What truly connects you to the open road on your Harley? It’s not just the roar of the engine or the wind in your face; it’s the rubber meeting the pavement. Your tires are the single most important link between you and the asphalt. When choosing new rubber for your beloved hog, the sheer number of choices can feel overwhelming. Should you prioritize wet grip, longevity, or that classic cruiser look? Many riders settle for “good enough,” only to find themselves dealing with poor handling or rapid wear.
Choosing the wrong tires can mean sacrificing safety, comfort, and that signature Harley ride quality. This guide cuts through the confusing jargon and marketing hype. We break down what really matters when selecting the perfect set of tires for your specific model and riding style.
Keep reading to learn the secrets to maximizing your bike’s performance and safety. By the end of this article, you will confidently select tires that transform every ride from ordinary to epic.
Top Harley Davidson Tires Recommendations
- Engineered and tested with Harley-Davidson® to provide maximum performance.
- The D402 is the approved Harley-Davidson® touring tire.
- Built with a three-ply polyester casing with two fiberglass belts, the D402 helps provide stability for touring riding.
- Computer-optimized tread profile with offset center groove improves rider confidence over rain grooves and steel-grated bridges, while helping to reduce cupping for enhanced wear.
- Tubeless.
- The MICHELIN tire for all types of cruisers, offering more longevity without compromising stability and handling.
- Proven Longevity - The benchmark in longevity – commissioned third-party tests show that the MICHELIN Commander II rear tire lasts almost twice as long as its main competitors.*
- No Compromise on Stability and Manuverability - Thanks to its high-density and therefore stiffer frame (MICHELIN Amplified Density Technology), MICHELIN Commander II features premium handling and responsiveness. The top layers in rear tires are made of aramid fibers, which combine resistance and a lightweight feel for perfect stability, even at high speeds.
- Excellent Grip on Wet Surfaces - A brand new longitudinal tread provides outstanding water evacuation, and thus excellent grip on wet surfaces.
- Commissioned third party tests conducted in 2011 on public roads comparing MICHELIN Commander II tires, Metzeler ME880, and Dunlop D407/D408 tires in sizes 130/80B17 and 180/65B16. Individual results may vary depending on motorcycle type and operating conditions.
- The D401 has been a favorite among Harley riders for many years.
- It comes in a variety of sizes to fit Harley cruisers.
- The D401 is the approved Harley-Davidson® cruiser tire.
- Co-Branded: Dunlop is the original brand of tire certified to say Harley-Davidson® right on the sidewall.
- Made in U.S.A.
- The D402 is the only tire approved by Harley-Davidson for its touring bikes. Built with a three-ply polyester casing with two fiberglass belts, the D402 offers greater load-carrying capacity and stability.
- Computer-optimized tread profile with offset center groove improves rider confidence over rain grooves and steel-grated bridges, while reducing cupping for even wear.
- The Dunlop Harley-Davidson Tire Series D402 is available in front and rear blackwall, single white bar, or wide white sidewall, all with an H speed rating.
- Wider MU85B16 rear tire is available in black, slim white sidewall and wide white sidewall, and is load-rated up to 908 pounds.
- D402F MT90B16 is a front tire only and is not interchangeable with D402 MT90B16 rear tire. SW = Slim White Sidewall. WWW = Wide Whitewall.
- The AE2 delivers enhanced tire mileage thanks to a MT Multi-Tread rear tire technology that incorporates a long-wearing
- compound in the center of the tire, along with a lateral-grip compound on each shoulder for great handling
- Dunlops AE2 is the premier aftermarket choice for V-Twin riders in search of tires that deliver extended tread wear
- Optimized tread pattern design aids in improved wear characteristics and mileage
- Updated front and rear compounds offer enhanced wear resistance and wet-weather performance
- 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).
- The D402 is the only tire approved by Harley-Davidson for its touring bikes. Built with a three-ply polyester casing with two fiberglass belts, the D402 offers greater load-carrying capacity and stability.
- Computer-optimized tread profile with offset center groove improves rider confidence over rain grooves and steel-grated bridges, while reducing cupping for even wear.
- The Dunlop Harley-Davidson Tire Series D402 is available in front and rear blackwall, single white bar, or wide white sidewall, all with an H speed rating.
- Wider MU85B16 rear tire is available in black, slim white sidewall and wide white sidewall, and is load-rated up to 908 pounds.
- D402F MT90B16 is a front tire only and is not interchangeable with D402 MT90B16 rear tire. SW = Slim White Sidewall. WWW = Wide Whitewall.
Choosing the Right Rubber: Your Harley Davidson Tire Buying Guide
Picking the right tires for your Harley Davidson is super important. Good tires keep you safe. They also make your ride smooth and fun. This guide helps you find the best match for your bike and your riding style.
