Motorcycle Tyre Size Guide Malaysia: How to Choose the Right Tyre

How to Read a Motorcycle Tyre Size

The most important motorcycle tyre information is printed on the tyre sidewall. A typical marking combines the tyre width, aspect ratio, construction type, rim diameter, load index and speed rating.

Example: 90/80-17 46P

Marking	General Meaning
90	Tyre width in millimetres
80	Sidewall height is 80% of the tyre width
–	Bias-ply tyre construction
17	Rim size in inches
46	Load index, which shows the maximum weight the tyre can carry
P	Speed rating, which shows the maximum approved speed

The tyre size is only one part of choosing the correct tyre. You should also check whether the tyre is for the front or rear wheel, whether it is tubeless or tube-type, and whether the load and speed ratings are suitable for your motorcycle.

What Do Width, Aspect Ratio and Rim Size Mean?

These three numbers help you understand the basic tyre size. For example, in 90/80-17, each number has a different meaning.

• 90 is the tyre width in millimetres.
• 80 means the sidewall height is 80% of the tyre width.
• 17 is the rim diameter in inches.

A wider tyre is not always better. It may affect handling, clearance and fitment. A different sidewall height can also change the overall tyre height and riding feel. Always check the motorcycle manufacturer’s recommended tyre size before changing to another size.

Front Tyre vs Rear Tyre

Front and rear motorcycle tyres are made for different jobs. The front tyre plays an important role in steering and braking, while the rear tyre transfers engine power to the road and may carry more load.

• Check whether the tyre is marked FRONT, REAR or suitable for both positions.
• Follow the rotation arrow shown on the tyre sidewall.
• Use the tyre size, load index and speed rating recommended for the front or rear wheel.
• Do not fit a front tyre on the rear wheel, or a rear tyre on the front wheel, unless the tyre manufacturer clearly allows it.

Two tyres may look similar or have the same rim size, but this does not mean they can be used in the same position. Always check the sidewall markings and the motorcycle manufacturer’s tyre specifications before installation.

What Do Load Index and Speed Rating Mean?

The load index and speed rating are shown after the tyre size. They help you check how much weight the tyre can carry and the maximum speed it is approved for.

• The load index is a number that shows the maximum weight the tyre can carry.
• The speed rating is a letter that shows the maximum approved speed of the tyre.
• The load index and speed rating should meet the motorcycle manufacturer’s requirements.
• Do not choose a lower rating just because the tyre size fits the rim.

For example, in 90/80-17 46P, “46” is the load index and “P” is the speed rating. These codes must be checked using the correct load and speed rating chart.

A tyre with the correct size but an unsuitable load index or speed rating may not be suitable for the motorcycle. Always check the owner’s manual, original tyre markings or approved tyre specifications before buying.

Tubeless vs Tube-Type Motorcycle Tyres

Motorcycle tyres may be tubeless or tube-type. The correct choice depends on the tyre, rim design and motorcycle specification.

Tyre Type	How It Works	What to Check
Tubeless	The tyre forms an air seal directly with a suitable tubeless rim.	Check that both the tyre and rim are suitable for tubeless use.
Tube-Type	A separate inner tube holds the air inside the tyre.	Use the correct tube size and make sure the rim is suitable for a tube.

Do not assume that every tyre can be fitted without a tube. Check the sidewall for markings such as TUBELESS or TUBE TYPE, and confirm the rim design before installation.

Some tyre and rim combinations may require special instructions from the tyre manufacturer. When unsure, confirm the motorcycle model, tyre size and rim type before buying or installing the tyre.

KMC Practical Tyre Fitment Checklist

Before buying a motorcycle tyre, prepare the correct motorcycle and tyre information. This helps reduce fitment mistakes and makes it easier to check suitable products.

• Motorcycle brand and model
• Motorcycle year, if known
• Current front tyre size
• Current rear tyre size
• Whether the tyre is for the front or rear wheel
• Tubeless or tube-type requirement
• Current rim size and rim type
• Preferred tyre brand or riding use
• Required quantity

A clear photo of the current tyre sidewall can also help. Make sure the tyre size, load index, speed rating and tubeless or tube-type marking can be seen.

