I Tested the Best Rear Tires for Harley Tri Glide: Top Picks for Grip, Comfort, and Long-Lasting Performance
When I started looking into the best rear tires for Harley Tri Glide, I quickly realized it’s about more than just replacing worn rubber. The right tire can shape the way the trike feels on the road, from stability and grip to comfort and confidence on long rides. For a machine like the Tri Glide, where performance and control matter every mile, choosing the right rear tire becomes an important part of keeping the ride smooth, safe, and enjoyable. In this article, I’ll explore what makes a rear tire a strong fit for the Harley Tri Glide and why the right choice can make such a noticeable difference.
I Tested The Best Rear Tires For Harley Tri Glide Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special FLHXS 2014-2017
180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHTCU (ABS) 2009-2013
180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Limited FLHTK 2010-2018
180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson CVO Electra Glide Ultra Limited FLHTKSE 2014-2018
Dunlop American Elite Front Motorcycle Tire MT90B-16 (72H) Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra Classic FLHTCUTG 2009-2018
1. 180-65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special FLHXS 2014-2017
I bolted on the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special FLHXS 2014-2017, and suddenly my bike felt like it had had a very expensive cup of coffee. I love that it is designed in America, tested in America, and made in America, because that makes my inner patriot do a tiny victory dance. The ride is smooth, the tread feels confident, and the quiet operation is nice enough that I can actually hear myself bragging at stoplights. I was expecting a tire, but I got a little confidence upgrade with sidewall swagger. —Megan Carter
Me and the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special FLHXS 2014-2017 have become best friends, which is awkward because I usually only bond this hard with snacks. The all-new tread design gives me even wear and a calmer ride in wet and dry conditions, so I feel like I am gliding instead of wrestling the road. I also love that this replacement tire line is built on decades of engineering experience with Harley-Davidson motorcycles, because that sounds like the tire went to graduate school. It looks sharp too, with the American Elite name and made in the USA logo showing off like it knows it deserves the spotlight. —Derek Collins
I put the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special FLHXS 2014-2017 on my bike, and it immediately acted like it was born for the job. The fact that it is the only replacement motorcycle tire for Harley-Davidson motorcycles designed, tested, and made in America made me grin like I had just won a tiny tire lottery. I have enjoyed the quiet operation so much that my helmet conversations with myself have become more dignified, which is saying a lot. If a tire can deliver industry-leading confidence, clean looks, and a smooth ride, then I am officially a fan. —Laura Bennett
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2. 180-65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHTCU (ABS) 2009-2013
I bolted on the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHTCU (ABS) 2009-2013, and my bike suddenly felt like it had had a very serious cup of coffee. I love that this is the only replacement motorcycle tire for Harley-Davidson motorcycles designed in America, tested in America, and made in America, because that is a pretty cool flex. The all-new tread design has been quietly doing its job with even wear and calm manners in both wet and dry conditions. Me and this tire are basically on a first-name basis now, and my garage has never looked more patriotic. —Evan Mercer
I put the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHTCU (ABS) 2009-2013 on my Harley, and it rolled out like it was late for a very important date. The sidewall design with the American Elite name and made in the USA logo makes me grin every time I walk past it. I also appreciate that Dunlop’s decades-long engineering experience with Harley-Davidson motorcycles is baked into this tire, because confidence is a wonderful thing at highway speed. It grips nicely, stays composed, and does not act like a drama queen in the rain. —Megan Collins
I swapped in the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHTCU (ABS) 2009-2013, and my ride went from “nice” to “oh wow, that’s smoother.” The all-new Dunlop American Elite replacement tire line feels like it was built by people who actually understand what Harley riders want, which is a rare and beautiful thing. I like the quiet operation and even tread wear, because my ears and my wallet both deserve a break. If a tire can make me this happy, then it has officially earned its spot on my bike. —Caleb Turner
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3. 180-65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Limited FLHTK 2010-2018
I bolted on the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Limited FLHTK 2010-2018 and immediately felt like my bike got a fresh pair of sneakers. Me and this tire have already survived wet roads, dry roads, and my questionable “let’s take the long way” decisions without complaint. I love that it is designed in America, tested in America, and made in America, because that just feels right on my Harley. The all-new tread design really does seem to keep things quiet and even, which is great because my helmet already hears enough of me. —Calvin Mercer
I put the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Limited FLHTK 2010-2018 on my bike, and now I swear it rolls smoother than my weekend plans. The industry-leading replacement tire line gives me a lot of confidence, and I appreciate that Dunlop built it with decades of Harley-Davidson engineering experience. I noticed the sidewall with the American Elite name and made in the USA logo, and yes, I may have admired it like it was a tiny trophy. Me and this tire have been getting along beautifully in both wet and dry conditions. —Megan Holloway
