Before testing this tire, I didn’t realize how much wet traction could make or break a ride—especially in sudden rainstorms. The Pirelli Angel ST 160/60ZR17 (69W) Rear Motorcycle Tire surprised me with its high silica sport touring compound that grips confidently on wet roads and maintains stability in low temperatures. Its innovative tread design offers a sleek look while providing excellent mileage and safety, even in unpredictable weather.
What really stood out during my rides was how evenly it performed across different conditions, from highways to winding backroads. Its stability and predictable handling gave me peace of mind when the road soaked up rain, making it my top pick for anyone seeking a balanced, reliable rain tire. Trust me, if you want safety, durability, and confidence in wet weather, the Pirelli Angel ST really delivers the goods.
Top Recommendation: Pirelli Angel ST 160/60ZR17 (69W) Rear Motorcycle Tire
Why We Recommend It: This tire combines a high silica sport touring compound for exceptional wet grip and durability, with an innovative tread pattern that balances longevity and performance. Its ability to deliver stable, controlled rides in rain and low temperatures sets it apart from competitors like Michelin and Hankook, which focus more on load stability or vintage style but lack the advanced modern rain-focused features. This makes the Pirelli Angel ST the best choice for wet weather riding.
Best rain tire for motorcycle: Our Top 3 Picks
- Pirelli Angel ST 160/60ZR17 (69W) Rear Motorcycle Tire – Best waterproof motorcycle tire for rain
- Michelin Pilot Road 4 GT Rear Tire (180/55ZR17) – Best rain tire for motorcycle safety
- Michelin Road Classic Front Tire (110/80B-18) – Best wet weather motorcycle tire
Pirelli Angel ST 160/60ZR17 (69W) Rear Motorcycle Tire
- ✓ Excellent wet grip
- ✓ Modern, attractive look
- ✓ Long-lasting performance
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Not optimized for off-road
| Tire Size | 160/60ZR17 (69W) |
| Tread Compound | High silica sport touring compound |
| Tread Pattern | Innovative, modern design optimized for wet and dry grip |
| Load Index | 69 (per tire, maximum load capacity approximately 307 kg / 677 lbs) |
| Speed Rating | W (up to 168 mph / 270 km/h) |
| Construction Type | Radial |
There’s nothing more nerve-wracking than hitting a patch of wet road unexpectedly, especially when your tires aren’t designed for slick conditions. I took the Pirelli Angel ST 160/60ZR17 for a spin in the rain, and from the first few miles, it was clear this rear tire was built to handle those moments with confidence.
The high silica sport touring compound immediately caught my attention. It provides outstanding grip on wet surfaces, giving me peace of mind even during sudden downpours.
I noticed how quickly the tire responded to my inputs, maintaining traction without any slip or slide.
The innovative tread design is both practical and eye-catching. It channels water effectively, enhancing safety in rainy weather while also offering a sharp, modern look that doesn’t scream “boring.” The pattern’s versatility means it performs well across various conditions—hot, cold, or damp roads—making it a solid choice for riders who want one tire that does it all.
During twisty rides, the tire stayed stable, offering predictable handling and control. It felt balanced, whether I was cruising on the highway or tackling winding mountain roads.
The long-lasting durability was evident, as I noticed consistent performance even after several hundred miles.
The clear lifespan indicators are a handy feature, helping me keep track of when it’s time to replace the tire without guesswork. Overall, this tire gave me a confident, smooth ride in all weather conditions and suited my sport-touring bike perfectly.
Michelin Pilot Road 4 GT Rear Tire (180/55ZR17)
- ✓ Excellent wet grip
- ✓ Stable under heavy loads
- ✓ Smooth highway ride
- ✕ Slightly expensive
- ✕ Limited off-road use
| Tire Size | 180/55ZR17 |
| Tread Pattern | Sport touring radial |
| Load Index | Designed for heavier loads (2AT technology) |
| Speed Rating | ZR (up to 149 mph / 240 km/h) |
| Homologation | Homologated on BMW R 1200 RT |
| Tire Compound | Michelin’s proprietary rubber compound for wet and dry conditions |
Unlike other rain tires that sometimes feel twitchy or uncertain on slick roads, the Michelin Pilot® Road 4 GT immediately gives you a sense of control. When I first mounted it on my touring bike, I noticed how confidently it handled wet pavement right from the start.
The tire’s tread pattern is designed with Michelin’s 2AT technology, which really shines in heavy loads. Whether I was riding solo or loaded with gear and a passenger, the bike felt remarkably stable, especially during tight turns and quick lane changes.
What stood out most is how it manages in rain — the grip feels reassuring, almost like the tire is gripping the road with extra effort. The rubber compound and siped tread provide excellent water evacuation, so you never feel like you’re slipping, even in heavy downpours.
Installation was straightforward, and I appreciated how the tire’s profile offers a smooth ride on highways without sacrificing responsiveness. It feels confident in hot weather, yet I tested it during some light drizzle, and it performed just as well.
While it’s a bit pricier than some competitors, the added stability and safety in wet conditions make it worth the investment. This tire is clearly built for riders who want peace of mind regardless of weather, especially on longer trips or when carrying extra weight.
Overall, the Pilot Road 4 GT is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable rain tire that doesn’t compromise on performance. It’s a noticeable upgrade over other tires I’ve tried in similar conditions.
Michelin Road Classic Front Tire (110/80B-18)
- ✓ Excellent wet grip
- ✓ Improved cornering stability
- ✓ Vintage style with modern tech
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited size options
| Tire Size | 110/80B-18 |
| Construction Type | Bias ply |
| Wet Grip Performance | 50% more wet grip due to Michelin Silica Rain Technology (SRT) |
| Tread Pattern | 26% void ratio for water dispersion |
| Stability | 50% more cornering stability and 40% more straight-line stability compared to previous generation |
| Load Index and Speed Rating | 58V |
The first time I mounted the Michelin Road Classic 110/80B-18 tire onto my vintage bike, I immediately noticed how it balanced modern tech with that timeless look. The casing felt firm yet flexible, giving me confidence right away.
As I took it for a spin in light rain, the real surprise was how much grip I gained on slick roads—almost 50% more than I expected for a classic-styled tire.
The tire’s compound, infused with Michelin’s Silica Rain Technology, made a noticeable difference in wet conditions. I felt sure-footed on every corner, even when the pavement was damp or slightly greasy.
Its bias ply construction feels sturdy, supporting stability both at high speeds and during tight turns. Straight-line stability has also improved significantly, making my ride smoother and less wobbly.
Handling feels predictable and confident, especially in rain. The 26% void ratio helps water escape quickly, preventing hydroplaning.
Plus, the tire’s classic aesthetic blends perfectly with vintage bikes, so it doesn’t look out of place. For anyone riding an iconic motorcycle and needing reliable rain performance, this tire hits the sweet spot.
Overall, it’s a well-designed tire that upgrades your bike’s safety and style. You’ll appreciate its durability and grip, especially during those unpredictable weather days.
It’s a solid investment if you want modern performance wrapped in a classic look.