Ever feel like your Harley Tri Glide is hugging the road a little too tightly, or maybe bouncing a bit more than you’d like? The rear tires play a huge role in how your three-wheeled beauty handles. Choosing the right ones isn’t just about looks; it’s about safety, comfort, and getting the best ride possible.
It can be confusing! You face so many choices: different brands, tread patterns, and load ratings. Picking the wrong tire can mean quicker wear, less grip in the rain, or a bumpy trip down your favorite highway. Many Tri Glide owners worry about making an expensive mistake that affects their riding experience.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what you need to know about rear tires for your Tri Glide. You will learn how to match the tire to your riding style and ensure a smooth, safe journey every time you twist the throttle.
Ready to stop guessing and start rolling with confidence? Let’s dive into the details of selecting the perfect set of rear tires for your Harley Tri Glide.
Top Rear Tires For Harley Tri Glide Recommendations
- Only replacement motorcycle tire for Harley-Davidson motorcycles which is designed in America, tested in America and made in America.
- All new Dunlop American Elite replacement tire line ensures that industry-leading Dunlop Tires will be on your Harley-Davidson motorcycles for years to come.
- Dunlop's decades-long engineering experience with Harley-Davidson motorcycles is the foundation for the all-new American Elite line of replacement tires.
- All-new tread design provides even tread wear and quiet operation in all conditions wet and dry.
- Sidewall design proudly features the American Elite name and made in the USA logo.
- Only replacement motorcycle tire for Harley-Davidson motorcycles which is designed in America, tested in America and made in America.
- All new Dunlop American Elite replacement tire line ensures that industry-leading Dunlop Tires will be on your Harley-Davidson motorcycles for years to come.
- Dunlop's decades-long engineering experience with Harley-Davidson motorcycles is the foundation for the all-new American Elite line of replacement tires.
- All-new tread design provides even tread wear and quiet operation in all conditions wet and dry.
- Sidewall design proudly features the American Elite name and made in the USA logo.
- All Elite 4 rear tires utilize Dunlop's Multi-Tread technology with a long-wearing compound in the center of the tire and a lateral-grip compound on each shoulder, providing increased mileage without sacrificing handling.
- Only replacement motorcycle tire for Harley-Davidson motorcycles which is designed in America, tested in America and made in America.
- All new Dunlop American Elite replacement tire line ensures that industry-leading Dunlop Tires will be on your Harley-Davidson motorcycles for years to come.
- Dunlop's decades-long engineering experience with Harley-Davidson motorcycles is the foundation for the all-new American Elite line of replacement tires.
- All-new tread design provides even tread wear and quiet operation in all conditions wet and dry.
- Sidewall design proudly features the American Elite name and made in the USA logo.
- Expanded size range fits a wide variety of older bikes and cruisers. Tread compound delivers excellent balance of mileage and grip.
- Front and rear tread patterns designed for outstanding water evacuation and wet grip.
- Bias-ply construction designed to deliver excellent load-carrying capacity as well as a smooth ride for maximum comfort.
- Offset center groove offers excellent straight-line stability.
- The Dunlop D404 is not recommended for use on Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Tube Type: Tube (sold separately).
- Condition:Aftermarket 100% Brand New
- Front Wheel Size: 21'' X 3.5''; Rear Wheel Size: 18'' X 5.5''; Material: Cast Aluminum A356-T6
- Fits For 2009-later Harley Touring Models (Fits ABS models only) Including Street Glide, Road Glide, Road King, Electra Glide Ultra Classic, Ultra Limited; It dosen't fit for '23-later FLHXSE and FLTRXSE, and '24-later FLHX, FLTRX, and FLTRXSTSE models.
- Note: Need work with Part #41500094 front brake rotor disc .
- Package Inculde: 1x Front Wheel Rim; 1x Rear Wheel Rim
- Only replacement motorcycle tire for Harley-Davidson motorcycles which is designed in America, tested in America and made in America.
- All new Dunlop American Elite replacement tire line ensures that industry-leading Dunlop Tires will be on your Harley-Davidson motorcycles for years to come.
- Dunlop's decades-long engineering experience with Harley-Davidson motorcycles is the foundation for the all-new American Elite line of replacement tires.
- All-new tread design provides even tread wear and quiet operation in all conditions wet and dry.
- Sidewall design proudly features the American Elite name and made in the USA logo.
- ➢【Application】Reduce road spray from the rear tires and add style to your motorcycle. Made rom durable, yet flexible, rubber contrasting with black trim to match the lines of the rear fenders. Secure, bolt-on design installs quick to get you on the road in no time
- ➢【Fitment】For Harley 2011-2023 FLHTCUTG Tri Glide Ultra Classic and 2011 FLHXXX Street Glide Trikes
- ➢【Excellent Material】ABS Plastic Trim + Rubber Mud Flaps + Iron Bracket
- ➢【Install】Easy to install. Secure, bolt-on design installs quick to get you on the road in no time
- ➢【Warranty】XMMT store offer 24 hours customer service and 30 days warranty. If you meet any problem about installation and items, please feel free to contact us.
