What is the tire size for a typical 125cc motorcycle?
3 Answers
Generally, the tire specifications can be seen on the side of the tire. The functions of motorcycle tires are as follows: Supporting the weight of the vehicle and load: Supporting the weight of the vehicle, passengers, and luggage mainly relies on the air volume and pressure inside the tire. Therefore, maintaining appropriate internal air pressure is crucial. Transmitting driving force and braking force: To make the vehicle move forward or stop, the power from the engine and brakes needs to be transmitted to the road surface. This is primarily achieved through the friction of the tire rubber. When rapid acceleration or emergency braking exceeds the tire's limits, the vehicle may experience spinning or skidding, which is very dangerous.
I've been riding motorcycles for several years and noticed that entry-level 125cc bikes typically have tire sizes of 90/90-18 for the front and 100/90-17 for the rear, which is almost a standard configuration. Many models like the Honda CBF125 or Yamaha YZF-R125 use similar sizes. The key is to maintain matching sizes, otherwise, you'll feel unstable when cornering, and wet road grip decreases noticeably. I once got the size wrong when changing tires, resulting in increased fuel consumption and slower acceleration. Simply put, the numbers in the size represent: the first is the width in millimeters, the middle is the aspect ratio percentage, and the last is the rim diameter in inches. Choose the manufacturer's recommended size to balance economy and handling safety. Regularly check tire pressure and wear, and get a balance check every six months.
As a regular motorcycle commuter, the typical tire sizes for 125cc motorcycles are around 100/90-17 for the front and 110/90-17 for the rear, like those commonly used on the Suzuki GSX-S125. These sizes are beginner-friendly with sufficient grip, making city riding stable. Too small tires can easily skid, while oversized ones make handling awkward. I recommend checking the manual at the dealership to avoid blind purchases. Proper tire pressure is also crucial—maintaining around 2.0 bar helps prevent blowouts. Visually inspect tread depth weekly; fast wear indicates replacement is needed. Remember, matching the right size ensures safe and worry-free riding, with less need to slow down in the rain.
