The first thing that struck me about the Pirelli Angel ST 160/60ZR17 (69W) Rear Motorcycle Tire wasn’t just its sleek look but its ability to grip wet roads confidently. Having tested it in heavy rain, I felt the high silica sport touring compound really made a difference—offering superb traction when everything else was slick. It’s lightweight, stable, and provides a smooth ride even on wet pavement.
This tire’s innovative tread design, with high mileage capability and functional safety features, makes it stand out in rainy conditions. It controls well in diverse weather, giving you that extra confidence on winding or slippery roads. After comparing all options, I’d go for the Pirelli Angel ST for its excellent wet grip, longevity, and modern technology. Trust me, it’s the choice that combines safety and performance, tested and proven in real road conditions.
Top Recommendation: Pirelli Angel ST 160/60ZR17 (69W) Rear Motorcycle Tire
Why We Recommend It: This tire’s high silica sport touring compound enhances wet grip and reduces hydroplaning. Its unique tread pattern balances durability with quick water dispersal, outperforming heavier or less engineered options like the Shinko SR777 or Michelin Pilot Power 2CT. It’s optimized for safe, stable handling across all weather conditions, making it ideal for rain.
Best motorcycle tire for rain: Our Top 5 Picks
- Shinko SR777 HD Black Wall Bias Rear Tire – 160/70-17 79H – Best motorcycle tire for wet roads
- Pirelli Angel ST 160/60ZR17 (69W) Rear Motorcycle Tire – Best all-season tire for rain
- MICHELIN Pilot Power 2CT 190/55ZR17 (75W) – Best premium motorcycle tire for wet conditions
- Shinko 87-4599 Black Wall SR777 & SR777 H.D. Tire – Best value motorcycle tire for rain
- Shinko SR777 HD Black Wall Bias Rear Tire – 180/55-18 84H – Best motorcycle tire for rainy conditions
Shinko SR777 HD Black Wall Bias Rear Tire – 160/70-17 79H
- ✓ Excellent wet traction
- ✓ Reinforced heavy-duty build
- ✓ Comfortable ride
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Heavier than standard tires
| Tire Size | 160/70-17 |
| Load Index and Speed Rating | 79H |
| Tread Design | Siping and grooves for wet and dry traction |
| Rubber Compound | Formulated for maximum grip and comfort |
| Construction | Heavy Duty (H.D.) reinforced carcass for stability |
| Intended Use | Cruiser motorcycles, V-Twin and metric cruiser models |
Fumbling with the box of the Shinko SR777 HD Black Wall Bias Rear Tire, I immediately noticed its solid build and hefty weight, which gave me confidence that this tire was built for real riding. As I unwrapped it, the deep black sidewall and the reinforced carcass caught my eye—definitely designed for durability and stability.
First rides felt smooth, but it was in the rain that this tire truly shined. The siping and grooves are more than just design—they channel water effectively, giving that reassuring grip when the pavement’s slick.
I felt confident accelerating out of corners and braking mid-turn, even on wet roads.
The rubber compound is noticeably grippy, which makes a big difference in wet conditions. Plus, the heavy-duty version feels more planted, especially during quick maneuvers or sudden stops.
It’s clear Shinko focused on giving cruiser riders reliable traction without sacrificing comfort.
After several weeks of riding, I can say the tire holds up well over time. The tread shows minimal wear even after riding through rainy days and long highway stretches.
It’s a dependable choice if you’re tired of slipping on wet asphalt or constantly adjusting your riding style for rain.
One thing to note: the price is a bit steep, but the performance on rainier days makes it worth considering. Overall, it’s a solid upgrade for anyone wanting confidence-inspiring grip in wet conditions without losing the cruiser vibe.
Pirelli Angel ST 160/60ZR17 (69W) Rear Motorcycle Tire
- ✓ Excellent wet grip
- ✓ Long-lasting durability
- ✓ Stylish modern design
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Heavy for some bikes
| Tire Size | 160/60ZR17 (69W) |
| Tread Compound | High silica content sport touring compound |
| Maximum Load Capacity | 69W (per tire load index and speed rating) |
| Intended Use | Sport touring motorcycle, suitable for wet and dry conditions |
| Durability | Engineered for long-lasting mileage with clear lifespan indicators |
| Performance Features | Enhanced grip on wet surfaces, stable and controlled ride, versatile performance across road conditions |
Finally getting my hands on the Pirelli Angel ST 160/60ZR17 (69W) rear tire was like unboxing a piece of high-performance gear I’d been eyeing for months. The moment I took it out of the box, I was struck by how sleek and modern the tread pattern looked—almost sporty yet ready for serious touring.
As I mounted it on my bike, I noticed its sturdy sidewalls and lightweight feel. The sport touring compound’s high silica content promised excellent grip, especially in wet conditions—something I was eager to test during a rainy weekend ride.
The innovative tread design not only looks sharp but also seems engineered to deliver both longevity and reliable grip.
On the road, the Angel ST feels incredibly stable, whether I’m cruising on the highway or leaning into winding roads. Its balanced profile offers smooth handling and a predictable ride, even in less-than-ideal weather.
I appreciated the clear lifespan indicators, which made it easy to keep track of tire health without guesswork.
What truly stands out is how confident I felt riding through rain and chilly mornings. The tire’s grip on wet asphalt is impressive—no slips, no skidding.
It’s obvious this tire was built for versatility and safety, making it a great choice for riders who want reliability across different road conditions.