Choosing the Right Rear Tires for Your Harley Tri Glide: A Buyer’s Guide
Your Harley-Davidson Tri Glide is a fantastic machine. It offers stability and comfort. The rear tires are super important for a safe and fun ride. Picking the right ones makes a big difference. This guide helps you choose the best rear tires for your three-wheeled beauty.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for Tri Glide rear tires, several features matter most. These features affect safety, handling, and how long the tires last.
- Load Rating: Tri Glides are heavy bikes. You must select tires with a high enough load rating. This rating shows how much weight the tire can safely carry. Always check your owner’s manual for the required rating.
- Speed Rating: This tells you the maximum safe speed for the tire. Match this to your normal riding speed.
- Tread Pattern: The grooves in the tire help move water away. A good tread pattern means better grip in wet weather. Look for patterns designed for touring or cruiser use.
- Size Compatibility: Tri Glides often use specific sizes for the rear wheels. Make sure the tire size (like 180/65B16) perfectly matches what your bike needs.
Important Materials in Tri Glide Tires
Tires are made of rubber, but the exact mix matters a lot. The compounds used determine grip and wear.
- Natural and Synthetic Rubber: Modern tires blend these rubbers. Softer compounds grip the road better, especially in corners. Harder compounds last much longer.
- Silica: Many high-quality touring tires add silica. This material helps improve wet traction without sacrificing too much tread life.
- Carcass Construction: Most Tri Glide tires use bias-ply or radial construction. Radial tires often offer a smoother ride and better heat dissipation, which is great for long highway miles.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Tire Quality
The quality of your tire directly impacts your ride experience. Some factors boost quality, while others lower it.
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Reputable Brands: Stick with well-known motorcycle tire manufacturers. These companies spend lots on research and testing.
- Dual Compound Tread: Premium tires often use harder rubber in the center for long life and softer rubber on the shoulders for better cornering grip.
- Heat Management: Tires designed to run cooler last longer and maintain their shape better under the heavy load of a Tri Glide.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Cheap, Off-Brand Tires: These might seem cheap upfront, but they often wear out fast or offer poor grip. The rubber compound might be low quality.
- Incorrect Pressure: Riding with tires that are too low or too high in pressure wears them unevenly and reduces handling.
- Exposure to UV Rays: Storing your bike in constant sunlight breaks down the rubber compounds over time, reducing tire life even before you ride them much.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you use your Tri Glide. This helps narrow down your choices.
Touring Riders:
If you ride long distances, you need tires built for mileage. Look for high mileage warranties and excellent stability at highway speeds. A comfortable ride that absorbs bumps well is crucial for these long hauls.
Weekend Cruisers:
If your riding is mostly shorter trips around town or local roads, you might prioritize maximum grip over ultimate longevity. A slightly softer compound tire will feel responsive when you turn.
Remember, the rear tire on a Tri Glide carries most of the weight. Always check the tire pressure when the tires are cold. Good tires provide confidence. Bad tires create worry. Invest wisely!
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Tri Glide Rear Tires
Q: How often should I replace the rear tires on my Tri Glide?
A: Most riders replace them between 10,000 and 18,000 miles. Always check the tread depth indicator. If the tread is worn down to the wear bars, replace them immediately.
Q: Can I use car tires on my Tri Glide?
A: No. You must use tires specifically designed for motorcycles or trikes. Car tires have different construction (like sidewall stiffness) that do not handle motorcycle forces correctly.
Q: What is the difference between a radial and a bias-ply tire for a Tri Glide?
A: Radial tires usually give a smoother ride and handle heat better on long trips. Bias-ply tires are often tougher against punctures but might feel slightly firmer.
Q: Do I need to replace both rear tires at the same time?
A: Yes, it is highly recommended. Using tires with different wear levels or types on the left and right side creates an imbalance, which hurts handling and stability.
Q: What is the ‘load rating’ on a Tri Glide tire?
A: The load rating is a number that tells you the maximum weight the tire can safely support when properly inflated. Your Tri Glide needs a high rating because it is heavy.
Q: How does tire pressure affect my Tri Glide’s handling?
A: Incorrect pressure greatly affects handling. Under-inflated tires cause poor steering and overheating. Over-inflated tires reduce the contact patch, meaning less grip.
Q: Should I buy tires with a lot of silica in the compound?
A: Silica helps tires grip well in wet conditions. If you ride often when it rains, tires with good silica content are a smart choice.
Q: What does the speed rating on a tire mean?
A: The speed rating is a letter code that corresponds to the fastest speed the tire can safely maintain continuously. Always choose a rating that meets or exceeds your usual top cruising speed.
Q: How do I know if my Tri Glide needs a new tire even if the tread looks okay?
A: Tires age, even when not used. If you see small cracks (called dry rot) on the sidewall or if the tire is more than five or six years old, replace it for safety.
Q: Where is the best place to buy replacement rear tires?
A: You can buy them online from specialized motorcycle accessory stores or locally from a Harley-Davidson dealer or a trusted independent shop. Always compare prices and check the manufacture date (DOT code) of the tire you receive.