Finding the best tires for a supermoto 2 build requires balancing street grip, dirt durability, and handling. We researched manufacturer specifications, safety standards, and aggregated owner feedback to evaluate the top options. This guide compares seven real products, highlighting strengths and limitations to help you choose.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
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Michelin Pilot Power 3 Top Pick 120/70-17 front, 160/60-17 rear |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV Best for Performance 120/70-17 front, 180/55-17 rear |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Continental ContiAttack SM 3 Best for Supermoto 2 120/70-17 front, 150/60-17 rear |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Dunlop Q5S Great Value 120/70-17 front, 160/60-17 rear |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Bridgestone Battlax S22 Solid All-Rounder 120/70-17 front, 160/60-17 rear |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Metzeler Sportec M9 RR Track Day Option 120/70-17 front, 180/55-17 rear |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Avon Spirit ST Budget Friendly 120/70-17 front, 160/60-17 rear |
7.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Michelin Pilot Power 3: Top Pick
The Michelin Pilot Power 3 is a street-focused tire that excels on paved roads. Its dual-compound design provides a soft shoulder for grip and a harder center for durability. Owner feedback consistently praises its confidence-inspiring feel during aggressive cornering. However, this tire is not intended for dirt or gravel; it sacrifices off-road capability for on-road performance.
If you ride primarily on twisty asphalt and want maximum grip, this is a strong choice. But if your supermoto 2 sees any off-road duty, consider a more multi-purpose tire. The Pilot Power 3 is also less durable than some sport-touring options, so high-mileage riders may need to replace it sooner.
- Dual-compound technology for excellent grip in corners and straight-line stability.
- Optimized tread pattern enhances water evacuation for wet confidence.
- Lightweight construction reduces unsprung mass for agile handling.
Pros: Outstanding cornering grip on pavement.; Predictable feedback at lean angles.
Cons: Not suitable for off-road or loose surfaces.; Tread life is moderate under aggressive use.
2. Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV: Best for Performance
The Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV is engineered for high-performance street and track use. Our evaluation of published data shows it offers exceptional grip when hot, but it requires significant heat to perform. Owner feedback highlights that it feels greasy until fully warmed. This tire is not designed for all-season use; its compound hardens in cold temperatures, reducing traction.
For riders who prioritize lap times and aggressive cornering, the Diablo Rosso IV delivers. However, commuters or those in cooler climates should look elsewhere. Its soft compound wears quickly, making it a poor value for high-mileage riders.
- Bi-compound rear with full-silica tread for rapid warm-up.
- Sporty profile improves turn-in response and stability.
- New tread pattern reduces irregular wear.
Pros: Excellent dry grip for track days.; Quick warm-up even in cooler conditions.
Cons: Short tread life on the street.; Not recommended for wet or cold weather riding.
3. Continental ContiAttack SM 3: Best for Supermoto 2
The ContiAttack SM 3 is one of the few tires purpose-built for supermoto. We compared its construction to general sport tires and found it offers a stiffer carcass to handle the unique stresses of supermoto riding. Owner feedback notes it provides predictable sliding characteristics on pavement. However, its off-road capability is minimal; it is not a dual-sport tire.
If you ride a supermoto 2 primarily on tarmac and occasional gravel, this is a solid choice. But if you frequently hit dirt trails, consider a more aggressive knobby tire. The limited size range may also be a constraint for some wheels.
- Specifically designed for supermoto applications.
- Multi-compound tread for balanced grip and mileage.
- Reinforced sidewalls for stability during hard braking.
Pros: Excellent feedback on both street and track.; Good compromise between grip and longevity.
Cons: Limited sizes available for some supermoto 2 setups.; Not ideal for heavy off-road use.
4. Dunlop Q5S: Great Value
The Dunlop Q5S is a sport-touring tire that offers a balance of grip and longevity at a competitive price point. Our research shows it meets industry standards for wet braking, but owner feedback indicates it lacks the sharp turn-in of sportier tires. It is heavier, which can affect handling on a lightweight supermoto.
This tire suits riders who want a dependable all-rounder for commuting and weekend rides. If you demand maximum cornering performance or track capability, you may be disappointed. The Q5S is a safe choice for those prioritizing value over peak grip.
- Multi-compound tread for even wear.
- Sport touring profile for longer mileage.
- Silica-infused compound for wet grip.
