arley-Davidson riders now have a new option when shopping for replacement tires. Seven sizes of Michelin Commander and Macadam 50 tires are now approved fitments on select Harley-Davidson models.
     “Harley-Davidson riders are passionate about riding, just like we are at Michelin,” says Vickie Johnson, vice-president of two-wheel tires for Michelin North America. “Our tires are designed to deliver outstanding performance with exceptional comfort, traction and handling, helping to maximize riding confidence.”
     Seven Commander and Macadam 50 tire sizes, developed specifically as replacement tires for Harley-Davidson bikes, are now available through Parts Unlimited and Drag Specialties. These tires meet Harley-Davidson’s exacting performance standards, for fitment on select Dynas, Sportsters, Softails and FL-series touring bikes.
     Michelin Commander tires may be some of the most extensively tested tires ever. Before the tires’ public introduction, Michelin conducted controlled tests across the United States, using 420 motorcycles fitted with various Commander prototypes and competitors’ tires, to gather data through real-world use. Cumulative mileage of these tests amounted to more than half-a-million miles, covered both by professional test riders and actual Harley-Davidson owners.
     This exhaustive research and development process led to innovations in tread design, rubber compounds and construction, endowing Commander tires with exceptional performance and durability, even under the extreme load and torque of heavyweight cruisers.
     Commander tread patterns were designed to optimize traction on both wet and dry roads. Deep lateral grooves efficiently evacuate water from the contact patch, while offset central tread channels on both front and rear tires help drain water longitudinally and minimize sensitivity to grooved pavement.
     Michelin’s extensive racing experience led to the development of the synthetic polymers used in the Commander tires’ rubber compounds, which help provide superb cornering grip as well as outstanding tread life.
     The casing plies of all Commander tires are made of supple-yet-strong rayon, which helps provide a smooth, comfortable ride while also contributing to the tire’s stability. In addition, rear Commander tires use crossed aramid belts to control tire growth at speed, and stabilize the tread for a secure, planted feel–even under the high torque of a V-twin.
     For certain Harley-Davidson Softail and Dyna models with 17-inch rear wheels, Michelin offers the Macadam 50 rear tire, a bias-ply sport touring tire with exceptional wet grip and longevity. The Macadam 50 rear tire is compatible with Commander front tires.
     These tires are available now, so ask your sales rep for more information.