How to choose the best superbike tyres

The first step in choosing tyres is to reflect on whether you mostly use your superbike to commute, tour, or ride on the track, as different tyre categories are designed for specific uses: street-performance, sport-touring tyres, and track-focused.

For example, if you spend a lot of time at the track, you'll want tyres made for racing. If you take long-distance rides, we recommend selecting tyres that provide comfort combined with performance and durability.

Want to experience the full performance of your machine? It starts with the right fit. We recommend always sticking to the size, load, and speed ratings found in your owner’s manual.

On a superbike, these numbers define your limits. A speed rating like "W" proves the tyre can handle the intense heat and forces generated at high speeds. Our engineers and test riders push these tyres to the extreme during development to guarantee they can withstand the power of your engine and the demands of the road.

Ignoring these specs puts your safety and your bike's handling at risk. By respecting the manufacturer's homologation, you ensure optimal grip and stability, allowing you to ride with passion and confidence.

Your superbike can be fitted with a variety of sport/hyper-sport tyres. We recommend learning the different characteristics of these tyres to understand the balance between grip, durability, and wet performance.

Three kinds of sport bike tyres

• Sport/super sport/hypersport tyres are made for everyday riding on city streets while also offering racing quality. They are lightweight and provide precise handling and excellent braking performance.

• Track/racing tyres provide maximum grip and performance on race tracks. These tyres feature a soft rubber compound for maximum grip and can handle high speeds but wear out quickly.

• Touring/sport-touring tyres combine sports performance with touring comfort and durability. They feature stiffer sidewalls to handle heavier loads, deeper tread depth to offer excellent wet grip, and durable construction for extended mileage.

When it comes to superbike tyres, performance is everything. That performance is largely determined by the rubber compounds. It's a complex science, but the goal for most riders is quite simple: you're likely looking for a tyre that grips confidently in the corners without wearing out too quickly on the straights.

This is where advanced technologies make a difference. Rather than using just one compound, many modern road tyres use what's called dual-compound technology.

Take Michelin's 2CT and 2CT+ technologies, for example. You'll find these in popular superbike tyres like the Michelin Power 6 and Michelin Power Cup 2. The idea is to place a more durable compound in the centre of the tyre for longevity, and a compound with more grip on the shoulders for confidence when you lean. This combination provides a balance of durability for acceleration and braking with grip for cornering.

The best tyre for you isn't just about compounds. The right choice heavily depends on when and where you ride. A tyre's rubber and its tread pattern are engineered as a system for very specific road conditions.

Dry conditions

In dry weather, grip becomes the main factor. This is especially true on a track, where riders are looking for tyres that allow for aggressive cornering.

For exclusive track use, a tyre like the Michelin Power Slick 2 is a common option because it maximises the rubber contact with the tarmac. However, keep in mind that these tyres are strongly discouraged for road use. They are not road-legal and pose a high safety risk in wet or unpredictable conditions.

Wet conditions

When the roads get wet, your priorities shift entirely to safety. To support you, our teams engineer tyres with tread patterns designed to clear water away and help prevent aquaplaning. Additionally, we often formulate our compounds with silica to help maintain grip on slippery surfaces, ensuring you stay in control. A good choice for wet conditions is the Michelin Power 6. This tyre aims to give you maximum enjoyment on dry roads while still providing confidence and improved safety on wet roads

The best superbike tyres for you are the ones that match your riding style and your bike’s specifications, while providing safety in your typical riding conditions.

With Michelin’s high-quality superbike tyres, you can enjoy an optimal riding experience and ride with confidence, knowing that the Michelin Tyre Warranty will provide you with long-lasting performance.