Choosing the right tires for your supermoto is crucial for maximizing performance, whether you are carving canyons, navigating urban streets, or hitting the track. In our comprehensive evaluation, we researched a wide array of supermoto-specific and high-performance sport tires, comparing manufacturer specifications, published industry standards, and aggregated owner feedback to identify the top contenders.
Our goal is to provide an evidence-based buying guide, highlighting the strengths and limitations of each tire. We focused on key attributes such as dry grip, wet weather performance, longevity, and overall handling characteristics to help you make an informed decision for your riding style and conditions.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
 |
Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II Top Pick: Elite Performance Multi-compound technology for enhanced cornering grip |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Michelin Pilot Power 2CT Runner-Up: Versatile Sport Grip Dual-compound technology for grip and longevity |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Dunlop Sportmax Q4 Track Day Dominator Aggressive tread pattern for maximum dry grip |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Bridgestone Battlax S22 Premium Street Sport Enhanced silica compounds for superior wet and dry grip |
8.2 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Metzeler Sportec M7 RR All-Weather Performer High-silica compound for exceptional wet grip |
7.9 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Mitas Sport Force+ Value Performance Sporty profile for agile handling at a competitive value |
7.6 | 🛒 Check Price |
 |
Shinko 005 Advance Budget-Friendly Street Affordable sport tire for general street use |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II: Top Pick: Elite Performance
In our evaluation, the Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II stands out for its race-derived technology, offering phenomenal dry grip and handling precision. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, its multi-compound construction delivers confidence-inspiring performance through aggressive lean angles, making it a favorite for riders who frequently push their supermoto to its limits on the street or track. The tire’s ability to warm up quickly is a significant advantage for spirited riding sessions.
However, the focus on ultimate grip comes with a trade-off in longevity. We found that while performance is top-tier, the Diablo Rosso Corsa II exhibits a faster wear rate, particularly under hard acceleration and braking. Riders prioritizing maximum mileage over peak performance, or those primarily using their supermoto for daily commuting with less aggressive riding, may find this tire to be more performance than they require and potentially less economical in the long run.
- Features a bi-compound front and tri-compound rear for optimized lean angles.
- Derived from World Superbike racing technology for superior dry grip.
- Optimized carcass stiffness for precise handling feedback.
Pros: Exceptional dry grip and lean angle performance on asphalt.; Rapid warm-up times, ideal for aggressive street and track use.; Precise steering response and confident feedback.
Cons: Higher wear rate compared to touring-oriented tires.; Premium positioning may not suit all budgets.
2. Michelin Pilot Power 2CT: Runner-Up: Versatile Sport Grip
The Michelin Pilot Power 2CT continues to be a highly regarded choice for supermoto riders seeking a balanced performance tire. Our research indicates its dual-compound construction provides a commendable blend of longevity for straight-line riding and ample grip for aggressive cornering. Owner feedback frequently highlights its consistent performance in both wet and dry conditions, making it a reliable option for diverse street riding scenarios.
While the Pilot Power 2CT offers excellent performance for the vast majority of street riders, it is not engineered to deliver the absolute peak performance found in more specialized track-oriented tires. Riders who spend significant time on closed circuits, or those who demand the very latest in tire technology for maximum lean angle prowess, might find its ultimate limits slightly below what a dedicated track tire offers. It remains an outstanding choice for aggressive street use, but hardcore track enthusiasts might consider other options.
- 2CT dual-compound technology offers hard center for longevity, soft shoulders for grip.
- Excellent all-around performance in varied street conditions.
- Designed for consistent grip from upright to maximum lean.
Pros: Strong wet and dry grip performance.; Good balance of performance and reasonable lifespan.; Predictable handling characteristics across different temperatures.
Cons: Not as track-focused as dedicated race tires.; May lack the ultimate feedback of newer generation sport tires.
3. Dunlop Sportmax Q4: Track Day Dominator
Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, the Dunlop Sportmax Q4 is engineered for riders who prioritize maximum dry grip and track performance. Its aggressive tread pattern and construction are optimized for high-speed stability and precise handling, making it a formidable choice for track days and exceptionally spirited street riding. We found its ability to provide strong feedback under extreme braking and cornering conditions to be a significant advantage.
