What is compatible with 80/90-12 tires?
3 Answers
80/90-12 model tires can be interchanged with 80/100-12, 90/90-12, 3.0-12, 90/70-12, etc. 80/90 and 90/90 refer to the width of the tire. The number 12 indicates the tire diameter. As long as the tire diameter is the same, a slightly wider or narrower tire will not affect normal driving. Additional information: The 80/90-12 tire has a width of 80 millimeters, approximately equal to 3.15 inches, which falls between 3.00 inches and 3.25 inches. Therefore, choosing a 3.00-12 or 3.25-12 tire is more appropriate—the former is slightly narrower than the original, while the latter is slightly wider. It is recommended to use 3.25-12.
I've been riding motorcycles for a long time, and tire compatibility is a common issue, especially with popular sizes like 80/90-12. It's commonly used on small-displacement motorcycles or electric scooters, with a rim diameter of 12 inches, a width of 80mm, and an aspect ratio of 90%. The most interchangeable model is 80/90-12 itself, but you can also use similar sizes like 90/90-12 or 80/100-12, as they share the same rim size and have similar overall dimensions, which won't affect basic handling. I've helped friends change tires at repair shops, and fitting a 90/90-12 gives a slightly better grip, but avoid sizes that are too different, like 70/90-12, as the significantly smaller overall diameter can disrupt balance. Also, pay attention to matching the tire's speed rating and load index to the original specifications, otherwise, there's a risk at high speeds. I recommend checking the manual when buying a bike to confirm details before DIY work for safety and peace of mind. Before every tire change, I measure the difference between the old and new tires with a ruler—if it's over 5%, I think twice.
I've been riding an electric scooter with 80/90-12 tires, and there are quite a few universal options available. Similar sizes like 90/90-12 or 80/100-12 can be directly swapped, provided the rim diameter remains consistent at 12 inches, making installation easy without affecting ride quality. I've used 90/90-12 as a replacement before—the slightly wider tire felt more stable, but I wouldn't recommend trying something like 70/90-12, as the smaller size can lead to skidding. A mechanic once told me that brands like Cheng Shin or Michelin offer universal versions, but it's best to prioritize the manufacturer's recommendations. I remember one rainy day when I used a mismatched tire, which caused delayed braking. Since then, I only buy matching models from reputable shops. A simple tip for beginners: don’t swap tires randomly—check your vehicle’s guide first. Universal options can save money, but don’t take risks. Regular tire wear checks can extend their lifespan.
