Hey there, fellow riders. If you’re on the hunt for some new tires for your beloved bike but feel like you’re drowning in a sea of confusing codes and numbers, I’m here to help. We’re gonna talk about MT90B16 conversion and how to decipher those “dumb codes” so you can get the biggest, baddest tires without breaking a sweat (or needing a shoe horn). Let’s dive in.
The Mysterious World of Tire Codes
Picture this: you’ve got a sweet 2005 Electra Glide, and you’re itching to upgrade your tires to some awesome Metzler ME880’s. But what’s up with those weird codes on your current tires? The front reads “MT 90B16 72H” and the rear says “MT 90B16 74H.” Don’t worry, we’re gonna crack this code together.
Decoding the MT90 B16
First things first: let’s tackle that “MT90 B16” part. “MT” stands for “motorcycle tire” (shocker, I know), and “90” is the aspect ratio, meaning the tire’s height is 90% of its width. “B” indicates a bias ply construction, and “16” represents the rim diameter, measured in inches.
Weight Ratings and the F-Ront Mystery
Now for the “72H” and “74H” codes. The “H” is a speed rating, which means these tires are designed for speeds up to 130 mph. The numbers “72” and “74” are weight ratings, telling us the front tire can handle a maximum load of 783 lbs, while the rear can support up to 827 lbs. And here’s a pro tip: the “F” in “D402F” signifies it’s the front tire, so don’t mix it up with the rear.
MT90B16 Conversion: The Magic Formula
So you’ve decoded the tire language, but Metzler doesn’t have those sizes displayed, and you need to convert your tire code. That’s where the MT90B16 conversion comes in. Your current front tire size is equivalent to a 130-90×16.
Upgrading the Rear Tire
Now that we know the conversion, let’s talk about getting the biggest tires you can without making your bike look like it’s wearing a corset. For the rear tire, a 140-90 will fit just right. Look for a D402 with a MU85-16 designation to make sure you’re getting the perfect match.
How Wide Can You Go?
So, how wide can you go with your new tires without causing problems? To find out, measure from the sidewall to the belt on your current tire, leaving a little room. Multiply that number by 2 in metric, and that’s the maximum width you can go for. Keep in mind that if you go from a 130 to a 140, the tire will only be 5mm wider per side. Not a massive difference, but hey, every millimeter counts.
Will You Still Look Like a Pansy?
The ultimate question: with these new tires, will your bike still look like it’s on a diet? Well, upgrading from a 130 to a 140 will only add an extra 5mm of width per side on the rear tire. But you know what? It’s still an upgrade, and your bike will have a slightly beefier appearance. So go ahead, swap out those tires, and ride off into the sunset with your head held high.
Becoming a Tire Code Master
And there you have it, folks. The MT90B16 conversion mystery, solved. No more feeling like you’re trying to decode a secret message from an alien civilization. With this newfound knowledge, you can confidently upgrade your tires, knowing you’re getting the perfect fit for your ride.
So, next time you’re in the market for some fresh rubber, remember these key takeaways:
- Decoding the tire language is easier than it looks. Just break down the code, and you’ll know the aspect ratio, construction, and rim diameter in no time.
- Understand the weight and speed ratings so you can choose tires that meet your needs and won’t leave you stranded.
- For the perfect upgrade, measure your current tire’s width and do some simple math to determine how wide you can go without causing issues.
- Upgrading your tires might not turn your bike into a monster, but it’ll definitely give it a fresh look and a touch of extra beefiness.
Now you’re ready to tackle the tire world like a pro. Go out there, upgrade your tires, and enjoy the open road with confidence. Just remember to always double-check the fit and make sure you’re getting the best tires for your ride. And hey, maybe you won’t look like a pansy after all. Happy riding.
FAQs
Below are some frequently asked questions on the MT90B16 conversion:
What does the MT90B16 tire code mean?
The MT90B16 conversion code can be broken down as follows:
– “MT” stands for “motorcycle tire”
– “90” is the aspect ratio, meaning the tire’s height is 90% of its width
– “B” indicates a bias ply construction
– “16” represents the rim diameter, measured in inches
How do I convert the MT90B16 conversion code to a more standard tire size?
The MT90B16 code is equivalent to a 130-90×16 tire size, which is more commonly used in the industry.
What do the weight ratings (72H and 74H) mean?
The numbers “72” and “74” are weight ratings, indicating the maximum load that the front and rear tires can handle, respectively. The “H” is a speed rating, which means these tires are designed for speeds up to 130 mph.
How do I know which tire size will fit my bike?
To ensure that your tires will not cause any issues, measure the sidewall to belt of your current tire, allowing some additional space. Then, multiply this number by 2 (in metric) and you have located the maximum width for replacement tires.
Can I upgrade my rear tire to a wider size?
Certainly, you can expand your rear tire width; however, be sure it fits properly on your bike. To illustrate this concept further: if the current size of your rear tire is 130-90×16, then a 140-90 would make an appropriate upgrade. Keep in mind that while expanding to such a size only adds 5mm per side – the difference may not appear drastic from first glance.
Will upgrading my tires make my bike look significantly wider?
Swapping out your tires for a more substantial set may not be entirely drastic, but it will give off the appearance of a sturdier bike. A 130 to 140 rear tire upgrade for instance only adds an additional 5mm per side – which might seem slight, yet can still bring about improvements in performance and handling capabilities. Every millimeter matters.