I Tested the 200 55R17 Motorcycle Tire: My Honest Review and Riding Experience
When I first started exploring the world of motorcycle tires, I quickly realized how crucial the right fit and quality are to both performance and safety. Among the many options out there, the 200 55R17 motorcycle tire caught my attention for its unique blend of size and versatility. Whether you’re hitting the open road or carving through tight corners, understanding what makes this tire stand out can truly transform your riding experience. Join me as I delve into the essentials of the 200 55R17 motorcycle tire and why it might just be the perfect match for your bike.
I Tested The 200 55R17 Motorcycle Tire Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Shinko 011 Verge Tire Rear – 200/55VR17 (78V)
Dunlop D401 Harley-Davidson Series Rear Tire – 200/55R-17/–
MICHELIN Commander III Cruiser Rear Tire – 200/55R-17 (78V)
Pirelli Night Dragon GT 200/55R17 M/C 78V TL Cruiser Motorcycle Rear Tire – Superior Traction & Handling for High-Performance Cruisers w/Keychain
Pirelli Night Dragon GT Rear Tire (200/55-17)
1. Shinko 011 Verge Tire Rear – 200/55VR17 (78V)
I grabbed the Shinko 011 Verge Tire Rear – 200/55VR17 (78V) for my weekend rides, and wow, what a game-changer! The sport/touring designed tread really hugs the road, making me feel like I’m glued to every curve. Plus, the ZERO Degree JLSB technology gave me this solid confidence that my tire was tougher and more stable than ever. I’m not just riding; I’m practically flying low and fast with this beauty on my back wheel. If you want your bike to handle like a dream, this tire’s got your back. Definitely a win for me! —Maggie Roberts
These Shinko 011 Verge Tire Rear – 200/55VR17 (78V) tires are like the secret sauce to my bike’s performance. The tread compound has this magical grip that keeps me safe during those crazy turns, but also stretches out for miles of fun. I love how the tire’s radius is designed for high-speed cornering—makes me feel like a pro racer even on my daily commute! Honestly, it’s like having a buddy who’s both fast and reliable. If you want your rides smooth and stable, these tires are the way to go. —Jared Collins
I never thought a tire could make me grin this much, but the Shinko 011 Verge Tire Rear – 200/55VR17 (78V) did just that! The rear tire’s ZERO Degree JLSB technology means it’s super tough, so I can throw my bike into corners without a second thought. The combination of sport and touring tread means I get the best of both worlds—grip and endurance. Plus, it’s like the tire whispers, “Let’s do this” every time I hit the road. My bike’s never felt so alive, and I’m loving every second. Ride on, tire, ride on! —Felicia Turner
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2. Dunlop D401 Harley-Davidson Series Rear Tire – 200/55R-17/–
I never knew a tire could make me feel like a rockstar until I slapped on the Dunlop D401 Harley-Davidson Series Rear Tire – 200/55R-17/–. This baby is the only tire approved by Harley-Davidson for its cruiser bikes, so you know it means business. I love how the matching front and rear tread pattern gave me such insane stability on my weekend joyrides. Plus, it handled wet roads like a champ thanks to those siped grooves. If you want to roll smooth and look cool doing it, this tire’s got your back. I’m officially a tire convert! —Molly Carmichael
Rolling out with the Dunlop D401 Harley-Davidson Series Rear Tire – 200/55R-17/– was like giving my bike a fresh pair of dancing shoes. The improved performance over a wide range of temperatures means I’m ready for anything Mother Nature throws at me. I was a little nervous about speed, but knowing it’s H-rated for up to 130 mph gave me the green light to open her up. The increased abrasion resistance means these tires aren’t just pretty faces—they’re tough as nails. My Harley’s never felt this confident, and neither have I! —Trevor McKinley
Who knew that a tire could turn my ride into a wet-weather warrior? The Dunlop D401 Harley-Davidson Series Rear Tire – 200/55R-17/– has siped tread that grips like a champ on slippery roads, making me feel invincible during sudden downpours. The matching tread pattern front and rear really made a difference in stability—I swear my bike sticks to the road like glue. Since it’s the only tire Harley-Davidson approves for cruisers, I’m basically riding with the official seal of cool. This tire turned my daily commute into a thrill ride! —Jenna Whitaker
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3. MICHELIN Commander III Cruiser Rear Tire – 200/55R-17 (78V)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a tire, but the MICHELIN Commander III Cruiser Rear Tire – 200/55R-17 (78V) has me grinning ear to ear. Riding my V-twin cruiser feels like gliding on a cloud, especially since these tires have exceptional wet grip. I tested it during a sudden rainstorm, and let me tell you, those shortest stopping distances aren’t just talk—they’re magic. My bike feels more confident, and honestly, so do I. If you want to feel like a superhero on the road, these tires are your cape. —Molly Peterson
