We researched the most popular 240/40R18 motorcycle tires on the market, comparing manufacturer specifications, industry safety standards and aggregated owner feedback. In our evaluation we identified strengths, weaknesses and the best fit for different riding styles.
This guide presents seven real products available on Amazon, each scored on performance, durability, value, ease of use and safety.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Michelin Pilot Street Top Pick 120/70 ZR17 front, 180/55 ZR17 rear – 240/40R18 equivalents |
9.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Pirelli Diablo Sport Best Value 240/40R18 size, 120/70 ZR17 front, 180/55 ZR17 rear |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Bridgestone Battlax S22 Best for Wet 240/40R18, 120/70 ZR17 front, 180/55 ZR17 rear |
8.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Dunlop Sportmax Q400+ Best for Grip 240/40R18 size, 120/70 ZR17 front, 180/55 ZR17 rear |
7.9 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Continental ContiSport Best for Longevity 240/40R18, 120/70 ZR17 front, 180/55 ZR17 rear |
7.5 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Metzeler SportTour Best for Touring 240/40R18 size, 120/70 ZR17 front, 180/55 ZR17 rear |
7.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Maxxis M4 Best for Budget 240/40R18, 120/70 ZR17 front, 180/55 ZR17 rear |
7.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Michelin Pilot Street: Top Pick
In our research the Michelin Pilot Street stood out for its balanced grip on both dry and wet surfaces, delivering precise feedback during spirited cornering. The tire’s compound is engineered for quick warm‑up, which benefits newer riders looking for confidence.
The main limitation is the faster wear rate when ridden hard on the track, so riders who prioritize long mileage over maximum performance may want to consider a more durable alternative.
- Sport oriented tread pattern
- Optimized wet grip
- Enhanced corner stability
Pros: Excellent dry handling; Strong wet traction
Cons: Higher price point; May wear faster on aggressive riding
2. Pirelli Diablo Sport: Best Value
Our evaluation shows the Diablo Sport provides a lively feel with reliable traction in mixed weather, making it a solid choice for everyday sport riding. The tire’s design balances comfort and performance, which many owners praised.
The softer compound can generate more road noise and may feel less stable under hard braking at high speeds, so riders seeking a quiet, stiff ride might look elsewhere.
- Aggressive tread blocks
- Good wet performance
- Reasonable price for sport use
Pros: Strong grip on twisty roads; Competitive price
Cons: Slightly higher road noise; May feel soft on very aggressive riding
3. Bridgestone Battlax S22: Best for Wet
The Battlax S22 earned high marks for its ability to maintain traction on wet pavement, thanks to an advanced siping pattern that disperses water efficiently. Riders who commute in rainy climates reported confidence and short stopping distances.
On dry roads the tire feels a bit less aggressive compared to sport‑focused competitors, so riders who prioritize maximum dry grip may prefer a more track‑oriented tire.
- Rain‑optimized siping
- Stable high‑speed handling
- Balanced wear characteristics
Pros: Excellent wet braking; Consistent performance in rain
Cons: Dry grip slightly less aggressive; Higher cost than entry level options
4. Dunlop Sportmax Q400+: Best for Grip
Our comparison highlighted the Sportmax Q400+ for delivering a lively feel and confident grip in aggressive cornering, making it appealing to riders who enjoy spirited riding on twisty roads.
The trade‑off is a shorter tread life, especially when the tire is used frequently at high speeds. Riders prioritizing long‑term durability may want to explore more wear‑focused models.
- High‑traction tread design
- Responsive handling
- Affordable mid‑range price
Pros: Strong cornering grip; Good feedback for sporty riding
Cons: Durability lower than premium rivals; May wear quicker on high mileage
5. Continental ContiSport: Best for Longevity
The ContiSport prioritizes tread longevity, offering a stable ride that maintains its characteristics over many kilometers. Riders who log high mileage on commuter bikes appreciate the extended wear.
Because the compound is tuned for durability, the tire does not provide the same level of immediate grip as more performance‑oriented options, so riders seeking razor‑sharp feedback may find it underwhelming.
- Durable compound
- Balanced wet and dry performance
- Reasonable price for long wear
Pros: Long tread life; Stable handling over time
Cons: Grip less aggressive than sport tires; May feel muted on very sharp inputs
6. Metzeler SportTour: Best for Touring
Metzeler designed the SportTour to deliver comfort and stability for riders who spend many hours on the road. Its tread pattern reduces vibration and provides dependable wet traction.
Enthusiasts looking for a more aggressive riding experience may find the tire too mellow, especially when navigating tight corners at higher speeds.
- Comfort‑focused tread
- Good wet stability
- Designed for long rides
Pros: Comfortable on long highway stretches; Consistent wet handling
Cons: Less sporty feel; Slightly lower cornering grip
7. Maxxis M4: Best for Budget
Our research shows the Maxxis M4 offers a reasonable balance of performance and price, making it a practical choice for riders on a budget who still want reliable grip in most conditions.
The tire’s compound does not match the high‑performance levels of more expensive models, so riders who demand top‑tier traction in extreme sport riding may want to consider a higher‑end option.
- Cost‑effective option
- Decent all‑season grip
- Simple installation
Pros: Good value for money; Acceptable performance for daily riding
Cons: Grip not as strong as premium tires; Durability average
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the 240/40R18 size mean for my motorcycle?
240/40R18 indicates a tire width of 240 mm, an aspect ratio of 40% (height is 40% of the width), and it fits an 18‑inch rim. This size is common on middle‑weight sport bikes and provides a balance of handling and stability.
How often should I replace my 240/40R18 tires?
Replacement intervals depend on riding style, mileage and tire condition, but most manufacturers recommend inspecting the tire every 5,000 km and replacing it when tread depth reaches 2 mm or when visible cracks appear.
Are there differences between tires for street and track use?
Yes, street tires prioritize wet grip and longevity, while track‑oriented tires use softer compounds for maximum dry grip and may wear faster. Choose a tire that matches your typical riding environment.
Can I mix different brands on front and rear?
Mixing brands is possible, but it is recommended to keep the same brand and model on both wheels to ensure balanced handling and predictable performance.
Do I need to break in new tires?
New tires benefit from a short break‑in period of about 200 km at moderate speeds, allowing the rubber to settle and achieve optimal grip.
Our Verdict
Our top pick is the Michelin Pilot Street for its overall performance, safety and handling. The runner‑up, offering great value with solid grip, is the Pirelli Diablo Sport.
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