There are several options available when it comes to choosing the best motorcycle touring tires. Manufacturers like Michelin, Dunlop and Continental make some of the best touring tires. But if you want to spend the most money, you can get a set of Michelin American Elite Touring Tires. Read on to learn more about these products and how they can help you get the most out of your motorcycle. We also review some of the pros and cons of each.
Michelin’s Commander II
With performance features like tire life that’s unsurpassed, Michelin’s Commander II motorcycle touring tires are an excellent choice for the serious tourer. We tested them with a Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Classic and can confirm that these tires deliver on both promises. Below we’ve listed the pros and cons of Michelin’s Commander II motorcycle touring tires. Read on to learn more. You’ll also find a video review of the Commander 2 Tires.
The MICHELIN Commander II motorcycle touring tire is equipped with Silica Rain Technology to prevent uneven wear and tear. The exclusive architecture of this tire and its high-density carcass improves resistance and weight without compromising wet weather grip. It also boasts longitudinal grooves that improve water dispersion and grip even more, resulting in excellent wet weather traction. You’ll be surprised by the grip and handling capabilities of this tire.
Bridgestone’s Commander III
The Michelin Commander III redefines “no compromises” when it comes to motorcycle touring tires. These tires are available in two models: the touring model and the cruiser model. Both have slightly different tread patterns and sidewall designs, but the touring model’s performance will be more dependent on your riding habits than the cruiser version. The Commander III is available in a range of sizes, but you may want to select one that matches your specific motorcycle model.
The new Commander III tires are designed with a more rounded profile, which increases their contact patch by 10 percent. This provides more grip and longer tread life. The tread grooves are wider than the Commander II and feature striations along the bottom. Michelin claims the new tire has 25 percent more tread life than its predecessor. The company also wanted to improve the handling in wet conditions. While the Commander II was praised for its grip, the Commander III delivers a higher level of comfort and stability.
Michelin’s Pilot Road 4 trail
The Michelin Pilot Road 4 trail motorcycle touring tire line features three new models. The Pilot Road 4 GT is designed for big sport-touring bikes while the Pilot Road 4 Trail is more conventional and is designed for everyday use. Each tire has different characteristics, but they all offer a similar level of performance. Michelin says these new tires will last 20% longer than the previous version. In addition, they’re available later this year.
The Michelin Pilot Road 4 trail motorcycle touring tire features the XST (X-Sipe Technology) built into the tread pattern. This technology features thin sipes located between large tread grooves to channel surface water into circular reservoirs. The larger reservoirs help retain more rubber on the road while minimizing the risk of flat spots or slick spots. The X-Sipe Technology also features a chamfer at the edge of the sipes to eliminate abnormal wear when the tread flexes under hard braking.
Dunlop’s American Elite Touring Tire Set
The Dunlop American Elite Touring Tire Set is the perfect choice for the serious motorcycle rider looking for a great tire that will last for the duration of their rides. Available in 15 to 21-inch diameters, these tires have radial and bias-ply construction, and deliver extended tread life and impressive cornering stability. The American Elite Touring Tire Set features the name “American Elite” on the sidewall.
The American Elite Touring Tire Set is designed, made and tested in America. The rear tire features Multi-Tread, which combines a long-wearing compound with lateral-grip compounds in each shoulder. The tire’s new tread pattern provides even tread wear and quiet operation in any condition. Its lightweight construction makes it a perfect choice for long distance trips. The American Elite Touring Tire Set is designed in America and is made to last for years.