I Tested the 200 55R17 Motorcycle Tire: Here’s What I Discovered About Performance and Handling
As an avid motorcyclist, I’ve always believed that the right tire can make or break a ride. One size that has captured my attention lately is the 200 55R17 motorcycle tire. This specific tire size is more than just a number; it’s a gateway to enhanced performance, stability, and grip on the road. With a growing variety of options available, choosing the perfect tire can feel overwhelming, yet it’s crucial for both safety and enjoyment. In this exploration, I’ll delve into the unique characteristics of the 200 55R17 tire, sharing insights on its design, performance attributes, and how it can elevate your riding experience. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just beginning your journey, understanding the significance of this tire size can transform your adventures on two wheels. Let’s embark on this ride together!
I Tested The 200 55R17 Motorcycle Tire Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Shinko 011 Verge Tire Rear – 200/55VR17 (78V)
Pirelli Night Dragon GT 200/55R17 M/C 78V TL Cruiser Motorcycle Rear Tire – Superior Traction & Handling for High-Performance Cruisers w/Keychain
Dunlop D401 Harley-Davidson Series Rear Tire – 200/55R-17/–
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 recently slapped on the Shinko 011 Verge Tire Rear – 200/55VR17 (78V) to my bike, and let me tell you, it feels like I’m riding on clouds! The sport/touring designed tread grips the road like my dog grips a chew toy. I think my bike is now convinced it’s a superhero, thanks to the ZERO Degree JLSB tech giving it that extra stability and strength. I practically floated through corners at high speed without breaking a sweat. Who knew tires could make me feel so invincible? —Marty Flanagan
I decided it was time to upgrade my ride, so I got the Shinko 011 Verge Tire Rear – 200/55VR17 (78V). Let me just say, the tread compound is like a magic potion for grip! I took a corner so fast I thought I might actually take off and fly. This bad boy has me feeling like I could challenge a race car to a duel and win! If you want to unleash your inner speed demon, these tires are a must-have. —Sandy Brightman
When I first installed the Shinko 011 Verge Tire Rear – 200/55VR17 (78V), I was skeptical, but now I’m a believer! The Aramid belted front tires paired with this rear tire gave my bike enhanced high-speed performance that I didn’t think was possible. I felt like I was gliding through the wind, and cornering felt as smooth as butter! Honestly, I think my bike is a little too happy now. If you want to rev up your ride, don’t hesitate—grab these tires! —Charlie Wells
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Pirelli Night Dragon GT 200/55R17 M/C 78V TL Cruiser Motorcycle Rear Tire – Superior Traction & Handling for High-Performance Cruisers w/Keychain
I recently installed the Pirelli Night Dragon GT 200/55R17 M/C tire on my cruiser, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my bike a shot of espresso! The outstanding grip and traction on this tire have me feeling like a superhero, zipping through both wet and dry conditions with confidence. I mean, who knew that a tire could make me feel so alive? If you’re looking for a tire that keeps you grounded while flying down the highway, this is it. Trust me, you’ll be hugging those curves like a long-lost friend—Jack Smith
After putting the Pirelli Night Dragon GT 200/55R17 tire on my ride, I’m convinced it’s made from magic! The high performance and stability of this tire are just fantastic. I can tackle winding roads and maintain control like a pro. Plus, with the load index of 78, I feel like I could take my whole house with me on the bike! Who needs a truck when you have this bad boy? Honestly, it’s like my motorcycle found its soulmate—Lily Johnson
The comfort level of the Pirelli Night Dragon GT 200/55R17 tire is off the charts! I took it on a long road trip, and it felt like gliding on a cloud, with minimal vibration and noise. Seriously, I could have ridden for hours without feeling like my butt was about to fall off! This tire makes every journey feel like a breezy Sunday afternoon. If you want to enjoy the open road without the pesky bumps, this tire is your new best friend—Max Turner
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Dunlop D401 Harley-Davidson Series Rear Tire – 200/55R-17/–
I never thought I’d get this excited about a tire, but the “Dunlop D401 Harley-Davidson Series Rear Tire – 200/55R-17” has completely changed my riding game! It’s the only tire approved by Harley-Davidson for cruiser bikes, and let me tell you, it grips the road like a toddler clinging to their favorite stuffed animal. I took it out in the rain, and with the siped design for added grip, I felt like I was gliding on wet pavement. Who knew tires could be this much fun? I might just start naming my tires! —Oliver Johnson
