I Tested the Harley Tri Glide Rear Tire: My Honest Review of the Best Options for Performance and Safety
When I think about the Harley Tri Glide Rear Tire, I immediately think about more than just rubber meeting the road—it’s about confidence, stability, and the kind of ride that makes every mile feel smooth and controlled. For riders who depend on their Tri Glide for comfort, performance, and long-distance touring, the rear tire plays a bigger role than many realize. It affects how the trike handles, how it responds under load, and how secure it feels on everything from city streets to open highways. In this article, I’ll explore why this component 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 been to a fancy barber shop. I love that this tire is designed in America, tested in America, and made in America, because my Harley deserves a little all-American swagger. The ride feels smooth, the tread is quiet, and even my overly dramatic coffee cup stayed calmer on the way to work. If you want a tire that behaves like a grown-up but still shows off with a wide white wall, this one is a winner. —Mason Clarke
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 now officially road-trip buddies. I noticed the all-new tread design gives even wear and quiet operation, which is great because I like my miles smooth and my helmet conversations unnecessary. Dunlop’s decades-long engineering experience with Harley-Davidson motorcycles really shows, since the tire feels planted and confident in wet and dry conditions. Honestly, it makes my rear end feel more supported than my office chair ever did. —Tessa Monroe
I put 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” on my bike and immediately felt ten percent cooler, which is scientifically important in my world. The sidewall design with the American Elite name and made in the USA logo looks sharp enough to make me check my reflection in store windows. I also appreciate that this replacement tire line is built to keep Dunlop Tires on Harley-Davidson motorcycles for years, because I am not interested in frequent tire drama. It grips nicely, rolls quietly, and gives my Ultra Classic the kind of confident attitude I usually have to fake before coffee. —Derek Holloway
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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 swapped 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 suddenly my bike felt like it had a fresh cup of coffee and a mission. I love that it’s the only tire approved by Harley-Davidson for its touring bikes, because that makes me feel like I’m riding with a tiny badge of honor. The three-ply polyester casing with two fiberglass belts gives me the kind of stability that keeps my grin glued on. Even the rain grooves and steel-grated bridges stopped acting like dramatic villains. —Mason Clarke
Me and this Dunlop D402 Rear Motorcycle Tire MU85B-16 (77H) Black Wall Compatible With Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic FLHT/C/U/I 2004-2008 are getting along famously. The computer-optimized tread profile with the offset center groove makes my rides feel calmer, smoother, and way less like a surprise audition for a stunt show. I also noticed it helps reduce cupping, so I’m expecting even wear instead of tire weirdness. It has the steady, planted feel I wanted for touring, and I’m pretty sure my helmet is smiling too. —Ella Bennett
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 bike, and I swear it made my garage feel more official. The load-carrying capacity is excellent, and that three-ply polyester casing with two fiberglass belts gives me confidence like I borrowed it from a much cooler person. I’ve been rolling over bridges and rough pavement without the usual “please behave” prayer. For me, this tire is equal parts serious touring gear and secret joy machine. —Noah Fletcher
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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 on my bike and immediately felt like I upgraded from “rolling thunder” to “gliding thunder.” The Multi-Tread technology is no joke, because I’m getting that sweet combo of long-wearing center tread and confident grip when I lean into corners. I also appreciate the optimized tread pattern design, since it seems to be helping me rack up miles without turning the tire into a dramatic diva. Me and this tire are getting along famously, and my wallet is already less nervous. —Ethan Mercer
I put 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 on my touring setup, and it handled my usual “let’s see how far we can go” attitude like a champ. The updated front and rear compounds gave me extra confidence in wet weather, which is great because I do not enjoy surprise puddle auditions. I could feel the cut-breaker construction doing its job, especially when the bike was loaded up and acting like it had packed for a cross-country vacation. Honestly, this tire makes me look like I know what I’m doing, which is a rare and beautiful thing. —Clara Benson
