The engineering behind the Continental Conti Motion 120/70ZR17 Front and 180/55ZR17 represents a genuine breakthrough because its formulated polymers provide an impressive cost/mileage ratio. I’ve tested these tires on both dry highways and wet city streets, and they offer consistently reliable feedback without sacrificing longevity. What really stood out is their ability to handle wet roads confidently—no slippage or skidding, just smooth grip. That’s rare in a tire designed for everyday, all-season use.
From my experience, these tires strike a perfect balance: good mileage, solid performance, and a price that makes sense for both entry-level riders and experienced cruisers. They’re built to deliver dependable wear and safety, especially on tricky weather days. Based on my hands-on testing and comparison, I’m confident this set offers the best value, durability, and performance for your money. If you want a tire that keeps rolling for miles with minimal fuss, the Continental Conti Motion is my top pick.
Top Recommendation: Continental Conti Motion 120/70ZR17 Front and 180/55ZR17
Why We Recommend It: This tire’s use of formulated polymers enhances its wear resistance and cost efficiency. It provides reliable feedback on both dry and wet roads, making it a versatile choice for consistent mileage. Its high-end performance-to-price ratio and durable design make it stand out from alternatives like the Dunlop American Elite 2, which, while robust and Grip-focused, comes at a higher price.
Best motorcycle tires for mileage: Our Top 2 Picks
- Continental Conti Motion 120/70ZR17 Front and 180/55ZR17 – Best Value
- 180/65B-16 Dunlop American Elite 2 AE2 Rear Motorcycle Tire – Best Premium Option
Continental Conti Motion 120/70ZR17 Front and 180/55ZR17
- ✓ Excellent wet/dry grip
- ✓ Long-lasting mileage
- ✓ Comfortable ride quality
- ✕ Not ideal for aggressive sport riding
- ✕ Slightly stiff sidewalls
| Tire Size Front | 120/70ZR17 |
| Tire Size Rear | 180/55ZR17 |
| Tire Type | Sport touring radial |
| Seasonal Use | All-season |
| Performance Focus | High-end performance with emphasis on mileage and reliability |
| Intended Riders | Entry-level and budget-conscious experienced riders |
That subtle but crucial feeling of reassurance when you lean into a corner and the tire grips confidently—that’s what you get from the Continental Conti Motion. Even at a quick glance, the tread pattern looks well-balanced, designed for versatile riding in all seasons.
What really stood out during my ride is how smoothly these tires handle both dry and wet roads. You don’t have to think twice about sudden rain or slick patches; they respond reliably, giving you confidence every time you twist the throttle.
The sidewalls feel sturdy yet flexible, absorbing bumps without feeling overly stiff. That means a comfortable ride, especially on longer trips or bumpy city streets.
Plus, the compound formulation seems to deliver excellent mileage without sacrificing grip—perfect for riders who want to go further without constant replacements.
Installation was straightforward, and even entry-level riders will appreciate the predictable feedback. The tires’ profile offers a nice balance of stability and agility, making them ideal for both city commuting and light touring.
And at around $210 for a front and rear set, they’re a smart choice for budget-conscious riders looking for durability and performance.
Overall, these tires strike a great balance between cost and longevity, with enough high-end features to satisfy most riders. They might not be the top-tier for aggressive sport riding, but for everyday mileage and reliability, they’re tough to beat.
180/65B-16 Dunlop American Elite 2 AE2 Rear Motorcycle Tire
- ✓ Long-lasting tread life
- ✓ Excellent wet-weather grip
- ✓ Robust construction
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Heavy for some bikes
| Tire Size | 180/65B-16 |
| Tread Technology | Multi-Tread with long-wearing center compound and lateral-grip compounds |
| Tread Pattern | Optimized for improved wear and mileage |
| Compound Composition | Updated front and rear compounds for enhanced wear resistance and wet-weather performance |
| Construction | Cut-breaker construction for increased durability and handling |
| Application Compatibility | Suitable for v-twin cruiser and touring motorcycles |
Unlike many motorcycle tires that seem to focus solely on grip or longevity, the Dunlop American Elite 2 AE2 rear tire hits a sweet spot with its multi-tread technology. You’ll notice right away how the center tread feels firm yet flexible, promising impressive mileage without sacrificing handling in curves or wet conditions.
Handling feels confident, thanks to the optimized tread pattern that promotes even wear. The side grips are responsive, giving you that reassuring feel when leaning into turns.
I found it particularly smooth on highway stretches, where the tire’s design minimizes vibrations and noise.
What really stands out is the robust casing, built with cut-breaker construction. It handles the weight and torque of touring bikes effortlessly, making long rides feel more stable.
The updated compounds resist wear well, even after thousands of miles, which means fewer replacements and more miles of enjoyment.
Wet weather performance is surprisingly good, with the tire maintaining grip without feeling twitchy. That’s an upgrade from older models, and you’ll appreciate it during unpredictable weather.
The only downside I noticed is the price—at $358.99, it’s a bit of an investment, but considering the durability, it’s worth it for serious touring riders.
Overall, this tire offers a perfect balance between mileage, grip, and durability. It’s an excellent choice if you want to reduce the frequency of tire changes without compromising on safety or handling during your rides.