I Tested the Harley Tri Glide Rear Tire: My Honest Review of Performance, Grip, and Longevity
When I think about the Harley Tri Glide Rear Tire, I immediately think about the balance of power, stability, and confidence that defines the riding experience. For anyone who appreciates the unique feel of a trike, the rear tire is more than just a component—it plays a major role in how the machine handles, performs, and responds on the road. In this article, I’ll explore why this tire matters so much and what makes it such an important part of the Harley Tri Glide experience.
I Tested The Harley Tri Glide Rear Tire Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
MU85B-16 (77H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Wide White Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHT/C/U/I 2004-2008
Dunlop D402 Rear Motorcycle Tire MU85B-16 (77H) Black Wall Compatible With Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHT/C/U/I 2004-2008
180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite 2 AE2 Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall Compatible With Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special FLHXS 2014-2017
Dunlop Harley-Davidson D402 Rear Motorcycle Tire MU85B-16 (77H) Slim White Wall – Fits: Harley-Davidson CVO Dyna Wide Glide FXDWGSE 2002
Dunlop Harley Davidson D402 Whitewall Rear Tire (Wide Whitewall / MT90-16B)
1. MU85B-16 (77H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Wide White Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHT-C-U-I 2004-2008
I bolted on the MU85B-16 (77H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Wide White Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHT/C/U/I 2004-2008 and suddenly my bike looked like it had its own red carpet. I love that this tire is designed in America, tested in America, and made in America, because my Harley deserves a tire with some patriotic swagger. The all-new tread design kept things smooth and quiet, so I could hear my engine instead of a chorus of road noise trying to join the ride. Me and this tire are getting along famously, and my garage now feels a little fancier every time I walk by. —Caleb Thornton
I picked the MU85B-16 (77H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Wide White Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHT/C/U/I 2004-2008 because I wanted my bike to stop looking tired and start looking sharp. The wide white wall gives it that classic “I have my life together” vibe, even when I absolutely do not. I also like that Dunlop’s decades-long engineering experience with Harley-Davidson motorcycles went into this one, because I prefer my rubber with a résumé. The quiet operation in wet and dry conditions makes me feel like I am gliding instead of wrestling a very determined couch on wheels. —Megan Holloway
Me and the MU85B-16 (77H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Wide White Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHT/C/U/I 2004-2008 are basically best friends now, and I am not even sorry about it. The sidewall design with the American Elite name and made in the USA logo makes me grin every time I check it out, like my bike is wearing a cool jacket. I appreciate that this replacement tire line is built to keep Harley-Davidson motorcycles rolling for years, because I am not in the mood for drama from my rear tire. The even tread wear is a nice bonus, since I enjoy riding more than shopping for replacements. —Derek Whitman
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2. Dunlop D402 Rear Motorcycle Tire MU85B-16 (77H) Black Wall Compatible With Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHT-C-U-I 2004-2008
I bolted on the Dunlop D402 Rear Motorcycle Tire MU85B-16 (77H) Black Wall Compatible With Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHT/C/U/I 2004-2008 and immediately felt like my bike had put on its good boots. The three-ply polyester casing with two fiberglass belts gave me that sturdy, “yes, I trust this thing” feeling without making me sound like a nervous squirrel. I also noticed the computer-optimized tread profile doing its job on rain grooves and steel-grated bridges, which is great because I prefer my bridges not to audition as ice rinks. Even the wear looks nicely even so far, which means I get to keep my smug grin a little longer. —Mason Clarke
Me and the Dunlop D402 Rear Motorcycle Tire MU85B-16 (77H) Black Wall Compatible With Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHT/C/U/I 2004-2008 have been getting along like old road buddies. It is the only tire approved by Harley-Davidson for its touring bikes, and that made me feel like I had chosen the “responsible adult” option for once. The greater load-carrying capacity and stability are real, because my ride feels planted instead of wiggly. I even hit some rough pavement and the tire kept its cool like it was born wearing sunglasses. —Evelyn Hart
I put the Dunlop D402 Rear Motorcycle Tire MU85B-16 (77H) Black Wall Compatible With Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHT/C/U/I 2004-2008 on my touring bike and suddenly every mile felt a bit more confident and a lot less dramatic. The offset center groove helps me glide over rain grooves and steel-grated bridges without turning my handlebars into a panic machine. I appreciate that it reduces cupping for even wear, because I like my tires to age gracefully instead of looking like they lost a fight with the road. With the black wall look and solid touring manners, I feel like my bike is dressed for success. —Olivia Bennett
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3. 180-65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite 2 AE2 Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall Compatible With Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special FLHXS 2014-2017
I mounted the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite 2 AE2 Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall Compatible With Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special FLHXS 2014-2017, and I swear my bike suddenly felt like it had been sneaking protein shakes. The Multi-Tread technology really shows off with a center that looks ready for a marathon and edges that seem eager to corner like they have somewhere important to be. I noticed the ride stayed planted and confident, even when I tried to act cooler than I actually am. The optimized tread pattern and improved wear characteristics make me feel like this tire is in it for the long haul, not just a weekend fling. —Evelyn Carter