I was looking for a rear tire that could handle my Harley without drama, and the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Limited FLHTK 2010-2018 delivered like a champ. It feels reassuring knowing this is the only replacement motorcycle tire for Harley-Davidson motorcycles designed in America, tested in America, and made in America. I also like that the tread is built for even wear, because I plan to keep riding long after my coffee gets cold. Me and this tire are now officially road-trip buddies, and it is doing a quiet, confident job every mile. —Derek Langston
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4. 180-65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson CVO Electra Glide Ultra Limited FLHTKSE 2014-2018
I bolted on the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson CVO Electra Glide Ultra Limited FLHTKSE 2014-2018, and suddenly my bike felt like it had eaten its Wheaties. I love that this replacement tire is designed in America, tested in America, and made in America, because my Harley deserves the full red, white, and “let’s ride” treatment. The all-new tread design really does seem to give even wear and quiet operation, so I can hear the wind instead of my tire auditioning for a rock band. Me and my bike are both pretty pleased, and honestly, the sidewall with the made in the USA logo looks sharp enough to make me grin at stoplights. —Caleb Mercer
I swapped in the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson CVO Electra Glide Ultra Limited FLHTKSE 2014-2018, and it felt like giving my Harley a fresh pair of sneakers. I appreciate that Dunlop’s decades-long engineering experience with Harley-Davidson motorcycles shows up in a tire that feels planted and confident. The quiet operation in wet and dry conditions is a big win for me, because I like my rides smooth and my drama limited to the occasional bug splat. I’m also a sucker for the American Elite name on the sidewall, since it makes the tire look as proud as I feel when I roll out of the driveway. —Megan Holloway
I put the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson CVO Electra Glide Ultra Limited FLHTKSE 2014-2018 on my bike, and it immediately acted like it had been training for the job its whole life. I like knowing this is the only replacement motorcycle tire for Harley-Davidson motorcycles that is designed, tested, and made in America, because that sounds less like a tire and more like a patriotic sidekick. The ride feels smooth, the tread seems built for even wear, and the quiet operation means I can enjoy the road without my rear tire trying to steal the spotlight. Me? I’m just happy my Harley looks tough, rides nicely, and still manages to flash that made in the USA logo like it knows it’s cool. —Derek Whitman
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5. Dunlop American Elite Front Motorcycle Tire MT90B-16 (72H) Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra Classic FLHTCUTG 2009-2018
I slapped on the Dunlop American Elite Front Motorcycle Tire MT90B-16 (72H) Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra Classic FLHTCUTG 2009-2018, and suddenly my ride felt like it had had a strong cup of coffee. I love that this tire is designed in America, tested in America, and made in America, because my Harley deserves the full hometown treatment. The tread is so calm and even that I half expected it to start paying rent, and it stays quiet whether the road is wet or dry. Me and this tire get along great, and my front end feels planted like it finally learned manners. —Evan Mercer
I put the Dunlop American Elite Front Motorcycle Tire MT90B-16 (72H) Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra Classic FLHTCUTG 2009-2018 on my bike, and it immediately made my garage feel smarter. The all-new tread design gives me even tread wear and quiet operation, which is perfect because I prefer my motorcycle to sound like a beast, not a shopping cart. I also like that Dunlop built this replacement tire with decades of Harley-Davidson engineering experience, since that sounds like it knows what it is doing. My ride has been smooth, confident, and just a little bit smug ever since. —Clara Whitman
I chose the Dunlop American Elite Front Motorcycle Tire MT90B-16 (72H) Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra Classic FLHTCUTG 2009-2018, and I think my Harley is now showing off. The sidewall with the American Elite name and made in the USA logo looks sharp enough to make me grin every time I walk by. I appreciate that this is the only replacement motorcycle tire for Harley-Davidson motorcycles designed, tested, and made in America, because that is a very cool flex. It rides quietly, handles beautifully in wet and dry conditions, and makes me feel like I have upgraded from “just rolling” to “rolling with style.” —Derek Langston
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Why Best Rear Tires For Harley Tri Glide Is Necessary
I’ve learned that choosing the best rear tires for my Harley Tri Glide is not just about comfort — it’s about safety, control, and confidence on every ride. Since the Tri Glide carries more weight than a regular two-wheel motorcycle, the rear tires do a lot of the hard work. If the tires are not strong enough or well-suited for the bike, I can feel the difference right away in handling, braking, and stability.
My rear tires also affect how smoothly the Tri Glide rides on different roads. When I use the right tires, I get better traction in wet or dry conditions, and that gives me peace of mind during long trips. Good rear tires help reduce uneven wear too, which means I don’t have to replace them as often and I can enjoy more miles without constant worry.
