Harley Wheel Interchange Chart 2024 [UPDATED] (2024)

Touring Models

Sportster Models

Dyna Models

Softail Models

VRSC Models

Street Models

Motorcycle wheel sizes can be confusing to a new rider. With so many different sizes available, it’s hard to know which one you need for your bike. This article will break down the most common motorcycle wheel sizes and help you make an informed decision on which size is right for your needs!

HOW TO READ MOTORCYCLE TIRE SIZE

Motorcycle tire sizes are typically expressed as a series of letters and numbers, such as 120/90-17 or 200/55R16. These two sets of numbers refer to the width in millimeters (width), height in inches (highway speed), and rim size diameter respectively. Keeping these three measurements is important because they can affect how a tire fits on the rim, which in turn can affect performance.

*A lower number means a wider tire and a taller profile relative to height. A higher number would mean more of a high-performance racing setup with slimmer profiles.

WIDTH

That’s pretty easy. Tire width is the width of a tire, and that number is usually between 100mm to 300mm. The larger the number, the wider or taller your tire will be.

The most common sizes are 170mm front and 180mm rear on sport bikes with 18″ wheels. For cruisers, you’ll see 200/160 front and 220/180 rear.

ASPECT RATIO

The aspect ratio is the height of the tire profile, taking into account the tread in % of its width – in this case, 70% of 120 mm = 84mm. The taller your tires and more round they are, that will help you get stability on cornering or braking. But keep in mind that as a result, they’ll be heavier than skinny tires.

SPEED RATING

A speed rating provides the maximum speed the tire is designed to be used. Speed ratings are based on three test speeds: The maximum design speed, which will usually be limited by handling considerations; a lower value corresponding to standard service rideability and treadwear requirements for passenger cars at 60 mph (97 km/h); and an even lower limit often set at 45 mph (72 km/h). The table below illustrates this.

Higher speed ratings generally provide better handling characteristics, while lower-speed rated tires give the best ride and longest tread life. Traction is usually not as good at higher speeds on low-rated tires, but if you are running a stock or near-stock vehicle with an engine tuned for street use then you don’t need a high-performance tire.

RIM DIAMETER

Rim diameter is the diameter of the wheel on which the tire will be mounted, in inches.

LOAD RATING

The tire marking also indicates the load rating, which is a measurement of how much weight can be carried by the tire. For example, a 150/80R16 87H tire has an “87” load rating or 1201 lbs.

CONSTRUCTION TYPE

Type of tire construction – can be RADIAL or BIAS PLY.

Radial tires are more durable and resist punctures better, but they cost more to replace.

Bias-ply tires provide a softer ride that can be beneficial on rough roads or long-distance rides; however, the tire casing is less stable than an equivalent radial counterpart.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TUBE AND TUBELESS MOTORCYCLE TIRES

Tires can be tubeless or tube. Which one do you need?

Tubeless tires are the latest trend in motorcycle tire design. They offer a number of benefits, including improved braking power and reduced chances for punctures because of greater durability. If your bike has cast wheels you should use them.

If your Harley has spoke wheels then you should install tube tires.