Best bike tyre brands for your motorcycle in India

Long story short: In this article, we’ll cover well-known domestic and international motorcycle tyre brands available in India, plus answer some common questions about bike tyres.

Picking the right tyres for your motorcycle is important for safety, comfort, and performance on Indian roads. With so many domestic and international brands to choose from, it can be tough to know which tyres fit your riding style, local conditions, and budget. This guide provides an overview of the top bike tyre brands in India, explains what sets each one apart, and helps you choose the best option for your bike.

Key Takeaways

1. Choosing the right motorcycle tyre matters not just for safety, but also for a smoother and more enjoyable ride in Indian conditions.
2. There are good options from both Indian and international brands, each bringing its own strengths depending on your budget and the way you ride.
3. When picking tyres, it’s worth considering grip, durability, price, after-sales support, and making sure you’re buying genuine products.
4. Buying from authorised dealers or official shops helps you avoid fake tyres and makes sure your warranty is valid.
5. Think about your usual riding—whether you commute, tour, ride for performance, or tackle wet roads—and pick tyres that match to get the best value and experience.

Best Domestic Bike Tyre Brands In India

1. Mrf Tyres

MRF (Madras Rubber Factory) is one of India’s most prominent and respected tyre manufacturers. With a rich history dating back to 1946, MRF is known for its wide range of high-quality motorcycle tyres. The brand emphasises innovation, research, and development to offer reliable, durable tyres for riding conditions. MRF tyres are especially popular among both commuters and performance riders for their strong grip and long service life.

Official website: MRF Two-wheeler Tyres

2. Apollo Tyres

Apollo Tyres is a global tyre manufacturer with a significant presence in India. The brand offers motorcycle tyres that focus on durability and consistent performance. Apollo Tyres’ tyre range caters to various motorcycle types, making them suitable for different riding styles. Their tyres are often chosen for their reliable wet and dry performance and competitive pricing in the Indian market.

Official website: Apollo Two-wheeler Tyres

3. Ceat Tyres

CEAT is a well-regarded Indian tyre brand with a legacy that spans over six decades. They specialise in producing dependable and durable motorcycle tyres that cater to the diverse needs of Indian riders. The brand’s tyres are designed to balance performance, safety, and longevity. CEAT is widely recognised for its puncture-resistant technology and strong after-sales network.

Official website: CEAT Two-wheeler Tyres

4. Tvs Eurogrip Tyres

TVS Eurogrip Tyres is a part of the TVS Group, a respected Indian conglomerate. With an emphasis on quality and performance, TVS Eurogrip Tyres offers motorcycle tyres that have gained a reputation for durability and grip. The brand’s tyres are engineered to provide a comfortable and safe riding experience. TVS Eurogrip is also known for affordable pricing and its strong OE partnerships with major motorcycle manufacturers.

Official website: TVS Eurogrip Two-wheeler Tyres

5. Jk Tyre

JK Tyre is a well-established name in the Indian tyre industry, known for its commitment to quality and excellence. The brand produces motorcycle tyres designed to meet the demands of Indian roads and riders. JK Tyre emphasises safety, performance, and reliability in its tyre offerings. Their tyres are a popular choice for city commuters who value balanced performance and cost-effectiveness.

Official website: JK Two-wheeler Tyres

6. Metro Tyres

Metro Tyres is an Indian tyre manufacturer that produces a variety of tyres, including motorcycle tyres. The brand is known for its commitment to value for money and quality. Metro Tyres offers options for riders seeking reliable and budget-friendly tyre solutions. Their products are commonly chosen for economical motorcycles and are appreciated for their robust build quality.

Official website: Metro Two-wheeler Tyres

7. Ralco Tyres

Ralco Tyres is an Indian brand that provides tyres for various vehicles, including motorcycles. The brand’s motorcycle tyres deliver both performance and durability. Ralco Tyres aims to offer reliable tyres for different riding conditions. Many riders prefer Ralco for its value-for-money products and wide availability across India.

