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• Tyres
• Are coloured motorcycle tyres legal in the UK?
• Are motorbike tyres tubeless?
• Are winter bike tyres worth it?
• Can motorcycle tyres be plugged?
• Can motorcycle tyres go flat?
• Can you mix motorcycle tyre brands?
• Can you use a puncture repair kit on a motorcycle?
• Can you use car tyres on a motorcycle?
• Do Blackcircles offer tyre fitting for motorbike tyres?
• Do motorcycles have TPMS?
• How long do motorcycle tyres last?
• Is balancing required after changing motorbike tyres?
• Should I change both tyres on my motorcycle?
• What does "Not For Highway Use" mean?
• What is the difference between motorcycle tyres and bicycle?
• What is the difference between car tyres and motorcycle tyres?
• When should I change motorcycle tyres?
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Can you use car tyres on a motorcycle?

No, it is not recommended to use car tyres on a motorcycle. Fitting a car tyre to a motorcycle compromises both safety and performance, and is not approved by manufacturers or tyre safety bodies.
 

Key differences between car and motorcycle tyres

Motorcycle tyres are specifically designed to handle dynamic forces that differ greatly from those experienced by car tyres.

A motorcycle leans into corners, and its tyres are shaped to maintain contact with the road while tilting at significant angles.

Car tyres, on the other hand, are flat and built to operate upright, distributing weight across a broad tread surface.

Installing a car tyre on a motorcycle can result in:

• Unstable cornering – the square profile of a car tyre doesn't roll naturally into a lean, leading to unpredictable handling.
• Reduced grip – contact patches become irregular during turns, lowering traction and increasing the risk of sliding.
• Increased stress on the bike – suspension and frame geometry are affected by improper tyre fitment.
• Potential legal and insurance issues – using non-type-approved tyres may invalidate your insurance or make the bike unroadworthy under UK law.

If you are looking for better longevity or load-carrying performance, it is far safer to choose a motorcycle-specific touring or reinforced tyre that is properly rated for your bike.