Best 240 40R18 Motorcycle Tire for Cruiser and Touring Riders

#1 · Best Overall

1. Michelin Commander II

• Size: 240/40R-18 (79V)
• Rim Size: 18 in
• Load Capacity: 1000 lb
• Weight: 8.57 kg

Best for: Long-mileage cruiser touring.

Why it ranks #1: It lists 240/40R-18 (79V), an 18-inch rim, and 1,000-pound capacity, with cruiser-focused descriptions of longevity, stability, and maneuverability.

Michelin’s Commander II pairs a cruiser-focused fit with claims of nearly twice the mileage of leading competitors in independent third-party tests, making longevity its clearest draw. Its stated balance of stability, maneuverability, and wet-weather grip also speaks to riders who want durability without giving up those handling priorities.

The 240/40R-18 (79V) specification identifies the tire size and rating, while Michelin’s Amplified Density Technology is cited for stability and maneuverability. The product description also emphasizes wet-weather grip and reports nearly twice the lifespan of leading competitors in independent third-party tests. Those features suit cruiser riders weighing replacement intervals alongside control in varied conditions; the 1,000-pound listed load capacity is another figure to compare with the motorcycle’s requirements before purchase.

Skip it if you need a listed load capacity above 1,000 pounds; the Metzeler ME 888 Marathon Ultra lists 963 pounds, so check required ratings across options.

Cruiser riders prioritizing extended mileage alongside wet-weather grip and maneuverability should consider the Commander II. Check the 1,000-pound listed capacity and exact motorcycle requirements, since its cruiser focus does not establish fit for every bike.

Listed on Amazon as: Michelin Commander II Rear Tire (240/40ZR-18)

#2 · U.S.-Designed Option

2. Dunlop American Elite

• Size: 240/40R18
• Rim Size: 18 in
• Load Capacity: 578 lb
• Weight: 16 oz

Best for: American-made Harley aftermarket choice.

Why it ranks #2: The exact 240/40R18 size and 18-inch rim suit this search, and its listing says the aftermarket Harley-Davidson tire is designed and tested in the U.S.A.

Dunlop describes American Elite as its only aftermarket tire line for Harley-Davidson motorcycles designed and tested in the United States, giving Harley riders a specifically positioned replacement option. The rear tire’s MT Multi-Tread compound is also linked to enhanced mileage, a useful priority for riders weighing service intervals.

The 240/40R18 size and 18-inch rim specification identify the listed wheel fit, while the MT Multi-Tread rear compound is described as incorporating a long-wearing compound to enhance tire mileage. Dunlop also states that the American Elite line is designed and tested in the United States. Together, those facts make it a Harley-oriented choice for riders focused on replacement mileage and product origin; the listed 578-pound load capacity should be checked against the motorcycle’s requirements.

Skip it if you need a listed load capacity above 578 pounds; Pirelli Night Dragon listing B0022YG9LQ specifies 1,279 pounds, subject to checking tire requirements.

Harley-Davidson riders prioritizing a U.S.-designed and tested aftermarket line and mileage-oriented rear compound may find this American Elite relevant. Check its 578-pound listed capacity carefully against the motorcycle’s required load.

Listed on Amazon as: Dunlop American Elite Rear Tire (240/40R18)

#3 · Highest Listed Capacity

3. Pirelli Night Dragon

• Size: 240/40R18
• Rim Size: 18 in
• Load Capacity: 1279 lb
• Weight: 4 lb

Best for: Harley-Davidson cruiser replacement.

Why it ranks #3: This exact 240/40R18 rear tire lists an 18-inch rim and a 1,279-pound load capacity, with a range described as tailored to compatible Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

Pirelli’s Night Dragon is identified as a performance range tailored for compatibility with Harley-Davidson motorcycles, giving riders in that group a clearly targeted 240/40R18 rear-tire option. Its listed 1,279-pound load capacity is a concrete specification to consider when checking the motorcycle’s requirements and intended operating load.

The 240/40R18 size and 18-inch rim specification make the intended wheel size explicit, while the Harley-Davidson compatibility focus narrows its stated audience to riders shopping for that motorcycle family. The listed 1,279-pound load capacity provides a reference for checking the bike’s requirements, rather than a substitute for them. The supplied information does not describe tread behavior, wet-road performance, or installation details, so buyers should base the choice on verified motorcycle fit and the manufacturer’s tire guidance.

Skip it if you need documented wet-grip or mileage characteristics; Michelin Commander II listings specifically describe durability and wet-weather balance.

Harley-Davidson riders seeking a Pirelli 240/40R18 rear tire can use this listing’s compatibility focus and load figure as starting points. Verify the exact motorcycle fit and required load before choosing it.

Listed on Amazon as: Pirelli 1862300 Night Dragon Rear Tire – 240/40R18

#4 · Touring Focus

4. Metzeler ME 888 Marathon Ultra

• Size: 240/40R18 79V
• Rim Size: 18 in
• Load Capacity: 963 lb
• Weight: 17.5 lb

Best for: Long-distance cruiser touring.