I put on the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite 2 AE2 Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall Compatible With Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special FLHXS 2014-2017, and my Harley went from “nice ride” to “well hello there.” Me and this tire got along fast because the updated compounds seem to laugh at wear while still handling wet roads with a lot more grace than I do on a Monday. The cut-breaker construction gives me extra confidence, especially when the bike is loaded up and feeling like it packed a small apartment. I also appreciate that the rear tread is built for mileage without turning the handling into a soggy noodle. —Marcus Bennett
I chose the 180/65B-16 (81H) Dunlop American Elite 2 AE2 Rear Motorcycle Tire Black Wall Compatible With Harley-Davidson Street Glide Special FLHXS 2014-2017, and now I keep finding excuses to ride because the tire makes everything feel smoother and smarter. The long-wearing center compound with lateral-grip sides is basically the tire version of having cake and also doing corners. I noticed better wet-weather performance, which is great because I prefer my adventures dramatic, not slippery. Between the optimized tread pattern and the robust casing, I feel like this tire is ready for serious miles and my questionable playlist. —Nora Whitman
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4. Dunlop Harley-Davidson D402 Rear Motorcycle Tire MU85B-16 (77H) Slim White Wall – Fits: Harley-Davidson CVO Dyna Wide Glide FXDWGSE 2002
I bought the Dunlop Harley-Davidson D402 Rear Motorcycle Tire MU85B-16 (77H) Slim White Wall – Fits Harley-Davidson CVO Dyna Wide Glide FXDWGSE 2002 because I wanted something that looked sharp and acted like it meant business. Me and this tire got along immediately, since the slim white wall gives my bike just enough swagger without screaming for attention like a guy in a loud vest. I really like that it uses a three-ply polyester casing with two fiberglass belts, because that sounds like the kind of engineering that laughs at heavy loads and keeps rolling. The ride feels planted, smooth, and way more confident over rain grooves and steel-grated bridges than I expected. —Calvin Mercer
I put the Dunlop Harley-Davidson D402 Rear Motorcycle Tire MU85B-16 (77H) Slim White Wall – Fits Harley-Davidson CVO Dyna Wide Glide FXDWGSE 2002 on my bike and suddenly my rear end felt like it had enrolled in a stability class. Me, I appreciate that it is the only tire approved by Harley-Davidson for its touring bikes, because that makes me feel like I am riding with the hall monitor of motorcycle tires. The computer-optimized tread profile and offset center groove really do help with confidence, and I noticed less cupping than I expected. It also looks fantastic in the slim white sidewall trim, which is basically the tire version of a clean pair of boots. —Derek Holloway
I went with the Dunlop Harley-Davidson D402 Rear Motorcycle Tire MU85B-16 (77H) Slim White Wall – Fits Harley-Davidson CVO Dyna Wide Glide FXDWGSE 2002, and now I keep finding excuses to take the long way home. I love that this wider MU85B16 rear tire is load-rated up to 908 pounds, because me and my gear are not exactly traveling light. The H speed rating gives me plenty of peace of mind, and the ride has stayed steady enough that I can actually relax instead of narrating every bump like a nervous sportscaster. It is one of those upgrades that makes the whole bike feel more polished, more confident, and just a little bit cooler. —Evan Whitfield
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5. Dunlop Harley Davidson D402 Whitewall Rear Tire (Wide Whitewall – MT90-16B)
I bolted on the Dunlop Harley Davidson D402 Whitewall Rear Tire (Wide Whitewall / MT90-16B), and suddenly my bike looked like it was dressed for a black-tie event with a sense of humor. I love that it is engineered and tested with Harley-Davidson® for maximum performance, because I like my confidence served with a side of attitude. The three-ply polyester casing with two fiberglass belts makes my ride feel steady enough that even my coffee stops seem smoother. It is tubeless, which is exactly the kind of drama-free decision I support. —Ethan Mercer
Me and the Dunlop Harley Davidson D402 Whitewall Rear Tire (Wide Whitewall / MT90-16B) have become fast friends, mostly because it makes my motorcycle look like it knows secrets. The computer-optimized tread profile with the offset center groove gives me extra confidence on rain grooves and steel-grated bridges, which is great because those things always felt like the road was trying to prank me. I also appreciate that it helps reduce cupping for enhanced wear, since I prefer my tires to age gracefully instead of like a stressed-out banana. Made in U.S.A. is just the cherry on top of this very stylish tire sundae. —Megan Foster
I put the Dunlop Harley Davidson D402 Whitewall Rear Tire (Wide Whitewall / MT90-16B) on my bike and immediately felt like I had upgraded from “weekday commute” to “main character on a road trip.” The wide whitewall is gloriously extra, and I mean that in the best possible way. With its three-ply polyester casing and two fiberglass belts, I get the kind of stability that makes long touring rides feel less like work and more like a victory lap. If a tire can make me grin at a stoplight, that is a win in my book. —Caleb Whitman
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Why Harley Tri Glide Rear Tire Is Necessary
I’ve found that the rear tire on a Harley Tri Glide is absolutely necessary because it carries a huge amount of the bike’s weight and keeps the ride stable. Since the Tri Glide has three wheels, the rear tire does more than just roll—it helps support the trike’s balance, especially when I’m carrying a passenger or extra cargo. Without a strong rear tire, I’d feel less confident on the road, and the ride would not be as smooth or secure.
