New rules 2025 | What Harley riders need to know about motorcycle tires

What the new regulations mean for Harley riders and what to look out for when choosing tires in the future!

Motorcycle tires are an important issue, especially for Harley-Davidson riders, to ensure the best possible riding experience and the necessary safety on the road. However, with the new regulations from 2025, motorcycle owners who want to adapt their tires will have to take a few changes into account. What was previously possible with a simple clearance certificate (UBB) will, from next year, only be permissible in Germany with approval and registration at the test center. This article explains what is changing and what motorcyclists need to know in order to have compliant tires in the future.

The previous regulations until the end of 2024

Until now, it has been possible in Germany to ride tires that do not correspond exactly to the entries in the registration certificate by means of a clearance certificate (UBB). Many Harley riders have used this option, for example to fit wider tires or specific tire models that better suit their needs and motorcycle style. This worked as long as the tire manufacturer confirmed through the UBB that the installation is safe on the respective motorcycle type.

The UBB was considered sufficient proof that the fitted tires did not pose a safety risk, even if they did not comply with the motorcycle manufacturer's specifications. An additional visit to the TÜV or testing organization was not necessary as long as the UBB was carried. However, this flexibility will end with the new regulations from January 2025.

From 2025: Mandatory TÜV approval for tire deviations

From From January 1, 2025, it will no longer be possible to drive with just a clearance certificate if the tires deviate from the entries in the vehicle documents. The previous regulation will be replaced by a stricter requirement: All tires that do not correspond exactly to the registered specifications must now be approved and registered by an official testing organization such as TÜV or DEKRA.

This step is mandatory if the tires differ from the original in terms of size, tread depth or other technical details. The simple submission of a UBB is no longer sufficient in these cases. The amendment is intended to ensure uniform regulation and guarantee that all tires meet the requirements for safety and stability on the road.

Consequences for Harley-Davidson riders

For riders of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, this means that changes to the tires could become more complex from 2025. Anyone wishing to convert to wider or visually different tires will have to reckon with additional effort and costs in future. The inspection at TÜV or DEKRA is not only time-consuming, but can also be associated with fees that can vary depending on the inspection body and the scope of the modifications.

The previous flexibility for personalized conversions on Harley-Davidson motorcycles will be restricted as a result. This new regulation poses a challenge, especially for bikers who like to customize their bikes to their liking. It is therefore recommended to make appointments with the test center early to avoid possible waiting times or bottlenecks - especially at the beginning of the motorcycle season when test appointments are in demand.

Why this regulation was changed

The reason for the new regulation is road safety. For a long time, the UBB was a tool that was specifically tailored to the needs of motorcyclists who do not always want to or cannot rely on standard tires. However, this practice has not always been considered sufficiently safe by the authorities. Official approval by a testing organization now ensures that all tires really do meet the required safety standards and that potential risks are minimized.

From the point of view of the authorities and testing organizations, tire adjustments are a safety-relevant point that should be monitored more strictly, especially for heavy machines such as Harley-Davidson models. Correct tires have a significant influence on the handling, braking performance and road grip of a motorcycle.

What should Harley riders do?

If you want to change tires on your Harley-Davidson motorcycle after 2025 that do not correspond to the original entries, you should follow these steps:
1. seek advice: Even before buying new tires, it is advisable to find out about the technical requirements and approval options.
2. contact the test center: If you decide to make a modification, you should make an appointment with TÜV or DEKRA in good time so that you can schedule the inspection.
3. carry proof with you: After acceptance, the entry in the vehicle documents should be updated to avoid problems during traffic checks.

Official approval ensures that the new tires meet the requirements for German road traffic and can be driven legally.

Conclusion: adaptation with planning

From 2025, riding with non-standard tires will generally involve more effort for Harley-Davidson riders and motorcycle owners. However, the additional visit to the TÜV or a testing organization can not only increase safety, but also minimize potential legal problems in the event of an accident. The new regulation therefore requires more careful planning and more attention when choosing tires, but it also ensures greater control and safety on the roads.

Harleysite 11/2024

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