Motorcycle Tire Size Conversion Calculator
Choosing the right tires for our motorcycles is crucial. Motorcycle tires play a big part in how our bikes handle. Knowing about tire size information helps greatly. This guide makes understanding motorcycle tire sizes and switching them simple. It’s all about finding the ideal replacement tires for your motorcycle. We’ll explain the terms and what to consider when changing tire size. This knowledge applies to all bike types, from Harleys to sport bikes or adventure machines. You’ll be able to pick the best tires for your motorcycle with confidence.
Key Takeaways
- Motorcycle tires are available in various sizes, from 15″ to 21″ rims and widths from 2.15 to 13 inches.
- There are two main types of tire sizing: alphanumeric and metric, with metric widely used.
- It’s essential to understand how tire width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter work together.
- Key factors when considering a tire size change include handling, clearance, and the maker’s suggestions.
- It’s not advised to mix radial and bias-ply tires for safety and performance reasons.
Understanding Motorcycle Tire Construction
The way motorcycle tires are made is very important for how well they work and how long they last. We’ll look at the main parts that make these tires an essential part of riding.
Tread
The tread is the part of the tire in direct contact with the road. Tires with smooth treads are great for roads that are dry and smooth. They offer good grip and stability. On the other hand, tires with deep, chunky treads are perfect for rough off-road paths. They help the bike stay under control and get a good grip in tough spots. Engineers at tire companies work hard to design treads that are just right. They make sure the tire grips the road well and pushes water away, making riding safer in different conditions.
Bead
The bead is where the tire meets the wheel rim. It’s made of steel wire covered in rubber. This part keeps the tire and the wheel together tightly. It stops the tire from moving around too much, which helps keep the bike steady.
Carcass
The carcass is like the tire’s body under the tread. Motorcycle tires might be made with bias-ply or radial styles. Bias-ply tires have belts that are like layers under the tread, while radial tires have belts running around the tire. These different ways of making the tire change how it feels when you ride and how much weight it can carry.
Sidewall
The sidewall is between the tread and the bead. It affects how the tire handles and how much weight it can bear. A tire with a short sidewall is quick to respond but might feel hard. A longer sidewall makes for a smoother ride. The design and size of the sidewall play a big part in how the tire performs.
Decoding Motorcycle Tire Size Information
Motorcycle tires have different ways of showing their size. Each method has a unique way of writing tire sizes. It’s key for riders to know this to pick the best tires for their bikes. Now, we’ll look at the two main types: alphanumeric and metric.
Alphanumeric Tire Sizing
In the alphanumeric way, the tire width uses a letter code like “MT” for 130mm wide tires. Then, a numerical value is given for the aspect ratio. For instance, an “MT90-16” tire is 130mm wide with a 90% aspect ratio. It fits a 16-inch rim.
Metric Tire Sizing
The metric system shows tire dimensions with numbers. A “130/90-16” tire means it’s 130mm wide, with a 90% aspect ratio, and fits a 16-inch rim. This system is widely used because it’s clear and easy to follow.
Motorcycle Tire Size Conversion
Converting sizes between alphanumeric and metric is about understanding tire measurements. Knowing these relationships helps riders find the right tires. This is true, even for older or less common sizing types.
| Tire Specification | Rim Width Range |
|---|---|
| Metric | 3.5 – 6.0 inches |
| Alpha (MT) | 3.0 – 5.5 inches |
| Standard Inch | 3.0 – 5.5 inches |
| Low Profile Inch | 3.5 – 6.0 inches |
The above table is a handy guide for rim widths allowed with different tire formats. Using this info helps you pick the right tires. This ensures a secure and well-fitting choice for your motorcycle’s wheels.
Factors to Consider When Changing Tire Size
Changing your motorcycle’s tire size needs careful thought. You must think about safety, fit, and how the bike will perform. Checking if the new tires will fit, the impact on handling and the maker’s advice is key.
Tire Clearance
When you put on different tires, check if they fit without touching other parts. If tires are too big, they might hit the bike’s body, causing damage and making the ride unsafe. It’s vital to measure well and match the new tires with what your bike can take to avoid problems.
Handling and Stability
Choosing the right size affects how your bike feels and acts. Big tires might give better grip but can make it harder to turn. If tires are taller, your gears and speedometer might not work right, which affects safety and performance. Think about these changes and make sure your bike can handle them smoothly.
Manufacturer Recommendations
Bike makers suggest specific tires for good performance and safety. While you can pick other tires, it’s smart to talk to the maker and do your homework to not mess with how the bike works. Ignoring what the maker says could lead to bad handling or even being responsible for accidents.
| Tire Clearance | Handling and Stability | Manufacturer Recommendations |
|---|---|---|
| Ensure adequate clearance between tire and surrounding componentsAvoid interference with swingarm, fenders, and chainCarefully measure and compare new tire dimensions to bike specifications | Wider tires offer more grip and stability but can make the bike harder to steerTaller tires can alter gearing and speedometer readingsConsider how tire size changes will affect overall bike performance and safety | Manufacturers design bikes for specific tire sizes and constructionsConduct thorough research and consult manufacturer when changing tiresEnsure modifications do not compromise the bike’s design or safety |
Mixing Tire Types: Radial vs. Bias-Ply
Radial and bias-ply tires are unique in how they perform. Radials are firmer and react quicker, yet they stay cooler when used. In comparison, bias-ply tires give a smoother ride and can carry more weight. It’s best to use the type your vehicle originally came with for the safest driving experience.