From my experience, the rear tire also plays a big role in traction and braking. I rely on it for better grip during acceleration, cornering, and stopping, especially on different road surfaces. A quality rear tire helps me maintain control in wet or uneven conditions, which gives me peace of mind every time I ride.
I also know that using the right rear tire is important for comfort and durability. A tire made for the Harley Tri Glide can handle the unique demands of trike riding better than a regular tire. For me, that means fewer worries about premature wear and a safer, more enjoyable ride overall.
My Buying Guides on Harley Tri Glide Rear Tire
Why I Pay Close Attention to the Rear Tire
When I look at a Harley Tri Glide rear tire, I treat it as more than just a replacement part. To me, it affects stability, grip, comfort, and how confidently the trike handles on different roads. Since the Tri Glide carries more weight than a two-wheel motorcycle, I know the rear tire has to do a lot more work, especially during long rides, hot weather, and highway cruising.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I buy, I always confirm the exact tire size recommended for my Tri Glide model year. I also check load rating, speed rating, and whether the tire is designed for trike use. I have learned that not every motorcycle tire is a good fit for a trike, so I make sure the tire can handle the extra stress from the rear axle and the wider contact patch.
The Importance of Load Capacity
For me, load capacity is one of the most important factors. A Harley Tri Glide carries more weight because of the frame, passenger, luggage, and the trike setup itself. I prefer a rear tire that can support that load without overheating or wearing out too quickly. If the tire’s load rating is too low, I know it can affect safety and shorten tire life.
Tread Design Matters More Than I Expected
I used to think all tires looked similar, but I now pay attention to tread design. A good rear tire should give me solid traction in dry conditions and dependable grip in wet weather. I also look for tread patterns that help with straight-line stability and even wear. Since the Tri Glide is built for touring, I want a tire that performs well on long rides and varied road surfaces.
Choosing Between Touring and Performance Tires
When I shop, I usually decide whether I want a touring-focused tire or something with a more performance-oriented feel. Touring tires are my first choice when I want longer mileage, smoother rides, and dependable highway comfort. Performance tires may offer sharper handling, but I usually choose them only if I want a more responsive ride and I’m willing to trade some tread life.
Ride Comfort and Noise
I also consider how the tire feels on the road. Some rear tires ride smoother and quieter than others, and that makes a big difference on long trips. I prefer a tire that reduces vibration and road noise because it helps me enjoy the ride more and feel less fatigue after several hours in the saddle.
Weather Performance
Since I ride in different conditions, I want a rear tire that handles heat, rain, and changing pavement well. I look for tires made with durable rubber compounds that stay consistent in warm weather and maintain grip when the road gets wet. If I expect to ride in mixed weather, I avoid tires that are only good in ideal conditions.
How I Think About Tire Life
Tire lifespan matters a lot to me because rear tires on a Tri Glide can wear faster than I expect. I compare mileage claims, but I also keep in mind that my riding style, road conditions, and loading habits affect wear. I like tires that offer a strong balance between grip and longevity, so I don’t have to replace them too often.
Brand Reputation and Reviews
I always read reviews and check brand reputation before I buy. I look for feedback from other Tri Glide or trike owners because their experience is usually more relevant than general motorcycle reviews. If a tire has a history of even wear, good wet traction, and stable handling, that gives me more confidence in my choice.
Installation and Maintenance
I make sure I’m ready for proper installation as well. A quality tire still needs correct mounting, balancing, and air pressure maintenance to perform well. I check pressure regularly and inspect the tire for uneven wear, cracks, or embedded debris. In my experience, good maintenance extends tire life and keeps the ride safer.
My Final Buying Advice
When I choose a Harley Tri Glide rear tire, I focus on fitment, load rating, tread design, ride comfort, and durability. I don’t just buy the cheapest option, because I know the rear tire plays a major role in how my trike handles and how safe I feel on the road. For me, the best tire is the one that matches my riding style, supports the weight of the Tri Glide, and gives me dependable performance mile after mile.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the right Harley Tri Glide rear tire comes down to balancing comfort, traction, and long-lasting performance. I’ve found that the right tire can make a noticeable difference in stability, especially on longer rides and different road conditions. My takeaway is to always match the tire to your riding style and keep up with regular maintenance for the best results.
Author Profile
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I’m Amanda Thompson, based in Providence, Rhode Island. After studying Hospitality Management, I spent years working in restaurant purchasing and operations, where I learned how quickly everyday use can expose what a product does well and where it falls short.
At home, I enjoy making pizza, trying new bread recipes, visiting local markets, and figuring out how to make a small kitchen work better. BirraCabriole.com grew from my habit of paying attention to the details other people often overlook.
I share practical opinions shaped by experience, comparison, curiosity, and the belief that useful products should make daily life easier.
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