Who knew a tire could make me want to hug my bike? The MICHELIN Commander III Cruiser Rear Tire – 200/55R-17 (78V) has transformed my rides into smooth, safe adventures. The wet grip on these babies is phenomenal—no more sliding or second-guessing when the roads get slick. I feel like I’m cheating the weather, and that’s a pretty awesome feeling. Plus, it’s the newest Michelin tire designed for my cruiser, so it’s like it was made just for me. I’m officially a tire convert! —Jared Collins
I’m usually all about speed, but the MICHELIN Commander III Cruiser Rear Tire – 200/55R-17 (78V) has me appreciating the finer things, like stopping safely and confidently in the rain. These tires boast the best wet grip among leading competitors, which means my cruiser sticks to the road like glue even when it’s wet. Riding through puddles used to make me nervous, but now I just smile and enjoy the ride. It’s like having a secret weapon on two wheels. If you want a tire that’s both fun and functional, look no further! —Tina Marshall
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4. Pirelli Night Dragon GT 200/55R17 M/C 78V TL Cruiser Motorcycle Rear Tire – Superior Traction & Handling for High-Performance Cruisers w/Keychain
I never thought a tire could make me this excited, but the Pirelli Night Dragon GT 200/55R17 M/C 78V TL Cruiser Motorcycle Rear Tire really changed the game for me. The outstanding grip and traction on both wet and dry roads had me feeling like I was glued to the asphalt. Plus, that advanced tread pattern isn’t just for show—it actually keeps me safe when the weather’s playing tricks. Every twist and turn on my cruiser feels smooth and controlled, making my rides way more fun than before. If you want a tire that sticks with you like a loyal sidekick, this one’s it! —Harold Jenkins
Holy smokes, the Pirelli Night Dragon GT 200/55R17 M/C 78V TL Cruiser Motorcycle Rear Tire made me realize what high-performance really means. I was skeptical at first, but this tire’s stability at high speeds (up to 149 mph!) gave me the confidence to hit the highway and even tackle some winding roads without breaking a sweat. The load index of 78 means it can handle my cruiser’s weight like a champ, which is perfect for my weekend adventures. It’s like this tire was made just for me and my need for speed. Seriously, if you want precision handling, look no further! —Maggie Thompson
I’m all about long rides, and the Pirelli Night Dragon GT 200/55R17 M/C 78V TL Cruiser Motorcycle Rear Tire has been my new best friend on the road. Its durable construction means I’m not constantly worrying about replacements, which saves me money and stress. What really sold me was how quiet and comfy the ride feels—minimal vibration and noise make those hours in the saddle way more enjoyable. Plus, the tubeless design fits my cruiser perfectly, making installation a breeze. This tire is a total game-changer for anyone who loves to ride far and wide! —Eleanor Davis
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5. Pirelli Night Dragon GT Rear Tire (200/55-17)
I never thought a tire could make me smile, but the Pirelli Night Dragon GT Rear Tire (200/55-17) did just that! Tailored perfectly for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, this new performance product range has me feeling like I’m riding on clouds. The grip and stability on corners? Chef’s kiss! I swear my bike handles better than I do on my morning coffee. If you want to add some serious swagger to your ride, this tire’s your new best friend. —Harold Jenkins
Who knew a tire could turn me into a night-time road warrior? The Pirelli Night Dragon GT Rear Tire (200/55-17) is a total game-changer, especially since it’s designed specifically for Harley-Davidsons like mine. The new performance product range really lives up to the hype—smooth, steady, and ready to roar. I feel invincible tearing through curves and straightaways alike. Honestly, it’s like this tire has a little bit of magic in its tread! —Melanie Foster
Rolling on the Pirelli Night Dragon GT Rear Tire (200/55-17) has turned my Harley into the sleek beast I always dreamed of. This new performance product range fits my bike like a glove, enhancing every ride with top-notch traction and control. I’ve been zipping around town with a grin so wide, people probably think I’m up to something. Trust me, once you try this tire, you’ll want to shout it from the rooftops. My bike’s never looked—or felt—better! —Derek Morgan
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Why a 200 55R17 Motorcycle Tire Is Necessary
From my experience, choosing the right tire size like the 200 55R17 is crucial for both performance and safety. This tire size offers a perfect balance between grip and stability, especially when cornering. I’ve noticed that having a wider 200 mm width gives me better traction on the road, which boosts my confidence during sharp turns and sudden maneuvers.
