Best V Strom Tires for Road and Gravel Riding

Best V Strom Tires

A strong V-Strom tire choice matches your bike’s model and year, wheel position, and usual balance of pavement and unpaved riding. The Continental TKC70 stands out for riders seeking a stated 60% on-road, 40% off-road design, while the TUSK 2Track options target specific adventure-bike fitments. This roundup includes individual front and rear tires, not complete matched sets, and the listed sizes and fitments are not interchangeable across every V-Strom.

Several TKC70 listings describe similar tread and wet-weather features but name different models or years, so check the exact application before ordering. Use the comparisons below to narrow the choices by fitment and specifications, then confirm the required tire size and position in your motorcycle’s manual or with a qualified tire dealer.

The Continental TKC70 Rear is the leading pick for a V-Strom rider whose bike matches its stated DL650 ABS 2011–2018 fitment. Its 150/70R-17 size, 60/40 on-road/off-road positioning, RainGrip compound, and MultiGrip technology make it the most fully described rear option for that fitment. It is a single rear tire, not a complete set; confirm your exact model, year, wheel position, and approved size before buying.

Our Top Picks

Continental TKC70 RearBest Overall

Continental TKC70 Rear

Its listed DL650 ABS 2011–2018 fitment and 150/70R-17 size are paired with 60/40 road-off-road positioning, RainGrip, and MultiGrip.

View on Amazon
Continental TKC70 FrontBest 2011 Front

Continental TKC70 Front

This 110/80R-19 front tire is specifically listed for the V-Strom 650 DL650 2011 and offers the TKC70’s 60/40 riding balance.

View on Amazon
Continental TKC70 FrontBest 1000 Front

Continental TKC70 Front

The stated DL1000 2002–2009 fitment and 110/80R-19 size suit that front-wheel application, with a quiet, stable tread described for road and gravel.

View on Amazon

Compare V-Strom Tire Options by Fitment and Position

#ProductSizeRim SizeLoad CapacityBuy
117 in17 in716 lbView on Amazon
2110/80R-1919 in—View on Amazon
3110/80R-19 (59V)19 in—View on Amazon
417 in17 in716 lbView on Amazon
5
Continental TKC70 Rear5. Continental TKC70 RearDL650 2011 rear touring mix
17 in17 in716 lbView on Amazon
6
Continental TKC70 Front6. Continental TKC70 FrontOlder DL650 mixed-route front
19 in19 in—View on Amazon
7
TUSK 2Track Front7. TUSK 2Track FrontBest 800DE Front
———View on Amazon
8
TUSK 2Track Rear8. TUSK 2Track RearV-Strom 1000XT rear replacement
150/70B-1717 in719 lbView on Amazon

Detailed Reviews: Best V Strom Tires

Continental TKC70 Rear

#1 · Best Overall

1. Continental TKC70 Rear

  • Size: 17 in
  • Rim Size: 17 in
  • Load Capacity: 716 lb

Best for: DL650 ABS rear replacement.

Why it ranks #1: Its listed DL650 ABS 2011–2018 fitment and 150/70R-17 size are paired with 60/40 road-off-road positioning, RainGrip, and MultiGrip.

The listed 2011–2018 V-Strom 650 ABS DL650A application makes this TKC70 rear the specifically identified option for that model range. Continental pairs its 60/40 road-to-off-road positioning with RainGrip wet-weather grip and a short warm-up phase for riders whose routes include pavement and gravel.

The tire is specified as a 150/70R-17 rear with a 17-inch rim and a stated 716-pound load capacity. Continental says its 0-degree steel-belted construction supports high stability and low kickback, while the tread pattern is intended to remain quiet and stable on roads and capable on gravel. RainGrip adds a wet-weather grip claim and short warm-up phase, giving buyers several practical details for evaluating mixed-condition use.

Pros
  • Listed for V-Strom 650 ABS DL650A 2011–2018
  • 150/70R-17 rear specification and 17-inch rim
  • 716-pound stated load capacity
  • RainGrip and 0-degree steel-belt features are described
Cons
  • Rear tire only; the listing does not supply a matching front tire.

