The Dunlop D-404 front and rear tires are known for their exceptional quality, versatility, and performance.
Designed for a wide range of motorcycles, the D-404 series offers great compatibility for various bike setups.
In this comprehensive review, we will explore the features and benefits of these tires, including their tread design, weight-carrying capacity, and suitability for different types of motorcycles.
But, the main question I will answer in this review will be: Is this the best motorcycle tire for you? Read on.
Dunlop D-404
Features
- Fits a wide range of motorcycles
- Delivers excellent straight-line stability
- Outstanding water evacuation and wet grip
Dunlop D-404: Key Features
Versatility in Sizes
The Dunlop D-404 tires come in a wide range of sizes, ensuring excellent wear and performance for various motorcycle types. This versatility makes it easy for riders to find the perfect fit for their bikes.
Front & Rear Tire Compatibility
The D-404 series includes both front and rear versions, allowing for seamless compatibility in any motorcycle tire setup.
Tread Design & Performance
Excellent Balance of Mileage and Grip
The tread compound of the Dunlop D-404 tires delivers an outstanding balance of mileage and grip, providing riders with a reliable and long-lasting tire solution.
Offset Center Groove for Enhanced Stability
The offset center groove in the tread design contributes to a comfortable and stable ride. This feature allows riders to enjoy better stability while driving in a straight line.
Weight Carrying Capacity
Bias Ply Construction for High Load Capacity
The Dunlop D-404 tires are engineered with a bias ply construction, ensuring their ability to carry heavy loads without compromising on a smooth, comfortable ride on the road.
Suitable for a Wide Variety of Motorcycles
The D-404 tires perform exceptionally well on standard bikes, cruisers, and older motorcycles. These cruiser motorcycle tires are H-rated for speeds up to 130 miles per hour and are designed to be tubeless.
A Budget-Friendly Option for Non-Harley Davidson Bikes
It is essential to note that the Dunlop D-404 tires are not designed for Harley Davidson motorcycles. For Harley Davidson bikes, the Dunlop D-401 and D-402 tires offer the appropriate carcass and load rating to handle the weight of these bikes.
Nevertheless, the D-404 tires provide excellent value for money, particularly for metric cruiser bikes. These tires start at a sub-hundred-dollar price range and can offer mileage in the 8,000 to 11,000-mile range.
Upgrading to a More Feature-Rich Tire
For riders seeking a more feature-rich and high-mileage tire, alternatives like the Michelin Commander 2 or the Metzeler M888 are worth considering.
Featurer and Benefits
| Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Versatility in sizes | Ensures excellent wear and performance for various motorcycle types |
| Front & rear tire compatibility | Allows for seamless compatibility in any motorcycle tire setup |
| Tread design & performance | Delivers an outstanding balance of mileage and grip, providing riders with a reliable and long-lasting tire solution |
| Offset center groove for enhanced stability | Contributes to a comfortable and stable ride, allowing riders to enjoy better stability while driving in a straight line |
| Bias ply construction for high load capacity | Engineered to carry heavy loads without compromising on a smooth, comfortable ride on the road |
| Suitable for a wide variety of motorcycles | Performs exceptionally well on standard bikes, cruisers, and older motorcycles, and is designed to be tubeless |
| Budget-friendly option for non-Harley bikes | Provides excellent value for money, particularly for metric cruiser bikes, and can offer mileage in the 8,000 to 11,000-mile range |
| Upgrading to a more feature-rich tire | Alternatives like the Michelin Commander 2 or the Metzeler M888 are worth considering for riders seeking more high-mileage tires |
Our Likes and Dislikes
I like the way the tire looks, I know that sounds a bit lame but it does look nice on my Kawasaki Vulcan 1500 Classic.
I was able to mount it right away without any issues and balance it perfectly. I even took the bike for a few rides despite the rainy weather and it was smooth with no complaints.
I like that the tire is quality and affordable price bringing it within range of more reiders, and I would definitely buy it if we didn’t get so many tires to test.
However, I did find it lacking in performance. It does slip easily on wet roads, which is not good, and the tread wore out relatively quickly.
FAQ
Is a Dunlop D404 bias ply?
Yes, the Dunlop D404 tire is a bias-ply tire.
Why is the Dunlop D404 not recommended for Harley Davidson?
The Dunlop D404 is not recommended for use on Harley Davidson motorcycles because it does not have the load carrying capacity required for those bikes.
The D404 is intended for lighter, cruising motorcycles and is constructed for use on those bikes. Some Harley Davidson riders have used the D404 on their Sportster models, but Dunlop still does not recommend it due to the load rating.
In Conclusion
The Dunlop D-404 front and rear tires are an exceptional all-season option for riders looking for a budget-friendly, reliable, and high-performance tire solution.
With versatile sizing, excellent tread design, and impressive weight-carrying capacity, these tires are an excellent choice for standard bikes, cruisers, and older motorcycles.
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