The best 160/60 R17 motorcycle tire depends on whether you prioritize sport-touring versatility, aggressive cornering, or balanced everyday performance. The Pirelli Angel ST is best for riders seeking touring-oriented wet and dry grip; the Diablo Rosso II set suits riders shopping for a matched front-and-rear pair; and the Michelin Pilot Power 2CT and Contiattack SM Evo target sport-focused handling. The Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 is a straightforward option for varied sport-bike use. Confirm your motorcycle’s required size, load index, speed rating, and front or rear fitment before buying.
| Product | Best For | Key Distinction |
|---|---|---|
| Pirelli Angel ST | Sport touring | Silica-rich compound for varied conditions |
| Pirelli Diablo Rosso II Set | Matched tire replacement | Includes 120/70 ZR17 and 160/60 ZR17 |
| Contiattack SM Evo | Precise rear-tire feedback | 0-degree steel belt construction |
| Michelin Pilot Power 2CT | Sport riding and cornering | Dual-compound design |
| Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 | Balanced sport-bike use | Emphasis on performance and value |
Pirelli Angel ST 160/60ZR17 Rear Tire
The Angel ST is best for riders who want a sport-touring rear tire suited to varied road conditions. Its high-silica compound is described as providing dry grip and wet-surface performance, including in low temperatures. The tread design is intended to combine mileage capability with a contemporary appearance.
Choose this tire if a stable, controlled ride matters for highway cruising as well as winding roads. The product description also highlights neutral performance across different riding styles, making it a broadly oriented choice rather than a track-specialized tire.
- Best for: Sport-touring riders seeking versatility.
- Why it stands out: Touring-focused compound and adaptable performance are central to its listed features.
- Check before ordering: This listing is for a rear tire; verify that your motorcycle calls for this size and rating.
Pirelli Diablo Rosso II Tire Set
This set is best for riders replacing both tires who need the listed 120/70 ZR17 front and 160/60 ZR17 rear sizes. Its asymmetric tread is designed to displace water, while the dual-compound construction uses a harder center and softer shoulders, according to the supplied product information.
That combination makes it a better fit for riders seeking sport-oriented grip with a stated focus on tire longevity. The listing describes performance on wet and dry surfaces and suitability for daily commutes and spirited rides.
- Best for: Buyers looking for a front-and-rear set in the listed sizes.
- Why it stands out: The tread and compound features are designed to balance traction and center wear.
- Check before ordering: Confirm that both listed sizes and the set’s ratings match your motorcycle; do not assume fitment from rear size alone.
Contiattack SM Evo 160/60 R17
The Contiattack SM Evo is best for riders who value rear-tire stability and feedback through aggressive curves. Its listed 0-degree steel belt construction is intended to support stability and direct rider feedback while braking into or accelerating out of bends.
The product information also describes a compound for grip in changing conditions, including semi-wet surfaces, and says the tire is engineered for increased mileage and easy handling. Choose it if curve response and a controllable feel are priorities. Its stated rating is 69H, so compare that with the motorcycle manufacturer’s requirements before purchase.
- Best for: Sport-oriented riders seeking precise rear-tire response.
- Why it stands out: The steel belt and handling-focused description distinguish it from more general touring options.
- Check before ordering: Verify the 69H rating and rear fitment against your owner’s manual.
Michelin Pilot Power 2CT Rear Tire
The Michelin Pilot Power 2CT is best for sport riders looking for a dual-compound rear tire. The listed 160/60ZR-17 (69W) version uses a more resistant center compound and softer compounds at the edges, a layout intended to balance wear with grip while cornering.
Its features describe traction on wet and dry surfaces, maneuverability, and an optimized service life for sport riding. The listing also cites a maximum lean angle figure, but riders should treat that as a product claim rather than a guarantee of safe cornering. Road conditions, motorcycle setup, and riding technique affect available grip.
- Best for: Sport riders who prioritize cornering grip from a dual-compound tire.
- Why it stands out: Center-and-edge compound differences are clearly specified.
- Check before ordering: This is identified as a rear tire; confirm the size and 69W rating suit your bike.
Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 Rear Tire
The Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300 is best for sport-bike riders seeking a balance of performance and value. The listed tire is a 160/60ZR-17 radial rear tire, and its product description emphasizes well-balanced sport performance for a variety of sport bikes.
Choose this option if you want a sport-oriented radial tire without relying on a specialized feature claim such as dual-compound construction or touring-focused wet-weather performance. The available feature information is brief, so compare its complete specifications with your needs before deciding.
- Best for: Riders looking for a broadly positioned sport-bike tire.
- Why it stands out: The description highlights balanced performance and value.
- Check before ordering: The supplied details do not specify a load index or speed rating; confirm those specifications with the seller and your motorcycle manual.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A 160/60 R17 Tire
Does 160/60 R17 mean the tire will fit my motorcycle?
No. The size is only one part of fitment. Check your owner’s manual or the tire placard for the approved size, front or rear position, load index, and speed rating. Also confirm whether the listing is for one tire or a set. A matching size alone does not establish compatibility.
Should I choose sport touring or sport-focused construction?
Choose a sport-touring option such as the Angel ST if versatility across highway and winding-road use is your priority. Sport-oriented choices such as the Pilot Power 2CT or Contiattack SM Evo emphasize cornering response and handling features in their descriptions. The Diablo Rosso II listing combines sport positioning with a matched pair and dual-compound details.
Is a dual-compound tire better?
Dual-compound construction places different rubber compounds in different areas. In the supplied descriptions, harder center compounds are associated with wear life, while softer shoulders are intended to support cornering grip. It is not automatically the best choice for every rider; match the tire’s purpose to your use and follow the motorcycle manufacturer’s specifications.
What should I compare besides size?
Compare the load index, speed rating, radial or other construction, intended wheel position, and whether you need a front tire, rear tire, or pair. Consider riding conditions and priorities such as wet-surface performance, mileage, and cornering feel. Replace tires according to their condition and the guidance in your motorcycle manual.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 160/60 R17 describe?
It is a tire size designation. Confirm the required size and full specifications for your motorcycle rather than relying on the size label alone.
Can I use a 160/60 R17 tire on the front?
The products here are presented as rear tires, except the Diablo Rosso II set, which lists a 120/70 ZR17 front and 160/60 ZR17 rear. Use the front size specified by your motorcycle manufacturer.
Which option is best for wet-weather versatility?
The Angel ST is described with a high-silica compound intended to provide wet-surface performance. The Diablo Rosso II and Pilot Power 2CT listings also describe wet and dry grip.
Does the Diablo Rosso II listing include two tires?
It is presented as a tire set with 120/70 ZR17 and 160/60 ZR17 sizes. Verify the listing contents and specifications before ordering.