How to Choose and Change Tires on Your Motorcycle
For Harley-Davidson riders, tires are more than a consumable part - they are a critical component of how the motorcycle behaves on the road. Regardless of the model you ride, the way your bike handles, grips, and rides depends on those two patches that connect you to the ground. Since motorcycle tires age, harden, crack, and wear over time, every rider will eventually need to replace a tire.
This often raises a common question: can you change motorcycle tires yourself, or should the job be left to a workshop? The short answer is yes, a tire change can be done at home, but only with the right tools, the right knowledge, and a clear understanding of the tire you’re working with. That’s exactly what this guide is intended to provide.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the fundamentals of Harley-Davidson motorcycle tires, answer frequently asked questions about tire fitment and legal requirements, and provide a clear, step-by-step overview of how a tire change is performed.
We’ll cover the basics you need to know about tires for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including:
- What different types of tire designs exist
- How to find tires compatible with your motorcycle
- How to read and understand tire specification markings
- Key aspects of installing, mounting, and correctly seating a tire
By the end of this guide, you should understand important considerations when choosing the right tire and have a solid overview of how tires are handled during installation.
If you already feel confident selecting the correct tire for your motorcycle and are mainly looking for the technical steps involved, you can skip ahead to Part 2: Changing a Tire on a Motorcycle.
Roll up your sleeves and dive in - your Harley’s next set of tires is waiting.
1. How to pick the right tire for my Harley
When replacing a tire on a Harley-Davidson, the goal is usually straightforward: fitting a tire that is technically compatible with the motorcycle and legally approved for road use. In many countries, the tire itself is not part of the vehicle’s operating permit, which means the term “right tire” can be interpreted in different ways. For the purpose of a tire change, however, the correct tire is first and foremost the one that matches the wheel, the motorcycle’s specifications, and applicable regulations.
The following sections provide a structured overview, starting with the fundamental construction types of modern motorcycle tires, followed by guidance on tire compatibility, legal requirements, and how to read tire markings correctly. This ensures that the tire you choose will fit your Harley, function as intended, and comply with road regulations.
What different designs of tires do exist?
Modern motorcycle tires are pneumatic tires, meaning they rely on internal air pressure to carry load, maintain shape, and provide suspension and grip. To withstand these forces, rubber is combined with layers of fabric or steel cords that form the tire’s internal structure, known as the carcass.
In this context, modern motorcycle tires refers to all currently available motorcycle tires except vintage clincher tires with hooked beads, which were commonly used on early motorcycles up into the early 1930s and share similarities with bicycle tire designs. These specialized historic tire types are not covered in this article.
While Harley-Davidson motorcycles use tires from various manufacturers, all of them follow the same fundamental construction principles. The main differences lie in how the carcass plies are arranged. Two primary construction types are used on Harley-Davidson motorcycles, diagonal (Bias-ply) construction and bias-belted construction (B), while a less common third option exists in radial construction (R) tires:
Diagonal (Bias-ply) construction
In diagonal construction, the carcass cords run at alternating angles from bead to bead, typically between 30° and 40°. This design offers good sidewall stiffness and load stability but results in a longer, narrower contact patch and more heat buildup at higher speeds.
Bias-belted construction (B)
Bias-belted tires combine a diagonal carcass with additional belt plies laid at shallow angles under the tread. This design improves circumferential stability compared to pure bias-ply tires while retaining some of their load-carrying characteristics and ride compliance.
Radial construction (R)
Radial tires use carcass cords arranged at 90° to the direction of travel, combined with a stabilizing belt layer made from steel, Kevlar, or nylon beneath the tread. This construction provides a wider contact patch, improved grip, reduced heat generation, and minimal tire growth at higher speeds. However, radial tires are quite uncommon on Harley-Davidson motorcycles - well, if it's not a LiveWire. While radial tires may fit, if found in the right measurements they're generally not offered by standard Harley or aftermarket suppliers.
What is the best tire for my Harley-Davidson?
