How to Read Motorcycle Tire Size

Trying to make sense of a motorcycle tire size? Here’s a quick guide on how to read motorcycle tire size so you can be sure you’re getting the right tires for your bike.

Checkout this video:

What do the numbers on motorcycle tires mean?

The numbers on motorcycle tires can be confusing because they are not standardized. The front and rear tires often have different sizes, and the numbers can vary depending on the manufacturer. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you understand what the numbers mean.

The first number is the tire’s width in millimeters. The second number is the aspect ratio, which is the height of the tire from bead to tread divided by the width. A 50-series tire is therefore 50 millimeters wide with a sidewall that is 50% as high as the width (or 25 millimeters). The third number is the rim size, which is the diameter of the wheel in inches.

The fourth number is the load index, which corresponds to the maximum weight that the tire can support when properly inflated. The fifth number is the speed rating, which indicates the maximum speed at which the tire can be used safely. Finally, there may be a letter following all of these numbers; this indicates special features or qualifications of the tire.

How to read motorcycle tire size

For anyone new to motorcycles, understanding motorcycle tire size can seem daunting. The good news is that, once you know what to look for, it’s actually quite simple. Here’s a quick guide to help you make sense of motorcycle tire size markings.

The first number in a motorcycle tire size is the width of the tire in millimeters. The second number is the height of the sidewall, expressed as a percentage of the width. The third number is the diameter of the wheel, in inches.

For example, a common front tire size for sport bikes is 120/70 ZR17. This means the width of the tire is 120 millimeters, the sidewall height is 70% of that (84 millimeters), and the wheel diameter is 17 inches.

The fourth and final letter in a motorcycle tire size indicates the speed rating and load index. The speed rating tells you the maximum speed at which the tire can be used safely; the load index indicates how much weight each tire can support safely.

Tire speed ratings are expressed in letters, with “S” being the lowest (up to 112 mph) and “Y” being the highest (149+ mph). The load index is expressed in numbers, with lower numbers indicating a smaller load-carrying capacity and higher numbers indicating a higher load-carrying capacity.

In our example above, 120/70 ZR17, the “Z” means that the tire has a maximum speed rating of 149+ mph, and the “R” means that it has a load index of 73 (493 pounds).

What do the letters on motorcycle tires mean?

Most motorcycle tires have a code printed on the sidewall that looks something like this: 180/55ZR17. These numbers and letters tell you the important details about the tire so that you can make sure you are buying the right one for your bike. Here is a quick guide to reading motorcycle tire size:

The first number (180 in our example) is the width of the tire in millimeters. The second number (55 in our example) is the aspect ratio. This is the height of the tire sidewall as a percentage of the width. So, 55% of 180mm is 99mm. The third letter (Z in our example) tells you the tire’s speed rating. This is how fast you can safely go on the tire. The fourth and final number (17 in our example) is the size of the wheel that the tire is designed to fit. In this case, 17 inches.

How to choose the right motorcycle tire size

When shopping for motorcycle tires, you need to know three main things: tire width, tread pattern, and load rating. All of these are determined by the size code on the tire’s sidewall. The width is the first number you’ll see; it’s the width of the tire in millimeters. The second number is the aspect ratio; it’s the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width. The third number is wheel diameter; it’s the wheel size that this tire is designed to fit. The load rating is a code consisting of a letter or letters; this tells you how much weight each tire can support.

Tire widths for street bikes typically range from 110mm to 200mm. Wider tires provide more traction, but they also create more drag on the pavement, which can reduce fuel economy. Aspect ratios range from 40% to 100%. Lower aspect ratios indicate taller sidewalls, which provide better shock absorption on rough roads. Higher aspect ratios mean shorter sidewalls, which improve handling and give a smoother ride on smooth roads. Wheel diameters range from 12 inches to 21 inches. Larger wheels roll over obstacles more easily and provide better handling at high speeds, but they can make the bike harder to maneuver at low speeds.

The load rating tells you how much weight each tire can support. The higher the load rating, the greater the weight capacity of the tire. Load ratings are expressed as a two-digit code; for example, “51” means that each tire can support up to 805 kilograms (1,775 pounds).