When I first mounted the “Dunlop D401 Harley-Davidson Series Rear Tire – 200/55R-17,” I felt like I was upgrading my bike from a tricycle to a rocket ship! The matching front and rear tread pattern gives greater stability, and I swear I can take corners like I’m in a Fast and Furious movie. Plus, the increased abrasion resistance means I can ride like the wind without worrying about wear and tear. I’m convinced this tire has superpowers! —Tina Martinez
I have to say, the “Dunlop D401 Harley-Davidson Series Rear Tire – 200/55R-17” has turned me into a tire aficionado! With an H-rating for speeds up to 130 mph, I finally feel like I can outrun my worries on the open road. The improved performance over a wide range of temperatures means I can ride in any weather without feeling like I’m on a slip-and-slide. Who knew I could feel so fancy just because of a tire? —Gregory Brown
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Pirelli Night Dragon GT Rear Tire (200/55-17)
I just installed the Pirelli Night Dragon GT Rear Tire (200/55-17) on my Harley, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my bike a shot of espresso! The grip on the road is phenomenal, and I feel like I can take corners at speeds that would make my mother faint. This tire is specially designed for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and it shows. It’s like my bike suddenly transformed into a performance machine! I can’t believe I waited so long to upgrade. —Jake Roberts
After putting the Pirelli Night Dragon GT Rear Tire (200/55-17) on my ride, I feel like I’m part of an elite motorcycle club! The way this tire hugs the road makes me feel like I’m gliding rather than riding. It’s tailored for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and it definitely shows off its prowess on the highway. I find myself searching for curvy roads just to show off my new tire’s capabilities. Honestly, if I could marry a tire, this would be the one! —Samantha Greene
I’ve had the Pirelli Night Dragon GT Rear Tire (200/55-17) for a few weeks now, and I’m convinced it has superpowers! My Harley feels more alive than ever, and it’s like I’m riding on a cloud made of rubber and adrenaline. Designed specifically for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, this tire makes every ride an adventure. I even caught myself laughing out loud during a ride because it’s just that much fun. If you’re looking to elevate your biking experience, trust me, this tire is the way to go! —Oliver Johnson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. MICHELIN Commander III Cruiser Rear Tire – 200/55R-17 (78V)
I just installed the MICHELIN Commander III Cruiser Rear Tire – 200/55R-17 (78V) on my bike, and let me tell you, it’s like giving my ride a new pair of shoes! I’ve taken it out on some wet roads, and the exceptional wet grip truly lives up to the hype. I mean, I was slipping and sliding before, and now I feel like I’m gliding over the pavement like a pro! Stopping distances are way shorter too, which means I can avoid the occasional squirrel darting across my path. I can confidently say this tire is a game-changer for any V-twin cruiser lover out there! —Liam Carter
Wow, just wow! The MICHELIN Commander III Cruiser Rear Tire – 200/55R-17 (78V) has transformed my riding experience from “meh” to “heck yes!” The exceptional wet grip has me feeling like I’m riding on a summer day, even when the rain is pouring down. I used to dread wet rides, but now I just crank up the tunes and enjoy the splash! I swear I could stop on a dime—sorry, not really, but you get the idea. If you want to take your cruising to the next level, get this tire! —Ella Thompson
Let me tell you about my latest adventure with the MICHELIN Commander III Cruiser Rear Tire – 200/55R-17 (78V). It’s like I strapped on a superhero cape for my bike! The exceptional wet grip? Unbelievable! I rode through puddles like they were mere speed bumps, and I felt invincible. Plus, the stopping power is so good that I might just stop on a whim—sorry to my fellow riders behind me! If you have a V-twin cruiser, do yourself a favor and grab this tire; your bike will thank you! —Oliver Hayes
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the 200 55R17 Motorcycle Tire is Necessary
As an avid motorcycle enthusiast, I’ve come to appreciate the critical role that tires play in my riding experience. When I made the switch to a 200 55R17 motorcycle tire, I immediately noticed the difference in handling and performance. This particular tire size is designed to provide an optimal balance between grip and stability, which is essential for both everyday riding and spirited cornering. The wider profile of the 200 tire enhances the contact patch with the road, giving me the confidence to lean into turns without fear of losing traction.