Skip it if you need a rear for a DL650 2011 without the ABS model-range listing; the Continental TKC70 rear for that application is specified separately.

Choose this rear TKC70 if your V-Strom 650 ABS DL650A falls within the listed 2011–2018 range and you want a road-and-gravel balance. It is a rear tire, so select a matching front separately.

Full product details
BrandContinental
Load Capacity716 pounds
ManufacturerContinental
Part NumberCONT10880
Rim Size17 inches
Additional InformationImportant Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

Listed on Amazon as: Continental TKC70 Dual Sport Rear Motorcycle Tire 150/70R-17 (69V) for Suzuki V-Strom 650 (ABS) DL650A 2011-2018

View on Amazon
Continental TKC70 Front

#2 · Best 2011 Front

2. Continental TKC70 Front

  • Size: 110/80R-19
  • Rim Size: 19 in

Best for: DL650 front for wet roads.

Why it ranks #2: This 110/80R-19 front tire is specifically listed for the V-Strom 650 DL650 2011 and offers the TKC70’s 60/40 riding balance.

RainGrip's stated wet-weather grip and very short warm-up phase give this TKC70 front a practical edge for V-Strom 650 DL650 riders who encounter changing conditions. Its 60/40 road-to-off-road positioning keeps the focus on mixed routes, with a tread pattern described as quiet and stable on pavement.

The 110/80R-19 size and 19-inch rim specify a front tire, and the title lists the DL650 2011 application. Continental's radial design is described as constructed for off-road use, while its tread pattern aims to stay quiet and stable on the road and capable on gravel. RainGrip adds a wet-weather benefit, and MultiGrip semi-dual compound technology is also included in the supplied feature set.

Pros
  • RainGrip compound is described for wet-weather grip
  • Very short warm-up phase
  • 60% road and 40% off-road positioning
  • 110/80R-19 size with 19-inch rim specification
Cons
  • Front tire only; the listing does not include a rear tire.

Skip it if you need the listed older DL650 2004–2009 application; the Continental TKC70 front listing for those years is a closer match.

This TKC70 front fits the listed DL650 2011 application for riders balancing pavement, gravel, and wet-road considerations. Treat it as a front replacement only and verify the motorcycle's fitment before selecting a tire.

Full product details
BrandContinental
Part NumberCONT8004
Rim Size19 inches
Size110/80R-19
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description110/80R-19

Listed on Amazon as: Continental TKC70 Dual Sport Front Motorcycle Tire 110/80R-19 (59V) for Suzuki V-Strom 650 DL650 2011

View on Amazon
Continental TKC70 Front

#3 · Best 1000 Front

3. Continental TKC70 Front

  • Size: 110/80R-19 (59V)
  • Rim Size: 19 in

Best for: Mixed-road DL1000 front.

Why it ranks #3: The stated DL1000 2002–2009 fitment and 110/80R-19 size suit that front-wheel application, with a quiet, stable tread described for road and gravel.

A radial construction specifically made for off-road use sets this Continental TKC70 front apart, while its 60% road and 40% off-road positioning suits V-Strom 1000 riders dividing time between pavement and trails. Its tread pattern aims to keep road travel quiet and stable without giving up gravel capability.

The 110/80R-19 size and 19-inch rim specification identify this as a front tire for the listed DL1000 applications, rather than a complete tire set. Continental pairs the radial design with a block pattern intended to feel agile on streets and secure on gravel, making it a practical match for mixed-route riding. The product listing calls out the V-Strom 1000 DL1000 from 2002–2009 and recommends consulting its fitment guide for additional machines.

Pros
  • Radial design constructed for off-road use
  • 60% on-road and 40% off-road positioning
  • Tread pattern targets quiet, stable road travel
  • Listed 110/80R-19 size for DL1000 2002–2009
Cons
  • Front tire only; the listing does not include a matching rear tire.

Skip it if you need a rear tire rather than a front; the listed TUSK 2Track Adventure Rear is the rear option in this roundup.

Choose this front TKC70 if your DL1000 use mixes paved miles with gravel and you want a road-conscious trail tread. It is a front-only listing, so plan separately for a compatible rear tire.

