Motorcycle Tires Buying Guide

When it comes to motorcycles, the tires are the only point of contact with the road. Therefore, it is essential to invest in good quality tires that suit your needs and riding style. Many riders often overlook the importance of tires, and this can lead to accidents or reduced performance. In this buying guide, we will discuss everything you need to know when purchasing motorcycle tires, from types of tires to sizes and brands.

Types of Motorcycle Tires

Before we delve into the buying process, let's first understand the different types of motorcycle tires available:

• Street Tires: These tires are the most common and used for daily commuting or touring on paved roads. Street tires have a tread pattern that offers a balance between grip and durability.
• Sport Tires: These tires are designed for high-performance motorcycles and provide excellent grip and handling. Sport tires have a softer rubber compound, and the tread pattern is optimized for cornering.
• Cruiser Tires: Cruiser tires are designed for heavyweight motorcycles and provide a comfortable ride. The tread pattern is optimized for longevity, and the rubber compound offers excellent grip on both wet and dry roads.
• Off-road Tires: These tires are designed for dirt bikes and adventure motorcycles and provide excellent traction on loose surfaces. Off-road tires have a more aggressive tread pattern and a softer rubber compound.
• Dual-Sport Tires: Dual-sport tires are designed for motorcycles that can be ridden both on and off-road. These tires have a tread pattern that offers a balance between grip and durability.

Tire Size

The next crucial factor when buying motorcycle tires is understanding tire size. Every motorcycle tire has a code that specifies its size and dimension. The code usually looks like this:

180/55 ZR17

The first number "180" refers to the tire's width in millimeters. The second number "55" is the aspect ratio or the tire's height divided by its width. In this example, the tire's height is 55% of its width. The letter "Z" indicates the speed rating, and the number "17" is the rim diameter in inches.

It is essential to know your motorcycle's required tire size before purchasing. You can find this information in your owner's manual or by checking the current tires on your motorcycle. Make sure to buy tires that match your motorcycle's specifications.

Tire Brands

There are many tire brands available in the market, and choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here are some of the most popular brands:

• Michelin: Michelin is a well-known tire brand and a preferred choice for many riders. Michelin offers a wide range of tires, from sport bikes to adventure touring, and provides excellent grip and handling.
• Dunlop: Dunlop is another popular tire brand that has been around for over 120 years. Dunlop offers a wide range of tires, from sport bikes to cruisers, and provides excellent grip and longevity.
• Bridgestone: Bridgestone is a Japanese tire brand and one of the largest tire manufacturers in the world. Bridgestone offers a wide range of tires, from sport bikes to off-road, and provides excellent grip and durability.
• Pirelli: Pirelli is an Italian tire brand known for its high-performance tires. Pirelli offers a wide range of tires, from racing bikes to cruisers, and provides excellent grip and handling.
• Metzeler: Metzeler is a German tire brand known for its high-performance tires. Metzeler offers a wide range of tires, from sport bikes to touring, and provides excellent grip and stability.

Tire Construction and Materials

Another factor to consider when buying motorcycle tires is the construction and materials. There are two main types of construction: Bias-ply and Radial.

1. Bias-ply: Bias-ply tires have a cross-ply construction that makes them more durable and able to carry more load. These tires also provide a more stable ride but may not offer as good handling as radial tires.

2. Radial: Radial tires have a radial construction that makes them more flexible and able to handle high speeds and tight corners. These tires also provide a smoother ride but may not be as durable as bias-ply tires.

The materials used in tire construction play a crucial role in tire performance. Here are the most common materials used:

• Rubber compounds: Rubber compounds determine the tire's grip and durability. Softer compounds provide better grip but wear out faster, while harder compounds last longer but may not offer as good grip.
• Carcass materials: Carcass materials determine the tire's strength and resistance to punctures. The most common carcass materials are nylon, polyester, and aramid fiber.
• Tread pattern: Tread pattern determines the tire's ability to dissipate water and provide traction on different surfaces. The most common tread patterns are slick, treadless, and grooved.

Tire Maintenance

Maintaining your motorcycle tires is as essential as selecting the right one. Here are some tips to keep your tires in good condition:

• Inflation: Check tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended pressure levels. Underinflated or overinflated tires affect handling and reduce tire life.
• Tread depth: Check the tread depth regularly and replace tires when they are worn out. Worn-out tires affect handling and increase the risk of accidents.
• Cleanliness: Keep the tires clean and free from debris. Dirt and debris can damage the tire's surface and affect grip.
• Storage: Store your motorcycle in a cool and dry place. Direct sunlight and heat can damage the tire's rubber compound.

Tire Price

The price of motorcycle tires varies depending on the brand, type, and size. Expect to pay more for high-performance and specialized tires. However, it is essential to invest in good quality tires that provide excellent grip and durability. Cheap tires may seem like a good option in the short term, but they may end up costing you more in the long run due to reduced performance and frequent replacements.

Tips for Buying Motorcycle Tires

Here are some tips to help you make the right choice when purchasing motorcycle tires:

• Identify your riding style and choose tires that suit your needs.
• Choose tires that match your motorcycle's specifications, including size and load capacity.
• Research tire brands and read reviews from other riders.
• Consider the tire's construction, materials, and tread pattern.
• Maintain your tires regularly to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Conclusion

Choosing the right motorcycle tires can make a significant difference in your riding experience. Consider your riding style, motorcycle specifications, tire size, and brand when selecting. Remember to maintain your tires regularly and invest in good quality tires that provide excellent grip and durability. Safe riding!