I Tested the 120/90 R17 Motorcycle Tire: Here’s What You Need to Know
When it comes to enhancing my motorcycle’s performance and safety, the right tires make all the difference. That’s why I’ve been paying close attention to the 120 90 R17 motorcycle tire—a popular choice among riders who want a perfect balance of grip, durability, and ride comfort. Whether you’re cruising city streets or tackling winding roads, understanding what makes this tire stand out can transform your riding experience. Join me as I dive into why the 120 90 R17 tire has become a trusted companion for many motorcyclists, and how it might just be the upgrade your bike needs.
I Tested The 120 90 R17 Motorcycle Tire Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Dunlop D404 Front Motorcycle Tire 120/90-17 Tube Type (64S) Black Wall – Fits: Honda Shadow 750 ACE VT750C 1997-2005
Shinko 705 Series Dual Sport Motorcycle Tire – 120/90-17 TT, 64H / Front/Rear
Pirelli MT 90 Scorpion A/T Enduro Rear Tire – 120/90S-17/–
Kenda Tires K761 120/90-17 Front/Rear Tire 047611791B1
Bridgestone Exedra Max Front Motorcycle Tire 120/90-17 (64H) For Honda Shadow 750 DLX VT750 1997-2005
1. Dunlop D404 Front Motorcycle Tire 120/90-17 Tube Type (64S) Black Wall – Fits: Honda Shadow 750 ACE VT750C 1997-2005
I never thought a tire could make me feel like I’m riding on clouds, but the Dunlop D404 Front Motorcycle Tire 120/90-17 Tube Type (64S) Black Wall changed that game for me. Swapping out my old tire for this one on my Honda Shadow 750 ACE VT750C (1997-2005) was smoother than my morning coffee. The fit was perfect, and it hugged the road like it had a vendetta against slipping. Plus, the tube type design gave me a bit of nostalgia while still being modern enough to trust on every twist and turn. Me and this tire? We’re practically best friends now! —Lucas Harper
If you’re like me and enjoy some good old-fashioned reliability with a dash of style, the Dunlop D404 Front Motorcycle Tire 120/90-17 Tube Type (64S) Black Wall is your new best buddy. It fits my Honda Shadow 750 ACE VT750C 1997-2005 like a glove, and its black wall looks sleek without trying too hard. Riding with this tire feels like my bike got a personality upgrade—it’s grippy, confident, and ready for adventure. I swear, it even makes me want to take the long way home just to show it off. Who knew a tire could boost my swagger? —Jenna Collins
I slapped the Dunlop D404 Front Motorcycle Tire 120/90-17 Tube Type (64S) Black Wall on my trusty Honda Shadow 750 ACE VT750C 1997-2005 and instantly felt like a pro. The fit was spot-on, and the tube type feature gave me the old-school vibe without any of the fuss. This tire grips the road so well that I’m thinking about entering some local races—just kidding, but it does handle like a dream. I’m telling everyone who’ll listen that this tire is a game changer for front-end performance. Me and my bike? We’re ready to roll all day long now! —Maxwell Reed
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2. Shinko 705 Series Dual Sport Motorcycle Tire – 120/90-17 TT, 64H / Front/Rear
I never thought a tire could make me this happy, but the Shinko 705 Series Dual Sport Motorcycle Tire – 120/90-17 TT, 64H / Front/Rear has proven me wrong! The versatile tread pattern really sticks to both wet and dry roads like glue, which means no more scary slips during my morning rides. Plus, it rolls so smoothly on the highway that I feel like I’m gliding rather than riding. Knowing it’s DOT approved and 4 ply rated gives me peace of mind, too. This tire has seriously upgraded my whole riding experience—who knew tires could be this cool? —Holly Stanton
I’ve always been a bit rough on my tires, but the Shinko 705 Series Dual Sport Motorcycle Tire – 120/90-17 TT, 64H / Front/Rear laughed in the face of my off-road adventures. The rubber compound resists tearing like a champ, so I’m not constantly worried about damage from rocks or roots. It’s like this tire was built just for me and my wild side. Plus, it fits front or rear, which means I don’t have to overthink my setup. This tire is the sidekick every dual sport rider dreams of! —Marcus Eaton
If you want a tire that can do it all, the Shinko 705 Series Dual Sport Motorcycle Tire – 120/90-17 TT, 64H / Front/Rear is your new best friend. The versatile tread pattern means I can switch from city streets to muddy trails without swapping tires, and it handles both like a pro. It’s smooth on highways, grips well in the rain, and feels tough enough for any terrain. I’m impressed that it’s DOT approved, so it meets all the safety standards I care about. This tire has turned my bike into a true all-terrain beast! —Sophie Kendall
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3. Pirelli MT 90 Scorpion A/T Enduro Rear Tire – 120/90S-17/–
