Answering the search intent: these 17-inch street slicks are designed for riders seeking high grip, agile handling, and quick warm-up on road-going motorcycles. The top picks below are best for sport enthusiasts, aggressive street riders, and mixed-terrain riders who value precision, stability, and reliable traction. Each entry includes who it’s best for, why it stands out, and a practical note to consider before purchase.
| Product | Best For | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| Pirelli Diablo Rosso II Front 120/70 ZR 17 | Aggressive street and track-day riders (front tire) | High grip and durable construction for confident steering on 17-inch front wheels |
| Continental ContiAttack SM 2 Rear 160/60R17 | Supermoto and aggressive street riding (rear tire) | Black Chili compound delivers strong traction and fast warm-up |
| Continental ContiAttack SM 2 Front 110/70R17 | Front-end control for supermoto-like handling | Optimized stability and precise feedback at lean angles |
| Shinko 003 Stealth Front 120/70ZR-17 | Warm-up sensitive riders and track-day hopefuls (front) | Slickdimple design with soft compound options for rapid grip |
| Pirelli Diablo Rosso II Rear 160/60 ZR 17 | Versatile daily sport riding with strong wet/dry grip | Dual‑compound technology for extended wear and high-traction shoulders |
Pirelli Diablo Rosso II Front 120/70 ZR 17
Best for riders seeking high grip on the front axle with reliable steering response. This tire’s durable construction supports confident cornering on 17-inch front wheels, making it suitable for spirited street riding and occasional track days. Caution: front-tire grip can vary in extreme wet conditions; adjust speed accordingly.
Continental ContiAttack SM 2 Rear 160/60R17
Best for riders who demand superior rear-end grip and quick warm-up. The Black Chili compound improves traction and reduces cold-weather lag, while GripLimitFeedback helps riders sense slip and lean during aggressive acceleration and braking. Caution: rear compound may wear differently under frequent hard use on rough surfaces.
Continental ContiAttack SM 2 Front 110/70R17
Best for front-end precision and stability on supermoto-inspired setups. This front tire complements a high-grip rear for balanced handling, especially at high lean angles. Limitation: optimized for performance riding; may feel firmer on rough pavement compared with touring-focused fronts.
Shinko 003 Stealth Ultra-Soft Front 120/70ZR-17
Best for riders who want racing-lean performance with rapid warm-up. The Ultra-Soft compound variant offers quick grip, making it a strong choice for production and drag racing on the street. Caution: softer compounds wear faster in hot sun and on rough roads; use as intended for performance riding rather than long daily commutes.
Pirelli Diablo Rosso II Rear 160/60 ZR 17
Best for versatile sport riding with strong wet and dry grip. The rear tire uses dual-compound technology to extend wear in the center while maintaining higher grip on the shoulders. This helps sustain performance during varied riding conditions. Caution: colder climates may delay optimal grip until the tire reaches operating temperature.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for 17 Inch Street Slicks
- Riding style: Choose front-heavy setups for precise steering and rear-heavy configurations for traction control during aggressive acceleration.
- Compound choices: Softer compounds provide quicker grip, while harder compounds offer longer life. Dual- or multi-compound designs balance grip and longevity.
- Rim compatibility: Ensure tire widths and speeds align with your motorcycle’s 17-inch rims and suspension tuning.
- Weather performance: Some tires excel in dry conditions but perform differently when wet. Consider your local climate and season usage.
- Maintenance and wear: Understand how heat, pavement texture, and riding style affect wear patterns and replacement intervals.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What makes a 17-inch street tire different from others? They balance sport-oriented grip with street durability on 17-inch rims, often featuring compounds and tread designs suited for mixed riding.
- Which tire is best for aggressive cornering on a street bike? Front and rear combinations from ContiAttack SM series and Pirelli Rosso II lines offer strong grip with predictable feedback.
- Are ultra-soft compounds worth it for regular street riding? They provide faster warm-up and grip but may wear faster; ideal for track days or occasional performance sessions.
- Can I mix brands on the same bike? Mixing front and rear brands is common, but ensure matching profiles and performance expectations to avoid handling imbalances.
- How important is tire pressure with these tires? Proper inflation is essential to achieving the intended grip and stability; consult your bike’s manual and aim for manufacturer-recommended pressures.