Black Gold Harley-Davidson® - News & Blog

How Do I Choose The Best Motorcycle Tires?

You have a variety of alternatives when it comes to purchasing new Harley® tires. Online research is fantastic, but how do you choose when everyone claims to be the best? 

When it comes to motorcycle tires, Black Gold Harley-Davidson® provides the same competitive pricing and individualized care as we do for everything else. Recently, we even became a Dunlop Pro dealer so that we could provide our customers with exclusive discounts and coverage for road hazards. We can answer any inquiries you may have regarding Harley® tires. Here, we also respond to a few of the questions we get the most frequently.

How do I know which Harley® motorcycle tires to choose?

You could take a look at the suggestions in your owner's manual. A list of motorcycle tire producers who provide tires for your model, together with the original tire sizes and types, is included in the manual. Most likely, you can find that information online as well, but be sure the website is reliable. A Quora comment from someone is not a reliable source.

We've got you covered if you're unsure of what you did with your motorcycle manual or don't feel like putting on your reading glasses to read the small print. Simply stop by our Harley® dealership in Dallas, and our service professionals will assist you in finding what you need.

How do I know it's time to get new motorcycle tires?

Inspect your tires regularly for the following:

  • Examine your tread. Regulations say you need between 1/32" and 2/32" of tread depth, not just on the outside edges, but in the middle of your tire as well. When you stop by our Dallas Harley® dealership, we're happy to measure your tread and give you an estimate on how much life your tires have left. Your tires might have wear indicators that make things a little simpler. Replace your tires before you wear past this groove.
  • Look for tire defects like cracking or uneven wear.
  • Keep track of age. Replace your motorcycle tires at or before the five-year mark.

Why do motorcycle tires wear out faster than car tires? 

It can be frustrating, but when you think about it, it makes sense. Motorcycle tires are made of a softer rubber than car tires, so they wear out faster. You want them that way, because you have two tires on the ground instead of four, and they're your only points of contact with the surfaces you ride across. 

Softer rubber has better grip, but by nature, it also deteriorates faster.

It's like comparing a high-performance vehicle to a family sedan. They're purchased by different types of driver, and intended for different purposes. You buy a high-performance vehicle for looks and performance, for a driving experience. You pay more for it most of the time, and you expect maintenance and parts to be more expensive. It's a luxury, but you know that going in.

Motorcycles are the same way. You buy a Harley® to enjoy incomparable freedom, and also because you love its looks, sound and performance. If you just wanted two-wheeled transportation, you'd have bought a moped.

How do I know if I can choose wider motorcycle tires?

That depends on your make and model. We're happy to help you figure it out though when you stop by and talk to one of our service techs. You can also send us a message using the chat feature in the lower right corner of your screen.

Is there a way to prolong the lifespan of my Harley® motorcycle tires?

Maintenance matters. Make sure your tires are inflated properly by checking them at least once a week (refer to your owner's manual or give us a call). Look for indicators of wear that is uneven and damaging.

Low tire pressure speeds up wear and raises temperature. Additionally, it struggles with traction and handling. Your rubber will last longer if it is properly inflated.

If you have a chain or belt drive, be sure to routinely check your alignment because failing to do so may cause your tires to rub against one another and wear out more quickly.

Sometimes it's unavoidable to make a sudden stop, but the more often you do it, the faster your tread wears down. Instead, pause and begin slowly.

Use just soap to clean your tires. Store your bike under cover, since UV degrades everything.

Where do I find the best price on motorcycle tires?

We pride ourselves on offering competitive pricing and accessible financing for almost everything we offer every day of the year. Make sure you're signed up to receive promotional material from Black Gold Harley-Davidson® so you'll know when we offer incentives or sales related to motorcycle tires.