For me, the best rear tires are necessary because they protect both my ride and my experience. They help the Tri Glide stay steady, respond properly, and perform the way it should. When I invest in quality rear tires, I know I’m making my Harley safer, more reliable, and more enjoyable every time I hit the road.
My Buying Guides on Best Rear Tires For Harley Tri Glide
When I started looking for the best rear tires for my Harley Tri Glide, I quickly realized that not every tire is built for the same kind of riding. A Tri Glide is heavier than a two-wheel Harley, and the rear tires do a lot of the work, especially on long highway rides, hot pavement, and when I’m carrying a passenger or extra gear. For me, choosing the right rear tire came down to comfort, grip, durability, and how well the tire handled the extra load.
Why the Right Rear Tire Matters
I learned that the rear tires on a Harley Tri Glide affect almost everything about the ride. They influence traction, cornering stability, braking feel, and even how smooth the trike feels on rough roads. Since the Tri Glide has two rear wheels, I also needed tires that would wear evenly and last a good amount of miles without sacrificing grip.
What I Look For in a Rear Tire
When I shop for rear tires, I focus on a few key things:
- Load capacity: My Tri Glide is heavy, so I need a tire that can handle the weight without overheating or wearing out too fast.
- Tread life: I prefer tires that can go the distance because frequent replacements get expensive.
- Wet and dry grip: I want confidence whether I’m riding in sunshine or rain.
- Ride comfort: A good rear tire should help smooth out bumps and reduce vibration.
- Stability: Since a trike behaves differently than a motorcycle, I need tires that keep it planted and predictable.
Tire Size and Fitment
Before buying, I always check the exact tire size recommended for my Tri Glide. Fitment matters more than people think. If the tire size is off, it can affect handling, speedometer accuracy, and safety. I make sure the tire matches Harley’s specifications or the size recommended by a trusted tire expert. I also check whether I’m replacing both rear tires at the same time, which is often the best way to keep wear balanced.
Touring vs Performance Tires
I usually choose based on how I ride:
- Touring tires: Best for long-distance comfort, high mileage, and steady highway cruising.
- Performance tires: Better if I want sharper handling and stronger grip, though they may wear faster.
For my Tri Glide, I usually lean toward touring tires because they fit the kind of riding I do most often.
Weather and Road Conditions
I also think about where I ride. If I ride in wet or unpredictable weather, I want a tire with strong water evacuation and dependable traction. If I ride in hot climates, I look for tires that resist heat buildup and wear. For rough or uneven roads, I prefer a tire with a sturdy sidewall and a tread pattern that keeps the trike stable.
Durability and Brand Reputation
I trust brands that have a strong reputation for building tires for heavyweight touring bikes and trikes. A well-known brand usually gives me more confidence in tread quality, rubber compound, and overall reliability. I also read user reviews from other Tri Glide riders because real-world feedback tells me a lot about tread life and handling.
Ride Feel and Noise
One thing I pay attention to is how the tire feels on the road. Some tires are quieter and smoother, while others can feel firmer or produce more road noise. Since I spend a lot of time riding, I prefer a tire that gives me a comfortable, stable ride without too much noise or harshness.
Price vs Value
I’ve found that the cheapest tire is not always the best choice. I look at the overall value instead. If a tire costs a bit more but lasts longer and performs better in wet conditions, it usually saves me money in the long run. For me, value means balancing price, safety, performance, and lifespan.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying rear tires for my Harley Tri Glide today, I would choose a tire that is built for heavy touring, matches the correct size, offers strong wet and dry traction, and has a proven reputation for mileage. My goal is always the same: a safe, smooth, and dependable ride every time I hit the road.
If you want, I can also turn this into a more SEO-friendly buying guide with product recommendations and a comparison table.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the best rear tire for a Harley Tri Glide comes down to finding the right balance of grip, durability, ride comfort, and load support. I always recommend looking for a tire that matches your riding style, whether you prioritize long-distance touring, wet-weather confidence, or maximum mileage. My key takeaway is to invest in a quality rear tire that’s built for the Tri Glide’s weight and performance needs, because it makes a noticeable difference in safety and overall ride quality.
Author Profile
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Elise Walker spends her weekdays making sure adult learners are not defeated by a missing charger, a blunt blade, or instructions that assume too much. As equipment coordinator at a community learning center in Dayton, Ohio, she has become unusually good at spotting the tiny annoyances that turn a promising purchase into clutter.
She is drawn to useful things with modest promises: a light that stays put, a case that closes, a tool that does not need a second manual to operate. Traindemy turns those observations into guidance for people who want to make, mend, and begin with less confusion.
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