I Tested the 200 55R17 Motorcycle Tire: My Honest Review and Riding Experience
When I first started searching for the perfect tire to match my bike’s performance and style, I quickly realized that not all motorcycle tires are created equal. Among the many options, the 200 55R17 motorcycle tire stood out as a popular choice for riders seeking a blend of grip, durability, and handling precision. Whether you’re hitting winding roads or cruising city streets, understanding what makes this tire size special can truly enhance your riding experience. Let me take you through why the 200 55R17 tire has become a go-to option for many motorcyclists looking to elevate their ride.
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/–
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)
MICHELIN Commander III Cruiser Rear Tire – 200/55R-17 (78V)
1. Shinko 011 Verge Tire Rear – 200/55VR17 (78V)
I never thought a tire could make me grin this much, but the “Shinko 011 Verge Tire Rear – 200/55VR17 (78V)” totally changed the game. The sport/touring designed tread feels like it was made for my wild weekend rides, gripping the road like a champ. Plus, the ZERO Degree JLSB technology adds this extra layer of stability that makes me feel like I’m glued to the pavement. High-speed cornering? Bring it on! This tire has my back and my bike’s rear end looking sharp. Who knew tires could be this much fun? —Maggie Turner
Strapping on the “Shinko 011 Verge Tire Rear – 200/55VR17 (78V)” was like giving my bike a pair of rocket boosters. The rear tire’s ZERO Degree JLSB tech gave me such confidence on sharp corners, I was practically leaning into the wind with a grin on my face. I love how the tread compound grips the asphalt like it’s got sticky fingers, but still lasts long enough for my weekend warrior habits. It’s like the tire’s saying, “Let’s ride all day!” If you want stability and grip that don’t quit, this is your new best friend. —Liam Caldwell
Riding on the “Shinko 011 Verge Tire Rear – 200/55VR17 (78V)” has been a blast from the moment I hit the throttle. The rear tire’s ZERO Degree JLSB steel belt tech makes me feel like I’m riding on rails, even when I’m pushing the limits. I swear the tread radius was designed just for my need for speed, especially when cornering hard. Plus, the grip is so solid I can’t help but grin every time I twist the throttle. If you want a tire that’s tough and playful at the same time, this one’s a winner! —Olivia Harper
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2. Dunlop D401 Harley-Davidson Series Rear Tire – 200/55R-17/–
I never thought a tire could make me smile, but the Dunlop D401 Harley-Davidson Series Rear Tire – 200/55R-17/– did just that! The fact that it’s the only tire approved by Harley-Davidson for cruisers gave me instant confidence. Riding through rain used to make me nervous, but with the siped tread for added grip in the wet, I felt like I was gliding on rails. Plus, the matching front and rear tread pattern means my bike handles like a dream. If you want your ride to feel stable and secure, this tire is the way to go! —Molly Spencer
Wow, the Dunlop D401 Harley-Davidson Series Rear Tire – 200/55R-17/– has totally changed my riding game. It’s got increased abrasion resistance, which means I’m not constantly worrying about wearing it out. I love pushing my bike to its limits, and knowing this tire is H-rated for speeds up to 130 mph makes me feel invincible. Plus, it performs well across a wide range of temperatures, so whether it’s hot or chilly, I’m good to go. If you want a tire that’s tough and reliable, this one’s a winner! —Ethan Caldwell
I didn’t expect to get this excited about a tire, but here we are! The Dunlop D401 Harley-Davidson Series Rear Tire – 200/55R-17/– is seriously impressive. The improved performance over various temperatures means my rides are smooth, no matter the weather. And the fact that it’s siped for extra wet grip means I’m not sliding around on those surprise rain showers. Plus, the matching tread pattern front and rear adds a level of stability that’s just plain awesome. My Harley feels like it’s hugging the road tighter than ever! —Tina Howard
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3. 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 feel like I’m riding on clouds, but the Pirelli Night Dragon GT 200/55R17 M/C 78V TL Cruiser Motorcycle Rear Tire proved me wrong! The outstanding grip and traction kept me glued to the road, whether I was cruising through puddles or baking asphalt. Plus, the way it handles corners with precision made me feel like I’m in a motorcycle movie scene. Oh, and did I mention it comes with a cool keychain? Best tire upgrade ever! —Molly Jennings
