Ever feel like your Honda Grom isn’t quite living up to its full potential on the road? Maybe you’re hitting those curves with a little less confidence than you’d like, or perhaps those bumpy city streets feel a bit too jarring. Choosing the right tires for your beloved Grom can feel like a maze. There are so many brands, styles, and sizes, it’s easy to get lost and wonder which ones will actually make a difference.
But what if we told you that upgrading your tires could completely transform your riding experience? Imagine sharper handling, better grip, and a smoother ride, all from a simple swap. In this post, we’re going to dive deep into the world of Grom tires. We’ll break down what makes a good tire, explore some of the best options out there, and help you figure out exactly what you need to get the most out of your mini-moto.
Get ready to ditch the confusion and ride with newfound joy. By the time you finish reading, you’ll have a clear understanding of how to pick the perfect tires to match your riding style and unlock your Grom’s true capabilities.
Our Top 5 Grom Tires Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Grom Tires Detailed Reviews
1. MICHELIN City Grip 2 Front/Rear Scooter Tire – 120/70-12 (58S)
Rating: 9.0/10
The MICHELIN City Grip 2 Front/Rear Scooter Tire – 120/70-12 (58S) is a fantastic upgrade for your scooter. It’s designed for all kinds of weather, making your rides safer and more enjoyable. This tire offers excellent grip, even on tricky surfaces like wet roads or painted lines.
What We Like:
- Amazing all-season traction, so you can ride safely in rain or shine.
- Special materials and design give you great grip, even on wet roads and painted lines.
- Lasts longer, which means you can ride more miles before needing new tires.
- It’s a top choice for many scooter companies, proving its high quality.
What Could Be Improved:
- As a bias-ply tire, it may not offer the same smooth ride as a radial tire on some scooters.
If you want a reliable tire that performs well in any weather and lasts a long time, the MICHELIN City Grip 2 is a smart choice. It brings confidence and durability to your scooter adventures.
2. MICHELIN City Grip 2 Front/Rear Scooter Tire – 130/70-12 (63S)
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your scooter’s performance with the MICHELIN City Grip 2 Front/Rear Scooter Tire – 130/70-12 (63S). This tire is built for all-around excellence, giving you confidence no matter the weather. It’s designed to handle everything from sunny days to rainy commutes.
What We Like:
- Amazing All-Season Grip: The special silica-based rubber and “shark tooth” sipes give you super strong grip, even on wet roads and painted lines. This means safer riding in any weather.
- Lasts Longer: You get more miles out of these tires compared to the older City Grip. This is great for people who ride their scooters a lot every day.
- Trusted by Top Brands: Many of the best scooter companies choose MICHELIN City Grip 2 tires as their standard. That shows how good they are.
- Smooth Ride: The tire’s design helps provide a comfortable and stable ride.
What Could Be Improved:
- Availability: Sometimes, finding this specific tire size might be a bit tricky depending on your location.
The MICHELIN City Grip 2 is a fantastic choice for any scooter rider looking for reliable, all-weather performance and long-lasting wear. It’s a tire that truly lives up to the Michelin name.
3. 5A TOKYO 5A02 Set of 2 Scooter Tubeless Tires 120/70-12 & 130/70-12
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your ride with the 5A TOKYO 5A02 Set of 2 Scooter Tubeless Tires. This set includes a 120/70-12 front tire and a 130/70-12 rear tire, designed for 12-inch rims on motorcycles and mopeds. They are built for year-round use, so you can ride confidently in different weather conditions. The load index of 56.0 means they can handle a good amount of weight, making them reliable for your daily commute or weekend adventures.
What We Like:
- These tires offer excellent year-round performance.
- The tubeless design helps prevent sudden flats.
- They fit common 12-inch rims for motorcycles and mopeds.
- The set includes both front and rear tires for a complete upgrade.
What Could Be Improved:
- The load index of 56.0 might be limiting for heavier bikes or loads.
- More information on specific grip or tread patterns would be helpful.
This tire set is a solid choice for many scooter and moped riders. They provide reliable performance for everyday riding.
4. Kenda Big Block Rear Scooter Tire (130/70-12)
Rating: 9.0/10
Calling all adventurers! Kenda has the road companion you’ve been seeking. The Kenda Big Block Rear Scooter Tire (130/70-12) is built to handle whatever your journey throws at you. Its tough design and reliable grip make it a fantastic choice for riders who love to explore. Whether you’re cruising through city streets or venturing off the beaten path, this tire gives you the confidence you need.
What We Like:
- Excellent traction on various surfaces.
- Durable construction for long-lasting performance.
- Smooth and comfortable ride.
- Helps you feel more in control on your scooter.
- Looks great on your scooter!
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation can be a bit tricky for beginners.
- May wear down faster on very rough terrain.
- Can be a bit noisy on certain road types.
This Kenda Big Block tire is a solid upgrade for any scooter rider. It offers a great balance of performance and durability, making your rides more enjoyable and safer.
5. 5A TOKYO 5A01 Set of 2 Scooter Tubeless Tires 120/70-12 & 130/70-12
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your scooter or moped with the 5A TOKYO 5A01 Set of 2 Tubeless Tires. This package includes a front tire (120/70-12) and a rear tire (130/70-12), both designed to fit 12-inch rims. These tires are made with high-quality materials in Taiwan and are DOT approved, meaning they meet safety standards. They are built for a smooth and safe ride, whether you’re cruising through city streets or running errands.
What We Like:
- Built tough in Taiwan for reliable performance.
- DOT approved for your safety on the road.
- Designed for excellent cornering, making turns feel smooth.