Technically, there is no single “best” tire for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Which tire is right depends on your riding style, the terrain you ride on, your specific motorcycle model, and the look you want to achieve. Tires can be roughly grouped into categories - this is one way we do it in our shop; other classifications do also exist.
Classic Tires
For riders who prefer a historic look, classic tires offer tread patterns ranging from diamond and block designs to longitudinal grooves. Famous examples include the longitudinal profiles of highway classics by Goodyear or Firestone tires, now available as reproductions from manufacturers such as Coker, Shinko, and further options of Heidenau, and Avon. Some profiles also include designs originally intended for military or off-road use, such as the legendary Goodyear Grasshopper, whose chevron tread inspired the Bates Baja tires. Classic tires are best suited for road touring on paved surfaces, providing an authentic look on classic models like Knucklehead, Panhead, or custom Chopper and Bobber builds.
Scrambler / All-Terrain Tires
Versatile tires for riders who mix gravel, light off-road, and asphalt. Examples include Bates Baja, Dunlop Trailmax, and Coker ANS. These tires are compatible with Sportster, Dyna, FX models, and LiveWire. They provide a compromise between grip, comfort, and durability, and are ideal for riders who want flexibility across surfaces. Scrambler tires are characterized by a more substantial tread depth compared to your average street-only tire.
Touring / Street Tires
Touring and street tires are designed for predominantly asphalt use, whether you’re commuting, taking long-distance trips, or enjoying twisty country roads. Compared to scrambler and off-road tires, they have less pronounced tread (fewer and shallower grooves), because deep lugs or studs aren’t needed on paved surfaces. This results in more even wear, quieter operation, and better stability, especially at higher speeds and when cornering. Popular brands include Avon, Dunlop, and Pirelli.
Drag / Racing Tires
Drag and track tires are specialized for maximum grip during straight-line acceleration. Rear tires are usually slick, made from soft, high-grip rubber to transfer as much power as possible to the pavement without spinning out. Front tires typically feature a longitudinal tread, which provides stable guidance and helps prevent the wheel from sliding sideways under the extreme forces of drag racing. The range at W&W Cycles is primarily aimed at Harley-Davidson drag bikes in the style of the 1950s and 1960s. Renowned manufacturers such as Mickey Thompson and M+H deliver the expected performance for this type of riding. Because these tires are not street-legal and do not have ECE-R75 approval, they are intended exclusively for track use.
These descriptions will hopefully give you a better idea of which of the available options suit your bike and riding style. See them as a general framework, not strict rules. Tire manufacturers may classify their products differently. Any tire choice should furthermore always consider size, load index, and speed rating for your Harley model. This type of information can be found on the tire description covered in the next section.
How do I read tire descriptions
The markings on a tire’s sidewall provide important information about production date, dimensions, and performance specifications, making them essential for selecting the correct tire for your Harley-Davidson. There are three common designation systems: inch-based, metric, and alphanumeric.
For a full explanation of each marking and all possible values for classic Harley sizes, see our complete tire description tables. Here is a brief overview of the main components of a tire marking. Tire designations have been revised and adapted several times over the years as standards and performance requirements evolved. The following description deliberately focuses on currently used tire designations relevant for new procurement:
Tire Dimensions - Indicates width, and height. Examples: 5.00-16 (inch-based) or 150/90 (metric).
- Inch-based (e.g., 5.00-16): The first number (e.g., 5.00) represents the tire width and height. The dash (-) indicates that the tire is a cross-ply (bias) tire, which is standard for inch-based dimensions. These tires are typically approved for speeds up to 150 km/h. If the tire is rated for higher speeds, the hyphen is replaced by an S (for speeds up to 180 km/h) or, rarely, an H. For example, 5.00S16 indicates a tire with a width of 5.00 inches, approved for speeds up to 180 km/h, and designed for a 16-inch rim.
- Metric (e.g., 150/90): The rim diameter is explicitly stated after the aspect ratio.
- Alphanumeric (e.g., MT90): Some tires are designated using alphanumeric combinations of numbers and letters, e.g., MT90. These are further detailed in the tire description tables. These designations are still used today; for example, MT90 approximately corresponds to 130/90 in the metric system.