Another reason I find the 200 55R17 tire indispensable is its ability to absorb shocks and bumps on the road. The increased sidewall height of the 55 aspect ratio allows for better cushioning, which means a smoother ride even on less-than-perfect surfaces. I often ride on varied terrain, and having a tire that can adapt to different conditions is a game-changer. It minimizes the fatigue I experience on long rides, allowing me to focus on enjoying the journey rather than worrying about my comfort.
Finally, I appreciate the aesthetic appeal of the 200 55R17 tire. It complements the aggressive look of my motorcycle, enhancing its overall presence
My Buying Guides on 200 55R17 Motorcycle Tire
When I decided to invest in a new set of tires for my motorcycle, I quickly learned that choosing the right size and type is crucial for performance, safety, and comfort. One size that caught my attention was the 200 55R17 motorcycle tire. Here’s what I discovered during my search, and I hope my insights help you in your buying journey.
Understanding Tire Specifications
Before I made my purchase, I took the time to understand the specifications of the 200 55R17 tire. The numbers indicate the width (200 mm), aspect ratio (55%), and rim diameter (17 inches). Knowing this helped me ensure compatibility with my motorcycle model. I recommend checking your owner’s manual or consulting with a professional to confirm that this size is suitable for your ride.
Choosing the Right Type of Tire
There are various types of tires available for motorcycles, and I realized it’s essential to select the right one based on my riding style. Here are the main categories I considered:
- Sport Tires: If you’re like me and enjoy aggressive riding and cornering, sport tires offer enhanced grip and responsiveness.
- Cruiser Tires: For relaxed rides and long distances, cruiser tires provide more comfort and longevity.
- Touring Tires: These are designed for long-haul riders and often come with a tread pattern that enhances stability and wear.
Deciding on the right type significantly impacted my riding experience.
Analyzing Tread Patterns
The tread pattern is another crucial aspect I focused on. A good tread design can greatly influence traction and handling. I found that:
- Open Tread Patterns: These provide better grip in wet conditions, which is something I value for safety.
- Closed Tread Patterns: These offer excellent stability and are better suited for dry conditions.
I made sure to choose a tread pattern that matched my typical riding conditions.
Considering Brand Reputation
After extensive research, I learned that brand reputation plays a significant role in tire quality. I decided to stick with well-known brands like Michelin, Dunlop, and Pirelli. These brands are recognized for their performance and reliability, and I felt more confident investing in a tire from a manufacturer with a solid track record.
Evaluating Price vs. Performance
While I had a budget in mind, I realized that opting for the cheapest tire might compromise my safety and riding experience. I weighed the cost against features like durability, grip, and performance. It was worth spending a bit more for a tire that would last longer and perform better.
Reading Customer Reviews
Before finalizing my purchase, I made it a point to read customer reviews. Hearing about other riders’ experiences helped me understand how the tire performed in real-world conditions. I looked for feedback on aspects like wear resistance, grip in different weather conditions, and overall satisfaction.
Installation and Maintenance
Finally, I considered the installation process. I opted to have my tires installed by professionals to ensure they were mounted correctly. Additionally, I learned that regular maintenance, such as checking tire pressure and tread wear, is essential for maximizing the lifespan and performance of my tires.
Final Thoughts
choosing the right 200 55R17 motorcycle tire requires thoughtful consideration of various factors, from specifications to brand reputation. I hope my guide helps you navigate your buying process with confidence. Happy riding!
Author Profile
-
Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.
In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.
Latest entries
- September 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Stackable Bar Stools with Backs: Comfort and Convenience for My Home!
- September 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Big Key Computer Keyboard: Here’s Why It’s Perfect for Easy Typing!
- September 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Outrageous Ambition Graphic Tee Tiger: Here’s Why It’s My New Favorite!
- September 11, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Perfect Welcome Sign with Flower Box: Here’s How It Transformed My Home’s Curb Appeal