Michelin Road W GT rear tyre size

A pair of Michelin Road W GT tyres on the Michelin website

Sherbert will need new shoes shortly and I'm a fan of Michelin rubber. So, it's with some joy I read Michelin have created a tyre set for the Goldwing 2018+. The interesting part is that the rear tyre is suplied in two sidewall sizes or 55mm and 60mm. Especially so when the OEM Bridgestone tire has a specific size. Why?

Here's what I found out.

Options for Different Riding Styles and Priorities

Goldwing riders have diverse preferences. Some prioritize a plush, comfortable ride for long-distance touring, while others might desire a slightly more engaging and responsive feel for spirited riding on twisty roads. Offering two sizes allows riders to choose a tire that better aligns with their typical riding style.

The aspect ratio of a tyre is the second number in the size designation. In this case 55 or 60, which affects the tyre's profile and therefore the bike's handling.

A lower aspect ratio (55) generally means a shorter sidewall. This can lead to:

  • Sportier handling. Less sidewall flex can provide quicker steering response and a more planted feel in corners.
  • Potentially a slightly firmer ride. The shorter sidewall might transmit more road imperfections to the rider.
  • Slightly lower overall height. This could marginally affect the bike's lean angle clearance and potentially the speedometer reading though usually negligibly.

A higher aspect ratio (60) means a taller sidewall. This can result in:

  • More comfortable ride. The taller sidewall can absorb bumps and road irregularities better.
  • Potentially slightly slower steering. The increased sidewall flex might lead to a less immediate steering response.
  • Slightly taller overall height. This could offer a bit more lean angle clearance and potentially slightly affect the speedometer reading.

Accounting for Manufacturing Tolerances and Design Choices

Tyre manufacturers sometimes offer slightly different sizes to account for variations in their internal construction and design philosophies. Michelin might have developed two distinct tire carcasses or profiles that result in these two sizes while still being compatible with the Goldwing's wheel dimensions and load and speed ratings.

Market demand and competition may result in offering more options. Michelin can potentially capture a larger share of the Goldwing replacement tire market. Riders who might find the OEM tyre characteristics less than ideal now have alternatives within the Michelin range.

Summary

While the widths are different due to the aspect ratio change, Michelin would have ensured that both sizes are safe and compatible with the Goldwing. The 55 seems the right choice for me.

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