best motorcycle tire for rain

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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

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewShinko SR777 HD Black Wall Bias Rear Tire - 160/70-17 79HPirelli Angel ST 160/60ZR17 (69W) Rear Motorcycle TireMICHELIN Pilot Power 2CT 190/55ZR17 (75W)
TitleShinko SR777 HD Black Wall Bias Rear Tire – 160/70-17 79HPirelli Angel ST 160/60ZR17 (69W) Rear Motorcycle TireMICHELIN Pilot Power 2CT 190/55ZR17 (75W)
Tire Size160/70-17 79H160/60ZR17 (69W)190/55ZR17 (75W)
Tread DesignFunctional siping and grooves for wet/dry tractionInnovative tread pattern with high mileage capabilityDual-compound technology with softer edges for grip
Compound TypeRubber compound formulated for maximum grip and comfortSport touring compound with high silica content for wet/dry gripDual-compound (2CT) for resistant center and softer edges
ReinforcementHeavy Duty (H.D.) reinforced carcass––
Performance FocusCruiser, V-Twin, metric cruiserSport touring, versatile performanceSporty use, aggressive acceleration, maneuverability
Price$168.26$149.96$191.90
Safety & Durability FeaturesTraction in wet/dry conditions, stable and planted feelMaximum safety in various weather, long-lasting mileageExcellent traction, optimized service life, high lean angle
Intended Riding ConditionsCruising, accelerating, braking, cornering in wet/dryHigh mileage, wet/dry conditions, modern bikesSport riding, curves, aggressive acceleration
Available

Shinko SR777 HD Black Wall Bias Rear Tire – 160/70-17 79H

Shinko SR777 HD Black Wall Bias Rear Tire - 160/70-17 79H
Pros:
  • ✓ Excellent wet traction
  • ✓ Reinforced heavy-duty build
  • ✓ Comfortable ride
Cons:
  • ✕ Slightly pricey
  • ✕ Heavier than standard tires
Specification:
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

Pirelli Angel ST 160/60ZR17 (69W) Rear Motorcycle Tire
Pros:
  • ✓ Excellent wet grip
  • ✓ Long-lasting durability
  • ✓ Stylish modern design
Cons:
  • ✕ Slightly higher price
  • ✕ Heavy for some bikes
Specification:
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)

MICHELIN Pilot Power 2CT 190/55ZR17 (75W)
Pros:
  • ✓ Excellent wet grip
  • ✓ Durable sport performance
  • ✓ Impressive lean capability
Cons:
  • ✕ Slightly higher price
  • ✕ Less suited for off-road
Specification:
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

Shinko 87-4599 Black Wall SR777 & SR777 H.D. Tire
Pros:
  • ✓ Excellent wet traction
  • ✓ Stable and confident feel
  • ✓ Durable construction
Cons:
  • ✕ Slightly higher price
  • ✕ Heavier than some tires
Specification:
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

Shinko SR777 HD Black Wall Bias Rear Tire - 180/55-18 84H
Pros:
  • ✓ Excellent wet traction
  • ✓ Stable and planted feel
  • ✓ Comfortable ride quality
Cons:
  • ✕ Slightly pricey
  • ✕ Heavy installation process
Specification:
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.

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