The MU85B16 whitewall rear tire market offers several Harley-Davidson and cruiser-focused options. This guide highlights five strong picks, explains who they’re best for, and flags any notable limitations. It’s ideal for riders seeking classic looks with modern tread technology, wet and dry performance, and reliable mileage. The top picks are suited for touring, cruising, and standard rear tire replacements on Harley-Davidson models and similar cruisers.
| Product | Best For | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| Dunlop D402 Harley-Davidson Whitewall Rear Tire MU85B-16/Wide White Wall | Harley touring riders needing Harley-approved performance | Harley-Davidson approval, wide white wall, designed for touring with refined tread |
| SR 777 Whitewall Rear Tire MU85B16 | Budget-conscious riders who want solid grip | Heavy-duty, strong grip, good wet/dry traction, budget-friendly |
| Dunlop American Elite Whitewall Rear Tire MU85B16 | Most versatile Harley and cruiser riders | American-made design, broad model fitment, MT Multi-Tread for mileage and handling |
| MU85B-16 (77H) Dunlop American Elite for Electra-Glide Ultra Classic | Electra-Glide Ultra Classic owners | America-designed, American-made, long-term replacement line for Harleys |
| Dunlop D402 Rear MU85B-16 (77H) White Wall for Softail | Harley Softail enthusiasts needing reliable D402 | Harley-approved D402 with three-ply casing and fiberglass belts, good rain performance |
Dunlop D402 Harley-Davidson Whitewall Rear Tire MU85B-16/Wide White Wall
Best for: Harley touring riders who want official Harley-Davidson approval and strong wet/dry handling. The D402 is Harley-approved for touring bikes, a key reason to choose this tire for riders seeking dealer-backed reliability and a conservative wear pattern. The three-ply polyester casing with two fiberglass belts provides stability and load support for longer rides. The computer-optimized tread reduces cupping and improves confidence across wet roads and steel-grated bridges.
Notes: While designed for touring accuracy, owners should confirm fitment for their specific Harley model year and note that this tire is a front-to-rear family option with wide white wall styling. Best for riders prioritizing official compatibility and classic appearance, with attention to load and ride stability on long trips.
SR 777 Whitewall Rear Tire MU85B16
Best for: Budget-conscious riders who still want solid grip and modern tread design. The SR 777 uses a rubber compound aimed at maximum grip and rider comfort, with tread features like siping and grooves for reliable traction in varied weather. It’s a heavy-duty (H.D.) version with a reinforced carcass for a planted feel on the road.
Limitations: This tire may not carry the same brand recognition or Harley-specific approvals as the D402 line, so verify model compatibility with your specific bike. It’s a strong mid-range option if you’re prioritizing cost-to-performance balance.
Dunlop American Elite Whitewall Rear Tire MU85B16
Best for: Riders seeking a versatile, U.S.-designed replacement tire with broad Harley compatibility. The American Elite is a Dunlop line designed and tested in the USA, offering MT Multi-Tread technology for strong handling and high mileage across many Harley-Davidson models and select Victory/Indian bikes. It comes in multiple options to fit older and newer Harleys.
Why choose this: It emphasizes long-term performance and durability, backed by Dunlop’s engineering legacy in American contexts, making it a reliable all-around option for daily commuting and long weekend rides.
MU85B-16 (77H) Dunlop American Elite Rear Motorcycle Tire Wide White Wall for Harley-Davidson Electra-Glide Ultra Classic
Best for: Electra-Glide Ultra Classic owners who want a domestic-focused tire with strong replacement lineage. This MU85B-16 (77H) offers the American Elite quality, emphasizing American-made design and testing, ensuring that Harleys get a tire designed to fit the brand with long-term replacement availability.
Why select: It leverages Dunlop’s decades of Harley alignment, offering a trustworthy option for riders who value American-made products and a broad support network for Harley models.
Caution: Cross-check compatibility with your specific Electra-Glide Ultra Classic year and wheel size, and confirm that the 77H rating matches your bike’s speed rating requirements.
MU85B-16 (77H) Dunlop American Elite Rear White Wall for Road King Classic
Best for: Road King Classic riders seeking a proven American-made tire with classic styling. The American Elite line covers a broad range of Harley models, including Road King, and is designed to deliver consistent handling and reliable mileage through miles of cruising.
Why select: It’s ideal for owners who want a tire that’s designed and tested in America, with a lineage of Dunlop engineering that aligns with Harley-Davidson performance expectations. It’s a safe, long-term replacement choice for cruising applications.
Buying Guide: Key Considerations for MU85B16 Whitewall Rear Tires
- Model compatibility: Confirm fitment for your exact Harley model, year, and wheel size before purchasing.
- Tread design and compound: Look for tires with multi-tread technology or reinforced carcasses if you prioritize mileage and stability in varying weather.
- Approved vs. aftermarket: Harley-approved tires provide dealer-style compatibility assurances; aftermarket lines may offer broader model coverage or price benefits.
- Whitewall aesthetic: Decide whether you want a single white bar, wide white wall, or black wall with white accents, and ensure it matches your bike’s styling.
- Load rating and speed rating: Verify that the tire’s load index and speed rating meet or exceed your bike’s requirements for safe handling at highway speeds.
- Wet vs dry performance: For touring or long rides, prioritize tread patterns designed to handle wet conditions with confidence and reduce cupping wear.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What does MU85B-16 mean for Harley tires?
MU85B-16 designates a 16-inch rear tire with a width profile and speed rating suited for Harley models, commonly used with white-wall styling.
- Are Harley-approved tires required for touring bikes?
No, but Harley-approved tires are designed to meet Harley’s specific requirements for fit, load, and handling, offering guaranteed compatibility with touring models.
- Which tire is best for wet road handling?
Tires with computer-optimized tread patterns and multi-tread technology (like Dunlop D402 lines) are designed to improve stability in wet conditions.
- Can I use an aftermarket tire on a Harley without modification?
Many aftermarket tires fit Harley models, but always verify size, load index, and speed rating for your specific bike to avoid handling issues.
- What maintenance helps whitewall tires last longer?
Maintain proper tire pressure, rotate with front tires when applicable, and regularly inspect tread wear to maximize mileage and safe handling.