Classic & retro tyres

Modern compounds in the 18- and 19-inch sizes classics use.

Period-looking tread patterns over modern construction and silica compounds, in the taller, narrower sizes that retro roadsters, scramblers and older bikes run. They keep the light, natural steering those bikes were designed around.

Suits: Retro roadsters with 18- or 19-inch wheels
Rear life: 8,000–15,000 km
Speed ratings: H, V
Road legal: Yes

Good for

Retro and classic bikes
Spoked wheels with inner tubes
Relaxed road riding

Think twice if

Your bike runs modern 17-inch radial sizes

Can I fit modern radial tyres to a classic bike?

Only if they're made in your bike's sizes and the rims suit them. Most classics use taller, narrower bias-ply sizes on 18- or 19-inch rims, and their steering geometry was designed around them. Modern classic-pattern tyres keep that light steering while adding today's wet-grip compounds, so they're usually the better upgrade.

Character

Dry grip: 3 out of 5
Wet grip: 4 out of 5
Cold & warm-up: 4 out of 5
Tread life: 4 out of 5
Gravel & dirt: 1 out of 5
Comfort & stability: 4 out of 5

Leading classic tyres

Michelin Road Classic
Modern radial grip in classic sizes, with a period look.
PremiumTyroola
Continental ContiClassicAttack
Radial for classic sportsbikes and retro roadsters.
Premium
Metzeler Lasertec
Long-running favourite for retro and older bikes.
Mid-range
Avon Roadrider MKII
Huge size range for classics, including tube-type.
Value

Bikes ratio puts on classic tyres

For at least one of each bike’s usual kinds of riding, in a mild climate.