Full product details
BrandContinental
ManufacturerContinental
Part Number2443830000e071-803a48
Rim Size19 inches
Size110/80R-19 (59V)
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description110/80R-19

Listed on Amazon as: Continental TKC70 Dual Sport Front Motorcycle Tire 110/80R-19 (59V) for Suzuki V-Strom 1000 DL1000 2002-2009

View on Amazon
Continental TKC70 Rear

#4 · Best 1000 Rear

4. Continental TKC70 Rear

  • Size: 17 in
  • Rim Size: 17 in
  • Load Capacity: 716 lb

Best for: DL1000 mixed-weather rear.

Why it ranks #4: This 150/70R-17 rear listing names the DL1000 2014–2016 and includes RainGrip, MultiGrip, and the TKC70’s 60/40 on-road/off-road positioning.

RainGrip compound with stated wet-weather grip and a very short warm-up phase distinguishes this TKC70 rear for V-Strom 1000 DL1000 riders. Its 60% road and 40% off-road positioning also signals a balanced role for routes that move between pavement and gravel rather than focusing exclusively on either surface.

The listing identifies a 150/70R-17 rear for the DL1000 2014–2016 and states a 716-pound load capacity. Continental's RainGrip compound is intended to provide wet-weather grip and warm quickly, while the tread pattern is described as quiet and stable on roads and capable on gravel. A 0-degree steel-belted construction is also said to support stability and reduce kickback, relevant to riders prioritizing composed road behavior on an adventure route.

Pros
  • RainGrip compound is described for wet-weather grip
  • Very short warm-up phase is specified
  • 60/40 road-to-off-road positioning
  • 0-degree steel belt is said to support stability and low kickback
Cons
  • Rear tire only; it does not provide the matching front tire.

Skip it if you need a front tire rather than a rear; the Continental TKC70 front listings provide front options in this roundup.

Choose this rear TKC70 for a listed DL1000 2014–2016 application and routes combining wet pavement, ordinary roads, and gravel. It is not a complete set, so pair it with an appropriate front tire.

Full product details
BrandContinental
Load Capacity716 pounds
ManufacturerContinental
Part NumberCONT10876
Rim Size17 inches
Additional InformationImportant Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

Listed on Amazon as: Continental TKC70 Dual Sport Rear Motorcycle Tire 150/70R-17 (69V) for Suzuki V-Strom 1000 DL1000 2014-2016

View on Amazon
Continental TKC70 Rear

#5

5. Continental TKC70 Rear

  • Size: 17 in
  • Rim Size: 17 in
  • Load Capacity: 716 lb

Best for: DL650 2011 rear touring mix.

Why it ranks #5: Its 150/70R-17 rear size and DL650 2011 fitment are explicit, while the listed RainGrip and MultiGrip features support mixed-weather, mixed-surface use.

A 0-degree steel-belted construction is stated to guarantee high stability and low kickback on this TKC70 rear, giving DL650 riders a specific road-control feature to weigh. Continental positions the tire for 60% road and 40% off-road use, with RainGrip for wet-weather grip and a short warm-up phase.

This 150/70R-17 rear listing is identified for the V-Strom 650 DL650 2011 and states a 716-pound load capacity. The 0-degree steel belt is described as supporting stability and reducing kickback, while the tread pattern aims for quiet, stable road behavior with gravel capability. RainGrip's wet-weather grip and short warm-up phase further suit mixed-condition routes. Together, the listed features make its road-and-gravel orientation clear without presenting it as an exclusively off-road tire.

Pros
  • 150/70R-17 rear tire listing for DL650 2011
  • 716-pound stated load capacity
  • 0-degree steel belt described for stability and low kickback
  • RainGrip compound for wet grip and short warm-up
Cons
  • Rear tire only; a matching front tire is not part of the listing.

Skip it if you need the listed DL650 ABS 2011–2018 rear application; the Continental TKC70 rear for that range is specified separately.

This rear TKC70 suits a DL650 2011 rider seeking a road-focused mixed-surface tire with stated wet-grip and stability features. Confirm that the year-specific listing matches your motorcycle, and choose a front separately.