Radials last longer than bias-ply tires by 30% to 50%. They don’t get as hot, up to 25°F cooler than bias-ply, which means they’re often the top pick. On the flip side, bias-ply tires are cheaper to make, making them friendlier to your wallet.
Radials are great for fast driving; they use up less gas and are very stable. They also make your trip quiet and smooth by absorbing bumps well. Bias tires, however, are strong and less flexible. This makes them a good choice for heavy bikes.
Some bikers have mixed tire types and noticed no big troubles, just different cornering. Still, it’s usually not the best idea to mix these tire types unless the bike maker says it’s okay. Always think through how switching tires might affect how your motorcycle handles and runs.
Installing Tubeless Tires on Spoked Rims
Spoked rims need inner tubes to keep air because they can let air out with tubeless tires. Mounting tubeless tires directly can be dangerous due to air loss and tire damage. Use tubed tires or make sure the rims can work with tubeless.
The author has been converting spoked wheels to tubeless for 15 years. They found that spoked or cast OEM wheels that are tubeless work well. For this, they recommend using ‘MT’ tubeless rims and special sealing products, like CWC Airtight or BARTubless.
Prefer less leaky tubeless tires for a better conversion. But, avoid Tubliss™ for long trips. To keep safe, add a TPMS to watch for air loss.
Motorcycle wheels changed from spoked to alloy for tubeless, which was a big step. The text explains the role and history of different wheel types. It also discusses the importance of tubeless tires because they need to match the wheel’s type.
Converting to tubeless makes tire deflation safer than tube tires. A TPMS makes a tubeless switch even safer.
Getting a flat tire is common on trips, which led to the change to tubeless in the 1970s. Manufacturers started using cast wheels in the late 1970s instead of spoked ones for ease. Motocross bikes started using supermoto features after the 1990s, like bigger rims and tubeless tires. This made the standard shift from tubes to tubeless.
Tubeless is preferred by rally riders and those on long trips. Not all spoked wheels can switch to tubeless, but it’s good to try. Adding a special tape helps prevent leaks with tubeless. Mesh tape makes it stronger for spoked wheels. Some models, like the Yamaha SDR, were changed to fit tubeless. There are kits for DIY tubeless changes. Changing parts of a bike, like tires, is common for better looks and function.
Conclusion
Figuring out motorcycle tire sizes might have felt overwhelming. But, this guide has given you what you need. Now, you know how to pick the right tires for your bike. They will keep you safe and running well.
It doesn’t matter if you have a Harley, sports bike, or adventure machine. This info will make it easy for you to understand tire sizes. You’ll learn about different kinds of sizes and what they mean. This helps you choose the best tires for how you ride.
Always keep an eye on your tires. Check the pressure and change them when needed. Taking care of your tires is crucial. With the right sizes and by looking after them, you’ll enjoy your rides more. And you’ll get to your destinations feeling good. Happy riding!
FAQ
What is the importance of understanding motorcycle tire size information?
Motorcycle tires are very important for your bike. Riders need to understand tire sizes to pick the right ones. This guide makes it easy to learn about sizes and how to choose new tires for your bike.
What are the key components of a motorcycle tire?
The tire has several parts. There’s the tread for road contact, bead for the wheel, carcass underneath, and sidewall connecting tread and bead.
How do the alphanumeric and metric tire sizing systems work?
Alphanumeric sizes use a letter for width and a number for ratio. Metric sizes show the tire’s key measures directly. These include width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter.
How do you convert between alphanumeric and metric tire sizing?
Converting is about knowing tire size components. These are width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter. With this knowledge, finding the right tire is straightforward, even with older sizing types.
What factors should be considered when changing tire size?
Changing tire size needs some considerations. Make sure the new tire fits without touching anything. Also, think about how the change may affect the bike’s safety and performance.
What are the differences between radial and bias-ply tires?
Radial and bias-ply tires have different qualities. Radial tires are strong and react quickly, while bias-ply are comfortable and carry heavy loads better.
Can tubeless tires be installed on spoked rims?
Tubeless tires can’t fit on spoked rims without tubes. Trying to fit them without can lead to dangerous air loss and tire damage.
Source Links
- https://ridewrightwheels.com/pages/motorcycle-tire-wheel-fitment-chart
- https://www.uti.edu/blog/motorcycle/motorcycle-tire-sizing-guide
- https://www.lowbrowcustoms.com/blogs/motorcycle-how-to-guides/motorcycle-tire-sizes-comparison-chart
- https://www.revzilla.com/common-tread/motorcycle-tires-101-guide
- https://www.denniskirk.com/learn/tire-sizes-explained
- https://www.motodeal.com.ph/articles/motorcycle-features/can-i-change-my-motorcycles-tire-size
- https://www.vtxoa.com/threads/mixing-radial-and-bias-tires.139921/
- https://www.goldwingfacts.com/threads/tires-radials-or-bias.394322/
- https://www.wildguzzi.com/forum/index.php?topic=100976.0
- https://adventure-motorcycling.com/converting-spoke-wheels-to-tubeless/