Overall, the Angel ST lives up to its reputation as a top-tier rain-ready motorcycle tire. It combines durability, safety, and style—everything I look for in a long-lasting touring tire.
MICHELIN Pilot Power 2CT 190/55ZR17 (75W)
- ✓ Excellent wet grip
- ✓ Durable sport performance
- ✓ Impressive lean capability
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Less suited for off-road
| Tire Size | 190/55ZR17 (75W) |
| Tread Compound | Dual-compound (hard center, soft edges) |
| Maximum Lean Angle | 51.2° |
| Speed Rating | W (up to 168 mph / 270 km/h) |
| Construction Technology | Michelin 2CT dual-compound technology |
| Intended Use | Sport riding with wet and dry surface grip |
From the moment I mounted the Michelin Pilot Power 2CT 190/55ZR17, I noticed how confidently it handles rain-soaked roads. Other tires I’ve tested before often felt like they lost grip, but this one stuck remarkably well, especially on wet pavement.
Its dual-compound technology really makes a difference in maintaining traction without sacrificing longevity.
The center tread is noticeably resistant, giving me peace of mind during hard accelerations and aggressive braking. Meanwhile, the softer edges allow for impressive lean angles—up to 51.2°—which is quite a feat for a road tire.
I found myself leaning deeper into curves, even in rainy conditions, without feeling unstable.
What surprised me most was how well it balances grip and durability. It feels sporty enough for spirited rides, yet durable enough to handle long trips.
The tire’s sidewalls are sturdy, giving a reassuring feel on uneven surfaces or when navigating tricky corners.
Pricing around $191.90 feels fair considering the performance. It’s a dependable choice whether you’re commuting or pushing through mountain roads.
Overall, it’s a versatile tire that truly shines in wet conditions while still offering excellent performance on dry days.
Shinko 87-4599 Black Wall SR777 & SR777 H.D. Tire
- ✓ Excellent wet traction
- ✓ Stable and confident feel
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✕ Slightly higher price
- ✕ Heavier than some tires
| Tire Size Range | Multiple sizes available for various cruiser models |
| Tread Design | Includes functional siping and grooves for wet and dry traction |
| Rubber Compound | Formulated for maximum grip and comfort |
| Construction | Reinforced carcass for enhanced stability (Heavy Duty version) |
| Application | Designed specifically for cruiser motorcycles, including V-Twin and metric models |
| Price | $170.56 |
Imagine riding through a sudden downpour on a winding mountain road, the rain bouncing off your helmet as you lean into each turn. The Shinko 87-4599 Black Wall SR777 & SR777 H.D.
tire feels like an extension of your bike, gripping the slick asphalt with confidence. Its tread design, with functional sipes and grooves, instantly gives you peace of mind—you’re not slipping, even when the pavement is wet and shiny.
The rubber compound is clearly formulated for maximum grip, and you can really feel it when accelerating or braking in tricky conditions. The Heavy Duty version, with its reinforced carcass, offers a more stable, planted feeling that’s perfect for those long, wet rides.
It’s like having an extra layer of reassurance under you, especially when the weather suddenly turns ugly.
Handling is smooth and predictable, whether you’re slicing through rain puddles or cruising on dry roads. The tire’s size options suit many cruiser models, and installation feels straightforward.
I noticed the tire’s sidewalls are sturdy yet flexible enough to absorb bumps, making for a comfortable ride even on rougher patches.
Overall, this tire transforms wet, slippery conditions from a potential hazard into a manageable part of your ride. It’s designed specifically for cruisers, so if you’re tired of feeling uncertain in rainstorms, this could be your new go-to.
The reinforced carcass and tread design truly deliver the traction and confidence you need when weather turns sour.
Shinko SR777 HD Black Wall Bias Rear Tire – 180/55-18 84H
- ✓ Excellent wet traction
- ✓ Stable and planted feel
- ✓ Comfortable ride quality
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Heavy installation process
| Tire Size | 180/55-18 84H |
| Construction | Heavy Duty (H.D.) reinforced carcass |
| Tread Design | Siping and grooves for wet and dry traction |
| Rubber Compound | Formulated for maximum grip and comfort |
| Load Index and Speed Rating | 84H |
| Intended Use | Cruiser motorcycles, suitable for rain and dry conditions |
I’ve had my eye on the Shinko SR777 HD Black Wall Bias Rear Tire for a while, mainly because it’s touted as one of the best options for rainy rides. When I finally mounted it on my cruiser, I immediately noticed how beefy and solid it looked, especially with that reinforced carcass giving it a more stable feel.
The black wall adds a sleek, classic vibe that really suits my bike’s style.
What really stood out was the tread design. The grooves and siping aren’t just for show—they actually grip the road impressively well, even in heavy rain.
I took it out on wet roads, and I felt confident accelerating, braking, and leaning into corners. It’s like the tire adapts seamlessly from dry to wet conditions, giving you that peace of mind you crave in uncertain weather.
The rubber compound seems to be formulated for maximum grip and comfort. I didn’t notice any harsh vibrations, and the ride felt smooth, even over rough patches.
The size options make it versatile for a range of cruiser models, and the heavy-duty version feels reassuringly sturdy. Overall, this tire simplifies the challenge of riding in wet weather, making it feel more predictable and safe without sacrificing performance.
At $201.16, it’s a solid investment for anyone who often faces rainy conditions. The confidence it provides during those unpredictable showers makes it worth every penny.
Plus, the reinforced carcass means fewer worries about durability on long rides or tough roads.