Do not confirm tyre fitment based only on the motorcycle model name. Some models may use different tyre sizes depending on the year, version, rim or previous modification. The original tyre marking and motorcycle specification should be checked before purchasing.

Common Motorcycle Tyre Selection Mistakes

Choosing a motorcycle tyre based only on price, appearance or width can lead to fitment and handling problems. The tyre should match the motorcycle, rim and riding requirements.

• Choosing a tyre only because it fits the rim.
• Installing a wider tyre without checking rim width and clearance.
• Ignoring the load index and speed rating.
• Using the wrong tyre for the front or rear wheel.
• Mixing up tubeless and tube-type requirements.
• Installing the tyre against the rotation arrow.
• Choosing a tyre based only on the motorcycle model without checking the year or version.
• Using an old tyre even when the tread still looks usable.

Before installation, check the tyre size, tyre position, load index, speed rating, construction type and production condition. When the information is unclear, ask a qualified motorcycle workshop to confirm the fitment.

When Should Motorcycle Tyres Be Replaced?

Motorcycle tyres should be replaced when they are worn, damaged or no longer safe to use. Do not judge a tyre only by whether it still has visible tread.

• The tread has reached the tyre wear indicator.
• The tyre has cracks, cuts, bulges or exposed internal material.
• The tyre often loses air pressure without a clear reason.
• The tyre has serious puncture damage or an unsafe repair.
• The motorcycle feels unstable, vibrates or handles differently.
• The tyre has become hard, dry or damaged after long use or storage.
• The tyre size, load rating or speed rating is not suitable for the motorcycle.

Check both the front and rear tyres regularly. Also inspect the tyre sidewall, valve, air pressure and overall condition before long rides.

Tyre life depends on age, mileage, riding style, road conditions, air pressure and storage. When the condition is unclear, ask a qualified motorcycle workshop to inspect the tyre before continuing to use it.

Motorcycle Tyres Available from KMC Motor Parts

KMC Motor Parts offers motorcycle tyres for different motorcycle models, tyre sizes and riding needs. Product availability may vary according to brand, size and stock.

• Front and rear motorcycle tyres
• Different tyre widths and rim sizes
• Tubeless and tube-type options
• Tyres for daily riding and different road conditions
• Different load indexes and speed ratings

Before choosing a tyre, check the current tyre sidewall and motorcycle specifications. Customers can browse our motorcycle tyre catalogue and contact KMC Motor Parts to confirm the correct size, suitability, stock and current price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install a wider tyre on my motorcycle?

Not always. A wider tyre may affect handling, rim fitment and clearance around the motorcycle. Check the approved tyre size, rim width and available space before changing to a wider tyre.

Can I use a different tyre size from the original specification?

Use a different size only when it is approved for the motorcycle and suitable for the rim. A different width or sidewall height may change handling, clearance and overall tyre height.

Can a front tyre be used on the rear wheel?

Normally, no. Use tyres marked for the correct wheel position. A front tyre should be fitted at the front and a rear tyre should be fitted at the rear, unless the tyre manufacturer clearly allows another fitment.

What is the difference between tubeless and tube-type tyres?

A tubeless tyre holds air directly between the tyre and a suitable tubeless rim. A tube-type tyre uses an inner tube to hold the air. Always check both the tyre marking and rim type before installation.

How do I know which tyre size suits my motorcycle?

Check the motorcycle owner’s manual, the original tyre sidewall and the approved front and rear tyre specifications. You can also send KMC Motor Parts a clear photo of the current tyre marking together with the motorcycle model and year.

Should front and rear motorcycle tyres be replaced together?

Not always. Replace a tyre when it is worn, damaged or no longer suitable. However, both tyres should be inspected together because a large difference in condition, tyre type or performance may affect handling.