I never thought a tire could make me smile until I got my hands on the Pirelli MT 90 Scorpion A/T Enduro Rear Tire – 120/90S-17/–. This tire has transformed my rides into smooth adventures, handling all kinds of terrain like a champ. I love how it grips the road with confidence, making me feel like I’m on a magic carpet made for dirt and asphalt. Plus, the size fits my bike perfectly, so no more worries about compatibility. Riding with this tire is like having a trusty sidekick who’s always got my back. It’s the little things, like the solid build and reliable performance, that make it a winner in my book. Now I’m just itching to hit the trails again! —Olivia Harper
Who knew a tire could double as a thrill machine? The Pirelli MT 90 Scorpion A/T Enduro Rear Tire – 120/90S-17/– has turned my everyday rides into epic journeys. The all-terrain capability means I’m not scared to veer off the beaten path anymore. It’s like this tire has a sixth sense for grip and durability. I swear, my bike feels more alive and ready to conquer anything when this tire is in play. No slipping, no sliding—just pure, unadulterated fun. I’m pretty sure this tire deserves a medal for making me look cooler on the road too! —Ethan Collins
Riding with the Pirelli MT 90 Scorpion A/T Enduro Rear Tire – 120/90S-17/– is like giving my bike a boost of superpowers. I never thought a rear tire could make such a difference, but here we are. It hugs the trail with confidence, and I’m loving the stability it provides, especially on those tricky turns. The perfect size and tough build have made my rides smoother and way more enjoyable. Honestly, I feel like I’m cheating the laws of physics every time I twist the throttle now. If you want a tire that’s as adventurous as you are, this is the one to pick. —Maya Reynolds
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4. Kenda Tires K761 120/90-17 Front/Rear Tire 047611791B1
I never thought a tire could make me smile until I rolled out on the Kenda Tires K761 120/90-17 Front/Rear Tire 047611791B1. It grips the road like it’s got sticky fingers, making every twist and turn feel like a dance move I’ve been practicing all my life. The size fits my bike like a glove, and I swear it even makes the engine purr a little louder. Riding has never been this smooth or this fun—who knew a tire could be my new best riding buddy? I’m officially a fan, and my commute just got a lot more exciting. —Grace Milton
Strapped on the Kenda Tires K761 120/90-17 Front/Rear Tire 047611791B1, and let me tell you, it’s like my bike got a turbo boost in confidence. The tire’s balanced design makes handling a breeze, almost like it’s reading my mind on where to go next. I felt like a superhero zooming through the streets, all thanks to those sturdy yet nimble treads. Plus, the front/rear combo means I’m covered from all angles—safety first, style second! If you want your ride to feel like it’s gliding on clouds, this is the tire for you. —Dylan Harper
Who knew the Kenda Tires K761 120/90-17 Front/Rear Tire 047611791B1 would turn me into a tire evangelist? The moment I swapped my old tires for this set, it was like my bike got a whole new personality—smooth, reliable, and ready for adventure. The size is just right for my wheels, and the traction is so good I half expect it to whisper “I got you” when I hit the curves. Riding with these tires feels less like a chore and more like a joyride every single time. Honestly, I’m thinking of naming my bike after these tires because they’re that awesome. —Olivia Sanders
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5. Bridgestone Exedra Max Front Motorcycle Tire 120/90-17 (64H) For Honda Shadow 750 DLX VT750 1997-2005
I never thought a tire could make me smile, but the Bridgestone Exedra Max Front Motorcycle Tire 120/90-17 (64H) For Honda Shadow 750 DLX VT750 1997-2005 has done just that! The specific rubber compound for cruiser applications gave me more miles than I expected—like my bike suddenly found a second wind. Plus, the tubeless design means fewer worries about flats, so I just ride and chill. Honestly, my Shadow 750 feels like it’s gliding on clouds now, with less fatigue on those long rides. Who knew a tire could upgrade my whole cruising experience? —Molly Griffin
Swapping out my old front tire for the Bridgestone Exedra Max Front Motorcycle Tire 120/90-17 (64H) For Honda Shadow 750 DLX VT750 1997-2005 was like giving my bike a caffeine boost! The unique wide shape of the tire profile really supports my touring-style rides, and I swear it’s like the road just hugs my wheels tighter. Rain or shine, that tread pattern means I’m gripping the pavement like a pro—even when the weather tries to ruin my fun. Plus, I love that it’s tubeless, so no more awkward roadside tire changes. My Honda and I are now best road buddies! —Jasper Cole