A critical limitation of the Q4, inherent in its track-focused design, is its compromised wet weather performance. The minimal tread depth, while beneficial for dry grip, means water dispersion is not its strong suit. Riders who frequently encounter rain or live in consistently wet climates should skip this tire, as its safety margins diminish significantly in adverse wet conditions. It is truly best suited for dry conditions and track use.
- Utilizes Dunlop's Intuitive Response Profile (IRP) for linear steering.
- Designed for 80% track, 20% aggressive street use.
- Jointless Tread (JLT) construction for consistent performance.
Pros: Exceptional dry grip and stability at high speeds.; Outstanding feedback during hard braking and cornering.; Quick warm-up and excellent feel on the track.
Cons: Limited wet weather performance due to minimal tread.; Shorter lifespan when used extensively on the street.
4. Bridgestone Battlax S22: Premium Street Sport
Our research into the Bridgestone Battlax S22 reveals a tire that delivers a high level of sport performance for the street rider. The enhanced silica compounds are a key feature, contributing to its strong grip in both dry and wet conditions, a factor frequently praised in owner feedback. We found its optimized profile allows for agile handling and quick turn-in, making it a joy for dynamic street riding.
While the S22 offers a compelling blend of performance and versatility, it is still a sport-oriented tire, meaning its durability will not match that of a dedicated sport-touring tire. Riders who are primarily focused on maximizing tire mileage above all else, or those whose riding style is more relaxed and less aggressive, may find the S22’s performance capabilities to be slightly overkill for their needs and its lifespan shorter than desired for everyday commuting. Its value lies in its balanced sport performance, not outright endurance.
- Advanced compound technology provides excellent grip in diverse conditions.
- Improved water drainage for reliable wet weather performance.
- Optimized profile for agile handling and quick turn-in.
Pros: Strong performance in both dry and wet conditions.; Excellent handling and responsiveness.; Good balance of sport performance and street usability.
Cons: May not offer the same longevity as sport-touring tires.; Can be less forgiving at the absolute limit compared to pure track tires.
5. Metzeler Sportec M7 RR: All-Weather Performer
In our evaluation, the Metzeler Sportec M7 RR distinguishes itself with its strong emphasis on wet weather performance. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheets, its high-silica compound and optimized groove design provide exceptional grip and confidence when riding in the rain, a crucial factor for many supermoto riders who don’t always have the luxury of fair weather. It offers a very competent level of dry grip for aggressive street use as well.
However, for riders who are exclusively seeking the ultimate dry track performance, the M7 RR may not deliver the same razor-sharp precision or extreme lean angle capabilities as dedicated dry-weather sport tires. While it’s a fantastic all-rounder, those whose primary focus is setting fast lap times in perfect conditions might find it slightly less aggressive at the absolute limit. It’s a superb choice for a street-focused supermoto that sees all types of weather, but not for a track-only machine.
- Developed with input from road racing for real-world conditions.
- Features a high-silica compound for enhanced chemical grip in wet.
- Groove design optimized for water evacuation and stability.
Pros: Outstanding wet weather performance and confidence.; Good dry grip for spirited street riding.; Stable and predictable handling characteristics.
Cons: Not the absolute sharpest for track-only dry performance.; Durability is average for its class.
6. Mitas Sport Force+: Value Performance
The Mitas Sport Force+ presents itself as a compelling option for supermoto riders seeking a balance of performance and value. Our research indicates that it delivers a respectable level of grip and responsive handling for spirited street riding, a sentiment echoed in aggregated owner feedback. It offers a sporty feel that can enhance the riding experience without requiring a premium investment.
A notable limitation of the Sport Force+ is its variability in longevity, which appears to be highly dependent on individual riding style and conditions. While some owners report satisfactory mileage, others find it wears faster than premium alternatives, especially under aggressive use. Riders who prioritize consistent, long-term durability above all else, or those who frequently push their bikes to the limits on track, should consider higher-tier options that may offer more predictable wear characteristics and ultimate performance.
