When you ride a motorcycle, your tires play a big part in how your bike performs. The size and type of tire you choose affect how well your bike grips the road, how comfortable your ride is, and how safe you are. One popular tire size is 120 70 x 16, but what does this mean?
In this article, we will explain what 120 70 x 16 means for your motorcycle tire, why it's a popular choice, and how to pick the right tire. We’ll also look at how to take care of your tires, common issues to watch out for, and some top recommendations for 120 70 x 16 tires.
Table of Contents
- What Does 120 70 x 16 Mean for a Motorcycle Tire?
- Why Are 120 70 x 16 Tires Popular Among Riders?
- Key Features of a 120 70 x 16 Motorcycle Tire
- How to Choose the Right 120 70 x 16 Tire for Your Motorcycle
- Maintenance Tips for 120 70 x 16 Motorcycle Tires
- Common Problems with 120 70 x 16 Tires and How to Fix Them
- Recommended 120 70 x 16 Tires
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Does 120 70 x 16 Mean for a Motorcycle Tire?
What Does 120 Mean?
The 120 in the tire size refers to the width of the tire. It’s measured in millimeters. So, a 120 tire is 120 millimeters wide. A wider tire usually gives you better grip on the road, but it can also make your bike a bit harder to control. The width of the tire affects how the motorcycle handles.
What Does 70 Mean?
The 70 is called the aspect ratio. This tells you the height of the tire, which is 70% of the width. So if the width is 120 mm, the height will be about 84 mm (120 x 70%). A higher aspect ratio means the tire is taller, which helps with comfort and can absorb bumps better. It also makes the ride smoother.
What Does 16 Mean?
The 16 is the rim diameter, measured in inches. This tells you how big the hole in the center of the tire is. A 16-inch rim size is common for many motorcycles, especially cruisers and some sport bikes. The right rim size helps keep the tire securely on the bike and affects how the bike feels when you ride it.
Why Are 120 70 x 16 Tires Popular Among Riders?
Good for Different Riding Conditions
The 120 70 x 16 tire is a good choice for many types of riding. Whether you're riding on smooth highways or bumpy city streets, this tire size offers a good balance between comfort and performance. It works well in different weather conditions too.
Works Well for Most Motorcycles
Many modern motorcycles, including sports bikes and cruisers, use the 120 70 x 16 tire size. It fits well and works for a variety of bikes. If your bike uses this size, you'll get great performance from it.
Comfort and Control
This tire size is popular because it provides a good mix of comfort and control. It helps your bike stay stable, even when you’re riding through turns or on uneven roads. It’s perfect for everyday riding and long trips.
Key Features of a 120 70 x 16 Motorcycle Tire
Better Grip on the Road
A 120 70 x 16 tire gives you better grip. It helps keep your bike steady and safe, whether you're riding on wet or dry roads. The tread pattern, or design, on the tire also helps with traction, so you don’t slip easily.
Longer Lasting Tires
These tires are built to last. They are made from materials that resist wear, so you don’t have to change them often. Taking care of your tires, like checking their pressure and making sure they are not damaged, will help them last longer.
Good for Cornering
If you like to ride fast or take sharp turns, this tire size is great for cornering. The tire's design helps your bike stay steady and stable, so you can take turns more easily and safely.
How to Choose the Right 120 70 x 16 Tire for Your Motorcycle
Think About How You Ride
First, think about how you ride your motorcycle. If you ride fast and like to make quick turns, you might want a tire that gives you more grip and better control. If you mostly ride on long trips or commute, a tire that is comfortable and lasts longer might be better for you.
Look at Tire Brands
Some tire brands are better than others. Tianjin Jiuyu is a brand that makes good tires, including 120 70 x 16 tires. They are known for making durable and high-performance tires. You can check reviews and ratings to see how well a tire brand performs.
Make Sure the Tire Fits Your Motorcycle
Not all bikes can use the same tire size. Make sure your motorcycle’s manual recommends the 120 70 x 16 tire size. This ensures the tire fits your bike correctly and works well with it. If you choose the wrong size, it can affect how your bike handles and performs.
Maintenance Tips for 120 70 x 16 Motorcycle Tires
Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Tires need to have the right amount of air to work properly. If your tire is under-inflated, it won’t grip the road well and can wear out faster. Over-inflated tires can be dangerous and cause the tire to break. Check your tire pressure regularly and follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for the best pressure.
Inspect Your Tires for Damage
It’s important to check your tires for damage. Look for cuts, holes, or any signs of wear. If you notice the tread is getting too low, it’s time to replace the tire. Worn-out tires don’t provide enough grip, which can be dangerous when riding.
Keep Tires Clean
Dirt, rocks, and road salts can damage your tires. After riding, clean your tires to remove any debris. This will help prevent wear and tear, and also help your tires last longer.
Common Problems with 120 70 x 16 Tires and How to Fix Them
Uneven Tire Wear
Sometimes, tires wear unevenly. This can happen because of incorrect tire pressure or bad alignment. If you notice that your tire is wearing more on one side, it’s a good idea to get your bike checked by a mechanic. They can adjust your bike’s alignment to fix the problem.
Flat Tires
Flat tires are common. If your 120 70 x 16 tire gets a hole, you can fix it with a patch kit or plugs. If the tire is badly damaged, it may need to be replaced. Always carry a tire repair kit when you ride, just in case.
Handling Problems
If your bike starts feeling unstable or difficult to control, it could be due to the tires. Check for wear or damage and replace the tire if necessary. Regular tire checks can prevent handling issues from becoming serious.
Recommended 120 70 x 16 Tires
Tianjin Jiuyu: A Trusted Brand
When looking for 120 70 x 16 tires, Tianjin Jiuyu is a great option. Their tires are known for high quality and performance. Whether you need tires for daily commuting or long rides, Tianjin Jiuyu tires provide good value and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the right tire pressure for a 120 70 x 16 tire?
The tire pressure for a 120 70 x 16 tire should be around 32-36 PSI for the front tire and 36-40 PSI for the rear tire. Always check your bike’s manual for the correct pressure.
Q: How long do 120 70 x 16 tires last?
With proper care, 120 70 x 16 tires can last anywhere from 10,000 to 15,000 miles.
Q: Can I use a 120 70 x 16 tire for off-road riding?
The 120 70 x 16 tire is mainly for street riding. It can handle light off-roading, but if you plan to ride off-road often, you might want to look for a more rugged tire.
Q: How can I tell if my tire needs to be replaced?
If your tire is worn out or has visible damage like cracks or cuts, it’s time to replace it. Tires that don’t have enough tread can be slippery and unsafe.
Q: What is the benefit of the 70 aspect ratio?
A 70 aspect ratio means the tire is taller. This helps with comfort and shock absorption, making the ride smoother and easier, especially on rough roads.
