Choosing the right motorcycle tyre is crucial for safety, performance, and overall riding experience. With so many options available, selecting the best tyre depends on your riding style, road conditions, and specific motorcycle model. This guide will help you make an informed decision.
1. Understanding Tyre Types
Motorcycle tyres come in different categories, each designed for specific riding conditions:
a) Sport Tyres
- Designed for high-performance motorcycles.
- Provide excellent grip on dry roads.
- Shorter lifespan due to softer rubber compounds.
b) Touring Tyres
- Built for long-distance rides.
- Offer good balance between grip and durability.
- Suitable for varied weather conditions.
c) Adventure / Dual-Sport Tyres
- Ideal for both on-road and off-road riding.
- Feature deeper treads for better traction on dirt and gravel.
- Compromise between street performance and off-road capability.
d) Cruiser Tyres
- Designed for heavy motorcycles like cruisers and touring bikes.
- Focus on comfort and durability over aggressive grip.
- Offer high mileage and stability.
e) Off-Road / Motocross Tyres
- Made for dirt bikes and rough terrains.
- Aggressive tread patterns for maximum traction.
- Not suitable for highway use.
2. Tyre Size & Specifications
Your motorcycle's user manual provides specific tyre size recommendations. The tyre size is usually printed on the sidewall in a format like 120/70ZR17:
- 120 – Tyre width in millimetres.
- 70 – Aspect ratio (height as a percentage of width).
- ZR – Speed rating and construction type.
- 17 – Rim diameter in inches.
3. Radial vs. Bias-Ply Tyres
Tyres are constructed in two main ways: radial and bias-ply.
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Radial Tyres: Feature layers of fabric cords arranged at 90 degrees to the direction of travel. They offer better high-speed performance, improved grip, and cooler running temperatures—ideal for sport and modern touring bikes.
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Bias-Ply Tyres: Have layers of cords crisscrossed at angles, making them more durable and better suited for heavy loads or rough terrain—commonly found on cruisers, older bikes, or off-road machines.
⚠️ Important Safety Tip: Never mix radial and bias-ply tyres on the same motorcycle. Mixing the two can cause unpredictable handling and is dangerous. Always use the same construction type front and rear, as recommended by your bike’s manufacturer.
4. Choosing the Right Tread Pattern
- Slick or minimal tread: Best for racing and dry conditions.
- Moderate tread: Good for touring and sport riding.
- Deep grooves and knobby treads: Designed for off-road and adventure riding.
5. Tyre Compound & Longevity
- Soft compound: Offers better grip but wears out faster.
- Hard compound: Lasts longer but provides less traction.
- Dual-compound: Balances grip and durability by using a softer rubber on the edges and a harder centre.
6. When to Replace Your Tyres
Signs that indicate you need a new set of tyres:
- Tread depth below 1.5mm (legal minimum).
- Cracks or visible damage on the sidewalls.
- Uneven wear patterns affecting handling.
- Tyres over 5 years old (rubber hardens over time).
7. Matching Your Riding Style
- Commuters & Tourers: Opt for long-lasting touring tyres.
- Track & Sport Riders: Choose soft compound sport tyres.
- Adventure & Dual-Sport Riders: Look for a mix of street and off-road capability.
- Cruiser Riders: Prioritise comfort and longevity.
- Off-Road Enthusiasts: Select aggressive tread patterns for maximum grip on dirt.
Looking for Motorcycle Tyres?
At JR Motorcycles, we offer a wide range of road tyres, adventure tyres, off-road tyres, scooter tyres, ATV tyres, and inner tubes to suit every rider and every bike. Whether you're commuting in town or heading into the backcountry, we’ve got the perfect set of tyres for you.
Need help choosing the right tyres? Contact us for expert advice and recommendations — we’re here to help you ride safer and better.