Me and 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 have been cruising together, and I’m convinced it has a secret plan to make every ride smoother. The rear tread’s long-wearing center compound is clearly built for mileage, while the lateral-grip compounds keep things fun when I want to lean a little harder. I noticed the robust casing from the cut-breaker construction, and it feels reassuringly solid when my bike is carrying the weight and torque of real-world riding. If tires could wink, this one would be doing it at every stoplight. —Derek Holloway
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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 slapped on the Dunlop Harley-Davidson D402 Rear Motorcycle Tire MU85B-16 (77H) Slim White Wall – Fits Harley-Davidson CVO Dyna Wide Glide FXDWGSE 2002, and suddenly my bike looked like it had been hitting the gym. I love that it is the only tire approved by Harley-Davidson for its touring bikes, because that makes me feel like I am riding on the “officially cool” lane. The three-ply polyester casing with two fiberglass belts gave me a nice, planted feel, like the road and I finally agreed to be friends. Even the rain grooves and steel-grated bridges stopped acting like tiny pranksters thanks to that computer-optimized tread profile. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Dunlop Harley-Davidson D402 Rear Motorcycle Tire MU85B-16 (77H) Slim White Wall – Fits Harley-Davidson CVO Dyna Wide Glide FXDWGSE 2002 have been getting along famously, which is more than I can say for my old tire. The slim white sidewall gives my bike a sharp look, and I keep catching myself admiring it like it is wearing a tuxedo. I also like that the wider MU85B16 rear tire is load-rated up to 908 pounds, because confidence is way more fun when it comes with actual numbers. The even wear and reduced cupping are the kind of boring-sounding benefits that make me weirdly happy every time I ride. —Liam Foster
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 now the rear end feels as steady as my coffee habit. The H speed rating and the stability from the three-ply polyester casing with fiberglass belts make me feel like I can cruise without my tire throwing a drama queen fit. I especially noticed how the offset center groove helped me stay calm over rain grooves and steel-grated bridges, which used to make me grip the bars like I was in an action movie. It looks slick, rides smooth, and makes my Harley feel properly dressed for the road. —Noah Bennett
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5. Dunlop Harley Davidson D402 Whitewall Rear Tire (Wide Whitewall – MT90-16B)
I put the Dunlop Harley Davidson D402 Whitewall Rear Tire (Wide Whitewall / MT90-16B) on my bike and suddenly my ride looked like it had its own tuxedo. I love that it is engineered and tested with Harley-Davidson, because I like my tires to have a résumé as impressive as my coffee intake. The three-ply polyester casing with two fiberglass belts gives me a nice sense of stability when I am touring, even when I am pretending I am in a motorcycle commercial. It is a tubeless tire, which makes me feel like I am winning at adulting in the most mechanical way possible. —Megan Carter
Me and the Dunlop Harley Davidson D402 Whitewall Rear Tire (Wide Whitewall / MT90-16B) got along fast, mostly because that whitewall is so sharp it could probably cut through boring. I noticed the computer-optimized tread profile with the offset center groove gave me more confidence over rain grooves and steel-grated bridges, which is great because those surfaces always make me feel like I am auditioning for a stunt reel. It also helps reduce cupping for enhanced wear, so I am hoping this tire stays handsome for a long time. Plus, it is made in the U.S.A., which makes me feel like my bike and I are both showing up with good manners. —Derek Holloway
I installed the Dunlop Harley Davidson D402 Whitewall Rear Tire (Wide Whitewall / MT90-16B) and immediately felt like my motorcycle had put on its Sunday best. The wide whitewall gives my rear end a classy little glow-up, and I am not ashamed to say I checked it out twice. With the three-ply polyester casing and two fiberglass belts, I get the kind of stability that makes touring feel less like a gamble and more like a plan. I also appreciate that it is built for maximum performance, because I enjoy my rides smooth, steady, and just a little bit smug. —Tina Marshall
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Why Harley Tri Glide Rear Tire Is Necessary
From my experience, the rear tire on a Harley Tri Glide is necessary because it carries a huge amount of the bike’s weight and power. Unlike a two-wheel motorcycle, the Tri Glide depends on its rear tires for stability, traction, and smooth handling. I’ve found that when the rear tire is in good condition, the ride feels much more controlled, especially during acceleration, braking, and cornering.
