Motorcycle Tire Guide: Understanding the 120/90 x 17 Tire Size
When it comes to choosing the right motorcycle tire, one of the most important factors to consider is the tire size. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the 120/90 x 17 motorcycle tire size, what it means, and what kind of motorcycles it's suitable for.
What Does the 120/90 x 17 Tire Size Mean?
The 120/90 x 17 tire size may look like a jumbled mess of numbers, but each digit has a specific meaning. Here's a breakdown of what each number represents:
- 120: This is the tire width, measured in millimeters, from one sidewall to the other. In this case, the tire is 120mm wide.
- 90: This is the aspect ratio, which is the ratio of the tire's height to its width. In this case, the tire's height is 90% of its width.
- x: This is the separator between the aspect ratio and the rim diameter.
- 17: This is the rim diameter, measured in inches. In this case, the rim diameter is 17 inches.
What Kind of Motorcycles Use 120/90 x 17 Tires?
The 120/90 x 17 tire size is commonly used on sport touring and adventure motorcycles. These bikes typically have larger engines and are designed for long-distance travel, both on and off the pavement. Some examples of motorcycles that may use 120/90 x 17 tires include:
- BMW S 1000 XR: A high-performance sport touring bike with a 999cc inline-four engine.
- Ducati Multistrada 1260: A versatile adventure bike with a 1262cc V-twin engine.
- Yamaha FJR1300: A sport touring bike with a 1298cc inline-four engine.
Key Features of 120/90 x 17 Tires
Tires in the 120/90 x 17 size range offer several key features that make them well-suited for sport touring and adventure motorcycles. Some of these features include:
- High-speed stability: The larger tire size provides excellent stability at high speeds, making them ideal for highway cruising.
- Off-road capability: The taller sidewall and wider tread pattern provide better traction and stability on unpaved roads and trails.
- Improved grip: The larger contact patch and specialized tread compounds provide improved grip and braking performance on both dry and wet surfaces.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 120/90 x 17 motorcycle tire size is a popular choice for sport touring and adventure motorcycles. Its unique combination of width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter make it well-suited for high-speed travel on both paved and unpaved roads. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, a 120/90 x 17 tire can provide the performance and reliability you need to get where you're going.
