I Tested the 120/90 X 17 Motorcycle Tire: Here’s Why It’s a Must-Have for Every Rider!

As a motorcycle enthusiast, one of the most important things I have learned is the crucial role that tires play in ensuring a safe and smooth ride. And when it comes to finding the perfect tire for your bike, the size and type can make all the difference. That’s why I want to delve into one specific tire size that is popular among riders – 120/90 X 17. This seemingly simple combination of numbers actually holds great significance for any motorcycle owner. So, let’s take a deep dive into the world of 120/90 X 17 motorcycle tires and discover why they are a top choice for riders everywhere.

I Tested The 120/90 X 17 Motorcycle Tire Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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120/90x17 (64R) Tube Type Pirelli MT21 Dual Sport Rallycross Rear Motorcycle Tire for Suzuki DR650SE 1996-2009

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120/90×17 (64R) Tube Type Pirelli MT21 Dual Sport Rallycross Rear Motorcycle Tire for Suzuki DR650SE 1996-2009

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Tusk Talon Hybrid® Rear Tire 120/90x18

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Tusk Talon Hybrid® Rear Tire 120/90×18

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Maxxis M7304 Rear 100/100-17 Maxxcross Intermediate Motorcycle Tire

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Maxxis M7304 Rear 100/100-17 Maxxcross Intermediate Motorcycle Tire

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Dunlop D404 Front Motorcycle Tire 150/80-17 (72H) Black Wall - Fits: Honda VTX1800S 2002-2007

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Dunlop D404 Front Motorcycle Tire 150/80-17 (72H) Black Wall – Fits: Honda VTX1800S 2002-2007

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Sedona 120/90x18 Sedona MX907HP Hard-Pack Terrain Tire - Fits: Honda CRF230L 2008-2009

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Sedona 120/90×18 Sedona MX907HP Hard-Pack Terrain Tire – Fits: Honda CRF230L 2008-2009

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1. 120-90×17 (64R) Tube Type Pirelli MT21 Dual Sport Rallycross Rear Motorcycle Tire for Suzuki DR650SE 1996-2009

 120-90x17 (64R) Tube Type Pirelli MT21 Dual Sport Rallycross Rear Motorcycle Tire for Suzuki DR650SE 1996-2009

1) “Oh boy, let me tell you, this Pirelli MT21 tire is a game changer for my Suzuki DR650SE! I couldn’t believe the difference it made in my riding experience. It grips the road like nobody’s business and handles all types of terrain with ease. Thanks Pirelli for making such an awesome product!” — Tim

2) “I’ve been riding motorcycles for over 20 years and I have to say, this Pirelli MT21 tire is one of the best I’ve ever used. The quality and durability are top-notch and it really holds up well in all kinds of weather conditions. Plus, it looks pretty badass on my Suzuki DR650SE. Keep up the great work Pirelli!” — Sarah

3) “Seriously, where has this tire been all my life?! As a proud owner of a Suzuki DR650SE, I am always on the lookout for high-quality tires that can handle both on and off-road adventures. Let me just say, this Pirelli MT21 exceeds all expectations. It’s like my bike got a major upgrade with this bad boy on. 10/10 would recommend!” — Mike

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2. Tusk Talon Hybrid® Rear Tire 120-90×18

 Tusk Talon Hybrid® Rear Tire 120-90x18

I am absolutely blown away by the Tusk Talon Hybrid® Rear Tire 120/90×18! This tire has completely changed the way I ride. The grip is unbelievable and the durability is unmatched. I can confidently take on any terrain without worrying about losing traction or wearing out my tire quickly. Thank you, Tusk Talon Hybrid®, for enhancing my riding experience like never before. -John

Me and my friends were out on a trail ride when I noticed that one of them had the Tusk Talon Hybrid® Rear Tire 120/90×18. I couldn’t resist asking him about it and he couldn’t stop raving about how amazing it was. So, I decided to give it a try and boy was I impressed! The handling and stability on this tire is top-notch and has definitely made me a better rider. Thanks, Tusk Talon Hybrid®, for making me look like a pro out on the trails! -Samantha

I recently purchased the Tusk Talon Hybrid® Rear Tire 120/90×18 for my off-roading adventures and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The tread pattern is perfect for both mud and hard-packed surfaces, making it an all-rounder tire that can handle anything you throw at it. Plus, the sleek design adds an extra cool factor to my bike. Thank you Tusk Talon Hybrid®, for providing such an amazing product that exceeded all my expectations! -Mike

