Local HD dealer has been waiting since shortly after Christmas for a Metzler WWW size MU85B-16 which I understand to be the same as a 140/85/16. Apparently, Metzler 140/90/16's WWW's are all over the place. My question is, can I use the larger 90 series tire on the rear of a 2008 Road King? If so, what should I expect relative to fit, changes in motorcycle height or handling? Would or would you not change the tire size?

Thanks for the help.

 

I have used a 140/90 Avon Venom. It is about 1/4" larger in section, so you will have a little further to stretch to the ground. Frankly I hardly noticed it. If you have a later spec narrow belt you should have room for a 150/80, which is similar in diameter to a 140/85.

 

Great, thanks for the help. So how do i know if I have the later spec narrow belt? What width should I be looking for?

 

Just got off the phone with the dealer. They said a 150-80 from Metzler should fit a 2008 RKC. The load rating is just a little lighter than the MU. Should not be a problem for a guy with a solo seat and no tour pack. So here we go with 150/80 Metzler WWW in a couple of days.

Thanks agin for the help.

 

I just checked - you should have a narrow belt. Older bikes have a 1 1/2" wide so yours will be visibly much narrower.

I don't know if they do a WWW version, but the 150/80 Avon Venom is the same load rating as your stock tyre, for future reference.

 

Thanks again for the help. Now I can go and beat up on the tire knowing that I will have a new one in a couple of days!