Choosing the right tires for motorcycle track days can dramatically improve your handling, grip, and overall performance. This article presents five top motorcycle track day tires designed to meet the demands of sport riding and track use. Whether you need tires optimized for dry cornering grip, quick warm-up, or versatile road and track performance, these options offer advanced compound technologies and engineering to elevate your ride.
| Product | Brand | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Pirelli Angel ST Front & Rear Tires | Pirelli | Sport touring compound, enhanced grip on dry & wet, durable tread, stable ride |
| Michelin Pilot Power 2CT Rear Tire | MICHELIN | 20% softer edges for cornering grip, track day & road versatile, lean angles up to 51.2° |
| Michelin Pilot Power 2CT Front Tire | MICHELIN | Derived from MotoGP tech, softer rubber edges, outstanding lean angle capability |
| Continental Conti Sport Attack 2 Front & Rear Tires | Continental | Black Chili compound, quick warm-up, continuous compound tech for stability |
| Michelin Pilot Power 2CT Rear Tire 160/60-17 | MICHELIN | Soft edge rubber, excellent cornering grip, same technology as other Pilot Power 2CT |
Pirelli Angel ST Front & Rear Motorcycle Tires
The Pirelli Angel ST tires feature a sport touring compound with high silica content, engineered for superior grip on dry roads while maintaining safety in wet and low-temperature conditions. This balance makes them suitable for riders who want a tire that performs well on both highways and winding roads.
The innovative tread design merges attractive styling with functional features that enhance longevity and road contact. The new front and rear profiles deliver consistent, neutral performance across different surfaces and riding approaches, ensuring a stable and controlled ride whether cruising or spirited cornering.
These tires fit a range of sport and touring bikes, making them a versatile choice for riders seeking dependable track day performance with comfortable road usability.
Michelin Pilot Power 2CT Rear Motorcycle Tire
The Michelin Pilot Power 2CT rear tire uses a dual-compound (2CT) design where the edges deploy a rubber 20% softer than the center, enhancing cornering grip crucial for track day riders seeking aggressive lean angles.
Specifically designed for high-performance hp/track use, this tire supports lean angles up to 51.2 degrees, verified on Michelin’s test track. It offers excellent grip for sharp cornering while maintaining durability in the center for stability during straight-line acceleration.
Its adaptability allows for confident riding on both track and street, suitable for riders wanting a tire that performs across varied conditions.
Michelin Pilot Power 2CT Front Motorcycle Tire
The front counterpart of the Pilot Power 2CT series incorporates Real MotoGP technology, benefiting from Michelin’s 15 consecutive GP World Championships. This technology caters to riders demanding high-performance front-end grip and precision.
Featuring the same 20% softer rubber mix on the tread edges, this tire grants outstanding cornering abilities, especially in dry conditions. Its ability to lean up to 51.2 degrees helps riders push limits with confidence at the front axle.
This tire pairs beautifully with its rear sibling for balanced, high-speed track riding and responsive handling.
Continental Conti Sport Attack 2 Front & Rear Sports Motorcycle Tires
Continental’s Conti Sport Attack 2 tires utilize their unique Black Chili compound, providing maximum grip with excellent traction on dry and wet surfaces alike. This compound is favored for track-day riding due to its superior friction characteristics.
One standout is the quick warm-up technology, allowing the tire to reach its optimal operating temperature much faster, critical for track conditions where warm tires improve handling drastically.
The Continuous Compound Technology boosts the bike’s stability and delivers consistent performance across various lean angles, making these tires a strong candidate for riders prioritizing quick response and grip.
Michelin Pilot Power 2CT Rear 160/60-17 Motorcycle Tire
This Michelin Pilot Power 2CT rear tire in the 160/60-17 size offers the same advanced features as other 2CT models, including the dual-compound design optimized for phenomenal cornering grip with softer rubber on edges.
It shares the track-day-approved technology, ensuring lean angle capabilities up to 51.2 degrees. It performs well not only on the track but also on pavement, making it an excellent hybrid choice for riders wanting spirited track riding alongside road convenience.
Its moderate profile balances traction, wear resistance, and handling precision.
Buying Guide For Motorcycle Track Day Tires
When selecting tires for track day use, several factors are essential to consider to optimize safety and performance:
Rubber Compound
The compound type impacts grip and tire longevity. Softer compounds provide better traction and cornering grip but wear faster. Dual-compound tires like Michelin’s 2CT balance edge grip with center durability, ideal for track enthusiasts who also ride on roads.
Tread Pattern and Design
Track day tires often feature specialized tread optimized for quick heat-up and maximum surface contact. Some prioritize dry grip, while others ensure wet-condition performance. Consider if you need tires strictly for track or for mixed use.
Heat-Up Time
Motorsport tires must reach optimal temperature quickly. Rapid warm-up technology allows better handling shortly after starting, critical when track sessions are limited.
Stability and Profile
The tire’s profile influences lean angle capability and bike stability. A tire that supports high lean angles enhances performance in tight corners, but stability in straight lines is equally important.
Compatibility and Size
Check your motorcycle’s specifications to choose the correct tire size and aspect ratio. Proper fit ensures the tire performs as intended, both in handling and wear.
Intended Use
Some tires excel only on the track, while others offer versatility for street riding and track use. Balance your tire choice with your typical riding environment.
Assessing these aspects will help you find the best motorcycle track day tires suited to your riding style and bike, improving your skill, safety, and enjoyment on the track.