- Tread pattern and special rubber compound offer a comfortable ride and good mileage.
- The tires can handle speeds up to 74.5 miles per hour.
- The rear tire can carry up to 494 pounds, and the front up to 441 pounds.
What Could Be Improved:
- Make sure to check your package carefully as the two tires might arrive in separate boxes.
These 5A TOKYO tires offer a great balance of safety, comfort, and durability for your scooter. They are a solid choice for anyone looking to replace their worn-out tires.
Choosing the Best Grom Tires: Your Complete Guide
So, you’ve got a Honda Grom, that awesome little bike that’s perfect for zipping around town or hitting up the track. Now you need to pick the right tires. Don’t worry, we’re here to help you navigate the world of Grom tires and find the perfect fit for your riding style.
1. Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for Grom tires, keep these important things in mind:
- Tire Size: This is super important! Your Grom has specific tire sizes for the front and rear. They’re usually written on the sidewall of your current tires. For example, you might see something like “120/70-12.” The first number is the width of the tire, the second is how tall the sidewall is compared to the width, and the last number is the wheel diameter. Always match these!
- Tread Pattern: This is the design on the tire. Some tires have deep, chunky treads for grip in wet or dirty conditions. Others have smoother, more “slick” treads for maximum contact with dry pavement, which is great for sporty riding.
- Tire Compound: This refers to the rubber mixture. Softer compounds grip better but wear out faster. Harder compounds last longer but don’t grip as well. It’s a trade-off!
- Speed and Load Rating: Tires have ratings that tell you how much weight they can carry and how fast they can safely go. Your Grom’s manual will have this info. Make sure your new tires meet or exceed these ratings.
2. Important Materials
Grom tires are mostly made of rubber, but the type of rubber and what’s mixed with it makes a big difference.
- Natural Rubber: This is a key ingredient that gives tires their flexibility and grip.
- Synthetic Rubber: This is often added to make tires more durable and resistant to heat and wear.
- Carbon Black: This is a common additive that strengthens the rubber and improves its resistance to UV rays and ozone. It also gives tires their black color.
- Silica: Many modern tires use silica in their rubber compound. Silica helps improve grip, especially in wet conditions, and can also lower rolling resistance, which is good for fuel economy.
3. Factors That Affect Tire Quality
What makes one Grom tire better than another?
- Tire Construction: How the tire is built internally affects its performance. Tires with more or better-quality internal layers (like nylon or steel belts) are usually stronger and handle better.
- Brand Reputation: Some tire brands have a long history of making high-quality tires for motorcycles. Doing a little research on brands can help you make a good choice.
- Tire Age: Tires can degrade over time, even if they haven’t been used. Look for tires that were made recently. There’s a date code on the sidewall.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How will you be using your Grom? This is a big question!
- Daily Commuting: If you ride your Grom every day for getting around town, you’ll want tires that offer a good balance of grip, comfort, and longevity. Tires with a more durable compound and a tread pattern that handles various road conditions well are ideal.
- Sporty Riding/Track Days: If you love leaning into corners and pushing your Grom to its limits, you’ll want tires with a softer compound for maximum grip. These tires might wear out faster, but the performance boost is worth it for many riders.
- All-Weather Riding: If you ride in rain or cooler temperatures, look for tires with tread patterns designed to channel water away and compounds that stay grippy even when it’s cold.
Frequently Asked Questions about Grom Tires
Q: What are the most common tire sizes for a Honda Grom?
A: The most common front tire size is 120/70-12, and the most common rear tire size is 130/70-12. Always double-check your owner’s manual or current tires.
Q: Do I need to buy special tires for my Grom?
A: While you can technically fit other sizes, it’s best to stick to the sizes recommended for your Grom to ensure proper fit and performance.
Q: How long do Grom tires usually last?
A: Tire life varies a lot depending on the tire compound, how you ride, and the road conditions. You might get anywhere from 3,000 to 10,000 miles or more.
Q: Can I use car tires on my Grom?
A: No, you absolutely should not use car tires on your Grom. Motorcycle tires are designed very differently and are essential for safe riding.
Q: What is a “DOT-approved” tire?
A: DOT-approved means the tire meets safety standards set by the Department of Transportation in the United States. It’s a good indicator of a safe tire.
Q: Should I get the same size tires for the front and rear?
A: Not necessarily. Honda recommends specific sizes for the front and rear, which are often different. Stick to those recommended sizes.
Q: How do I know when my Grom tires need replacing?
A: Look for the wear bars – little raised sections in the tread grooves. If the tread is worn down to the level of these bars, it’s time for new tires. Also, look for cracks in the sidewall.
Q: Are more expensive Grom tires always better?
A: Not always, but often. Higher-priced tires usually use better materials and have more advanced designs, which can lead to better performance and longer life. But you can find great value in mid-range tires too.
Q: What’s the difference between a sport tire and a touring tire for a Grom?
A: Sport tires usually have softer rubber for better grip on dry roads and are designed for leaning into corners. Touring tires often have harder rubber for longer life and a tread pattern that works well in different weather.
Q: Where is the best place to buy Grom tires?
A: You can buy them from your local motorcycle shop, online motorcycle parts retailers, or even some general auto parts stores that carry motorcycle tires.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Hector Quintanilla, the creator of helmetslab.com.. As a passionate enthusiast and experienced expert in helmets, I’ve dedicated this platform to sharing my insights, knowledge, and hands-on experiences. Whether you’re seeking the best helmet for safety, comfort, or performance, my goal is to guide you with detailed reviews, tips, and advice. Ride safe, and let’s explore the world of helmets together!