Key Features to Look For in Harley Tires
When you shop for Harley tires, look closely at these main features:
- Tread Pattern: This is the design on the tire surface. Deep grooves move water away. This helps stop skidding in the rain. Some treads are better for long highway miles. Others grip better on winding roads.
- Load Rating: This number tells you how much weight the tire can safely carry. Always match or exceed your bike manufacturer’s recommendation. This is a major safety point.
- Speed Rating: This letter shows the top safe speed for the tire. Most Harley riders do not need the highest rating, but it is good to know.
- Ply Rating or Construction: This refers to how the tire is built inside. Most modern Harley tires use radial or bias-ply construction.
Tire Construction: Radial vs. Bias-Ply
The inside structure really changes how the tire feels.
Radial Tires
- These tires flex more.
- They usually give a smoother ride, especially at high speeds.
- They often last longer if you ride mostly on highways.
Bias-Ply Tires
- These tires have strong sidewalls.
- They handle heavy loads well.
- They are often favored by riders of older or classic Harley models.
Important Materials That Matter
Tires are mostly rubber, but what goes into that rubber changes everything.
Compound: Tire makers mix natural and synthetic rubber. They add carbon black or silica. Softer compounds grip the road better. This is great for quick turns. However, softer tires wear out faster. Harder compounds last longer. They might not grip as well in wet conditions.
Carcass Materials: Strong cords, often made of nylon or polyester, form the tire’s structure. Strong cords improve durability. They help the tire keep its shape under stress.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Tire Quality
You want tires that perform well for a long time. Here is what helps or hurts quality:
Factors That Improve Quality:
- Reputable Brands: Well-known companies spend lots of money on research. They make reliable tires.
- Newer DOT Date: Tires age even when you don’t ride them. Look for a recent manufacturing date stamped on the sidewall (the DOT code). Old tires lose their flexibility.
- Proper Inflation: Keeping the air pressure correct is the number one way to maximize tire life and safety.
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Underinflation: This causes the tire edges to wear out too fast. It also builds up dangerous heat.
- Exposure to Sun and Chemicals: UV rays from the sun dry out the rubber. Harsh cleaners can damage the rubber compound. Store your bike inside if possible.
- Riding Style: Hard braking and fast cornering wear out tires quickly, no matter how good they are.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you ride your Harley most often. This helps you choose the right tire type.
The Touring Rider (Long Distances):
You need tires focused on mileage and comfort. Look for harder rubber compounds and strong bias-ply or touring-focused radial designs. These tires handle long highway stretches smoothly.
The Cruiser/Weekend Rider:
If you ride mainly in good weather on local roads, you might choose a tire with a slightly stickier compound for better feel in turns. Comfort is still important, but performance gets a little more focus.
The Chopper/Custom Builder:
Sometimes, looks matter a lot here. Make sure the tire size fits your custom frame perfectly. Safety still comes first, even with a unique style.
Harley Davidson Tires: 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How often should I replace my Harley tires?
A: Most riders replace tires every 5 to 7 years, regardless of tread depth. Always replace them if the tread wears down to the wear bars.
Q: Can I mix brands on the front and back?
A: It is best practice to use matching tires front and rear. If you must mix, make sure both tires are the same size and construction type (e.g., both radial or both bias-ply).
Q: What does the DOT code tell me?
A: The DOT code ends with four numbers. These numbers tell you the week and year the tire was made. For example, 1522 means the 15th week of 2022.
Q: Do tires need balancing?
A: Yes, absolutely. Balancing ensures the weight is spread evenly around the wheel. Unbalanced tires cause vibrations and uneven wear.
Q: What pressure should my tires have?
A: Never guess! Check the sticker usually found on the frame or in your owner’s manual for the exact cold inflation pressures for your specific Harley model.
Q: Are expensive Harley tires always better?
A: Not always, but quality usually costs more. Premium tires offer better performance in wet weather and longer life. Budget tires might sacrifice one of these areas.
Q: What is “squaring off” on a touring tire?
A: This happens when you ride too many straight miles. The center of the tire wears flat. This makes the bike feel like it resists turning.
Q: How do I know if my tires are too old?
A: Look for small cracks in the sidewall or tread, called dry rot. If the rubber feels hard or brittle, the tire is too old and unsafe.
Q: Do I need special tires for Trikes (three-wheeled Harleys)?
A: Yes. Trikes carry more weight. You should look for tires specifically rated for heavier loads, often labeled as “Reinforced” or “Heavy Duty.”
Q: Will changing tire types affect handling?
A: Yes. Switching from bias-ply to radial, or vice versa, changes how the bike steers and leans into corners. Test ride gently after any major tire change.