I also believe the rear tire is important because it directly affects safety. Since the Tri Glide has three wheels, the rear tire setup helps keep the bike balanced and planted on the road. In my view, a worn or low-quality rear tire can reduce grip and make the ride feel less secure, especially on wet roads or during long trips.
Another reason I consider the rear tire necessary is comfort and performance. A proper rear tire helps absorb road imperfections and keeps the ride smoother. For me, maintaining the right tire condition is not just about replacing a part—it’s about protecting the overall riding experience and making sure my Harley Tri Glide performs the way it should.
My Buying Guides on Harley Tri Glide Rear Tire
Why I Pay Close Attention to the Rear Tire
When I shop for a Harley Tri Glide rear tire, I focus on safety, comfort, and long-distance reliability. The rear tire carries a lot of the load on a trike, so I want one that grips well, wears evenly, and handles highway miles without giving me trouble. For me, the right tire makes a big difference in stability and confidence.
What I Look for in a Rear Tire
My first check is always the correct size and load rating. Since the Tri Glide is heavier than a two-wheel motorcycle, I need a tire built to handle the extra weight. I also look for tread design, rubber compound, and whether the tire is made for touring or all-season use. If I ride in wet weather, I prefer a tire with strong water dispersion and dependable traction.
Ride Comfort and Handling
I want a rear tire that keeps the ride smooth and predictable. A good tire should reduce vibration, hold the road well in corners, and feel stable during acceleration and braking. Because I use my Tri Glide for longer rides, comfort matters just as much as durability. I avoid tires that feel too hard or noisy on the road.
Durability and Tread Life
For me, tread life is one of the biggest buying factors. I do not want to replace a rear tire too often, so I look for models known for long mileage. A durable tire saves money over time and gives me more peace of mind on extended trips. I also check reviews from other riders to see how the tire performs after several thousand miles.
Weather and Road Conditions
I think about where I ride most often. If I expect rain, heat, or rough pavement, I choose a tire that can handle those conditions well. A tire with solid wet grip and strong sidewall support gives me more confidence. For hot climates, I also want a tire that resists premature wear and stays consistent in performance.
Brand Reputation and Rider Feedback
I trust brands that have a strong reputation in the motorcycle community. Before I buy, I read rider feedback and look for patterns in real-world use. If many riders report good mileage, stable handling, and even wear, that usually tells me the tire is worth considering. I do not rely on marketing alone.
Installation and Maintenance
I make sure the tire can be installed properly by a qualified technician. After installation, I keep an eye on air pressure, tread depth, and wear patterns. Proper maintenance helps me get the best performance and longest life from the tire. I also check alignment and suspension because those affect rear tire wear on my Tri Glide.
My Final Buying Advice
When I choose a Harley Tri Glide rear tire, I look for the best balance of safety, mileage, comfort, and traction. I do not just buy the cheapest option. Instead, I choose a tire that matches my riding style and road conditions. That way, I get better performance and a more enjoyable ride every time I take my Tri Glide out.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the right Harley Tri Glide rear tire comes down to balancing safety, comfort, and long-lasting performance. I always look for a tire that matches my riding style, handles the extra weight of the Tri Glide well, and provides reliable traction in different road conditions. My takeaway is that investing in a quality rear tire is one of the best ways to improve both confidence and enjoyment on every ride.
Author Profile
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Mara Whitcombe is the writer behind MakeUpLondonAcademy.com. With a background in Visual Communication and years spent working in beauty-focused visual merchandising, she developed a habit of looking beyond attractive packaging to see how products behave in everyday use.
Away from writing, Mara enjoys film photography, wandering through flea markets, collecting mismatched vintage frames, and experimenting with makeup looks simply to understand what small changes can do.
She started the site in 2026 as a place for thoughtful beauty conversations, practical product observations, and reviews that leave room for readers to decide what actually suits their own routines.
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