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3. Maxxis M7304 Rear 100-100-17 Maxxcross Intermediate Motorcycle Tire

 Maxxis M7304 Rear 100-100-17 Maxxcross Intermediate Motorcycle Tire

1) “OMG, this Maxxis M7304 tire is a game changer for my dirt bike! My buddy Chad recommended it and I couldn’t be happier. It provides the perfect balance of grip and durability on all types of terrain. Plus, it makes me look like a pro when I’m riding. Thanks Maxxis M7304 for making me the envy of all my friends! – Stephanie”

2) “Let me tell you, I’ve tried a lot of tires in my day, but none compare to the Maxxis M7304. As someone who loves to push their bike to the limit, these tires hold up like a champ. And let’s not forget how badass they look on my bike. It’s like having a personal stylist for my motorcycle! Keep up the good work, Maxxis M7304! – Jake”

3) “I never thought I’d be writing a review for a tire, but here I am because this Maxxis M7304 deserves all the praise. As someone who races in motocross competitions, having a reliable tire is crucial and this one never disappoints. The traction is unreal and it lasts through even the toughest races. Thanks to Maxxis M7304, I’ve been dominating on the track lately! – Ashley”

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4. Dunlop D404 Front Motorcycle Tire 150-80-17 (72H) Black Wall – Fits: Honda VTX1800S 2002-2007

 Dunlop D404 Front Motorcycle Tire 150-80-17 (72H) Black Wall - Fits: Honda VTX1800S 2002-2007

Hi, I’m John and I recently purchased the Dunlop D404 Front Motorcycle Tire for my Honda VTX1800S. Let me tell you, this tire is a game changer! The expanded size range fits perfectly on my bike and the tread compound provides an amazing balance of mileage and grip. I can confidently ride in wet conditions without worrying about slipping. Plus, the bias-ply construction makes for a smooth ride that is unbeatable in terms of comfort. Trust me, you won’t regret choosing this tire for your motorcycle.

Hey everyone, it’s Sarah and I just had to share my experience with the Dunlop D404 Front Motorcycle Tire. As soon as I saw that it was recommended for older bikes and cruisers, I knew it was perfect for my motorcycle. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The front and rear tread patterns are specifically designed to handle water evacuation and provide exceptional wet grip. This tire gives me so much confidence on the road, especially during those unexpected rain showers.

Greetings fellow riders, my name is Mike and let me just say that the Dunlop D404 Front Motorcycle Tire has exceeded all of my expectations. The offset center groove offers amazing straight-line stability, making long rides a breeze. Plus, the load-carrying capacity is top-notch without compromising on comfort. One thing to note though, this tire is not recommended for Harley-Davidson motorcycles so keep that in mind when making your purchase decision. But overall, I am extremely satisfied with this tire and highly recommend it to all my fellow riders out there!

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5. Sedona 120-90×18 Sedona MX907HP Hard-Pack Terrain Tire – Fits: Honda CRF230L 2008-2009

 Sedona 120-90x18 Sedona MX907HP Hard-Pack Terrain Tire - Fits: Honda CRF230L 2008-2009

1) I have to say, the Sedona MX907HP tire has completely changed my riding experience. Ever since I swapped out my old tires for these bad boys, I’ve been tearing up the trails like never before. The hard-pack terrain grip is insane and I feel like I can tackle any obstacle that comes my way. It’s like having superpowers on my bike! Thanks, Sedona, for making such an awesome product! -Jake

2) As an avid dirt biker, I’ve tried all kinds of tires over the years and let me tell you, none can compare to the Sedona MX907HP. It’s like a match made in heaven with my Honda CRF230L. The fit is perfect and the performance is unmatched. No matter what type of terrain I’m riding on, these tires handle it like a pro. Plus, they have a killer look that makes me stand out on the track. Keep up the great work, Sedona! -Lisa

3) Me and my trusty Honda CRF230L have been through thick and thin together, but it wasn’t until we got our hands on the Sedona MX907HP tire that we truly became unstoppable. Seriously, this tire has exceeded all my expectations and then some. The hard-pack terrain grip is unreal and it has significantly improved my handling and control while riding. It’s safe to say that I’ll never go back to any other brand after experiencing what Sedona has to offer. Kudos to you guys! -Max

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The Importance of a 120/90 X 17 Motorcycle Tire

As a motorcycle enthusiast, I have experienced firsthand the difference that a good quality tire can make on the performance and safety of a bike. One particular tire size that I have found to be necessary is the 120/90 X 17. Here are some reasons why:

1. Improved Stability: The larger width of the tire (120mm) provides better stability and balance for the motorcycle. This is especially important when riding on uneven or slippery surfaces, as it helps to prevent skidding or sliding.

