Different Type of Bike Tyres

Types of Bike Tyres Based on Use

There is no single motorcycle tyre that works perfectly for every rider or every condition. Each tyre is made for a specific purpose, so a tyre that performs well in one situation might not be suitable in another.

Here is the list of types of tyres with their suitability and other features:

1. ADV (Adventure) Tyre

• Adventure bikes and scrambler motorcycles are made for riding both on roads and off-road (like dirt or rock paths).
• Their tyres must be smooth enough for highways and have treads (patterns) for better grip on rough surfaces.
• These types of tyres are also called All Terrain and Dual-sport tyres.
• Tyres often show percentages like 70% off-road / 30% on-road to explain where they work best.
• Knobby tyres (with big, rough treads) are best for dirt, mud, or sand which means not so smooth on roads.
• Less aggressive tyres (with smaller treads) are better for road riding with some light off-road use.
• Adventure riders who ride more on off-road surfaces prefer knobby tyres for better grip and control.
• Some tyre brands that offer ADV tyres are MRF Nylogrip Plus, CEAT Gripp X3, Apollo Actizip, JK Blaze, and Raclo Speed Blaster.

2. Sports Tyres

• Made for performance bikes like the Kawasaki Ninja and other sporty street bikes.
• Light in weight and made from softer rubber for better grip and control.
• A rounded shape helps you take sharp turns with more confidence.
• The carcass (inner structure of the tyre) is strong and stiff, giving:

1. Better support at high speeds.

2. Stability while cornering and braking.

3. Good heat handling during fast rides.

• Few tread patterns give more surface contact with the road for extra grip.
• It can handle some wet conditions, but made for dry roads.
• Some sport tyres have a flatter shape for better balance in straight-line riding (for riders who do not bend into corners much).
• These tyres are not long-lasting, as soft rubber wears out faster.
• Best for riders who love speed, cornering, and sporty handling on smooth roads.
• These types of bike tyres are available under brands such as Michelin Scorcher 11, JK Blaze, Apollo Actizip, Michelin Pilot Street 2, and CEAT Zoom.

3. Cruiser Tyres

• Cruiser tyres are made for heavy bikes that ride mostly in a straight line, not for sharp cornering.
• They are different from touring tyres because cruisers do not corner as much as touring bikes.
• These types of bike tyres are strong and durable to support the weight of big cruiser motorcycles.
• They have deeper tread patterns and are made from harder rubber, so they last longer and handle wet roads well.
• Cruiser tyres are usually heavier because of the harder rubber compounds used.
• They have stiff sidewalls to handle extra weight from saddlebags or riding with a passenger.
• You will find cruiser tyres on big bikes like Harley-Davidson Softail and Road Glide.
• Brands that offer these types of motorcycle tyres include Apollo Actisteer (TL), CEAT Secura Sports, JK Blaze BF11, Michelin Sirac Street, and CEAT Gripp.

4. Supersport Tyres

• Sport tyres are usually smaller than other motorcycle tyres to help with fast cornering.
• They have rounded edges to make turning smooth and reduce air drag.
• Smaller size means less weight and more speed, helping you take corners quickly without losing control.
• These tyres are best used on dry, smooth roads for the safest and best performance.
• Many riders who use sports tyres often check the tyre temperature by using special tools because they want to make sure the tyres are warm enough and safe for fast riding.
• Sport tyres are great for riders who want to enjoy fast, sharp turns, especially on race tracks or smooth roads.
• Some of the supersports tyres are Michelin Pilot Street, Michelin Road 5, Metzeler M5, Pirelli Scorpion Rally STR, and Apollo Alpha H1.

5. Off-Road Tyres

• These tyres are only for off-road, not made for roads or highways.
• Used by riders who ride on muddy, sandy, or soft ground, like in motocross or enduro racing.
• Tyres have big, knobby treads that give a strong grip on loose surfaces.
• The tread pattern wraps around the sides to help the rider stay in control during sharp turns.
• Found on bikes like the KTM 690 Enduro R.
• For harder dirt tracks (like in flat track racing), tyres have smaller and closely packed knobs.
• These help increase grip and control at high speeds, even on rough or unpredictable tracks.
• Apollo Tramplr ST, CEAT Gripp XL (TT), Apollo Tramplr XR, Michelin Anakee Adventure, and Pirelli Scorpion Trail are some tyre brands of off-road tyres.

Types of Two-Wheeler Tyres Based on Material Construction

There are mainly four types of bike tyres based on material construction. Let’s explore each type in a better way:

1. Tube Tyres

• Made with an inner tube that holds air.
• Common in older bikes and budget models.
• Easier to repair, but can lose air quickly if punctured.

2. Tubeless Tyres

• No inner tube is available. The air is held between the rim and the tyre.
• More common in modern bikes.
• Safer, lighter, and more resistant to sudden air loss.

3. Radial Tyres

• Constructed with steel or fabric belts placed radially (at 90°) to the direction of travel
• Provide better grip, high-speed performance, and flexibility
• Commonly used in sports or premium bikes

4. Bias-Ply Tyres (Cross-Ply Tyres)

• Layers of fabric cords are placed diagonally, overlapping each other
• Known for strength, durability, and load-carrying capacity
• Ideal for cruisers, commuter bikes, and off-road use

Conclusion

Choosing the right bike tyre is just as important as choosing the bike itself. Each tyre type is made to match different road conditions, riding needs, and performance levels. Whether you ride daily in the city, take long highway trips, or prefer adventurous off-road trails, picking the correct tyre improves safety, comfort, and mileage.

Always check your bike’s manual and consider your riding style before buying. Regular tyre maintenance also ensures longer life and better performance. With the right tyres, every ride can be smooth, safe, and enjoyable.