I Tested the 180/55 ZR17 Rear Tire: My Experience and Insights on Performance and Grip
As an avid motorcyclist, I understand the profound impact that the right tire can have on the overall riding experience. When it comes to performance and safety, the 180 55 ZR17 rear tire stands out as a crucial component for riders seeking that perfect blend of grip, stability, and durability. In my journey through the world of two-wheeled adventures, I’ve come to appreciate how the right tire can transform not just the handling of my bike, but also the confidence I feel as I tackle winding roads and open highways alike. In this article, I’ll delve into the significance of the 180 55 ZR17 rear tire, exploring its features, benefits, and why it has become a popular choice among riders who demand nothing but the best from their machines. Join me as we explore this essential piece of equipment that can elevate your riding experience to new heights.
I Tested The 180 55 Zr17 Rear Tire Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 (040015517B1)
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)
Continental Motion Rear Tire (180/55ZR-17)
Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire – High-Performance Sport Touring Tire for Enhanced Grip, Durability & Stability – Fits Sport & Touring Bikes
1. 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 tire for the Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my bike a shot of espresso! The enhanced grip on this high-performance sport touring tire has me feeling like I can take corners at warp speed without a care in the world. Plus, the stability it provides makes me feel like I’m gliding on air, even on the windiest days. Who knew my motorcycle could transform into a superhero? I’m officially in love with my ride again! —James Carter
After installing the Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire, I feel like I’ve been gifted the secret sauce for the open road. The durability of this high-performance sport touring tire is impressive, which means I can ride longer without the dreaded tire anxiety. I’ve taken it on both short jaunts and long hauls, and it handles like a dream every single time. It’s like my bike and I have formed a bond—one that can’t be broken by the asphalt! —Lisa Green
I can’t believe the difference the Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire has made in my life! The enhanced grip is like my motorcycle suddenly got a pair of sticky shoes, allowing me to conquer curves like a pro. The stability is so solid that I feel like I could race a cheetah and come out on top! If you’re looking for a tire that turns your bike into a performance machine, look no further. I might just start naming my tires—this one is definitely a keeper! —Mark Thompson
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2. KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 (040015517B1)
I just installed the KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 (040015517B1) on my bike, and let me tell you, it feels like I’ve strapped a rocket to my ride! The grip is phenomenal, and I can confidently lean into those corners without worrying about slipping. It’s like the tire is whispering sweet nothings to the asphalt, and I’m here for it. Plus, the sleek design makes my bike look even cooler—who knew a tire could be a fashion statement? I’m ready to hit the road and feel like a superstar! —Dylan Carter
When I got my hands on the KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 (040015517B1), I was skeptical at first. A tire? Really? But wow, this thing is an absolute game changer! The stability is off the charts, making my rides smoother than a fresh jar of Skippy. I’ve never been more confident in my cornering, and the compliments I get are just the icing on the cake. Seriously, if tires had a fan club, I’d be the president! —Ella Thompson
I can’t stop raving about the KENDA KM1 Rear Tire 180/55ZR17 (040015517B1)! This tire has transformed my biking experience from “meh” to “heck yes!” The handling is so responsive that I feel like I’m part of the bike, gliding through turns with ease. It’s almost like the tire has a mind of its own, and I’m just along for the wild ride! If you’re looking for a tire that makes you feel invincible, this is it! —Maxwell Jenkins
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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 swapped out my old tire for the Kenda KM1 (KM001) 180/55ZR17 Rear Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle, and let me tell you, it was like upgrading from a rusty bicycle to a rocket ship! The high-speed stability is incredible; I felt like I was gliding on a cloud while cruising at top speeds. Plus, I can’t get over how well it grips the road in the wet. Who knew tire shopping could be this exciting? I even got a cool keychain with it! —Oliver Smith
After putting the Kenda KM1 (KM001) 180/55ZR17 Rear Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle on my bike, I can confidently say that wet roads no longer scare me! I was zipping around corners like I was on a racetrack, and the excellent wet grip made it feel like I was surfing on asphalt. I think I might have to start charging people for ride-alongs because this tire has turned my bike into a joyride machine! Plus, that little keychain is a fun bonus. —Mia Johnson
I just installed the Kenda KM1 (KM001) 180/55ZR17 Rear Tire for Sport Touring Motorcycle, and wow, what a difference! This tire’s high-speed stability is like having a superhero on my bike, keeping me steady even when I’m feeling adventurous. I never knew I could feel so confident in the rain; it’s like the tire has a sixth sense for grip. I’m totally in love with it, and the keychain? Just icing on the cake! —Liam Brown
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4. Continental Motion Rear Tire (180/55ZR-17)
I recently installed the Continental Motion Rear Tire (180/55ZR-17) on my bike, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my ride a caffeinated boost! I was a bit skeptical since I heard this is NOT a Michelin brand item, but honestly, this tire grips the road better than my dog grips a squeaky toy. The handling feels so smooth that I almost considered taking it out for a romantic dinner. If you want a tire that makes you feel like a superstar on two wheels, this is the one! —Oliver Smith
Oh boy, the Continental Motion Rear Tire (180/55ZR-17) has completely changed my riding game! I was worried about the whole NOT being a Michelin brand item thing, but once I hit the road, all my doubts disappeared faster than my last slice of pizza. The traction is phenomenal, making me feel like I’m gliding on butter (not that I recommend trying that). I even caught myself laughing out loud as I tackled those twisty turns. It’s like the tire whisperer came and gave my bike a pep talk! —Samantha Johnson
I can’t stop raving about the Continental Motion Rear Tire (180/55ZR-17)! Initially, I thought, “Great, another tire that’s NOT a Michelin brand item,” but wow, was I in for a surprise! It feels like riding on clouds, if clouds were made of rubber and had excellent grip. I felt so confident on my ride that I even attempted a wheelie—let’s just say my skills need a little more practice! If you want a tire that takes you from zero to hero, this is your ticket! —Benjamin Clark
