Finding the right 15 inch motorcycle tire means matching size to riding style, weather, and load needs. This guide highlights five solid options that balance grip, durability, and everyday usability. Best for cruisers and mid-size bikes, these tires aim to deliver reliable handling in wet and dry conditions while keeping a comfortable footprint for long rides. The list favors tires with strong construction, proven tread patterns, and sizes commonly found on U.S. cruising bikes.
| Product | Size | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenda Kruz K673 | 170/80-15 | Sport-Cruisers | New 3+2 casting design; deep grooves for all-weather cruising |
| Dunlop D404 (Rear) | 170/80-15 | Older bikes, Cruisers | Wide size range; balanced mileage and grip |
| Kenda K673 (Rear 140/90-15) | 140/90-15 | Smaller cruisers | Simple 140mm width; compatible with 15″ wheels |
| MMG 140/90-15 | 140/90-15 | Mid-size cruisers | High load, long durability; high mileage potential |
| Dunlop D404 (Rear 140/90-15) | 140/90-15 | Classic cruisers | Wide compatibility; good mileage and grip |
| Kenda Cruiser K671 | 130/90-15 | Standard cruisers | DOT approved; 6-ply tubeless construction |
Kenda Kruz K673 Motorcycle Street Rear Tire
The Kenda Kruz K673 is a 170/80-15 rear tire designed for street cruising. It features DOT approval and an H-speed rating up to 130 mph, with a 3+2 casting design intended to improve handling and load carrying capacity. The new tread is engineered with deep, wide grooves for all-weather cruising, making it a solid choice for riders who commute or tour in varied conditions. Best for riders seeking reliable grip and a robust build on mid-size cruisers.
Best for: Cruisers and mid-size street motorcycles that prioritize stability and predictable wet-weather performance. Choose this if you want a tire with a proven cruising tread pattern and a strong load rating. Caution: front and rear availability may vary by model; verify compatibility with your bike’s specs.
Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 170/80-15
The Dunlop D404 170/80-15 rear tire is built to fit a broad range of cruisers and older bikes. It emphasizes a balanced blend of mileage and grip through its tread compound, offering dependable traction in street riding. This tire is well-suited for riders seeking a durable, easy-to-maintain option for daily commuting and weekend cruising. Best for: Older bikes and cruisers needing a versatile, long-lasting rear tire. Limitation: not the latest cruiser-specific tread pattern, so performance may be average in extreme wet conditions.
Kenda Tires K673 Kruz 140/90-15 Rear Tire
This 140/90-15 rear tire from Kenda’s K673 line targets smaller 15″ setups. The narrower width contributes to lighter steering feel while maintaining adequate grip for street riding. Best for: Smaller cruisers or bikes that require a tighter profile on the 15″ wheel. Caution: watch load rating and speed index to ensure compatibility with your bike’s weight and riding style.
MMG 140/90-15 Rear Tire, Street Touring
The MMG 140/90-15 rear tire is built for street touring with a high load capacity and a speed rating intended for comfortable highway cruising. It emphasizes durable construction and long wear life, making it a strong choice for riders who load gear or ride long distances. Best for: Mid-size touring bikes that require reliable, long-lasting tires. Caution: performance claims are tied to road conditions; aggressive riding could affect wear.
Dunlop D404 Rear Motorcycle Tire 140/90-15
The 140/90-15 variant of the Dunlop D404 offers the same broad compatibility as the 170/80-15 model, focusing on older bikes and cruisers. It provides a well-rounded balance of mileage and grip, suitable for riders who want a dependable tire for everyday riding. Best for: Cruisers needing a common 140/90-15 rear option. Limitation: wear and grip levels may vary in extreme wet conditions compared to newer multi-compound designs.
Kenda Cruiser K671 Motorcycle Street Tire
The Kenda Cruiser K671 is a 130/90-15 tire designed for standard cruiser bikes. It is DOT approved and H-rated for speeds up to 130 mph, with a six-ply tubeless construction. The deep, offset tread sips improve water dispersion and wet-weather traction. Best for: Standard cruisers needing a solid all-weather rear tire. Caution: narrower width may not suit bikes that require broader rear tires for traction or load distribution.
Buying Guide
What should you consider when choosing a 15 inch tire?
- Rim compatibility and size: Confirm the 15 inch wheel diameter and the tire’s width (mm) matches your bike’s spec.
- Load rating and speed rating: Heavier bikes or fully loaded rides benefit from higher load ratings and appropriate speed indices.
- Riding style and conditions: All-weather tread patterns help with rain, while sportier tread shapes prioritize dry grip and quick handling.
- Construction and tubeless design: 6-ply or higher constructions can improve durability; tubeless tires simplify maintenance and roadside safety.
- Brand and availability: Ensure the selected tire is readily available for your make/model, and consider service options if you need replacements locally.
Practical comparisons
- Best for maximum load and long tours: MMG 140/90-15 rear tire, Street Touring.
- Best for broad compatibility on older bikes: Dunlop D404 170/80-15 or 140/90-15 variants.
- Best value per mile on cruisers: Kenda Kruz K673 170/80-15.
- Best for narrower rear setups: Kenda Cruiser K671 130/90-15.
FAQ
- Q: Are 15 inch tires common for modern cruisers? A: Yes, several models use 15″ rear tires, especially on older and mid-size cruisers.
- Q: Is a higher speed rating always better? A: Higher speed ratings indicate the tire’s designed performance; choose according to your riding speed and load.
- Q: Should I replace front and rear tires at the same time? A: Replacing tires in pairs can ensure balanced handling, especially on cruisers with long-wheelbase setups.
- Q: Are tubeless tires necessary for 15 inch rims? A: Tubeless tires are common and offer easier puncture repair and maintenance on most modern rims.
- Q: How do I verify tire compatibility with my bike? A: Check your owner’s manual or consult a professional mechanic to confirm size, load rating, and speed index.
- Q: Can I mix tire brands on the front and rear? A: Mixing brands is generally not recommended due to differences in handling characteristics and grip. If necessary, choose tires with similar performance profiles.