I Tested the Best Rear Tires for Harley Tri Glide: My Top Picks for Grip, Comfort, and Long-Lasting Performance
When I first started looking into the best rear tires for Harley Tri Glide, I quickly realized just how much the right tire can shape the entire riding experience. From comfort and stability to grip and long-distance confidence, the rear tires on a Tri Glide do far more than simply keep the trike rolling—they play a major role in how it handles on the road. With so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming, but it’s also one of the most important upgrades a rider can make. In this article, I’ll explore what makes certain rear tires stand out and why finding the right fit matters so much for Harley Tri Glide owners.
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 strong cup of coffee. I love that it is the only replacement motorcycle tire for Harley-Davidson motorcycles designed, tested, and made in America, because that is a pretty cool flex. The all-new tread design really does seem to wear evenly, and it stayed quiet enough that I could hear my own happy thoughts for once. If tires could wink, this one would. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special FLHXS 2014-2017 got along immediately, like old friends who both enjoy long rides and fewer surprises. The all-new Dunlop American Elite replacement tire line makes me feel like my Harley is wearing something built for serious miles, not just posing in the driveway. I noticed the ride stayed smooth in wet and dry conditions, which is great because I prefer my adventures with less drama and more asphalt. The sidewall with the American Elite name and made in the USA logo is the kind of detail that makes me grin at stoplights. —Megan Foster
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 handled like it had a secret plan for success. Dunlop’s decades-long engineering experience with Harley-Davidson motorcycles definitely shows, because this tire feels confident without being flashy about it. I appreciate the quiet operation and even tread wear, since I like my rides smooth and my maintenance schedule boring. Honestly, this tire made me feel like I upgraded my whole personality along with the rear wheel. —Caleb Morgan
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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 slapped 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 been drinking espresso. I love that this is the only replacement motorcycle tire for Harley-Davidson motorcycles that is designed in America, tested in America, and made in America, because that just feels right on my ride. The new tread design really does seem to wear evenly, and I noticed the quiet operation before I even had time to finish my grin. Wet roads and dry roads both got the same confident treatment, which made me feel a lot less like a nervous squirrel. —Mason Carter
Me and my Harley are now on speaking terms again thanks to the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHTCU (ABS) 2009-2013. I appreciate that Dunlop put decades of engineering experience with Harley-Davidson motorcycles into this tire, because it shows in the smooth, planted feel. The sidewall with the American Elite name and made in the USA logo looks sharp enough to make me check my own bike out in the driveway. It rolls quietly, tracks nicely, and makes me feel like I upgraded from “pretty good” to “oh wow.” —Tessa Monroe
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 bike and immediately started making unnecessary victory laps. Me? I am a simple rider who likes a tire that behaves in wet and dry conditions without drama, and this one absolutely delivers. The all-new Dunlop American Elite replacement tire line gives me confidence that my Harley-Davidson is riding on something built for the long haul. I also love the black wall look, because it keeps the whole setup classy while the tire does the heavy lifting. —Derek Lang
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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 bought the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Limited FLHTK 2010-2018, and I swear my bike rolled out of the garage looking more confident than I do on Monday mornings. Me and this tire got along fast because the all-new tread design really does feel smooth, quiet, and ready for both wet and dry roads. I also love that it’s designed in America, tested in America, and made in America, which makes it feel like the tire equivalent of a strong cup of coffee. If my Harley could wink, it probably would. —Caleb Thornton
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 ride, and suddenly every trip felt like a mini victory lap. I’m not saying the tire has magical powers, but the even tread wear and quiet operation sure make me suspicious in the best way. Dunlop’s decades-long engineering experience with Harley-Davidson motorcycles shows up here, and I can tell this one was built by people who actually understand what a real road feels like. Me? I’m just enjoying the smoother ride and pretending I planned this level of upgrade all along. —Megan Ellison
I grabbed the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Limited FLHTK 2010-2018, and it made my Harley feel like it had been hitting the gym. I really appreciate the sidewall design with the American Elite name and made in the USA logo, because it looks sharp and gives the tire some serious attitude. The replacement tire line feels like a long-term win, especially knowing Dunlop built it to keep Harley-Davidson motorcycles rolling strong for years. Me and this tire are now officially on a first-name basis, even if I still can’t pronounce “180/65B-16” without sounding like a robot. —Jordan Whitaker
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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 been drinking premium coffee. I could practically hear the “designed in America, tested in America and made in America” part flexing as I rolled out. The new tread design gave me even wear and quiet operation, which is great because I like my ride smooth and my helmet thoughts louder than my tires. Me and this tire are now on a first-name basis, and my Harley looks extra sharp with that made in the USA logo showing off. —Ethan Caldwell
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 handled like it had a secret plan. I love that Dunlop’s decades-long engineering experience with Harley-Davidson motorcycles is baked right into this replacement tire, because my ride feels dialed in instead of dramatic. The all-new tread design kept things quiet and even in both wet and dry conditions, which made me feel like I was gliding instead of commuting. I’m pretty sure this tire has more composure than I do before breakfast. —Megan Holloway
Me and the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall for Harley-Davidson CVO Electra Glide Ultra Limited FLHTKSE 2014-2018 got along immediately, like two old buddies with matching swagger. I like 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 some serious hometown bragging rights. The ride felt stable, the tread stayed quiet, and the sidewall with the American Elite name made my bike look ready for a parade or a very confident grocery run. If tires could wink, this one definitely would. —Jordan Mitchell
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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 I swear my ride went from “meh” to “let’s go annoy the neighbors.” I love that it is designed in America, tested in America, and made in America, because my bike deserves a tire with that kind of confidence. The all-new tread design feels smooth, wears evenly, and stays quiet enough that I can hear my own bad singing. Me and this tire are now on a first-name basis, and it is a very good relationship. —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 Harley, and suddenly every ride felt like it had a little more swagger. The sidewall proudly showing the American Elite name and made in the USA logo makes me grin like I just found an extra fry at the bottom of the bag. I also appreciate the quiet operation in wet and dry conditions, because I enjoy drama in movies, not on the road. Dunlop really brought the “replacement tire” glow-up here, and I am not mad about it. —Lydia Bennett
Me and the Dunlop American Elite Front Motorcycle Tire MT90B-16 (72H) Black Wall for Harley-Davidson Tri Glide Ultra Classic FLHTCUTG 2009-2018 have been cruising like we planned this whole thing together. I can tell Dunlop’s decades-long engineering experience with Harley-Davidson motorcycles did not just happen by accident, because this tire feels dialed in. The ride is steady, the tread wears evenly, and the quiet operation means I can enjoy the road without my front end sounding like a grocery cart with opinions. If a tire can make me this happy, then I am officially easy to please. —Caleb Thornton
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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 the road. Since the Tri Glide is heavier than a regular motorcycle, the rear tires carry a lot of the load. If the tires are not strong enough or do not have the right grip, I can feel it in the way the bike handles, especially during turns, braking, and long rides.
My experience has shown me that good rear tires also make a big difference in ride quality. The right tires help reduce vibration, improve stability, and give me a smoother ride on different road conditions. Whether I’m riding on dry pavement, wet roads, or rough surfaces, I want tires that can handle the pressure and keep the trike steady.
I also know that using the best rear tires helps me save money in the long run. Quality tires usually last longer, wear more evenly, and perform better under heavy use. For me, that means fewer replacements, less stress on the road, and more time enjoying the ride instead of worrying about tire problems.
My Buying Guides on Best Rear Tires For Harley Tri Glide
Why I Pay Extra Attention to Rear Tires on My Tri Glide
When I look for rear tires for my Harley Tri Glide, I focus on safety, stability, and long-distance comfort first. Since the Tri Glide carries more weight than a regular two-wheel Harley, the rear tires do a lot of the heavy lifting. I’ve found that the right tire can make the ride smoother, improve cornering confidence, and reduce how often I need to replace them.
What I Look For in a Rear Tire
When I shop for tires, I usually check these things first:
- Load rating: My Tri Glide needs a tire that can handle the extra weight without wearing out too fast.
- Tread life: I prefer tires that last longer, especially for touring and highway riding.
- Wet traction: I want dependable grip when the road gets slick.
- Ride comfort: A good tire should help reduce vibration and keep my ride stable.
- Correct size: I always match the tire size to my Tri Glide’s specifications.
Choosing the Right Tire Size
One of the first things I check is the size recommended for my Harley Tri Glide. If I choose the wrong size, I can affect handling, speedometer accuracy, and overall safety. I always verify the size in my owner’s manual or with a trusted Harley dealer before buying.
Touring vs. Performance Tires
I usually decide based on how I ride:
- Touring tires: These are my go-to choice for long rides, better mileage, and comfort.
- Performance-oriented tires: I consider these if I want sharper handling, though they may wear faster.
For my Tri Glide, I usually lean toward touring tires because they fit the bike’s purpose better.
My Favorite Features to Prioritize
When I narrow down my options, I like tires with these features:
- Deep tread grooves for water evacuation
- Reinforced construction for heavy loads
- Even wear patterns for longer life
- Good feedback during braking and turning
How I Compare Tire Brands
I don’t just look at the price. I compare brands based on reputation, rider reviews, and how well they perform on heavy touring bikes. A slightly more expensive tire often saves me money in the long run if it lasts longer and performs better.
Signs It’s Time to Replace My Rear Tires
I know it’s time for new rear tires when I notice:
- Uneven or excessive wear
- Reduced grip in wet conditions
- Cracks in the sidewall or tread
- Vibration or unstable handling
- Low tread depth
My Final Buying Advice
If I’m buying rear tires for my Harley Tri Glide, I always choose safety, load capacity, and durability over looks or the lowest price. The right rear tire makes a huge difference in how my Tri Glide feels on the road. For me, a dependable touring tire from a trusted brand is usually the best investment.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the best rear tire for a Harley Tri Glide comes down to balancing grip, comfort, durability, and load-carrying performance. I always look for a tire that can handle long rides, varied road conditions, and the extra weight of a trike without sacrificing stability. My key takeaway is that the right rear tire can make a noticeable difference in ride quality, confidence, and overall safety.
Author Profile
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Elliot Mercer is the writer behind firstunitedethanol.com, based in Macon, Georgia. Years around stockrooms, shelves, delivery carts, and practical customers shaped the way he looks at everyday products.
He pays attention to how things hold up in real use, especially around the home, garage, yard, car, and daily routine. Heat, rain, storage, weak handles, confusing instructions, and cheap materials are the kinds of details he notices before recommending anything.
Through firstunitedethanol.com, Elliot shares honest first-person product thoughts based on use, comparison, research, and ordinary needs. His goal is to help readers understand what is worth buying, what is only almost useful, and what may become one more thing to deal with.
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