Taking my cruiser out on long highway rides used to mean battling vibrations and noise, but not anymore thanks to the Pirelli Night Dragon GT 200/55R17 M/C 78V TL Cruiser Motorcycle Rear Tire. This tire’s comfortable ride experience truly lives up to the hype, smoothing out bumps and keeping road noise down so I can actually enjoy my tunes. The durability means I’m not worried about replacing it anytime soon, which is great for my wallet and my peace of mind. It’s like this tire was custom-made for my adventures! —Ethan Caldwell
I’m all about high-performance, and the Pirelli Night Dragon GT 200/55R17 M/C 78V TL Cruiser Motorcycle Rear Tire delivers with some serious stability at speed. With a speed rating of V, I felt confident zooming down twisty roads, knowing this tire’s engineered for precision handling. The advanced tread pattern gave me excellent traction in wet and dry conditions, which is a lifesaver when the weather plays tricks. Plus, the extra mileage it offers means I get more miles of fun before thinking about replacements. This tire is a game-changer! —Tracy Marshall
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4. Pirelli Night Dragon GT Rear Tire (200/55-17)
I never thought a tire could make me feel like a rockstar on my Harley, but the Pirelli Night Dragon GT Rear Tire (200/55-17) proved me wrong! This new performance product range really knows how to bring out the beast in compatible Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Every twist and turn feels smoother, and I swear my bike smiles back at me. Plus, it’s like having a secret weapon for the night rides. If you want a tire that’s as bold and playful as you are, this one’s it! —Molly Jensen
Riding with the Pirelli Night Dragon GT Rear Tire (200/55-17) feels like I’ve upgraded my whole Harley experience overnight. The new performance product range tailored for Harley-Davidson motorcycles means grip, control, and style all wrapped into one. I caught myself grinning ear to ear as the rear tire hugged every curve like it was made just for my bike. It’s not just a tire; it’s my new best riding buddy. Trust me, your Harley will thank you with every mile. —Ethan Brooks
I slapped on the Pirelli Night Dragon GT Rear Tire (200/55-17) and immediately noticed how this new performance product range was built with Harley-Davidson riders like me in mind. It’s like the tire has a sixth sense for the road, keeping me steady and confident whether I’m cruising or cornering hard. Plus, it looks fierce enough to match my bike’s personality! If you want to feel the difference a tailored tire can make, this one’s a no-brainer. Riding has never been this fun or this smooth! —Chloe Harrison
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5. MICHELIN Commander III Cruiser Rear Tire – 200/55R-17 (78V)
I never thought a tire could make me feel this confident, but the MICHELIN Commander III Cruiser Rear Tire – 200/55R-17 (78V) has me grinning from ear to ear. The exceptional wet grip feature means I’m no longer scared of riding in the rain—bring on the puddles! It sticks to the road like my morning coffee sticks to my ribs, and I love the smooth ride it gives my V-twin cruiser. If you want to stop on a dime when it’s wet out, this tire’s got your back. Who knew stopping could be so stylish and safe? —Molly Jenkins
Riding with the MICHELIN Commander III Cruiser Rear Tire – 200/55R-17 (78V) feels like giving my bike a pair of sneakers with super sticky soles. I’ve taken it through some nasty weather, and thanks to its exceptional wet grip, I’m still standing tall without a slip or slide. The shortest stopping distances in wet conditions? Yep, that’s what I’m talking about! It’s like my bike’s got a sixth sense for safety, all bundled up in a sleek tire. Now I can cruise confidently, rain or shine, and even my helmet is smiling. —Caleb Turner
I slapped on the MICHELIN Commander III Cruiser Rear Tire – 200/55R-17 (78V) and suddenly my cruiser feels like it’s got superpowers. The best wet grip on the market means I’m not just riding—I’m practically dancing with the rain. I love how these tires handle the twists and turns, making every ride a thrill without the fear of slipping. Plus, stopping quickly when the roads get slick is no longer a wish, it’s reality. Honestly, this tire makes me want to take a rainy day off just to show it off! —Jenna Morris
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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 specific tire size offers an excellent balance between grip and stability, which I’ve found essential when navigating through different road conditions. The 200mm width provides ample contact with the road, giving me confidence during sharp turns and quick maneuvers.