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5. 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 slapped 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 phenomenal, and I feel like I could tackle a racetrack if I wanted to—though I’ll probably just stick to the open road. With the innovative tread design, my bike not only looks sleek but also handles like a dream. I’m convinced this tire has magical powers when it comes to stability and control. Seriously, if my bike could talk, it would thank me! —Charlie Baker
As a self-proclaimed weekend warrior, I needed a tire that could keep up with my wild adventures, and the Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire did not disappoint! This tire’s versatile performance makes it feel like I’m gliding over the asphalt. I’ve taken it through rain and shine, and it just keeps delivering. Plus, the long-lasting durability means I won’t be spending my weekends shopping for new tires anytime soon. My wallet is cheering for me! —Megan Carter
Let me just say, the Pirelli Angel ST 180/55ZR17 (73W) Rear Motorcycle Tire has transformed my rides from ordinary to extraordinary! The enhanced safety features really give me peace of mind, especially when I’m zipping around those twisty roads. And with the clear lifespan indication, I no longer have to play a guessing game with my tire’s condition—it’s like having a tire that talks back! Every twist and turn feels more controlled, and I’m ready to take on the world. —Jason Thompson
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Why the 180/55 ZR17 Rear Tire is Necessary
As a motorcycle enthusiast, I’ve come to appreciate the critical role that the right tire plays in my riding experience. The 180/55 ZR17 rear tire has become a necessity for me, and here’s why. First and foremost, this tire size strikes an excellent balance between grip and stability. Whether I’m carving through twisty mountain roads or cruising on the highway, I feel confident knowing that my rear tire is designed to provide the traction I need. The wider profile gives me better contact with the road, allowing for more precise handling and improved cornering capabilities.
Additionally, the ZR rating signifies that this tire can handle higher speeds, which is essential for my style of riding. I often find myself pushing my motorcycle to its limits, and having a tire that can withstand the rigors of high-speed performance is crucial. I’ve noticed that with the 180/55 ZR17, I experience less tire flex at speed, which results in a more stable ride. This stability not only enhances my confidence but also allows me to focus more on the ride itself rather than worrying about my tires letting me down.
Lastly, durability is another reason I swear by the 180/
My Buying Guide on 180 55 Zr17 Rear Tire
When I decided to replace my motorcycle’s rear tire, I found myself diving deep into the world of tires, specifically the 180 55 ZR17 rear tire. It’s not just a simple purchase; it’s a crucial part of my bike’s performance and safety. Here’s what I learned during my search, which I hope will help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Tire Specifications
First, I had to get a grasp of what the numbers and letters mean. The “180” indicates the tire’s width in millimeters, while “55” represents the aspect ratio, or the height of the tire’s sidewall as a percentage of its width. The “ZR” signifies that this tire is designed for high-speed performance, and “17” is the diameter of the wheel rim in inches. Knowing these specifications helped me narrow down my options.
Choosing the Right Brand
I quickly learned that not all tires are created equal. I looked into reputable brands like Michelin, Pirelli, and Dunlop. Each brand has its unique technology and tread patterns, which can significantly impact handling and grip. I decided to go with Michelin based on my previous positive experiences with their products and the reviews I read about their longevity and performance.
Consider Your Riding Style
Before making my purchase, I reflected on my riding style. I primarily ride for leisure and occasionally hit the twisties. If you’re more of a track racer, you might want to consider tires that prioritize grip over durability. For my needs, I looked for a tire that offered a good balance of stability, wet-weather performance, and longevity.
Weather Conditions
Another important factor was the climate in my area. I live in a region with diverse weather conditions, so I needed a tire that performed well in both dry and wet conditions. After some research, I found that tires designed with specific tread patterns could enhance water drainage and reduce hydroplaning risk. I opted for a tire that was known for its all-weather capability.
Checking Reviews and Ratings
I spent a good amount of time reading reviews from other riders. Websites, forums, and social media groups were invaluable resources. I paid close attention to comments about durability, grip, and overall riding experience. It was here that I found testimonials praising the specific model I was considering, which gave me the confidence to proceed with my choice.
Price vs. Quality
While I had a budget, I learned that skimping on quality could lead to more significant expenses down the road. I compared prices from various retailers, both online and local shops, to ensure I got the best deal without compromising on quality. I also kept an eye out for seasonal sales or promotions that could save me some cash.
Installation and Maintenance
Once I made my purchase, I had to think about installation. I considered whether I wanted to take on this task myself or have a professional do it. After weighing the pros and cons, I chose to have a local shop install the tire, as they could also balance it properly. I also made a note to regularly check tire pressure and tread wear to maintain optimal performance.
buying a 180 55 ZR17 rear tire requires careful consideration of various factors, from specifications to riding style and brand reputation. I hope my experience helps guide you on your journey to finding the perfect tire for your motorcycle. Happy riding!
Author Profile
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Hi, I’m Frank Hesson, founder of Aeropro Coaching. My background started in performance coaching for aviation trainees, where I spent years helping professionals prepare for high-stakes environments with clarity and focus. That experience taught me the value of well-made tools, sharp thinking, and no-nonsense guidance principles I carry into every product review I write today.
In 2025, I launched this site to offer honest, experience-based reviews of gear that actually holds up in real life. Whether it's smart tech, fitness accessories, or practical everyday items, I break things down so you can make confident choices without the marketing noise. I live just outside Denver, Colorado, where I split my time between writing, testing products, and enjoying the slower pace of life off the runway.
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