Motorcyclists who demand both comfort and control from their tires often narrow their choices to the Dunlop Roadsmart 4 and the Michelin Road 6. These two heavyweights in the sport-touring category promise exceptional grip, confident cornering, and lasting durability on long rides.
Dunlop built the Roadsmart 4 with a focus on all-weather traction and predictable handling across both wet and dry surfaces. Michelin engineered the Road 6 to deliver refined performance with advanced tread compounds that enhance wet grip and extend mileage.
Riders value both for their ability to balance sport-like agility with touring comfort, yet their design philosophies set them apart. The Roadsmart 4 leans toward dynamic road feedback, while the Road 6 emphasizes smoother transitions and superior longevity.
This comparison explores how each tire performs in real-world conditions, helping riders decide which one truly complements their style and expectations on the open road.
Dunlop Roadsmart 4 vs Michelin Road 6
Sport-touring tires must do more than just grip the road. They need to balance speed, control, comfort, and durability through rain, heat, and long miles. Riders expect strong cornering, smooth highway manners, and dependable wet traction.
Two tires often at the top of this category are the Dunlop Roadsmart 4 and the Michelin Road 6. Both are premium options built for performance-minded touring riders.
They share similar goals but reach them in different ways. Let’s break them down in detail to help you choose the one that fits your riding style best.
Dunlop Roadsmart 4 Front Tire
Product Details
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Brand: Dunlop
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Size: 120/70ZR17
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Tread Type: Directional
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Maximum Pressure: 51 PSI
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Rim Width: 17 inches
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Tire Diameter: 23 inches
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Weight: 10.2 lbs
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Aspect Ratio: 70
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Load Index: 58
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Speed Rating: ZR
The Dunlop Roadsmart 4 continues the brand’s tradition of producing durable, performance-focused sport-touring tires. It builds upon the success of the Roadsmart 3, offering longer tread life and better grip across all road conditions.
Designed for riders who travel far but still crave a sporty feel, it’s meant for machines like the BMW R1200RT, Yamaha FJR1300, or Honda ST1300.
Features
1. Multi-Tread Technology
Dunlop uses a dual-compound design a harder center for long wear and softer shoulders for grip in corners. This helps maintain stability and traction even under heavy loads.
2. Improved Mileage
Compared to the previous version, the Roadsmart 4 promises up to 26% longer tread life. The new compound resists heat and wear, especially during highway touring.
3. Wet and Dry Performance
Its advanced tread pattern channels water efficiently while keeping a large contact patch on the road. Dunlop focused on keeping grip consistent through both dry twisty roads and wet city streets.
4. Comfort and Stability
The tire’s carcass construction helps absorb small bumps and road vibrations. This design improves rider comfort on long rides while keeping cornering feedback precise.
What Is the Good?
The Roadsmart 4 offers excellent high-speed stability. The tire feels firm and confident, even with a passenger or luggage. The multi-tread design gives strong cornering traction and long wear life. Riders report that the front and rear wear evenly, reducing the need for early replacement.
Wet performance is a clear strength. The tread grooves evacuate water quickly, and the tire maintains steady grip on slick asphalt. The steering feels light yet precise, making the bike easy to control in corners.
Durability also stands out. Riders who cover thousands of touring miles appreciate how the tire stays stable and predictable throughout its life.
What Is the Bad?
The tire feels slightly stiff at low speeds, especially on rough pavement. It may take a few miles to warm up before reaching full grip.
While mileage is impressive, it’s not quite as high as some Michelin models. The Roadsmart 4 also produces more road noise than average when worn down, especially on coarse asphalt.
Overall Opinion
The Dunlop Roadsmart 4 is a strong choice for riders who value stability, mileage, and predictable handling.
It’s especially good for sport-touring bikes that cover long distances at highway speeds. The tire feels solid and trustworthy ideal for riders who want performance that lasts through changing weather and terrain.
MICHELIN Road 6 Front Tire
Product Details
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Brand: Michelin
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Size: 120/70ZR-17
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Section Width: 120 mm
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Tread Type: Asymmetrical
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Maximum Pressure: 58 PSI
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Rim Width: 17 inches
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Tire Diameter: 20 inches (approx.)
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Weight: 10.9 lbs
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Aspect Ratio: 70
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Load Index: 60
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Speed Rating: ZR
The Michelin Road 6 represents two decades of research and evolution in Michelin’s sport-touring lineup. It replaces the popular Road 5 and brings significant upgrades in grip, mileage, and comfort.
Designed for everything from spirited weekend rides to long-distance touring, it’s built to handle both wet and dry conditions with ease.
