130/90 X 17 Motorcycle Tire Conversion
Choosing the right motorcycle tire size is crucial for your safety and the overall performance of your bike. Whether you’re looking to replace your old tires or upgrading to a bigger size, the 130/90 X 17 motorcycle tire is a popular choice among riders. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about this tire size and how to convert it for your bike.
What is 130/90 X 17 Motorcycle Tire Size?
The 130/90 X 17 motorcycle tire size refers to the width, aspect ratio, and rim diameter of the tire. The first number, 130, indicates the width of the tire in millimeters. The second number, 90, is the aspect ratio, which is the height of the tire’s sidewall as a percentage of its width. The third number, 17, is the rim diameter in inches. This tire size is commonly used for cruiser and touring motorcycles.
Why Upgrade to 130/90 X 17 Motorcycle Tire Size?
There are several reasons why riders choose to upgrade to a bigger tire size, such as:
- Better handling and stability
- Improved traction and grip
- Enhanced aesthetics
- Increased ground clearance
However, it’s important to note that changing your tire size can affect your bike’s performance and may require other modifications such as adjusting the suspension or changing the gearing.
How to Convert Your Motorcycle Tire Size to 130/90 X 17
If you’re considering upgrading to a 130/90 X 17 tire size, you’ll need to make sure it’s compatible with your bike. The easiest way to do this is by checking your motorcycle’s owner manual or consulting with a professional mechanic. Once you’ve confirmed that the tire size is suitable for your bike, you can follow these steps to convert your tire size:
- Measure the width of your current tire in millimeters.
- Calculate the aspect ratio by multiplying the width by the aspect ratio percentage. For example, if your current tire size is 120/80-17, the aspect ratio is 80% (120 x 0.80 = 96).
- Divide the aspect ratio by 100 to get the decimal value (96 / 100 = 0.96).
- Multiply the aspect ratio decimal by the width to get the sidewall height in millimeters (0.96 x 120 = 115.2).
- Double the sidewall height and add the rim diameter to get the overall diameter of the tire. For example, if your current tire size is 120/80-17, the overall diameter is 635 millimeters (115.2 x 2 + 17 x 25.4 = 635).
- Find a 130/90 X 17 tire with a similar overall diameter to your current tire to ensure proper fitment.
Conclusion
Choosing the right tire size is crucial for your safety and the performance of your motorcycle. The 130/90 X 17 tire size is a popular choice among riders due to its improved handling, traction, and aesthetics. However, it’s important to ensure that the tire size is compatible with your bike and to consider any necessary modifications. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily convert your motorcycle tire size to 130/90 X 17 and upgrade your ride.