Structure / Construction Code - Denotes the internal construction:
- - for conventional cross-ply (bias)
- B for bias-belted
- R for radial
Tube Type - TT for tube-type tires, TL for tubeless tires.
Load Index - The maximum weight the tire can safely carry (e.g., 69, 73, 77).
Speed Rating - The maximum speed or performance limit the tire is rated for (e.g., H, S).
Reading these markings carefully ensures that a replacement tire matches your wheel and riding requirements. For a detailed breakdown of all possible markings, especially for classic Harley-Davidson sizes, refer to our full tire description tables.
Which tire can I legally use for my motorcycle?
When replacing a tire on your Harley-Davidson, compliance with legal and safety requirements is essential. Approved tire size, load index, and speed rating ensure the tire fits your motorcycle and meets road regulations. The exact requirements always depend on your country of vehicle registration:
United States
- U.S. registration documents do not list specific tires.
- Legally compliant tires are determined by manufacturer specifications.
- Relevant information can be found on:
- Tire sidewalls: size, load index, speed rating, and construction type.
- Manufacturer compliance sticker: usually on the swingarm, chain guard, or under the seat, showing recommended tire pressures and sizes.
- When replacing a tire, select one that matches the original size and matches or exceeds load and speed ratings.
Europe (EU Regulations)
- All motorcycles first registered from 1999 onward must comply with Directive 97/24/EC or subsequent EU regulations. Such motorcycles are issued a Certificate of Conformity (CoC), typically provided by the dealer at the time of first registration. When purchasing a used motorcycle, ensure that the CoC is included and that it corresponds exactly to the vehicle (VIN, model, and specifications).
- The CoC lists: Approved tire sizes, Load indexes and speed ratings, Compliance with EU/ECE standards
- Only tires listed in the CoC are considered legally approved for the specific motorcycle. Using unlisted tires may invalidate the vehicle’s registration or insurance coverage.
Key Points
- Always verify local regulations, as approval rules may vary by country.
- Compare current tire markings, CoC documents or similar documents in your country, and manufacturer specifications.
- Ensure the size, load index, and speed rating are suitable for your Harley and riding style.
Following these steps ensures that your replacement tires are safe, fit your motorcycle correctly, and comply with local laws, based on where your Harley is registered.
2. How to change a tire on a motorcycle
Once you have selected a suitable replacement tire, the next step is installing it on the wheel. Changing a motorcycle tire requires appropriate tools, technical skills and reasonable care. Without the proper equipment or experience, there is a risk of damaging the rim, the tire, or compromising safety.
If you are unsure about any part of the process or do not have access to the necessary tools, professional assistance is recommended. Tire mounting requires controlled force and precise handling, particularly when working with stiff beads or sensitive wheel finishes.
For those who are properly equipped, the following section provides a step-by-step description of the correct procedure, including the required tools, for removing the old tire and mounting the new one on a motorcycle wheel.
When should I replace a motorcycle tire
There are many reasons why you might want to replace a tire on your Harley-Davidson. Whether it’s due to wear and tear, a desire for a different tread pattern, improved performance, or adapting to new riding conditions, replacing a tire is a decision that involves more than just the condition of the tire. Changing tires takes time, requires tools and effort, and motorcycle tires aren’t inexpensive, so it’s important to consider both your needs and the practical aspects.
While tread depth is the most obvious indicator, tire condition goes beyond visible wear. Over time, chemical and physical processes age the rubber: UV radiation and ozone harden the compound, plasticizers evaporate, and fine cracks form, allowing moisture to penetrate. Even if the tread depth still appears sufficient, aged tires lose elasticity and grip, resulting in longer braking distances and reduced cornering stability. Paying attention to motorcycle tire expiration helps ensure your tires are replaced before age-related degradation compromises safety.
