Picking the Right Motorcycle Tires

When you use the right tires, you will get the most out of your Harley-Davidson® motorcycle's performance potential. But with all the different options out there, it can be hard to know which is the best choice for you. To that end, we've created the following beginner's guide to picking the right motorcycle tires. If you have any questions or want to look at motorcycles for sale, head over to Willamette Valley Harley-Davidson, conveniently located in Eugene, Oregon!

When Should I Replace My Tires?

If you already have tires on your motorcycle, you may be due for a replacement. There are a few cases that merit getting replacement tires. First, the tread might be worn down too low. The tread helps your motorcycle maintain traction with the road and gets worn down naturally over time. Eventually, the tread is too worn down and the tires will need to be replaced. Check the owner's manual to see what level of tread is too low for your specific tires.

Second, the tires might get damaged beyond repair. Sometimes wear and tear can occur that cannot be fixed, which puts your safety at risk. You will need to replace the tires to continue being able to ride safely.

Third, the tires eventually reach old age. You will want to replace the tires once they turn ten years old.

Should I Get New or Used Tires?

Used motorcycle tires may offer an appealingly low price, but we highly encourage you to only buy new. Used motorcycle tires bring some risks. For example, there could be internal damage that you aren't seeing, which can cause a safety issue on the road. It is also likely to go flat and need replacement sooner than you expect, which counteracts any savings you had.

New motorcycle tires, on the other hand, will last much longer. You won't need to replace them as often, which saves you money. They also will perform better and give better fuel efficiency, which can also save you money.

Can I Mix Tire Brands, Types, Or Sizes?

Stick with the same tires for the front and back of your motorcycle. Tires come in different tread patterns and construction, which can affect the riding experience. Combining different types of tires can harm your control and stability, which can pose a safety threat. 

Should I Get Specialty Tires?

Start by seeing what your motorcycle's manufacturer recommended. They know your motorcycle best, after all.

If you tend to seek out a unique type of riding, you may benefit from getting a specialty tire. If your motorcycle is capable of riding on non-paved roads, then you will want to get specialty tires that can provide the grip needed to conquer sand and gravel.

Or maybe you use your motorcycle to get to work each day or go on long rides. You will want to consider commuter tires. These are built to give you better gas mileage while riding on highways. Or maybe you are an adrenaline-junkie and enjoy pushing your motorcycle to the limit. You will want to check out superbike tires since these offer stellar grip and acceleration, which can help improve your riding experience. The more often you go on unique rides, the more you will want to invest in specialty tires to match.

We hope you found this guide helpful. If you need any assistance picking motorcycle tires or finding the perfect motorcycle, visit the experts at Willamette Valley Harley-Davidson. We can help you with whatever you need, so stop by and visit today. We are located in Eugene, Oregon, and also proudly serve those in Albany and Corvallis.