The Michelin Commander III is the newest from Michelin and is the successor to the Michelin Commander II. Both are designed to balance handling, wet performance, longevity, and visual appeal. However, there are some notable differences between them.
The main difference between Michelin Commander II and III is the tread compound. Both are infused with silica, but the Commander III contains 100% of it in its tread compound, making it better in terms of wet performance.
My Thoughts on the Michelin Commander 2 vs Commander 3
In my experience, the Commander 3 offers notably improved wet weather performance compared to its predecessor.
The newer tire feels more planted and confidence-inspiring when riding on damp or rainy roads.
I also appreciate the Commander 3’s enhanced stability and handling. The tire’s profile and construction seem to provide a more responsive and predictable feel, especially when leaning into turns.
It’s not a night-and-day difference from the Commander 2, but the incremental improvements are noticeable and welcome.
In terms of tread life, both tires have proven durable and long-lasting in my experience. However, Michelin claims the Commander 3 offers up to 25% longer tread life compared to competitors.
While I haven’t personally logged enough miles to verify this claim, it’s an appealing prospect for riders looking to maximize their tire investment.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
While I’m impressed with the Commander 3 overall, there are a few potential drawbacks to keep in mind.
Firstly, the Commander 3 comes with a higher price tag than the Commander 2. For budget-conscious riders, the added cost may not be worth the performance gains.
I’ve also heard reports from some riders experiencing cupping (uneven wear) on their Commander 3 tires starting around 6,000 miles.
This can lead to annoying noise at higher mileage. It’s not a dealbreaker for me, but it’s something to consider if you’re someone who keeps tires on for high mileage.
Lastly, I’ve read about isolated cases of fitment issues with the Commander 3 on certain motorcycle models, particularly with the touring variant.
While this seems rare, it’s worth double-checking compatibility with your specific make and model before purchasing.
It’s important to note that prices on motorcycle tires can fluctuate due to special offers and promotions.
I recommend checking out Revzilla.com for the latest prices on the Commander 2 and Commander 3 before buying elsewhere.
Revzilla is known for its competitive pricing and even offers a price match guarantee, so you can be confident you’re getting the best deal.
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The Commander 3 also has a deeper tread compound with a higher void ratio, which helps to disperse water more effectively.
Before you buy elsewhere, check Revzilla.com for special offers on Michelin Commander new Tires to get the best price.
Their prices fluctuate so that you may score an awesome bargain. Please like and share this article if you find it helpful. It assists Google in understanding the page and provides useful information readers appreciate.

The Commander 3’s improved appearance is due to the Premium Touch technology. The tread grooves on the Commander 3 look deeper than the II’s but are actually the same depth. Michelin contributes to the striations in the III’s tread.

