02-26-2026, 07:51 AM
(This post was last modified: 02-26-2026, 08:23 AM by MagnaRider.)
Novice question Alert! And I know this topic has been hit harder than RLETs on the CB. I just like to gather all the knowledge I can before getting into something, especially if it's my first time.
My CB needs new tires, and I have never replaced tires on a motorcycle before.
Currently have Bridgestone Battax BT64 tires on that I believe are the stock tire? (Front is 110/80R18, Rear is 140/70R18)
Are these tubed tires or tubeless? Does that matter when I choose tires? If they are tubed, should I replace the tube when replacing tires? How would I find the right size tube? Looks like my options are for tubeless tires. Is there downside running tubes? Can you convert to tubeless?
Do tires need balancing on a motorcycle? Should you use the beads you put in the tire to balance them as you ride?
Does that matter if I go up a size in tire like many have done? What are the downsides/upsides of going up a size? I'd assume it changes the gear ratio and maybe the ride height? I would prefer not to add much height to the CB as I already have short stumpy legs despite being 5'11".
Currently tire options I see for the same size I have now is the Bridgestone Battax BT-46 Sport Touring and Battax T32. Looks like the Angel GT only comes in a front tire, and the Bridgestone's are the only available stock tire for the rear. Any input on running different brand tires for front and rear? BTW I live in the Midwest USA which I assume effects what tire sizes I have available.
My riding style is definitely sportier, and I am not concerned about the tires lasting forever or price. I would like the best performance wise and maybe get a season or two out of them ideally.
I don't doubt that I can do the tire swap myself, my neighbor who's ridden since the 70s has done it plenty and will help me. Any tips beforehand are appreciated.
Thanks again for the assistance! Very Very much appreciated! I know its a lot of questions, I swear I am not that dumb just uh... a noob as the internet would say
My CB needs new tires, and I have never replaced tires on a motorcycle before.
Currently have Bridgestone Battax BT64 tires on that I believe are the stock tire? (Front is 110/80R18, Rear is 140/70R18)
Are these tubed tires or tubeless? Does that matter when I choose tires? If they are tubed, should I replace the tube when replacing tires? How would I find the right size tube? Looks like my options are for tubeless tires. Is there downside running tubes? Can you convert to tubeless?
Do tires need balancing on a motorcycle? Should you use the beads you put in the tire to balance them as you ride?
Does that matter if I go up a size in tire like many have done? What are the downsides/upsides of going up a size? I'd assume it changes the gear ratio and maybe the ride height? I would prefer not to add much height to the CB as I already have short stumpy legs despite being 5'11".
Currently tire options I see for the same size I have now is the Bridgestone Battax BT-46 Sport Touring and Battax T32. Looks like the Angel GT only comes in a front tire, and the Bridgestone's are the only available stock tire for the rear. Any input on running different brand tires for front and rear? BTW I live in the Midwest USA which I assume effects what tire sizes I have available.
My riding style is definitely sportier, and I am not concerned about the tires lasting forever or price. I would like the best performance wise and maybe get a season or two out of them ideally.
I don't doubt that I can do the tire swap myself, my neighbor who's ridden since the 70s has done it plenty and will help me. Any tips beforehand are appreciated.
Thanks again for the assistance! Very Very much appreciated! I know its a lot of questions, I swear I am not that dumb just uh... a noob as the internet would say
'84 Honda Magna VF700 (Gone, but not forgotten)
'06 Yamaha VStar Classic 1100
'14 Honda CB1100 Std
'06 Yamaha VStar Classic 1100
'14 Honda CB1100 Std
