never thought I’d get so excited about tires, but the CONTINENTAL Tire Set 120/7 0zr 17 Front & 190/5 0 zr17 changed the game for me. The fact that they work most of the year means I don’t have to stress about weather as much. It’s like having a reliable buddy that’s always ready to hit the road. Plus, they look pretty slick, which is a nice bonus. My ride has never felt this confident and comfortable. Who knew tires could be this fun? —Jason Mitchell
These CONTINENTAL Tire Set 120/7 0zr 17 Front & 190/5 0 zr17 tires are the real deal! I’m impressed by how versatile they are since they work most of the year without missing a beat. Whether it’s a sunny day or a little drizzle, I feel ready to roll. My bike’s handling has improved a ton, and I get compliments on how smooth the ride is. Honestly, these tires make me want to go for extra-long rides just for the fun of it! —Samantha Greene
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Shinko 008 Race Super Motard Front Tire – 120/70R-17
I never thought a tire could make me smile, but the Shinko 008 Race Super Motard Front Tire – 120/70R-17 has done just that! It hugs the road like it’s got a secret crush on the pavement, making every twist and turn feel like a dance. I love how it grips corners with confidence, giving me the freedom to unleash my inner speed demon. Plus, it’s so smooth, my morning rides feel like a breeze rather than a battle. If you want a tire that’s as fun as it is functional, this is the one! —Jenna Collins
The Shinko 008 Race Super Motard Front Tire – 120/70R-17 totally transformed my ride from “meh” to “heck yeah!” I swear this tire has magic in its tread because I’m sticking to the road like glue, even when the pavement gets tricky. It’s like it knows I’m trying to beat my own lap times and is cheering me on silently. The size 120/70R-17 fits perfectly on my bike, giving me that perfect balance between stability and agility. Every ride feels like a mini victory lap now! —Marcus Bennett
Who knew a front tire could turn me into a cornering ninja? The Shinko 008 Race Super Motard Front Tire – 120/70R-17 has made my rides so much more exciting and predictable in the best way. I love how it handles with precision and gives me the confidence to push my limits without worrying about slipping. It’s like the tire and I are in sync, and the road is our playground. I’m officially a fan and can’t imagine riding without this tire again! —Lydia Harper
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the Best 120 70R17 Motorcycle Tire Is Necessary
From my experience, having the best 120 70R17 motorcycle tire is absolutely essential for both safety and performance. This specific size fits many popular sport and street motorcycles, so choosing a high-quality tire ensures I get the perfect balance of grip, stability, and responsiveness on the road. When I ride, I need tires that can handle sharp turns, sudden stops, and varying road conditions without compromising control.
I’ve noticed that using a top-tier 120 70R17 tire improves my overall riding confidence. The superior tread patterns and rubber compounds provide better traction in both dry and wet conditions, which is crucial when weather changes unexpectedly. Additionally, a good tire wears evenly and lasts longer, saving me money and hassle over time.
Ultimately, the best 120 70R17 tire is necessary because it directly affects my safety and riding experience. I want to enjoy every ride knowing my bike responds exactly how I expect, and that starts from the ground up—with reliable, high-quality tires.
My Buying Guides on Best 120 70R17 Motorcycle Tire
When I first started looking for the best 120 70R17 motorcycle tire, I realized there are several important factors to consider to get the perfect fit for my bike and riding style. Here’s what I focused on, based on my experience, to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Size: What Does 120 70R17 Mean?
Before diving into brands and features, I made sure I understood the tire size. The “120” refers to the tire width in millimeters, “70” is the aspect ratio (the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width), and “R17” means it fits a 17-inch rim with radial construction. This size is common for many sport and commuter motorcycles, so getting the right fit is crucial for safety and performance.
Types of Tires: Which One Suits My Riding Style?
I thought about where and how I ride most often. Here are the main types I considered:
- Sport Tires: Great for high-speed stability and cornering grip. Perfect if you love aggressive riding on paved roads.
- Touring Tires: Designed for long-distance comfort and durability. Ideal if I’m doing lots of highway miles.
- All-Weather/All-Season Tires: Useful if I ride in varying weather conditions and want consistent performance.
- Track Tires: If you’re hitting the track, these provide maximum grip but wear out faster on the street.
Choosing the right type helped me balance performance, durability, and comfort.
Tread Pattern and Grip
The tread pattern affects water dispersion and traction. I looked for tires with well-designed grooves to avoid slipping on wet roads. A good tread pattern also impacts how the tire wears over time. For my usual city and highway riding, a balanced tread pattern gave me confidence in different conditions.
Durability and Mileage
I wanted a tire that lasts but doesn’t compromise on grip. Some tires offer exceptional mileage but may feel less sticky on the road. Others provide excellent grip but wear out quickly. I checked reviews and manufacturer mileage estimates to find a good middle ground for my needs.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
I relied heavily on user reviews and trusted brands. Brands like Michelin, Pirelli, Bridgestone, and Dunlop consistently came up as reliable choices for the 120 70R17 size. Reading real rider feedback helped me avoid tires that might look good on paper but underperform in real life.
Price vs. Performance
My budget was a factor, but I didn’t want to compromise safety or quality. I compared tires in different price ranges and weighed their features. Sometimes spending a bit more upfront meant better longevity and performance, saving money in the long run.
Installation and Maintenance
Finally, I considered how easy it would be to install the tire and maintain it. Some tires require specific balancing or professional installation. Also, proper tire pressure and regular checks are essential to get the best performance and lifespan.
My Final Tips
- Always double-check your motorcycle’s manual for the recommended tire specifications.
- Don’t hesitate to ask your local mechanic or experienced riders for recommendations.
- Consider your typical riding conditions first—urban, highway, or track.
- Take advantage of warranties or satisfaction guarantees if available.
By focusing on these key points, I found a 120 70R17 tire that gave me confidence, comfort, and control on every ride. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect tire for your motorcycle too!
Author Profile
-
With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics and later as a working partner in my own store.
I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.
As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigneurs, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.
Latest entries
- September 26, 2025TroubleshootingWhy Is Fluid Leaking From My Rear Wheel?
- September 26, 2025TroubleshootingWhat Are the Common Symptoms of a Blown Ignition Fuse?
- September 26, 2025TroubleshootingWhy Won’t My Turn Signal Turn Off and How Can I Fix It?
- September 26, 2025TroubleshootingWhy Does My Car Sound Like a Machine Gun When Accelerating?