Official website: Ralco Two-wheeler Tyres

8. Bkt (balakrishna Industries)

BKT (Balkrishna Industries) is an Indian multinational tyre manufacturer that has recently entered the mass‑market two‑wheeler segment in India. The brand is known for its strong off‑highway tyre legacy and now offers motorcycle‑specific patterns, such as Zenova and Thyros, designed for better grip, durability, and comfort on Indian roads. BKT’s new two‑wheeler tyres are manufactured in India and validated at facilities like NATRAX, making them a value‑oriented yet performance‑conscious option for commuter and mid‑range bikes.

Official website: BKT (Balakrishna Industries)

9. Reise Moto Tyres

Reise Moto is a relatively new but quickly growing Indian tyre brand that entered the two‑wheeler segment through a joint venture between the Mahansaria Group and European tyre maker Mitas. The company operates a dedicated 30‑acre facility in Saykha, Gujarat, where it manufactures performance‑oriented motorcycle and scooter tyres for the domestic Indian market under the Reise brand and for export markets under the Mitas brand.

Official website: Reise Moto Tyres

*Price range is approximate for common 17″–19″ sporty/commuter sizes in India. Exact prices vary by model, size, and retailer.

Best Foreign Bike Tyre Brands In India

1. Michelin

Michelin is a global tyre brand known for its premium products. Their motorcycle tyres stand out for excellent grip, advanced technology, and strong performance. Michelin tyres offer precise handling, stability, and safety, making them a popular choice for riders who want top performance. They are also valued for long tread life and innovative rubber compounds.

Official website: Michelin Two-wheeler Tyres

2. Pirelli

Pirelli is known for high-performance motorcycle tyres. Their tyres use advanced technology and thorough testing to deliver strong traction, cornering stability, and durability. Pirelli tyres are designed for sport and track riders, offering a race-inspired design and excellent grip. They are a top choice for superbike owners and motorsport fans in India.

Official website: Pirelli Two-wheeler Tyres

3. Metzeler

Metzeler, part of Pirelli, makes motorcycle tyres for sporty and touring riders. Metzeler tyres are known for good performance, comfort, and long life, making them a solid choice for those who want dynamic handling and long-distance riding. They are also praised for their strong wet-weather grip and low road noise.

Official website: Metzeler Two-wheeler Tyres

4. Continental

Continental is a German tyre brand focused on safety and all-weather performance. Their motorcycle tyres feature advanced grip, stability, and wet-weather handling. Continental tyres are a good choice for riders who want both performance and safety. They also offer technologies like MultiGrip and good fuel efficiency.

Official website: Continental Two-wheeler Tyres

5. Bridgestone

Bridgestone is a well-known tyre brand with a strong presence in India. Their motorcycle tyres are reliable, durable, and perform consistently. Bridgestone offers options for different riding styles and conditions, and its sporty Radial range is popular for its strong cornering grip.

Official website: Bridgestone Two-wheeler Tyres

6. Dunlop

Dunlop offers a wide range of motorcycle tyres for different riding styles. Their tyres provide good grip, cornering stability, and comfort. Dunlop is a trusted brand in India, known for balancing performance and versatility. It has a long history in the market.

Official website: Dunlop Two-wheeler Tyres

7. Maxxis

Maxxis, a part of Cheng Shin Rubber Industry Co., makes tyres built to handle rough Indian roads. The brand is known for a strong off-road riding experience and travel on tough terrain. Maxxis tyres are often popular for their tough construction, competitive prices, and extended warranty options.

Official website: Maxxis Tyres

8. Vredestein

Vredestein is a Dutch tyre brand offering high-performance motorcycle tyres in India, like the Centauro ST and Centauro NS series. These tyres are aimed at riders who want strong cornering grip, stable high-speed handling, and good touring ability. Many Vredestein big-bike tyres are made in India with Apollo, making them more affordable while still delivering premium performance.

Official website: Vredestein Tyres

*Price range is approximate for common 17″–19″ sporty/commuter sizes in India. Exact prices vary by model, size, and retailer.

What Are The Different Two-wheeler Tyre Types, Their Pros/cons, And Which Types Are Suited For Specific Riding Conditions?

There is a dedicated article for the same from our team. Please visit the link for more details – Two-wheeler tyres – Different types, pros & cons

How To Choose The Right Tyre Size For Your Two-wheeler, Interpret Size Markings, And The Importance Of Load/speed Ratings?