Why it ranks #4: The listing gives 240/40R18 79V, 963-pound capacity, and cruiser and touring use, with descriptions emphasizing mileage, grip, and water evacuation.

Metzeler’s ME 888 Marathon Ultra combines a longevity focus with tread grooves described as evacuating water, making it a touring-oriented choice for riders balancing mileage and wet-road handling. Its stated 963-pound load capacity offers another concrete check for heavy cruiser and touring motorcycle applications.

The advanced compounds are described as supporting mileage without sacrificing performance, while the optimized tread pattern and profile are linked to stability and precise control on wet and dry roads. Deep grooves are also identified for water evacuation, a practical consideration for riders encountering wet conditions. The 240/40R18 79V size and 963-pound load capacity help clarify the listing’s specifications, but riders should compare those requirements and the motorcycle’s fitment before installation.

Skip it if you need an explicit comparative mileage claim; Michelin Commander II product B00B9BTBKE reports nearly twice the life of leading competitors in tests.

Cruiser and touring riders seeking a mileage-oriented tire with stated wet- and dry-road handling features should consider the ME 888. Check its 963-pound capacity, size, and fit against the motorcycle’s requirements.

Listed on Amazon as: Metzeler ME 888 Marathon Ultra Rear 240/40R18 79V Motorcycle Tire

#5 · Harley Fitment Detail

5. Michelin Scorcher 11

• Weight: 17.2 lb

Best for: Harley fitment and agile handling.

Why it ranks #5: It lists 240/40R-18 (79V) and identifies Harley-Davidson applications, including the CVO Softail Breakout FXSBSE for specified model years.

Michelin’s Scorcher 11 combines Harley-Davidson original-equipment status on specified models with a semi-slick tread pattern that maximizes dry-road contact. That pairing gives riders seeking a Harley-focused tire a clear fitment starting point and an explicitly described grip feature, while its groove design addresses wet-road water evacuation.

Michelin identifies the Scorcher 11 as original equipment on listed Harley-Davidson motorcycles and names additional approved fitments, including Sportster SuperLow, V-Rod Muscle, and V-Rod Night Rod Special. Its semi-slick pattern maximizes the contact patch for dry-road adhesion, while optimized grooves evacuate water for wet grip. Radial technology is described as supporting maneuverability and agility. These specifics help buyers weigh handling traits, but model-year fitment still needs to match the motorcycle in question.

Skip it if you ride a Harley model outside the listed approved fitments; Dunlop American Elite listings identify the CVO Softail Pro Street Breakout FXSE 2016–2017.

Harley-Davidson owners whose model appears in the approved fitments can weigh the Scorcher 11’s dry adhesion, water evacuation, and agility. Confirm the exact model and year, as the supplied fitment information is selective.

Listed on Amazon as: Michelin Scorcher 11 Harley-Davidson® Rear Motorcycle Tire 240/40R-18 (79V) – Fits: Harley-Davidson® CVO Softail Breakout FXSBSE® 2013-2014

#6

6. Battlecruise H50

• Size: 240/40R18
• Rim Size: 18 in
• Load Capacity: 963 lb
• Weight: 25 lb

Best for: American V-Twin long-distance riding.

Why it ranks #6: This 240/40R18 rear tire is described for high-powered American V-Twins and long-distance riding, with a 963-pound listed capacity.

The Battlecruise H50’s profile is described as making steering easier and improving ride quality for long-distance riding, a practical focus for American V-Twin owners. Its large crown profile and specially developed compound are also linked to grip and long mileage, pairing touring comfort with stated wear priorities.

The tread pattern is optimized for high-powered American V-Twins and includes a diamond cross deco-groove, tying its styling detail to a stated motorcycle audience. The easier-steering profile and ride-quality focus support long-distance use, while the large crown profile and specialized compound are described as providing grip and long mileage. The listing also identifies wet- and dry-surface handling; its 963-pound load capacity should be compared with the motorcycle’s requirements.

Skip it if you want an explicitly named brand in the brand field; Metzeler ME 888 Marathon Ultra is listed under the Metzeler brand.

American V-Twin riders planning long-distance use may value the Battlecruise H50’s steering, ride-quality, grip, and mileage claims. Note the Generic brand field and verify the 963-pound capacity and exact tire fit.

Listed on Amazon as: BATTLECRUISE H50 Motorcycle Rear Tire 240/40R18 79V Radial TL Cruiser Touring

#7

7. Michelin Commander II

• Size: 240/40R-18
• Rim Size: 18 in
• Load Capacity: 963 lb
• Weight: 19 lb

Best for: Responsive long-mileage cruiser riding.

Why it ranks #7: This separate Commander II listing gives size 240/40R-18, an 18-inch rim, and 963-pound capacity, alongside descriptions of tire life and responsiveness.

Michelin’s Commander II combines a reported near-doubling of competitor tire life with Amplified Density Technology, which is described as increasing responsiveness. That pairing gives cruiser riders a stated mileage and handling rationale for considering this 240/40R-18 rear tire.