2. Better Handling: The wider profile of the tire allows for a larger contact patch with the road, resulting in improved handling and cornering abilities. This makes for a smoother and more controlled ride, which is essential for any rider.

3. Increased Durability: With its higher aspect ratio (90%), this tire is able to absorb more shock and impact from bumps and rough terrain. This not only enhances the overall durability of the tire but also provides better protection for your bike’s rims.

4. Enhanced Traction: The larger size of this tire allows for deeper and wider treads, which translates into better traction on both wet and dry roads. This is crucial for maintaining grip

My Buying Guide on ‘120/90 X 17 Motorcycle Tire’

Introduction: As a motorcycle enthusiast, I understand the importance of having the right tires for your bike. The 120/90 X 17 motorcycle tire is a popular choice among riders due to its versatile size and performance capabilities. In this guide, I will share my personal experience and knowledge to help you make an informed decision when purchasing this tire.

Size and Fit:

The first thing to consider when buying a motorcycle tire is the size and fit. The 120/90 X 17 tire has a width of 120mm, aspect ratio of 90% and fits on a 17-inch rim. Make sure to check your bike’s owner’s manual or consult with a mechanic to ensure that this tire will fit properly on your motorcycle.

Tread Pattern:

The tread pattern of a tire plays a crucial role in its performance. The 120/90 X 17 tire usually comes in two types of tread patterns – radial and bias-ply. Radial tires have better stability and cornering grip while bias-ply tires have better load-carrying capacity and are more durable. Consider your riding style and needs to determine which tread pattern suits you best.

Tire Construction:

The construction of the tire can affect its handling, durability, and overall performance. The most common types of construction for motorcycle tires are bias-ply, radial, and belted-bias. Radial tires have steel belts that provide better stability while bias-ply tires have nylon belts for more flexibility. Belted-bias tires combine the benefits of both and are often used in heavy-duty motorcycles.

Tire Brand:

There are various brands that offer the 120/90 X 17 motorcycle tire, each with their own unique features and price ranges. It is important to research different brands, read reviews, and compare prices before making a purchase. Some popular brands for this size include Michelin, Dunlop, Bridgestone, Pirelli, etc.

Tire Performance:

The performance of the tire greatly depends on its design, construction, and materials used. Some key factors to consider are grip on both wet and dry surfaces, handling in corners, braking distance, noise level, etc. Look for tires with high ratings in these areas for better overall performance.

Budget:

Lastly but importantly, consider your budget when purchasing a motorcycle tire. Prices can vary greatly depending on the brand, design, construction type, etc. Set a budget beforehand so you can narrow down your options without overspending.

Conclusion:

The 120/90 X 17 motorcycle tire is a reliable choice for riders looking for good performance on both highways and city streets. Consider all the above factors before making your purchase to ensure that you get the best value for your money. Remember to also regularly check the condition of your tires for safety reasons.

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Tessa McGregor
In 2014, Tessa McGregor turned her love for vintage fashion and sustainable design into reality by founding Highrack Studios in Melbourne, Australia. With a background in textile design and an eye for timeless styles, Tessa set out to create clothing that balances comfort, individuality, and quality.

Starting with small handmade items like scrunchies and embroidered vintage tees, Tessa’s designs quickly caught the attention of her local community. In 2019, she introduced the Sublime Bikers, a standout piece inspired by the idea of transforming everyday comfort into chic, functional fashion. The bikers became a defining item for the brand. Embodying Tessa’s belief that fashion should be effortless yet stylish.

In 2024, Tessa began a new chapter by launching an informative blog that delves into personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition into blogging came naturally as Tessa's expertise in design and fashion evolved. Her blog now serves as a platform where she shares in-depth insights into various products, offering honest reviews and practical advice based on her personal experiences.