- Designed for sport and naked bikes, suitable for supermoto applications.
- Offers a sporty profile for quick turn-in and agile handling.
- Good performance for everyday spirited street riding.
Pros: Provides a good level of grip for its value proposition.; Responsive handling for street use.; Solid option for riders seeking performance without a premium price.
Cons: Longevity can be inconsistent based on riding style.; Not designed for extreme track conditions or competitive racing.
7. Shinko 005 Advance: Budget-Friendly Street
The Shinko 005 Advance is positioned as a budget-friendly option, and in our evaluation, it delivers on that promise by providing adequate performance for general street use. Based on owner feedback, it offers an accessible entry point for supermoto riders who prioritize cost savings, delivering enough grip for daily commuting and moderately spirited riding without breaking the bank. Its radial construction contributes to stable handling for its class.
However, it is crucial to manage expectations regarding ultimate performance. The 005 Advance does not offer the same level of extreme dry grip, precise feedback, or extended durability found in premium sport tires. Riders who frequently ride aggressively, participate in track days, or demand the absolute highest safety margins in challenging conditions should consider investing in a higher-performance tire. For those with a more relaxed riding style or strict budget constraints, it presents a viable option, but its limitations at the edge of performance are clear.
- Offers a cost-effective solution for everyday street riding.
- Provides adequate grip for casual and moderately spirited use.
- Radial construction for stable handling.
Pros: Excellent value proposition for budget-conscious riders.; Acceptable grip for daily commuting and light sport riding.; Relatively quick warm-up for its category.
Cons: Limited ultimate grip compared to premium sport tires.; Durability can be a concern for aggressive riders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a tire good for supermoto?
Supermoto tires require a unique blend of characteristics: excellent dry grip for aggressive cornering and braking, a profile that allows for quick transitions and deep lean angles, and a carcass construction that provides good feedback. While some supermoto riders prioritize track performance, others need a balance of wet grip and reasonable longevity for street use. The ideal tire will match the rider’s specific use case and riding style.
Can I use street tires for supermoto?
Yes, many high-performance street sport tires are excellent choices for supermoto. In fact, most tires on our list are primarily designed for sportbikes but translate very well to supermoto applications due to their focus on agile handling, strong grip, and aggressive profiles. The key is to choose a tire with a compound and construction that can handle the supermoto’s characteristic hard braking, quick turn-in, and deep lean angles.
How long do supermoto tires last?
Tire longevity for supermoto bikes varies significantly based on tire compound, riding style, and road conditions. High-performance, softer compound tires designed for maximum grip (especially on track) will generally wear faster, potentially lasting only a few thousand miles. Harder compound, more street-oriented tires may offer longer lifespans, but typically at the expense of ultimate grip. Aggressive riding, frequent hard acceleration, and braking will also reduce tire life.
What's the difference between a sportbike tire and a supermoto tire?
While many sportbike tires are suitable for supermoto, dedicated supermoto tires, if available, often feature specific profiles and carcass constructions optimized for the unique geometry and demands of a supermoto bike. This can include slightly different crown profiles for quicker side-to-side transitions and compounds designed to handle the intense braking and acceleration typical of supermoto riding. However, the performance characteristics sought are largely similar: exceptional grip, agility, and feedback.
Do I need different tires for street vs. track supermoto riding?
Ideally, yes. For dedicated track use, tires with softer compounds and minimal tread (like the Dunlop Sportmax Q4) offer maximum dry grip and feedback, but will wear quickly and perform poorly in the wet. For street riding, a more balanced tire with good wet weather performance and reasonable longevity (like the Michelin Pilot Power 2CT or Metzeler Sportec M7 RR) is generally preferred. Some riders opt for a versatile sport tire that can handle occasional track days while still being competent on the street.
Our Verdict
After extensive research and comparison, the Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa II emerges as our Top Pick for its elite performance, offering exceptional dry grip and handling precision for aggressive street and occasional track use. For riders seeking a superb balance of versatility, strong wet and dry grip, and commendable lifespan for street riding, the Michelin Pilot Power 2CT is our strong runner-up, delivering consistent and predictable performance across various conditions.