Full product details
BrandContinental
Load Capacity716 pounds
ManufacturerContinental
Part NumberCONT10882
Rim Size17 inches
Additional InformationImportant Information Proposition 65 Warning for California Consumers WARNING: Cancer and Reproductive Harm – www.P65Warnings.ca.gov

Listed on Amazon as: Continental TKC70 Dual Sport Rear Motorcycle Tire 150/70R-17 (69V) for Suzuki V-Strom 650 DL650 2011

View on Amazon
Continental TKC70 Front

#6

6. Continental TKC70 Front

  • Size: 19 in
  • Rim Size: 19 in

Best for: Older DL650 mixed-route front.

Why it ranks #6: The 110/80R-19 front tire is listed for the DL650 2004–2009 and shares the model’s 60/40 positioning and wet-weather RainGrip compound.

Continental's radial design constructed for off-road use makes this TKC70 front a mixed-route choice for the V-Strom 650 DL650 2004–2009 application. Its stated 60% road and 40% off-road balance, together with RainGrip wet-weather performance, suits riders who want road manners without ruling out gravel.

The product specifies a 110/80R-19 front tire on a 19-inch rim for the listed older DL650 years. Its tread block pattern is described as quiet and stable on roads while retaining gravel capability, which supports commuting or touring routes with unpaved sections. RainGrip is intended for wet-weather grip and a short warm-up phase, and Continental's MultiGrip semi-dual compound technology is another stated feature for buyers comparing tire construction.

Pros
  • Listed 110/80R-19 front size
  • 60/40 road-to-off-road positioning
  • RainGrip is described for wet grip and short warm-up
  • MultiGrip semi-dual compound technology
Cons
  • Front tire only; the rear must be sourced separately.

Skip it if you ride a 2011 DL650 application; the Continental TKC70 front listing for that year is the more directly specified option.

Pick this front TKC70 if your DL650 falls within the listed 2004–2009 range and your routes mix pavement with gravel. It is a front-only tire, so select a suitable rear separately.

Full product details
BrandContinental
Item Dimensions26 x 26 x 5 inches
Item Weight17.4 pounds
Dimensions26 x 26 x 5 inches
Part NumberCONT8003
Rim Size19 inches

Listed on Amazon as: Continental TKC70 Dual Sport Front Motorcycle Tire 110/80R-19 (59V) for Suzuki V-Strom 650 DL650 2004-2009

View on Amazon
TUSK 2Track Front

#7 · Best 800DE Front

7. TUSK 2Track Front

Best for: Aggressive 800DE adventure front.

Why it ranks #7: This 90/90-21 front listing specifically fits the V-Strom 800DE Adventure 2023–2026 and describes deep tread, large blocks, and reinforced knob bases.

Reinforced, connected knob bases are the defining feature of this TUSK 2Track front, intended to increase handling and stability for challenging adventure-bike terrain. Large tread blocks also target consistent on-road handling, giving V-Strom 800DE Adventure riders a front tire described for both road use and demanding off-road riding.

The 90/90-21 front specification is listed for the V-Strom 800DE Adventure 2023–2026, identifying this as a front replacement rather than a rear tire. TUSK combines connected, reinforced knob bases with large tread blocks: the former support handling and stability, while the latter are intended to maintain predictable on-road behavior. Its durable rubber compound is described as supporting traction and long-lasting wear, and the deep tread gives it an aggressive profile for adventure use.

Pros
  • 90/90-21 front tire listing for 800DE Adventure 2023–2026
  • Reinforced, connected knob bases support handling and stability
  • Large tread blocks target consistent on-road handling
  • Durable compound is described as supporting traction and wear
Cons
  • Front tire only; a matching rear tire is not included in the listing.

Skip it if you need a rear replacement; the TUSK 2Track Adventure Rear listing is the rear option, though for a different V-Strom application.

This front 2Track suits 800DE Adventure riders seeking a deep-tread tire with stated road-handling and off-road aims. Check the listed model-year application and source a rear tire separately for a full set.