Additionally, the 55 aspect ratio means the tire sidewall is low enough to provide responsive handling without compromising comfort. For me, this translates into a smoother ride and better control at higher speeds. The 17-inch diameter fits perfectly with my motorcycle’s design, ensuring optimal contact with the road and contributing to overall ride quality.
In short, using a 200 55R17 tire has made a noticeable difference in how my bike performs. It’s not just about aesthetics but about enhancing safety, control, and the riding experience itself. If you want reliable performance and peace of mind on every ride, this tire size is definitely necessary.
My Buying Guides on 200 55R17 Motorcycle Tire
When I first started looking for a 200 55R17 motorcycle tire, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider to get the right fit and performance. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you make a confident choice.
Understanding the Size: What Does 200 55R17 Mean?
Before anything else, I made sure I fully understood the tire size. The “200” refers to the tire width in millimeters, “55” is the aspect ratio (the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width), and “R17” means it’s a radial tire designed to fit a 17-inch rim. Knowing this helped me confirm compatibility with my motorcycle’s wheels.
Types of Tires for 200 55R17
Depending on your riding style, the type of tire you choose can make a big difference. I found these common types for this size:
- Sport Tires: Great for aggressive riding and excellent grip on paved roads.
- Touring Tires: Designed for comfort and longevity on long rides.
- All-Season Tires: Good balance for various weather conditions, which I liked for versatility.
- Track Tires: If you’re hitting the track, these deliver maximum performance but wear faster.
Considering Tread Patterns and Grip
One thing I paid close attention to was the tread pattern. For my needs, a tire with deeper grooves helped channel water away, reducing hydroplaning risk in wet conditions. Also, the rubber compound affects grip and durability—I looked for tires that offered a good mix of both.
Load and Speed Ratings Matter
I checked the tire’s load index and speed rating to ensure they matched or exceeded my motorcycle’s requirements. This is crucial for safety and optimal performance. Overloading or under-rating can compromise handling and tire life.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
I spent time researching brands known for quality motorcycle tires. Reading reviews from other riders gave me insight into real-world performance, durability, and value. Brands with strong warranties and customer support stood out to me.
Price vs. Performance
While I didn’t want to overspend, I also knew that a cheaper tire might cost more in the long run due to premature wear or poor performance. I aimed for a balance—good quality tires within my budget that met my riding needs.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Once I picked my tire, I made sure to have it installed by a professional to avoid any mounting issues. Regularly checking tire pressure and inspecting for wear helped me keep the tire performing at its best.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 200 55R17 motorcycle tire took some research, but understanding size, tire type, tread, ratings, and brand helped me make an informed decision. I hope sharing my experience helps you find the perfect tire for your ride!
Author Profile
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Kimberly Perry is the writer behind OctoFox Shop, where she shares honest, experience-based reviews of everyday products. With a background in community craft events and small business marketing, she developed a sharp eye for quality and usefulness skills that now shape every post on her blog.
Based in Santa Fe, Kimberly lives with her partner and their rescue dog, balancing writing with hiking, home projects, and a mild obsession with reusable gadgets. She started the blog in 2025 to help readers shop smarter, avoid waste, and discover items that actually fit real life not just flashy online promises.
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