Overall, the Michelin Commander 3 is an improvement over the Michelin Commander 2, with a better ride in the rain and an improved appearance.
Tread Life
Tread life is a crucial factor when comparing the Michelin Commander 2 and Commander 3 tires. Let’s take a closer look at the expected mileage ranges for each tire based on real-world rider experiences and manufacturer claims.
Commander 2 Tread Life
According to rider reports, the Commander 2 rear tire can last anywhere from 8,000 to 25,000 miles, depending on factors such as riding style, motorcycle weight, and road conditions.
Some riders have managed to get 12,000 miles out of a rear Commander 2, which is considered pretty good for a cruiser tire.
However, it’s important to note that the front Commander 2 tire may wear out faster than the rear. One rider reported that their front tire was almost bald at the center while the rear still had decent tread remaining.
Commander 3 Tread Life
Michelin claims that the Commander 3 offers 25% longer tread life compared to competitors like Dunlop and Metzeler.
Real-world experiences suggest that the Commander 3 rear tire can last up to 14,500-15,000 miles before the wear bars are level with the tread.
One potential drawback of the Commander 3 is that some riders have reported cupping (uneven wear) starting as early as 6,000 miles, which can lead to annoying noise by around 10,000 miles.
Benefits of Longer Tread Life
A tire with a longer tread life offers several benefits:
- Cost savings: Replacing tires less frequently means spending less money in the long run.
- Convenience: Longer-lasting tires mean less time spent at the shop getting new rubber installed.
- Safety: A tire with good remaining tread depth provides better grip and handling, especially in wet conditions.
While the Commander 3 seems to have a slight edge in tread life, both tires offer respectable mileage for cruiser-style riding.
Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to other factors like wet weather performance and handling characteristics.
Handling and Cornering
The Michelin Commander 2 and Commander 3 tires offer distinct handling characteristics that impact a rider’s experience on the road.
Commander 2 Handling
The Commander 2 provides good stability and maneuverability, allowing for confident riding. However, some riders have reported less than optimal grip on wet surfaces with the Commander 2, which could affect cornering confidence in those conditions.
Commander 3 Handling
Michelin has made improvements in the Commander 3’s handling, particularly in wet conditions. The Commander 3 Cruiser variant is rated as the best in its category on wet surfaces, providing excellent grip for cornering. The tire’s profile has been optimized for enhanced steering response.
The Commander 3 Touring tire features Michelin’s Aramid Shield Technology and a new profile that further enhances cornering capabilities.
Riders have reported positive experiences with Commander 3’s handling, noting good grip in both wet and dry conditions.
Feedback and Lean Angles
While both tires offer good overall handling, the Commander 3 seems to have an edge in terms of rider feedback and cornering confidence.
The rounded profile of the Commander 3 Cruiser could contribute to more progressive lean angles and a predictable feel.
It’s important to note that individual riding styles, motorcycle setup, and road conditions can all impact handling performance.
Riders should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing between the Commander 2 and Commander 3 tires.
Tire Sizes and Fitment
Choosing the right tire size is crucial for optimal performance and safety. Let’s take a look at the available sizes for the Michelin Commander 2 and Commander 3 tires and discuss which motorcycles they’re suitable for.
Commander 2 Sizes
The Commander 2 comes in a variety of sizes to fit different cruiser motorcycles:
- Front sizes: 130/80 B17, 130/90 B16, 140/75 R17, 140/80 B17, 150/80 B16
- Rear sizes: 150/90 B15, 160/70 B17, 170/80 B15, 180/65 B16, 200/55 R17
These sizes are compatible with popular models like the Honda VT 600 C (1993-1999) and certain Harley-Davidson Electra Glide Classic models (2002-2003).
Commander 3 Sizes
The Commander 3 Cruiser variant offers 15 different sizes:
- Front sizes: 130/90 B16, 140/75 R17, 150/80 R16
- Rear sizes: 150/80 B16, 160/70 B17, 180/65 B16, 200/55 R17
These sizes cover a wide range of cruiser and touring motorcycles, including various Harley-Davidson models.
Fitment Considerations
While the Commander 3 is marketed as suitable for all types of V-twin cruisers and touring bikes, some riders have reported fitment issues on certain models.
For example, one owner of a 2021 Harley-Davidson FLHTK experienced vibration issues with the Commander 3 Touring front tire, which Michelin attributed to improper fitment due to fender size, wheel spacing, and load.
It’s important to consult your motorcycle’s owner’s manual or a trusted tire professional to ensure you select the correct tire size for your specific make and model.
Proper fitment not only ensures optimal performance but also helps avoid potential safety issues and premature wear.
When in doubt, err on the side of caution and choose a tire size that your motorcycle manufacturer or a reputable tire specialist recommends.
The right tire size can make all the difference in your riding experience and long-term satisfaction with your Michelin Commander tires.
Stability

One of the key features of both the Michelin Commander 2 and Commander 3 is their ability to provide excellent stability, even at high speeds or during aggressive cornering.
They are designed with advanced compound formulations and reinforced carcass constructions that help maintain a stable footprint on the road surface.
This enhanced stability not only contributes to a confident and controlled riding experience but also improves overall safety, especially during challenging maneuvers or when navigating through varying road conditions.
Michelin Commander 3 Recommended Pressure

There is no single recommended pressure for Michelin Commander 3 . The recommended pressure can vary depending on the specific bike and riding conditions.
Some riders have reported using 42 psi in the rear, while others have used 35 psi in the front and 40 psi in the rear.
It is important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and use Michelin’s pressure guide to ensure a safe and comfortable ride.
Michelin Commander 3 Pressure Chart
Front/Rear | Size | Load/Speed Rating | Tire Type |
---|---|---|---|
80/90 – 21 | 54H | REINF. | TL/TT |
140/90 B 15 | 76H | REINF | TL/TT |
90/90 – 21 | 54H | TL/TT | |
140/80 B 17 | REINF | TL/TT | |
100/90 B 19 | 57H | TL/TT | |
150/80 B 16 | 77H | TL/TT | |
110/90 B 19 | 62H | TL/TT | |
160/80 B 16 | 77H | REINF | TL/TT |
120/90 B 18 | 71H | REINF | TL/TT |
170/80 B 15 | 77H | TL/TT | |
140/75 R 17 | 67V | TL | |
180/70 B 16 | 77H | TL | |
200/55 R 17 | 78V | TL/TT |
Can You Mix Michelin Commander 2 and 3?
According to Michelin, having the same model on your bike is better for better performance. However, some riders have mixed the Michelin Commander II and III and reported no issues.
It is important to note that mixing models may affect the handling of your bike, and it is recommended to consult with a professional before doing so.
What Is the Speed Rating of Michelin Commander 2?

The Michelin Commander 2 has different speed ratings depending on the specific size. For example, the 140/80B-17 69H front tire has a speed rating of H, which means it has a maximum speed of 130 mph. The