When it comes to street motor tires, one of the most critical factors that riders often overlook is the sidewall height. As a street motor tire supplier, I've witnessed firsthand how the right sidewall height can significantly enhance a motorcycle's performance, safety, and overall riding experience. In this blog, I'll guide you through the process of choosing the right sidewall height for your street motor tires.
Understanding Sidewall Height
Before delving into the selection process, it's essential to understand what sidewall height is. The sidewall height, also known as the aspect ratio, is the ratio of the tire's section height to its section width. It is expressed as a percentage. For example, in a tire size like 120/70 - 17, the "70" represents the aspect ratio. This means that the sidewall height is 70% of the tire's width (in this case, 120 millimeters).
The sidewall height plays a crucial role in determining several aspects of a tire's performance, including ride comfort, handling, and load - carrying capacity.
Factors Affecting Sidewall Height Selection
Riding Style
Your riding style is one of the primary factors to consider when choosing the sidewall height. If you're an aggressive rider who loves taking sharp corners at high speeds, a lower sidewall height might be more suitable. Tires with a lower aspect ratio, such as 120/60 - 17, have less flex in the sidewall. This results in better cornering stability as the tire can maintain its shape more effectively under lateral forces. The reduced sidewall flex also provides quicker steering response, allowing you to make precise maneuvers.
On the other hand, if you're a casual rider who enjoys long - distance cruising, a higher sidewall height could be a better choice. Tires with a higher aspect ratio, like 120/80 - 17, offer more cushioning. They can absorb road imperfections better, providing a smoother and more comfortable ride. The extra sidewall flex also helps in reducing the impact of bumps and potholes, which is especially beneficial on rough roads.
Motorcycle Type
The type of motorcycle you own also influences the sidewall height selection. Sport bikes are designed for high - performance riding, and they typically require tires with lower sidewall heights. These tires enhance the bike's handling characteristics, allowing for better control at high speeds and during aggressive cornering. For example, a modern sport bike might come equipped with tires like 180/55 - 17 to optimize its performance on the track or on winding roads.
Cruisers, on the other hand, are built for comfort and style. They often have larger, more relaxed frames. Tires with higher sidewall heights are more commonly used on cruisers as they provide a softer ride, which is in line with the cruiser's laid - back riding style. A classic cruiser might use tires such as 150/80 - 16 to ensure a smooth and comfortable journey.
Load Capacity
If you frequently carry passengers or heavy loads on your motorcycle, the sidewall height can affect the tire's load - carrying capacity. Tires with higher sidewall heights generally have a greater load - carrying capacity because the extra sidewall material can support more weight. When you're loaded up, a tire with a higher aspect ratio can better distribute the weight, reducing the risk of overloading the tire and improving safety.
Aesthetics
Let's not forget about aesthetics. Some riders prefer the look of a motorcycle with a particular sidewall height. A lower sidewall height can give a motorcycle a more aggressive, sporty appearance, while a higher sidewall height can provide a more traditional or classic look. For those who are into customizing their bikes, the sidewall height can be an important part of the overall aesthetic design. You can check out our Classic Motorcycle Tire collection to get an idea of how different sidewall heights can contribute to the classic look of your bike.
Impact of Sidewall Height on Tire Performance
Traction
Sidewall height can also impact traction. Tires with lower sidewall heights tend to have a larger contact patch when cornering. This is because the reduced sidewall flex allows the tire to maintain a more consistent shape, resulting in more rubber in contact with the road surface. As a result, they offer better traction during high - speed cornering.
However, in wet conditions or on rough roads, tires with higher sidewall heights can sometimes provide better traction. The extra sidewall flex allows the tire to conform to the road surface more effectively, improving grip on uneven or slippery roads. Our Off Road Motorcycle Tyre range demonstrates how a well - designed sidewall can enhance traction in challenging off - road conditions.
Speed Rating
The sidewall height can influence the speed rating of a tire. Tires with lower sidewall heights are generally better suited for high - speed riding. The reduced sidewall flex helps to maintain the tire's shape at high speeds, reducing the risk of tire failure. Tires with higher sidewall heights may have lower speed ratings because the additional sidewall flex can cause the tire to heat up more quickly at high speeds, which can lead to premature wear or even a blowout.
Compatibility with Motorcycle Components
When choosing the sidewall height, it's crucial to ensure compatibility with other motorcycle components. A significant change in sidewall height can affect the motorcycle's speedometer accuracy, as the tire's overall diameter will change. A larger - diameter tire (resulting from a higher sidewall height) will cause the speedometer to read lower than the actual speed, while a smaller - diameter tire (from a lower sidewall height) will make the speedometer read higher.
The sidewall height can also impact the suspension system. A tire with a much different sidewall height than the original equipment may put additional stress on the suspension components, potentially leading to premature wear or even affecting the bike's handling and safety.
Specific Examples of Sidewall Height Selection
Let's take a look at a specific tire size, the 90/90 - 18 Motorcycle Tire. This tire has a relatively high aspect ratio of 90%. It is commonly used on classic and some off - road motorcycles. The high sidewall height provides a comfortable ride, good traction on rough surfaces, and a classic look. It can handle the uneven terrain and the demands of a more relaxed riding style often associated with these types of motorcycles.
In contrast, a 110/70 - 17 tire has a lower aspect ratio. This tire is more suitable for sporty street bikes. The lower sidewall height enhances cornering stability and steering response, making it ideal for riders who want to push their bikes to the limit on the road or track.
Conclusion
Choosing the right sidewall height for your street motor tires is a decision that should be based on a combination of factors, including your riding style, motorcycle type, load requirements, and personal preferences. As a street motor tire supplier, I understand the importance of getting this choice right. The sidewall height can have a profound impact on your motorcycle's performance, safety, and overall riding experience.
If you're still unsure about which sidewall height is best for your motorcycle, or if you have any questions about our tire products, I encourage you to reach out to us for a consultation. We're here to help you make an informed decision and find the perfect tires for your needs. Whether you're looking for a classic look, high - performance handling, or a comfortable ride, we have a wide range of street motor tires to choose from. Contact us today to start the procurement negotiation process and take your riding experience to the next level.
References
- Tire Technology Handbook, Continental AG
- Motorcycle Maintenance Manuals from major motorcycle manufacturers