Features
1. 2CT+ Dual Compound Technology
Michelin uses its famous 2CT+ compound with silica-based rubber to enhance wet grip and stability. The center is firmer for mileage, while the edges provide strong cornering traction.
2. New Tread Design
The tread pattern features larger water channels and deeper sipes. This improves drainage and enhances control during sudden rain. The tread also wears more evenly, helping the tire maintain performance until the end of its life.
3. Longer Tread Life
The Road 6 offers around 10% more mileage than the previous Road 5. Michelin’s compound and construction resist wear even on rough or hot roads.
4. Improved Comfort
Michelin redesigned the carcass to improve shock absorption. The tire feels smooth, quiet, and balanced, making long rides more enjoyable.
5. Excellent Wet Traction
The silica-rich compound provides outstanding grip on damp or slippery roads. Michelin focused on reducing braking distances in rain, which helps boost rider confidence.
What Is the Good?
The Road 6 is known for its excellent wet grip. It performs with confidence through rain and standing water. The tire stays stable during sudden stops and gives a controlled feel even when leaned deep in corners.
Comfort is another highlight. The tire absorbs bumps well and stays quiet at high speeds. The steering feels natural not too heavy, not too quick making it easy to ride for long hours.
The mileage is also impressive. Many riders report getting more than 9,000–10,000 miles without noticeable performance drop. Michelin’s build quality and even wear pattern add to its reliability.
What Is the Bad?
The Michelin Road 6 is among the most expensive tires in its category. Some riders also feel it offers slightly slower turn-in than sportier options like the Road 5 or Dunlop’s Q3+. The sidewalls are soft, which improves comfort but can reduce sharp feedback during aggressive cornering.
Overall Opinion
The Michelin Road 6 delivers premium all-around performance. It’s ideal for riders who face unpredictable weather or ride long distances across mixed conditions.
The tire’s comfort, grip, and durability make it one of the best choices for sport-touring bikes. It’s smooth, quiet, and confidence-inspiring perfect for everyday use and extended trips.
Detailed Comparison for Dunlop Roadsmart 4 vs Michelin Road 6
The Dunlop Roadsmart 4 and Michelin Road 6 share the same goal to give riders a sport-touring tire that lasts long, grips hard, and performs in any weather. Both succeed but do so with different priorities.
The Dunlop Roadsmart 4 feels firm and direct. It’s built for riders who value precise feedback and solid highway stability. The tire’s stiffer carcass helps it stay planted during heavy braking or loaded touring.
Its dual-compound tread gives long life while keeping cornering grip consistent. It’s a great match for heavier touring bikes or riders who prefer a sporty edge.
The Michelin Road 6, on the other hand, focuses on comfort and all-weather confidence. It offers smoother ride quality, better wet braking, and quieter performance.
The silica compound and advanced tread design make it excellent for rain-heavy or cool climates. It also provides slightly longer mileage than the Dunlop, though with a softer and more forgiving feel.
In short:
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Dunlop Roadsmart 4: Sharper feel, better feedback, firmer ride.
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Michelin Road 6: Smoother ride, better wet grip, higher comfort.
Both are exceptional, but your riding style decides the winner.
FAQs
1. Which tire lasts longer?
The Michelin Road 6 offers slightly more tread life about 10% longer than previous Michelin models and often outlasts Dunlop’s Roadsmart 4.
2. Which tire has better wet grip?
The Michelin Road 6 provides stronger wet traction due to its silica compound and advanced tread grooves.
3. Which tire gives better feedback?
The Dunlop Roadsmart 4 delivers sharper road feedback and a firmer feel, especially at higher speeds.
4. Are both good for long-distance touring?
Yes. Both tires are designed for sport-touring motorcycles and perform well on long trips.
5. Which one offers better comfort?
The Michelin Road 6 feels smoother and quieter on rough or uneven surfaces.
6. Which tire is more affordable?
The Dunlop Roadsmart 4 usually costs less and gives good value for performance.
Conclusion
The Dunlop Roadsmart 4 delivers strong feedback, firm handling, and excellent stability for long highway rides. It’s the better pick for riders who like a sporty edge and want durable, predictable performance.
The Michelin Road 6 offers superior comfort, smoother control, and outstanding wet grip. It’s perfect for riders who ride through changing weather or value comfort on long trips.
For a dry-weather performance rider, go with Dunlop Roadsmart 4.
For all-season, comfort-focused touring, pick the Michelin Road 6.
Both are among the best in the sport-touring class reliable, balanced, and built to handle every mile with confidence.