There is a dedicated article for the same from our team. Please visit the link for more details – Two-wheeler tyre code – How to read & understand – Video

Where To Buy Authentic Motorcycle Tyres In India?

In India, motorcycle tyres can be bought from a mix of online portals, local workshops, and brand‑owned channels. The safest option is to buy from authorised dealers or official brand channels, which greatly reduces the risk of buying fake or refurbished tyres.

1. Best Places To Buy Authentic Motorcycle Tyres

1. Brand-authorised dealers: Major brands like MRF, CEAT, Apollo, Michelin, BKT, and others list “nearest tyre shop” or “authorised dealers” on their official websites. Tyres bought here come with a full manufacturer’s warranty and proper fitment guidance.
2. Official brand online stores: Brands such as CEAT, Apollo, Michelin, and others now offer “buy online, fit offline” models where you pick tyres on their site and get them fitted at verified partner workshops, ensuring authenticity and warranty coverage.
3. Reputable multi‑brand online portals: Portals like TyreDekho, TyreMarkety, TyreShoppe, and similar platforms work with thousands of shops and mainly list genuine tyres from top brands, including Apollo, MRF, CEAT, Michelin, Pirelli, and BKT, with clear pricing and dealer locations.

2. How To Avoid Counterfeit Motorcycle Tyres?

Counterfeit tyres are a real risk in India, especially for imported or premium brands. Here are the key red flags to watch for:

1. Check sidewall markings: Genuine tyres have clear, crisp lettering, no misspellings, and a consistent DOT / BIS code and manufacturing‑date stamp (e.g., “3421″ for 34th week of 2021). Blurry, uneven, or missing codes are major red flags.
2. Inspect the tread and sidewall: Fake tyres often have uneven tread blocks, poor rubber finish, patchy colour, or strange symbols not present on the original pattern.
3. Check pricing and packaging: If a “Michelin” or “Pirelli” tyre is sold at a price far below other authorised sellers, it may be fake. Genuine tyres usually come with proper branded packaging; generic or low‑quality packaging is suspicious.
4. Verify paperwork and warranty: Ask for original invoice, brand‑specific warranty card, and product‑specific model code. If the seller hesitates or offers a vague “no‑brand warranty”, be cautious.
5. Stick to reputed vendors: Avoid random roadside shops or unknown online sellers with no reviews or address. Prefer tyre‑specific chains, brand‑listed outlets, or well‑known online portals with strong customer‑support systems.

3. Why Authorised Dealers Matter In India?

Buying from authorized dealers or brand‑approved outlets is important for several reasons

1. Guaranteed genuine product: Authorised dealers are contractually bound to sell only original tyres that meet manufacturer standards, reducing the risk of fake or tampered stock.
2. Valid warranty and support: Most tyre warranties are only valid if the tyre is sold and installed by an authorised dealer or their network. If you buy from a shady local vendor, you may lose warranty coverage.
3. Correct fitment and advice: Authorised outlets usually have proper tools and staff trained on tyre size, load index, and speed rating, helping you pick the right pattern for your bike, tyre size, and riding style.
4. Post‑purchase guidance: If you suspect a fake tyre or have a quality issue, you can escalate to the brand through the authorised dealer, who is more likely to respond quickly.

The safest workflow for Indian riders is: use the brand’s official website or a trusted multi‑brand tyre portal → pick your size and pattern → book at an authorised dealer or listed workshop → confirm invoice, warranty, and sidewall codes before installation.

Which Two-wheeler Tyre Brands Are Best For Specific Needs?

If you want to know which tyre brands are best for different types of riding in India, this simple guide can help you choose.

1. Commuting (city + Short Highway)

1. MRF Zapper series: Great for 100–160 cc commuters. These tyres offer strong grip, good water dispersion, and excellent value.
2. CEAT Milaze/Zoom series: Good balance of grip, mileage, and puncture resistance for mixed city-highway use.
3. Apollo Alpha-H: Focused on comfort, making daily rides smoother and more enjoyable.
4. TVS Eurogri– ATT 45: Budget-friendly and reliabled for city commuters and entr-‑level bikes.
5. JK Blaze series: Offers stability, durability, and a tread design that helps in the rain.