Full product details
BrandTUSK
Item Weight‎15.03 pounds
Manufacturer‎TUSK
Part Number‎213-171-0002ab66-2e0109
Dimensions‎27 x 27 x 4 inches

Listed on Amazon as: TUSK 2Track Adventure Tire Front 90/90-21 (54T) for Suzuki V-Strom 800DE Adventure 2023-2026

View on Amazon
TUSK 2Track Rear

#8

8. TUSK 2Track Rear

  • Size: 150/70B-17
  • Rim Size: 17 in
  • Load Capacity: 719 lb

Best for: V-Strom 1000XT rear replacement.

Why it ranks #8: The 150/70B-17 rear tire is listed for the V-Strom 1000XT Adventure 2019, but its supplied details include fewer riding and tread features.

Its 150/70B-17 rear specification and stated 719-pound load capacity make the TUSK 2Track a clearly identified rear option for the 2019 Suzuki V-Strom 1000XT Adventure. The listing supplies core sizing and load information, helping buyers assess the tire's role in an adventure-bike setup.

This listing identifies the tire as a 150/70B-17 rear for the V-Strom 1000XT Adventure 2019, with a 17-inch rim specification. That information helps distinguish it from front tires and other 2Track fitments when planning a replacement. A stated 719-pound load capacity provides a concrete load reference for the buyer, while the 26.3-pound item weight and listed dimensions are useful logistical details for handling and storage before installation.

Pros
  • Rear tire listing for V-Strom 1000XT Adventure 2019
  • 150/70B-17 size specification
  • 17-inch rim specification
  • 719-pound stated load capacity
Cons
  • The supplied listing gives no tread, compound, or on-road/off-road performance details.

Skip it if you want documented tread and terrain characteristics; the Continental TKC70 rear listings specify a 60/40 road-to-off-road balance.

Consider this TUSK rear if you need the listed 150/70B-17 fitment for a 2019 V-Strom 1000XT Adventure and value a stated load figure. The supplied details do not characterize its tread or terrain behavior.

Full product details
BrandTUSK
Item Dimensions27 x 27 x 7 inches
Item Weight26.3 pounds
Load Capacity719 pounds
ManufacturerTUSK
Part Number213-774-0102546b-9e7f5a
Rim Size17 inches
Size150/70B-17
Vehicle Tire ISO Metric Size Description150/70B-17

Listed on Amazon as: TUSK 2Track Adventure Tire Rear 150/70B-17 (69T) for Suzuki V-Strom 1000XT Adventure 2019

View on Amazon

Avoid front-and-rear fitment mix-ups

The main fitment trap is treating a matching tire family as proof that a front and rear listing form a compatible set. The TKC70 front options here are 110/80R-19, while the rear options are 150/70R-17; the TUSK 2Track front for the 800DE is 90/90-These sizes and positions are distinct, and the products are individual tires.

The listed applications also differ by V-Strom model and year: for example, a DL650 front listing for 2011 does not itself confirm fitment on a DL650 from another year, and the 800DE front listing does not establish a matching rear tire in this roundup. Before ordering, compare both tire positions with the motorcycle’s manual and confirm the exact model designation, year, wheel, and required size.

Do not infer fitment from brand or tread family alone.

What the TKC70 60/40 description means here

The TKC70 listings describe a tire positioned for 60% on-road and 40% off-road use, which signals a compromise rather than a tire dedicated to either surface. The product details also describe a tread intended to remain quiet and stable on the road while offering gravel capability; the rear listings mention RainGrip, and several list MultiGrip. Those are manufacturer-provided descriptions, not a guarantee of performance on every surface or in every condition.

The TUSK 2Track descriptions emphasize deep tread and large blocks, with reinforced, connected knob bases stated for its 800DE front listing. That suggests a more visibly aggressive adventure-tire design, but the supplied details do not provide a percentage split for road and off-road riding.

Match the stated tire character to your actual routes, and avoid choosing by appearance alone.

How to Choose V-Strom Tires

Exact model and year fitment

Start with the exact motorcycle model and year named in the listing, not just the V-Strom family. These products cover DL650 applications from 2004–2009 and 2011, a DL650 ABS application from 2011–2018, DL1000 applications from 2002–2009 and 2014–2016, and an 800DE Adventure application from 2023–The TUSK rear listing names a 1000XT Adventure 2019.