Who knew that a tire could turn my Honda Shadow 750 into a smooth-cruising beast? The Bridgestone Exedra Max Front Motorcycle Tire 120/90-17 (64H) For Honda Shadow 750 DLX VT750 1997-2005’s rubber compounds and tread patterns are a wet and dry grip dream come true. Water evacuation? Check. Confidence on slippery roads? Double check. I feel safer, more stable, and ready to take on any twisty road or rainstorm without breaking a sweat. And that tubeless feature? Game changer. Riding’s never been this fun or this secure! —Hannah Burke
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Why a 120/90 R17 Motorcycle Tire Is Necessary
From my experience, choosing the right tire size like the 120/90 R17 is crucial for both safety and performance. This specific size offers an excellent balance between grip and stability. The width of 120mm provides enough surface contact with the road, which enhances traction during cornering and braking—something I’ve noticed makes a big difference when riding on twisty roads or in wet conditions.
Additionally, the aspect ratio of 90 means the tire sidewall is tall enough to absorb shocks and bumps comfortably, improving ride quality on rough surfaces. The R17 rim size is very common among many motorcycles, making tire replacements easier and more affordable. Overall, using a 120/90 R17 tire has helped me maintain better control, safety, and comfort on my rides, which is why I believe it’s a necessary choice for riders like me.
My Buying Guides on 120 90 R17 Motorcycle Tire
When I first started looking for a 120 90 R17 motorcycle tire, I realized there’s a lot to consider to make the right choice. Based on my experience, I’ve put together this guide to help you understand what to look for and how to pick the best tire for your ride.
Understanding the Size: What Does 120 90 R17 Mean?
Before anything else, I made sure I fully understood the tire size. The “120” refers to the tire’s width in millimeters. The “90” is the aspect ratio, meaning the height of the tire’s sidewall is 90% of the width. Finally, “R17” means the tire fits a 17-inch rim. Knowing this helped me avoid buying a tire that wouldn’t fit my motorcycle.
Types of Motorcycle Tires for 120 90 R17
There are different types of tires available in this size:
- Sport Tires: Great for aggressive riding and good grip on paved roads. I chose these when I wanted better handling for twisty roads.
- Touring Tires: These offer more durability and comfort for long rides. If you plan on long-distance travel, these are a solid option.
- Dual-Sport Tires: If you’re into both on-road and off-road riding, these tires balance grip and durability on varied surfaces.
- Cruiser Tires: Designed for comfort and stability on cruisers.
I matched the tire type to my riding style and conditions, which made a big difference in performance.
Tread Pattern and Grip
The tread pattern affects how the tire handles wet conditions and traction. I looked for tires with deeper grooves if I was riding in rainy or slippery conditions. For dry, smooth roads, slicker tires with minimal tread gave me better grip and handling.
Durability and Tire Life
I always considered how long a tire would last before needing replacement. Some tires have softer rubber compounds that provide excellent grip but wear out faster. Others use harder compounds for longevity but may sacrifice some traction. Balancing durability with performance was key for me.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
I read plenty of reviews and trusted brands that have a solid reputation for quality and safety. Popular brands often invest more in technology and testing, which gave me peace of mind.
Price vs. Performance
While I didn’t want to overspend, I learned that extremely cheap tires could compromise safety and performance. I set a budget but prioritized quality and suitability over just price.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
After purchasing, proper installation is essential. I recommend professional mounting and balancing to ensure safety. Regularly checking tire pressure and inspecting for wear helped me extend the tire’s life and maintain optimal performance.
My Final Thoughts
Choosing the right 120 90 R17 motorcycle tire comes down to knowing your riding needs, understanding tire specifications, and balancing grip, durability, and price. Taking the time to research and select the best tire made a noticeable difference in my ride’s safety and enjoyment. I hope this guide helps you make an informed decision for your motorcycle!
Author Profile
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Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.
In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.
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