Best for: 100–220 cc bikes used for daily office commute, school runs, and short highway trips.

2. Touring & Highway Riding

1. Michelin Pilot Street, Road 5/6: Radial tyres with outstanding high-speed stability, strong grip in wet or dry, and long lifespan.
2. Bridgestone Battlax BT-46/466: Classic touring tyres with good tread life and excellent wet-weather performance—well-suited for 300–500 cc bikes.
3. Pirelli/Metzeler Angel GT II, Roadtec: Ideal for riders who want good cornering, wet-weather handling, and long-distance comfort.
4. Continental RoadAttack: Focuses on all-weather grip, great for those who spend a lot of time on highways.
5. Vredestein Centauro ST/NS: Touring tyres for big-‑bike owners who want strong grip withoutan extremerace focus.

Best for: Tourers, adventur-tourers, and cruisers that often travel 200+ km in a single ride.

3. Performance / Sport-bike Focused

1. Michelin Power 5/6: Ultra-performance, track-oriented tyres that offer sharp grip and fast warm-up, but may wear out faster.
2. Pirelli Diablo Rosso IV/Supercorsa SP: Superb for superbikes and sport-bikes, popular for their strong grip and aggressive feel.
3. Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport/SSL: Designed for spirited sport riding and occasional track days.
4. Dunlop Q5/SportMax: Sport-oriented with strong grip and reliable braking.
5. TVS Eurogrip– Protorq Sport H: Tailored for Indian 250–300 cc sport bikes, combining grip with value.

Best for: Supersport bikes, 250–300 cc sport-naked bikes, and track-day riders.

4. Wet-weather / Monsoon Focused

1. MRF Zapper FY1/Nylogrip-Zapper: Soft compound with directional tread, excellent for heavy monsoon areas.
2. JK Blaze BF11/BR11: Tread design helps with water dispersion, ideal for 100–150 cc bikes.
3. Apollo Alpha-H: Wet-grip compounds make these a good pick for city and highway use during the rainy season.
4. Michelin City Pro/Pilot Street: Silica-based tyres deliver very good wet-weather performance for 160–300 cc bikes.
5. Reise tourR/traceR: Engineered for Indian monsoons, with strong aquaplaning resistance and stability on flooded roads.
6. Vredestein Centauro ST/NS: Great wet-weather touring tyres for largerg bikes.

Why Are Foreign Motorcycle Tyre Brands More Expensive In India?

Foreign motorcycle tyre brands usually cost more in India, and there are several practical reasons for this:

1. Manufacturing And Import Costs

1. Import Duties and Taxes: When tyres are imported, they attract high customs duties, various surcharges, and GST. All these taxes are added to the retail price, making imported tyres pricier than locally made ones.
2. Manufacturing Cost Differences: The cost to make tyres abroad can be higher due to differences in material choices (like natural vs synthetic rubber), labour costs, and the use of advanced technology.

2. Supply Chain And Distribution

1. Shipping and Logistics: Getting tyres from overseas factories to Indian stores involves high shipping fees, insurance, and other handling expenses.
2. Distribution Network: Foreign brands need to build or partner with distribution networks in India. This adds to costs, while domestic companies like MRF already have an established presence across thousands of outlets.

3. Brand Positioning And Marketing

1. Premium Image: Foreign brands often position themselves as premium, focusing on quality and advanced features. This influences their pricing.
2. Marketing Investments: Sponsorships, advertising, and promotional campaigns (like sports partnerships) can be expensive and add to the overall cost of the tyres.

4. Consumer Perception And Brand Value

1. Quality Perception: Many people see foreign brands as offering better quality, which lets these brands charge more. Their global reputation also adds to the perceived value.
2. Market Dynamics: Some buyers are willing to pay extra for foreign tyres because they trust the advanced technology, quality, and brand name.

5. Operational Costs

1. Certification and Compliance: Foreign brands have to meet Indian regulations, which means spending on certifications, testing, and inspections.
2. Local Business Operations: Running offices, hiring staff, and providing customer support in India adds further expenses for these companies.