Practical indicators that a motorcycle tire should be replaced include:
- Tread depth: The tread wear indicator (TWI) marks the point at which the tire manufacturer no longer guarantees correct performance of the tire. In addition, there are legal minimum tread depth requirements, which vary from country to country but, to our knowledge, generally lie between 1.0 and 1.6 mm. Tires must be replaced when the legal minimum tread depth is reached. It is the responsibility of the rider to check and comply with the applicable legal regulations in their location. The tread wear indicators (TWI - Tread Wear Indicators) molded into the tire walls do not always correspond exactly to legal limits.
- Age: Tires showing signs of aging should be replaced regardless of tread depth. In Germany, for example, inspection authorities such as DEKRA may refuse inspection approval if tires are older than six years, based on the production date. The manufacturing date is indicated by the DOT code on the sidewall: the last four digits show the week and year of production (e.g. 3520 = week 35 of 2020).
- Damage: Visible cracks, bulges, deep cuts, or punctures are reasons for immediate replacement, as they compromise structural integrity and safety.
How to change a classic modern tire: Step-by-Step
This section focuses on classic and modern motorcycle tires. The following step-by-step instructions guide you through the correct procedure for removing the old tire and mounting a new one.
Items You’ll Need:
- New tire (correct size and type)
- Tire irons (2 for leverage)
- Bead breaker (or large C-clamp)
- Rim strip (if using a tube)
- Inner tube (if applicable)
- Tire lubricant
- Air compressor with pressure gauge
- Valve core tool & tire pressure gauge
- Balancing weights (if balancing at home)
- Balancing stand
- Torque wrench (for axle/wheel bolts)
- Gloves, rags
- Optional: rim savers
Step 1: Prep your wheel
- Park on a Clean, Flat Surface: Park your motorcycle on a clean, flat surface and support the bike securely using a paddock stand.
- Remove the Wheel: Remove the wheel by following the instructions of your service manual.
- Deflate the Tire: Fully deflate the tire by removing the valve core.
Step 2: Break the Bead
- Loosen the Bead: Use a bead breaker or C-clamp to loosen the bead around the rim. Work your way around both sides of the tire.
- Lubricate the Tire Bead: Apply lubricant to the tire bead to make the removal process easier.
Step 3: Remove the Old Tire
- Position a rim saver (optional): Place a rim saver between the tire bead and the rim to protect your rim from potential damage caused by the tire iron. This acts as a buffer while prying the bead.
- Position the Tire Iron: Slide a tire iron under the tire bead. Lift the tire bead up and over the rim while pushing the opposite side of the bead into the rim bed.
- Use a Second Tire Iron: Use a second tire iron about 6-8 inches away for leverage. You can also use a second rim saver, which are usually sold in pairs.
- Free One Side of the Bead: Work your way around the tire until one side of the bead is completely free from the rim.
- Remove the inner tube (if applicable).
- Repeat the bead removal with the tire iron (and rim savers) for the other side.
- Check rim condition for damage and rust. Replace the rim strip if needed.
- When replacing the rim strip: Take the opportunity of cleaning the inner rim with a rag, after removing the old one and before installing a new one. Make sure the inner rim is dry before installing a new strip, and line up the hole on the rim strip with the valve stem hole on the wheel.
Step 4: Prep the New Tire
- Check Tire Direction: If the tire has a rotational arrow, make sure it matches the direction of wheel rotation when mounted.
- Align Balance Dot (if present): Check for a balance dot on the tire and line it up with the valve hole on the rim.
- Lubricate the Tire Beads: Generously lubricate the tire beads with proper tire mounting lube. Avoid using only water or dish soap, as these evaporate quickly and may not provide sufficient lubrication.
Step 5: Mount the New Tire
- Start with the First Bead: On most rims, the first bead can be pushed on by hand using sufficient tire lubricant.
- Insert the Tube (if applicable): If the wheel uses a tube, insert it flat with the valve stem properly aligned. You can use a valve stem tool to make threading the tube through the rim easier. Lightly inflating the tube can sometimes help position it inside the first bead. Avoid fully inflating the tube until it is correctly positioned to prevent pinching.
- Mount the Second Bead: As you work the second bead over the rim, push the already mounted first bead down into the drop-center. This creates enough room to seat the second bead without excessive force. Use tire irons for leverage if needed, and apply gentle pressure with your knees or hands. Continuously check that the tube is not pinched between the bead and rim.
