What Effect Do Wide Tires Have on Motorcycle Handling?

Racers often use the widest tires available for maximum grip.

Motorcycles differ from cars in at least one crucial aspect: Cars ride on the flat portions of their tires, and motorcycles do not. Though some of the big-tire vs. small-tire arguments still apply, there are a few very important differences.

Wide Rear

A wide rear tire means more tread on the road, making the motorcycle want to push through turns instead of go around them. This can lead to a dangerous understeer condition.

Wide Front

Wider front tires will have the opposite effect of a wide rear, and can make the bike more responsive in the corners (oversteer). Caution is advised, however, since a wide front tire combined with a motorcycle's short wheelbase can make for a twitchy and dangerous ride.

Both Narrow

Some people prefer a narrower tire on both the front and back, because the tread of the tire is more pointed and handling is a little more crisp. This can, however, lead to serious instability problems at high speed.

Both Wide

The best solution is to go wide on both ends, since overall grip will be increased and the handling balance retained.

Manufacturer Recommendations

In general, a rim can only use tires that are ten millimeters wider or narrower than the stock tire. Exceeding this window can result in pinch flats, increased tire wear or blowouts.

References

• Canyonchasers.net: Motorcycle Tire Width Effects
• NHTSA.gov: Motorcycle Tire Safety
• Dunlopmotorcycle.com: Tire Tips

Resources

• Tips on Sport Bike Tires (Video)