How to change a motorcycle tire

One of the first things you need to learn as a motorcycle owner is how to change a tire. Whether you get a flat on the road or just want to change out your old tires for new ones, this is a skill every rider should know. The process is fairly straightforward, but there are a few things you need to know before getting started, like how to read motorcycle tire size.

Most motorcycle tires have their size printed on the sidewall, and it usually looks something like this: 180/55ZR17 73W. The first number is the width of the tire in millimeters, while the second number is the height of the sidewall as a percentage of the width. In this example, the width is 180mm and the height is 55% of that, or 99mm. The “ZR” signifies that this is a radial tire, while 17 is the rim diameter in inches. 73 is the load rating (explained below), and W indicates the maximum speed rating for this tire, which in this case is 168mph.

Now that you know how to read motorcycle tire size, it’s time to get changing!

How to clean motorcycle tires

Most people don’t realize how important it is to clean their motorcycle tires. In addition to making your bike look nicer, cleaning your tires will also help them last longer.

There are a few different ways that you can clean your motorcycle tires. You can use a pressure washer, a hose, or even just a bucket of soapy water. Whichever method you choose, make sure that you don’t use too much pressure, as this can damage the tire.

Once you’ve decided how you’re going to clean your tires, you’ll need to gather some supplies. For the best results, you should use a tire cleaner specifically designed for motorcycles. You can find these cleaners at most auto parts stores. In addition to the cleaner, you’ll also need a soft brush and a rag.

Start by wetting down the tire with whatever method you’re using. Then, apply the tire cleaner according to the instructions on the bottle. Once the cleaner has been applied, use the brush to scrub the tire in a circular motion. Be sure to reach all areas of the tire, including the sidewalls.

After scrubbing the tire, rinse it off with water. Once the tire is completely rinsed, dry it off with the rag. You should do this for all of your motorcycle’s tires, as well as any other exposed parts of the bike (such as chrome).

Cleaning your motorcycle’s tires on a regular basis will not only make your bike look better, but it will also help extend the life of your tires

How to store motorcycle tires

There are a few things to keep in mind when storing motorcycle tires:
-Tires should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
-Tires should be inflated to their recommended pressure before being stored.
-Tires should not be stored on concrete floors, as they can absorb moisture and develop mold or mildew.
-If possible, store tires on a wooden pallet or rack to keep them off the ground.

How to patch a motorcycle tire

Most motorcycle tires will have a “patch” somewhere on the sidewall. This is an area of the tire that has been reinforced to resist punctures. To patch a motorcycle tire, you will need to remove the old tire and inner tube, clean and prepare the surface of the tire, apply the patch, and then re-install the new inner tube and tire.

How to dispose of motorcycle tires

There are a few accepted methods of motorcycle tire disposal. The most common is to take them to a tire recycling center. You can usually find these centers at auto body shops, or you might have to call around to see if anyone in your area offers this service. If you can’t find a tire recycling center, another option is to take them to a landfill. Most landfills will charge a fee for tire disposal, so be sure to call ahead and check on the charges. Finally, if you have access to a wood chipper, you can shred the tires and use them as mulch in your garden.

Frequently asked questions about motorcycle tires

When it comes to shopping for motorcycle tires, you need to know what size and type of tire is compatible with your bike. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions that will help you navigate the process.

What do the numbers on motorcycle tires mean?
The numbers on motorcycle tires represent the tire’s width, aspect ratio, constriction and speed rating. For example, a tire with the designation “130/90-16 67H” has a width of 130 millimeters, an aspect ratio of 90%, a constriction of 16 ( meaning it is designed for a 16-inch wheel) and a speed rating of “H,” which means it can travel at up to 130 mph.

What is the difference between bias-ply and radial motorcycle tires?
Bias-ply tires are made with layers of fabric that run diagonally from one bead to another. Radial tires have fabric layers that run perpendicular to the beads. Radial tires are considered superior because they offer better handling, traction and fuel economy. They are also more expensive.

What is the difference between tubeless and tube type motorcycle tires?
Tubeless tires do not require an inner tube; they are sealed with a rim gasket. Tube type tires have an inner tube inside them. Tubeless tires offer better performance because they minimize rolling resistance and allow you to feel the road better. They are also more difficult to change if you get a flat tire.