If you are searching for a reliable 120/90 x 16 motorcycle tire, you’re looking for a balance of grip, durability, and street comfort. This guide highlights five well-suited tires for cruiser and touring bikes, explaining who each product is best for and why. It also includes a concise buying guide and a short FAQ to help clarify common questions.
| Product | Best For | Key Feature | |
|---|---|---|---|
| GarveeTech 150/80-16 Rear | Roads and touring riders seeking long wear | High mileage potential with a durable compound | 7.5 mm tread depth for grip in varied conditions |
| Shinko 87-4594 777 Rear | Cruisers requiring broad size compatibility | Wide size availability for V-Twin and metric cruisers | Max grip with wet and dry traction |
| Shinko 777 Front | Balanced front tire for cruisers | Designed for consistent grip in diverse weather | Grip and comfort-focused compound |
| Kenda Kruz K673 | All-weather cruiser riders | DOT approved with strong load capacity | All-weather grooved tread for cruising |
| Tusk EMEX T-45 Rear | Youth and trail riders (for reference) | Knobby off-road performance | Enhanced traction on intermediate/hard terrain |
Note: The table above highlights a selection that includes primarily street-oriented tires for cruisers and touring bikes, with one option (T-45) that is more off-road focused for comparison. Consider your typical riding conditions, bike model, and reserve requirements when choosing.
GarveeTech 150/80-16 Rear Tire: Durable Street Performance
The GarveeTech tire is designed for cruiser and touring bikes, featuring a 150/80-16 sizing with a 7.5 mm tread depth. It emphasizes grip in wet and dry conditions, delivering stability through curves and at highway speeds. The tire’s asymmetric, bias-design supports long wear life and higher mileage for riders who rack up substantial road miles. It is positioned as a strong option for daily commuters and weekend warriors who value smooth street performance and reduced road noise. Best for riders who prioritize durability and predictable handling.
Best for: Cruisers and touring riders who want reliable all-season grip and longer tire life. Better for long-distance riders who log many miles. Caution: Real-world wear rates depend on riding style and road conditions; aggressive cornering can still wear tires faster.
Shinko 87-4594 777 Rear H.D. Tire
The Shinko 87-4594 777 rear tire is built for cruiser motorcycles and offers a broad availability across sizes suitable for many V-Twin and metric cruisers. Its rubber compound is formulated to maximize grip and comfort, while the tread features functional siping and grooves for solid traction in both wet and dry riding. This tire is a versatile choice for riders who want dependable handling with a focus on street comfort. Best for: Cruisers needing wide size compatibility and stable grip. Caution: Front-fitment and rear-fitment pairings should be checked for model compatibility.
Shinko 777 Front: Cruiser Balance
The Shinko 777 Front tire is specifically designed for cruiser motorcycles and is available in multiple sizes to fit various V-Twin and metric cruiser models. The rubber compound is tailored to provide maximum grip and comfort, while the tread design supports wet and dry traction through siping and grooves. This front tire is a solid match for riders seeking balanced steering feel and reliable front-end feedback. Best for: Front-end stability on cruisers. Caution: Front tires should match rear tire characteristics and vehicle requirements for optimal performance.
Kenda Kruz K673: All-Weather Cruiser
The Kenda Kruz K673 is a street-oriented tire with DOT approval and an H-rating for speeds up to 130 mph. It features a new 3+2 casting design for improved handling and high load carrying capacity, paired with a front-and-rear setup that uses a new tread design and deep, wide grooves for all-weather cruising. This tire is best for riders who want confidence across varying weather and road surfaces. Caution: Its performance characteristics may vary with terrain and load; verify fitment for your bike model.
Tusk EMEX T-45 Rear Tire: Youth and Trail Context
The Tusk EMEX T-45 is designed as a rear tire for youth and trail bikes, offering an aggressive knobby tread for hard terrain. While not a direct match for street cruisers, it provides a reference point for riders who occasionally mix dirt trails with pavement. Best for: Youth or trail bikes needing strong off-road traction. Caution: Not intended for typical street cruising on highway speeds or long road touring.
Buying Guide: How To Choose A 120/90 x 16 Tire
- If you predominantly ride on highways and curvy back roads, prioritize tread patterns that emphasize wet grip, stability, and mileage. For occasional light off-road use, consider a tire with deeper grooves and more aggressive siping.
- Verify that the 120/90-16 size is suitable for your specific motorcycle model and rear wheel width. Some bikes require 150/80-16 rear tires, which differ in diameter and profile from 120/90-16, affecting riding feel.
- A tire with a robust compound and bias construction can offer longer wear, but ensure it does not compromise grip in wet conditions. Look for patterns that balance grip with wear resistance.
- If you ride year-round in varied climates, choose a tire with solid wet-weather performance and stable handling in cold temperatures.
- Wider compatibility with cruiser models and regional availability can influence long-term maintenance and replacements.
The selections above emphasize street-oriented tires for cruisers and touring bikes, with consideration for common 120/90-16 applications. When in doubt, consult your motorcycle’s manufacturer guidance and pair front/rear tires that complement each other in tread design and wear characteristics.
FAQ
- What does 120/90-16 mean? It indicates a tire width of 120 mm, a series height of 90 percent of the width, and a 16-inch wheel diameter. This sizing is common on many cruiser motorcycles.
- Is 120/90-16 suitable for all cruisers? Not always. Check your bike’s recommended tire size and load rating; some models may require different rear widths or front/rear matching patterns.
- Which tire is best for wet weather? Tires with deeper tread grooves and siping generally provide better water evacuation and grip in rain. Look for patterns designed for wet traction.
- Should I pair front and rear tires from the same brand? While not mandatory, matching brands can help achieve consistent handling and wear characteristics. Verify compatibility with your model and tire design.
- Can I mix 120/90-16 with another size? Mixing sizes can affect handling and safety. Always follow manufacturer recommendations and consult a professional if you consider a size change.
- How important is tread depth? Deeper tread typically improves grip and water evacuation; as tires wear, grip can degrade, especially in wet conditions. Monitor tread depth regularly.