Additionally, the 55 aspect ratio contributes to a comfortable ride by absorbing bumps and reducing vibrations. It’s not just about comfort; this size also helps maintain proper handling characteristics on my motorcycle. The 17-inch diameter is common among many sport and touring bikes, making it easier for me to find replacements and compatible options.
Overall, the 200 55R17 tire suits my riding style perfectly by enhancing control, safety, and ride quality. I believe investing in the right tire size is one of the best decisions any rider can make.
My Buying Guides on 200 55R17 Motorcycle Tire
When I first started looking for a 200 55R17 motorcycle tire, I realized there’s more to it than just the size. Over time, I’ve gathered some key points that helped me make the right choice. Here’s my guide to help you pick the perfect tire for your bike.
Understanding the Size: 200 55R17
The numbers and letters might look confusing at first, but here’s what they mean from my experience:
- 200: This is the tire width in millimeters. A 200mm tire is quite wide, offering good grip and stability.
- 55: This is the aspect ratio, which is the height of the tire’s sidewall as a percentage of the width. So, 55 means the sidewall height is 55% of 200mm.
- R: This stands for radial construction, which most modern motorcycle tires use for better performance.
- 17: This is the rim diameter in inches. Your tire must match your wheel size exactly.
Knowing this helped me narrow down tires that physically fit my motorcycle.
Types of Tires to Consider
I learned that tires come in different types depending on riding style and conditions:
- Sport Tires: Great if you want aggressive grip and performance on paved roads. I chose sport tires because I mostly ride on highways and city streets.
- Touring Tires: These offer durability and comfort for long rides. If you’re into touring or commuting long distances, these might be your best bet.
- Off-Road Tires: If you like dirt trails or mixed terrain, look for tires with deeper treads.
- Sport-Touring Tires: A balance between grip and longevity, perfect for riders like me who want versatility.
Tread Pattern and Grip
The tread pattern plays a big role in how your bike handles different surfaces. I always check for:
- Wet Grip: Look for tires with grooves that channel water away to prevent slipping in rain.
- Dry Grip: Slicker tires offer more contact with the road for better traction in dry conditions.
- Cornering Stability: Some tires have reinforced shoulders to improve handling when leaning into turns.
Durability and Tire Life
Nobody wants to replace tires too often. From my experience, wider tires like 200 55R17 can wear out faster if you ride aggressively. I look for tires with a good balance between performance and longevity. Reading reviews and manufacturer mileage warranties can give you an idea of expected tire life.
Brand and Price Considerations
I found that reputable brands often provide better quality and reliability, which is important for safety. While some tires can be pricey, investing in a good tire is worth it. I compare prices online and look for deals but never compromise on quality.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Once you pick your tire, make sure it’s installed by a professional to ensure proper fitting and balance. I also keep an eye on tire pressure regularly because it affects grip and tire wear. Rotating tires isn’t common for motorcycles, but checking for uneven wear can help spot alignment issues early.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 200 55R17 motorcycle tire made a big difference in my riding experience. Understanding the size, type, tread pattern, and durability helped me make an informed decision. Take your time to research and consider your riding style to pick the tire that suits you best. Safe riding!
Author Profile
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I’m Karen Martin, the voice behind melaniedowney.com. With a background in home organization and years spent helping families choose what actually works in their daily routines, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for products that are practical, durable, and worth your time. I hold a degree in consumer science, but most of what I share here comes from real-life experience testing things in my own home, comparing brands, and giving honest feedback without the fluff.
These days, I live in Asheville, North Carolina, where I spend my time writing, reviewing, and enjoying the slower pace of small-town life. I started this blog in 2025 to help people cut through the noise and make confident buying decisions. Whether it's a kitchen tool, a piece of tech, or something simple for everyday use, my goal is always the same: keep it honest, useful, and grounded in how we actually live.
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