That spread means the broadest stated year range is the DL650 ABS rear listing, while other options are tied to narrower applications. Riders with a bike matching a specific listing should prioritize that exact fitment; anyone with a different trim or year should verify compatibility rather than assume adjacent model years are covered.

Wheel position and tire size

Match both wheel position and the full size designation before considering tread or brand. The Continental front listings specify 110/80R-19, the TKC70 rear listings specify 150/70R-17, the TUSK 2Track 800DE front is 90/90-21, and the TUSK 1000XT rear is 150/70B-A 19-inch front, 21-inch front, and 17-inch rear are not interchangeable positions.

The size notation also differs between the TUSK rear’s B construction designation and the TKC70 rear’s R designation. Riders replacing a known original size should use the matching specification and confirm it against the manual; riders considering a different size should consult a qualified tire dealer before ordering.

Road and off-road emphasis

Choose based on the surfaces you ride most, while distinguishing stated design descriptions from performance guarantees. Continental positions the TKC70 at 60% on-road and 40% off-road and describes it as quiet and stable on roads with gravel capability. The TUSK 2Track details instead emphasize deep tread, large blocks, and, for the 800DE front, reinforced connected knob bases; no road/off-road percentage is supplied.

Riders whose routine includes substantial pavement and occasional gravel may find the TKC70 description more directly informative. Riders seeking an adventure-style tread profile may prefer to investigate the 2Track, provided its specific fitment matches their bike.

Neither listing supplies enough information to establish which tire is best for a particular terrain, so consider your routes and verify suitability.

Which V-Strom tire should I choose?

Choose the tire that matches your exact bike, wheel position, and required size first. For a DL650 ABS from 2011–2018 needing a rear tire, the Continental TKC70 Rear ranks first because its fitment and 150/70R-17 size are stated alongside the TKC70’s 60/40 road-off-road positioning. For a DL650 2011 front, consider the Continental TKC70 Front; for a DL1000 front from 2002–2009, the other Continental TKC70 Front is listed for that fitment.

Riders with a DL1000 from 2014–2016 can compare the Continental TKC70 Rear. The TUSK 2Track Front is the specific front option for the 800DE Adventure, while the TUSK 2Track Rear names the 1000XT Adventure.

These are individual tires, not matched sets; verify both positions before purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I confirm the correct front and rear tire sizes for my V-Strom?

Check your motorcycle’s exact model, year, wheel position, and approved tire size in its owner’s manual or other vehicle documentation. Then compare those details with the listing: the products here specify individual front or rear tires and particular fitments. Do not rely on size alone if the model or year differs.

Should I choose a 60/40 adventure tire or a more road-focused tire for my riding?

Choose according to where you ride most and the tire’s stated positioning. The Continental TKC70 is described as 60/40 on-road/off-road, which may suit riders dividing use between pavement and off-road riding. The supplied listings do not establish comparative road performance, so confirm that the tire and fitment suit your needs.

Can I replace only one tire, or should I replace both tires together?

These listings are for individual tires, not matched sets, so replacing one position is possible if that tire is the correct fitment. Check the condition and requirements for both wheels, and confirm each tire’s approved size and position for your motorcycle before ordering. The listings do not specify when both tires must be replaced.

What does 60/40 on-road/off-road positioning tell me?

It describes the Continental TKC70’s stated balance between on-road and off-road use. It is useful as a general positioning cue, not a guarantee of performance in particular conditions. Consider your own riding mix, then verify the specific tire’s fitment, size, and wheel position for your V-Strom.

Are these listings complete front-and-rear tire sets?

No. The titles identify individual front or rear tires, and the editorial guidance describes them as individual tires rather than matched sets. If you need both positions, confirm the correct front and rear fitments separately for your exact V-Strom model and year before purchasing.

Final Words

Start with your V-Strom’s exact model, year, wheel position, and approved tire size; these listings are individual tires, not sets. For a DL650 ABS from 2011–2018 needing a rear tire, the Continental TKC70 Rear is the leading pick because its fitment and size are stated alongside its 60/40 positioning. For other fitments, compare the listed front or rear option that matches your bike, then verify both positions before buying.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *