Tires on a motorcycle are a vital part of it’s function. It’s also a huge safety component for the rider since the tires separate the rider from the road. That’s why any alterations to motorcycle tires should be seriously considered.
A common question motorcyclists have is whether or not it’s possible to use a rear motorcycle tire on the front. Whether it be because of looks, budget, or they’re just plain curious, it’s a questions that should be understood for the future reference of any motorcyclist.
Can I use a rear motorcycle tire on the front? It is possible to use a rear motorcycle tire on the front if the tire does not specify it is solely for rear use only and it is the exact same size the manufacturer says is needed for the front. A rear motorcycle tire should not be used on the front if it says “rear use only,” even if it is close to the right size the front needs.
Motorcycle tires are something that shouldn’t be switched around or changed on a whim. I’ve gotten new tires for almost all of my motorcycle restorations (close to two dozen) and have become familiar with the rules that should be followed with this. This article can help explain further about when it’s okay to use a rear tire on the front and when it becomes a safety hazard.
Using A Rear Tire On The Front
There is a difference between the front and rear tire of a motorcycle and each of them serves a separate function. Putting on the wrong size of tires could mean less control.
Most tires will specify which side it should be mounted on the bike. Such specifications will say something like “rear use only” or “front use only” and indications like this should never be ignored. You should never put a “rear use only” tire on the front of the motorcycle.
With that being said, there are a few situations where it is possible to put a rear tire on the front of a motorcycle. There are some tires out there that are more commonly used as the rear tire, but it does not specify that it should be used as such. With no specification indicated, it’s possible to use that tire on the front of the motorcycle as long as it is the same exact size the manufacturer states the front of the motorcycle needs.
For example, let’s say you have a Honda CB750 that has a 20″ rear rim and a 21″ front rim. That rear tire on the CB750 might fit on the front of a CB550 because it has a 20″ front rim, it’s the right specs and size, and the manufacturer didn’t state it was specifically for the rear tire. This may be more economic for the rider because it could be a cheaper option.
There are all sorts of different tire sizes out there. You usually shop tires by either the front or rear because rear tires are usually much fatter. That’s why rear tires normally don’t fit on the front at all. But if you happen to have a motorcycle that calls for a fat front tire as well, it may be possible to use the rear tire on the front if the size is right and doesn’t specify it’s for rear use only.
Though it’s rare, there are a few motorcycles out there that call for the same size of tires for both the front and the rear. Again, as long as the tires you are using do not specify which side of the motorcycle it needs to be on, these tires can be interchangeable.
The Difference Between Front And Rear Tires And Why It Matters
Though it’s not typical, there are some types of motorcycles out there that have the same size of front and rear tires. However, most aren’t like that.
There is a difference between the functionality of the front and rear tire of a motorcycle. Though they have similarities in what they do for the motorcycle, the way they’re created and engineered separately makes it possible for a motorcycle rider to have the best control possible while riding.
The front tire of a motorcycle is usually bigger, meaning it has a larger diameter compared to the rear tire. They’re generally a little skinnier as well. The front tire’s main function is to take the initial impact of any bumps or holes in the road and also aides in steering. The size of it was engineered to give the motorcycle better stability.
The rear tire of a motorcycle is usually smaller and wider compared to the front tire. The main function of this tire is to provide traction and power for the motorcycle since the engine is connected to it through the power train. The wideness of the tire means there’s more surface area touching the road.
With the forces of these two tires working together, it creates a safe and efficient way to travel on a motorcycle. And this is why it’s dangerous to use a back tire on the front when it specifies it’s only for the back. The wide and smaller size won’t be able to take as good of an impact and may make steering a littler harder. See my other article here to learn more about the differences between a front and rear motorcycle tire.
Can I Use A Leftover Rear Tire As A Spare For The Front?
So let’s say you have an extra tire meant to be used on the rear of the motorcycle. But something happens to the front tire and you don’t have the money to replace it so you wonder if you can temporarily use this spare back tire on the front until you have the cash to get the right type of tire.
So in other words, can you use a leftover rear tire as a spare for the front tire? This all depends on the spare that you have. Again, you can only use it on the front if it specifically does not indicate it is for “rear use only” and it is the exact size the manufacturer states is needed on the front.
Any other specs outside of that should not be used as a spare on a motorcycle. Even if the size is “so close” or “almost the same size.” You should put nothing but exactly what the manufacturer recommends on your motorcycle tire rims.
But what harm can come from using the wrong size of tire on the front just for a few days? Well, you may get lucky and not have any harm done at all. But you have to remember that all it takes is a few seconds of dire circumstances for an accident to happen on the motorcycle which is something that can be caused by the wrong size of tire.
If you don’t have the cash to buy the right size of tire your motorcycle needs, simply don’t ride your motorcycle until the right tire can be installed.
Conclusion
There are a few cases where it’s okay to use the rear tire on the front of the motorcycle. This is when it meets exact specifications from the manufacturer and does not indicate it is for “rear use only.” Going against this rules can decrease your safety while you’re out for a ride……no one wants that.
Have you guys ever switched your tires on your motorcycle? If so, please share your experiences!