Wheels, Tires & Parts
About Wheels, Tires & Parts
Wheels and tires are the only parts that touch the road, so they decide grip, handling and braking as much as any other part. Riders shop here for new tires when the tread is worn or the tire has aged, for a new wheel after damage or for a different style, and for hubs, bearings, spacers and valve stems.
The group divides by job. Tires are listed by size, with samples such as 120/70R19, 160/60ZR17 and 190/55ZR17 and a speed and load rating. Wheels & Rims are listed by diameter and width, such as 21x3.25 or 21x3.50, and some wheels are made for a dual disc setup or for bikes without ABS. Wheel & Tire Packages sell the two together, and Wheel Hubs are separate. Axles, Bearings, Seals & Spacers covers the parts that hold the wheel in place, and Valve Stems & Caps and Other Wheel & Tire Parts cover the rest. Front and rear are different, so check which end a listing is for.
Tires and wheels are safety parts. Use the size and pressure your manufacturer lists, and follow the tire maker's instructions for fitting. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder at the top of the page, and see the fitment guide if you are unsure how to match a part to your bike.
Brands here include Bolt, Bridgestone, Dunlop, All Balls and Continental. The group is part of Motorcycle.
FAQs on motorcycle wheels and tires
How do I read the size on a motorcycle tire?
A size such as 120/70R19 means 120 mm wide, a sidewall height of 70 percent of the width, a radial build, and a 19 inch rim. A rating such as 60V gives load and speed. Match the sizes your manual lists for front and rear.
Can I fit a different tire size from the stock one?
Only within what the bike maker and tire maker approve. A different size changes handling, clearance and speedometer reading, and the wrong size can be unsafe. Use the sizes in your owner's manual, and ask the tire maker if you want to change.
Should I replace wheel bearings when I change a tire?
Check them. With the wheel off, spin each bearing by hand and feel for roughness or side play. Replace worn bearings, and do both in a wheel together, since they carry the same load. Roughness, noise or side play in a wheel means the bearings need attention.
Do I need a tube in my motorcycle tire?
It depends on the rim. Tubeless-compatible wheels do not need a tube, while spoked wheels usually need one unless the rim is sealed. Check your wheel and the tire maker's instructions, and use the right valve stem.
Should I replace the valve stem when I change a tire?
It is common practice to fit a new valve stem with a new tire, since the old rubber stem can crack with age and cause slow leaks. Check your wheel type and use the stem designed for it.