Step 6: Inflate & Seat the Bead
Before inflating, align the tire properly on the rim. It's common for the valve position to shift while pressing the tire over the rim. Correcting this now will save time during balancing.
- Inflate the Tire: Inflate the tire to the maximum pressure to seat the beads properly. On tubeless tires, you will hear a “pop” as the beads lock into the rim.
- Tubeless Tip: For easier bead seating, use a high-pressure pump or a tire mounting machine with pulsed air.
- Gradual Inflation: Inflate gradually to ensure the valve stem and beads are correctly positioned. Pump slowly to allow the tube to settle properly and avoid pinching. Using talcum powder can help reduce friction between the tube and tire. Avoid rapid inflation, as this can cause the tube to pinch or become damaged.
- Adjust Pressure: After the initial seating, deflate if necessary and reinflate to the correct operating PSI as specified in your manual.
Step 7: Balance & Reinstall
- Check for Run-Out: Spin the wheel and check for excessive "wobble," which can indicate improper seating or a bent wheel.
- Balance the Wheel: Put the wheel on a balancing stand and balance it as accurately as possible. Use balancing weights as needed.
- Reinstall the Wheel: Reinstall the wheel on the motorcycle, ensuring that all bolts are torqued to the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Conduct a Test Ride: Perform a careful test ride to ensure the tire feels correct and the wheel tracks properly.
Do I have to break in new tires?
Yes - new tires require a gentle break-in. Suitable tires for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, including W&W Cycles assortment, are molded with a release agent on the tread to aid manufacturing. This residue makes the surface slippery during the first kilometers.
During the initial ~100 km, it is important to ride carefully: avoid hard braking, aggressive cornering, or rapid acceleration. This allows the release agent to wear off and the tire to achieve consistent grip and stability. Once the surface is properly “cleaned,” the tire performs optimally under normal riding conditions.
Why Does My Motorcycle Tire Keep Deflating?
All motorcycle tires naturally lose air over time, which is normal. At the beginning, observe how your tire behaves: a typical air loss is usually noticeable after 1-4 weeks, though this can vary depending on the specific tire and tube configuration. However, if your tire is deflating more quickly than usual, it’s likely due to a slow air leak. The most common causes include:
- A small puncture from nails, glass, or other sharp objects.
- A faulty valve cap or valve core. Inner tubes usually come with plastic valve caps. Replacing plastic valve caps with threaded metal caps, can provide better seal and resistance to wear.
- A poor seal between the tire and rim, often caused by corrosion or improper seating. This is relevant for tubeless tires, where even new tires can lose air if the bead doesn’t seal perfectly.
To locate the leak, inflate the tire and spray it with soapy water. Bubbles will form at the point where air is escaping. Regularly checking your tire pressure and inspecting tires for damage can help prevent ongoing deflation. If the source of the leak isn’t obvious, it’s best to have a professional mechanic inspect the wheel to avoid potential safety risks.
How Do I Know the Right Air Pressure for My Motorcycle Tire?
To find the correct tire pressure for your motorcycle, check the owner’s manual or the sticker on the swingarm or frame which is especially common for motorcycles in the United States. Do not rely on the tire sidewall, which only shows the maximum pressure, not the recommended setting. Motorcycles usually have different PSI values for front and rear tires, and these may change when riding with a passenger or luggage. Also, make sure to measure tire pressure when the tires are cold, that is before riding.
Tire assortment, small parts, and related tools from W&W Cycles
Alright, let’s get you rolling. Before you throw a leg over your Harley with a fresh set of tires, rims, or tubes, you might want to know where to find the right stuff without losing your mind.
Start with the Wheels category, where tires are clearly organized either by size or by tread pattern and brand. You’ll also find replacement parts for the wheel, including rims, spokes, bearings, axle nuts, and other small components often overlooked.
To complete the job, explore Special Tools for Wheels, featuring items required for an efficient and precise tire change. With the right tools and parts, you can handle your Harley’s wheel maintenance proudly and professionally.