Pros: Good value for the performance level.; Decent wet weather traction.
Cons: Less ultimate grip than premium sport tires.; Heavier feel compared to lighter options.
5. Bridgestone Battlax S22: Solid All-Rounder
The Bridgestone Battlax S22 is a capable sport tire that performs well in various conditions. We evaluated owner reviews and found mixed opinions on its longevity; some report premature wear. While it offers good wet traction, its dry grip does not match the Michelin or Pirelli options. The S22 is a solid middle-of-the-road choice.
Riders who encounter rain often may appreciate its wet confidence. However, if you prioritize aggressive cornering or maximum durability, you might want to explore other picks. The Battlax S22 is best for street riders who want a reliable tire without extreme characteristics.
- Pulse groove technology for improved wet handling.
- High-silica compound for consistent grip.
- Optimized profile for stability at high speeds.
Pros: Reliable wet performance.; Stable at highway speeds.
Cons: Average dry grip compared to competitors.; Tread life is shorter than touring tires.
6. Metzeler Sportec M9 RR: Track Day Option
The Metzeler Sportec M9 RR is a track-focused tire that prioritizes grip over longevity. Our analysis of its compound indicates it wears quickly under normal street riding. Owner feedback confirms that it can be uncomfortable on bumpy roads due to its stiff construction. It is not designed for wet conditions or cold temperatures.
This tire is best for dedicated track days or spirited canyon riding where maximum traction is essential. For daily commuting or touring, its rapid wear and harsh ride make it a poor choice. Consider it only if you are willing to replace tires frequently for peak performance.
- Dual-compound rear with 0-degree steel belt.
- Optimized for track use with rapid warm-up.
- Stiff sidewall for precise steering.
Pros: Excellent grip on dry tracks.; Fast warm-up for immediate performance.
Cons: Very short tread life on the street.; Harsh ride over rough pavement.
7. Avon Spirit ST: Budget Friendly
The Avon Spirit ST is a budget-oriented sport-touring tire that emphasizes mileage and value. We compared its published wear rates and found it offers respectable longevity. However, owner feedback notes that it feels vague during aggressive cornering and has lower ultimate grip. It may not inspire confidence at high lean angles.
This tire is suitable for riders on a tight budget who prioritize durability over performance. If you ride conservatively or primarily on straight roads, the Spirit ST can be a cost-effective choice. But for spirited supermoto riding, its limitations become apparent. Skip this if you want sharp handling or track capability.
- Dual-compound for even wear.
- Deep tread pattern for long mileage.
- Silica tread for wet grip.
Pros: Long tread life for the price.; Decent wet traction.
Cons: Lacks sporty handling feel.; Lower grip limit than premium tires.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'supermoto 2' mean for tire selection?
Supermoto 2 typically refers to a second-generation supermoto conversion or a specific model variant. These bikes often have 17-inch wheels and require tires that offer good street grip but can handle occasional dirt. Our picks focus on street-biased tires that still provide some light off-road capability.
Can I use sportbike tires on a supermoto 2?
Yes, many sportbike tires fit supermoto 2 wheels, but they may not be optimized for the bike’s weight and suspension. Tires designed specifically for supermoto, like the ContiAttack SM 3, offer better feedback and durability for the unique demands of supermoto riding.
How do I choose between grip and tread life?
It depends on your riding style. If you prioritize cornering performance, choose a softer compound tire like the Michelin Pilot Power 3. For longer mileage, consider a sport-touring tire like the Avon Spirit ST. Our guide includes both options to suit different needs.
Are these tires suitable for wet conditions?
Most of our picks offer decent wet traction, but performance varies. The Dunlop Q5S and Bridgestone S22 have good wet grip, while track-focused tires like the Metzeler M9 RR are less capable in the rain. Always check the tire’s wet rating and ride cautiously.
What tire pressure should I use for supermoto 2?
Recommended pressures vary by tire and bike. Consult your owner’s manual and the tire sidewall. A common starting point is 32-36 psi front and 36-40 psi rear for street riding. Adjust based on riding conditions and manufacturer guidelines.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing specifications, safety standards, and owner feedback, our top pick is the Michelin Pilot Power 3 for its exceptional grip and predictable handling on pavement. For a supermoto-specific design, the Continental ContiAttack SM 3 is an excellent runner-up that balances street and light off-road use.
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