6. Adapting To The Indian Market And Managing Risks

1. Market Adaptation: Sometimes, foreign brands need to tweak their products for local roads and preferences, which involves extra research and costs.
2. Risk Management: Currency fluctuations, market changes, and supply chain issues all add to the risks (and costs) for foreign brands.

In summary, foreign motorcycle tyres in India are expensive because of higher taxes, shipping and distribution challenges, marketing expenses, the premium brand image, and the costs of running a business in a new country. Domestic brands have an advantage because they already have established networks and lower production costs.

Faq About Two-wheeler Tyre Brands In India

1. What Are The Key Benefits Of Investing In High-quality Bike Tyres?

High-quality bike tyres offer better grip, durability, performance, and value for money, enhancing the overall riding experience.

2. Which Bike Tyre Brand Is Best In India?

Determining the “best” bike tyre brand in India can be subjective and depends on various factors, including your specific riding style, preferences, and the type of bike you own. Different tyre brands excel in other areas, such as grip, durability, performance, and value for money.

3. Which Are The Top Bike Tyre Brands In India?

Here are some of India’s top motorcycle tyre brands based on their reputation, popularity, and quality. They are Apollo Tyres, MRF Tyres, CEAT Tyres, TVS Tyres, Michelin, Pirelli, Bridgestone, Metzeler and Continental.

4. Which Is The First Motorcycle Tyre Brand In India?

In 1926, Dunlop Rubber Limited became the first company in India to set up a tyre company in West Bengal.

5. Which Is The Largest Motorcycle Tyre Brand In India?

MRF (Madras Rubber Factory) is one of India’s largest and most prominent motorcycle tyre brands. MRF is a leading tyre brand in India and a well-known global tyre manufacturer.

6. Which Tyre Company First Introduced Tubeless Tyres For Motorcycles In India?

MRF was the first company to introduce tubeless tyres for motorcycles in India (Madras Rubber Factory). Their introduction provided motorcyclists with added advantages, such as reduced chances of sudden deflation during punctures and the ability to run at a lower air pressure, enhancing ride comfort.

7. Which Is The Best Foreign Motorcycle Tyre Brand In India?

The definition of “best” can vary depending on individual preferences, riding style, motorcycle type, road conditions, and other factors. However, several foreign motorcycle tyre brands are popular and well-regarded in India for their quality, performance, and durability. Some are Michelin, Pirelli, Metzeler, Bridgestone, Dunlop & Continental.

8. Which Is The Best Domestic Motorcycle Tyre Brand In India?

While the term “best” is subjective and depends on individual preferences, type of motorcycle, riding conditions, and specific requirements, some of India’s top domestic motorcycle tyre brands are MRF, CEAT, TVS Tyres and Apollo Tyres.

9. Which Is The Best Motorcycle Tyre Brand For Cruisers In India?

Riders often prioritise durability, comfort, stability, and longevity when choosing a cruiser motorcycle. Several international and domestic brands offer cruiser-suitable tyres in India: Michelin, Metzeler, Pirelli, Dunlop, MRF, and CEAT.

10. Which Is India’s Best Motorcycle Tyre Brand For Performance Bikes?

Riders often prioritise grip, handling, high-speed stability, and quick warm-up times when choosing performance bikes, also known as superbikes or sport bikes. Both international and some domestic tyre brands offer tyres suitable for performance bikes in India. Some of them are Michelin, Pirelli, Metzeler, Bridgestone, Dunlop, and MRF.

Other Related Articles From Bikeleague India

1. Two wheeler tyre code – How to read & understand – video
2. Two wheeler tyres – Different types, pros & cons
3. Top 10 bike/scooter brands as per India’s market share
4. Best bike tyre brands for your motorcycle in India
5. List of all Motorcycle, Scooter & E-bike brands in India

Conclusion

Choosing the right motorcycle tyre brand helps keep you safe, comfortable, and performing well on Indian roads. Both domestic and international brands offer distinct strengths, so you can find tyres that suit your riding style and needs.

Consider grip, durability, price, and after-sales support when choosing your tyres to get the best ride. Visit official websites and speak with authorised dealers to ensure you buy genuine tyres that suit your needs. If you have any questions, you can email us at bikeleague2017@gmail.com or leave a comment below. We are happy to help.