The 240/40R-18 size and 18-inch rim specification identify the tire’s listed dimensions, while Michelin says Amplified Density Technology increases responsiveness. Its product description also reports that the Commander II nearly doubled competitor tire life when released. These claims make longevity and responsive behavior the central decision points for cruiser riders; the listing’s 963-pound capacity should be checked against the motorcycle’s requirements, and the product’s maintenance guidance should be followed.

Skip it if you need an explicit wet-weather grip claim in the supplied listing; Michelin Commander II product B00B9BTBKE specifically describes wet-weather grip.

Cruiser riders prioritizing the Commander II’s stated longevity and responsiveness may find this listing relevant. Compare its 963-pound capacity and 240/40R-18 size with the motorcycle’s requirements; the supplied description does not detail wet grip.

Listed on Amazon as: MICHELIN Commander II Rear Tire – 240/40R-18 (79V)

#8

8. Pirelli Night Dragon

• Size: 240/40R-18
• Rim Size: 18 in
• Weight: 0.27 g

Best for: Performance custom cruiser riding.

Why it ranks #8: The listing specifies a 240/40R-18 rear tire for high-performance Harley-Davidson and metric cruisers, though it provides fewer decision-making specifications.

Pirelli positions the Night Dragon for high-performance Harley-Davidson and metric cruisers, with improved adherence and road holding over standard custom or cruiser tires stated as its focus. That audience-specific description makes it a candidate for riders seeking a performance-oriented 240/40R-18 rear tire.

The 240/40R-18 size and 18-inch rim specification establish the listed dimensions, while Pirelli’s description identifies both Harley-Davidson and metric cruisers as intended audiences. Its stated emphasis on adherence and road holding gives buyers a handling-focused reason to consider it for custom or cruiser use. The supplied material does not provide a load capacity or a detailed wet-road claim, so use the motorcycle’s specifications and manufacturer guidance to check suitability.

Skip it if you need a stated load-capacity figure for comparison; Pirelli Night Dragon listing B0022YG9LQ lists 1,279 pounds, subject to the bike’s requirements.

Custom and cruiser riders looking for Pirelli’s stated emphasis on adherence and road holding can consider this Night Dragon. The supplied listing lacks a load figure, so check the motorcycle’s required capacity and exact fit.

Listed on Amazon as: Pirelli Night Dragon Rear Tire (240/40R-18)

#9

9. Pirelli Night Dragon

• Size: 240/40-18
• Rim Size: 18 in
• Load Capacity: 963 lb

Best for: Fast-accelerating cruiser riding.

Why it ranks #9: It lists a 240/40VR18 rear tire, 18-inch rim, and 963-pound capacity, plus a keychain; confirm its size notation against your required fitment.

Pirelli says the Night Dragon line combines strong grip for quick acceleration with control, making this 240/40 VR 18 rear tire relevant to riders who prioritize responsive cruiser riding. Its 79V specification and tubeless designation add concrete details for checking the motorcycle’s tire requirements before selection.

The listed 240/40-18 size, 79V marking, and TL designation clarify the tire’s stated format, while the 963-pound load capacity supplies a figure to compare against the motorcycle’s requirements. Pirelli’s description links strong grip with quick acceleration and control, giving the product a performance-oriented use case. The supplied guidance recommends using the motorcycle manufacturer’s advised pressures, so owners should consult the handbook or tire specification section rather than choosing pressure from the listing alone.

Skip it if you want a tire with a stated long-mileage claim; Michelin Commander II listings emphasize durability and describe independent mileage comparisons.

Cruiser riders seeking Pirelli’s stated grip for acceleration and control can consider this Night Dragon. Its 963-pound capacity and tubeless designation warrant comparison with the bike’s requirements, and inflation should follow manufacturer guidance.

Listed on Amazon as: Pirelli Night Dragon 240/40 VR 18 79V TL Rear Motorcycle Tire

#10

10. Dunlop American Elite

• Size: 240/40R18
• Rim Size: 18 in

Best for: Specific CVO Softail replacement.

Why it ranks #10: The 240/40R-18 (79V) size and Harley-Davidson fitment are relevant, but this listing supplies fewer specifications than the other American Elite entry.

This Dunlop American Elite listing names the Harley-Davidson CVO Softail Pro Street Breakout FXSE 2016–2017 as its intended fitment, giving owners of those models a focused replacement lead. Its American-designed, tested, and made positioning adds a distinct origin detail for riders considering the line.

The 240/40R-18 (79V) specification identifies the listed tire size and rating, while the named CVO Softail Pro Street Breakout FXSE 2016–2017 fitment helps narrow the search to a specific motorcycle application. Dunlop says the American Elite replacement line is designed, tested, and made in America, and describes its Harley-Davidson engineering experience as the foundation for the line. These points support a targeted shortlist, but do not replace checking exact fitment and requirements.

Skip it if you require a listed load-capacity figure before comparing tires; Dunlop American Elite listing B071VJ4CV4 provides one, though fitment still matters.

Owners of the named 2016–2017 CVO Softail Pro Street Breakout FXSE can use this American Elite listing as a model-specific lead. Verify the exact motorcycle requirements, since no load-capacity figure is supplied here.

Listed on Amazon as: 240/40R-18 (79V) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson CVO Softail Pro Street Breakout FXSE 2016-2017