Michelin Scorcher 31 Tires

Michelin Scorcher 31: The Original Performance Partner for Harley-Davidson

The Michelin Scorcher 31 holds a historic place in the V-Twin industry as the very first tire co-developed between Michelin and Harley-Davidson. Designed specifically to meet the rigorous performance standards of the Sportster and Dyna families, the Scorcher 31 is engineered to provide a seamless connection between the rider and the road. If you want to maintain the exact handling characteristics, lean-angle confidence, and ride comfort your bike had the day it left the factory, this is the only tire that carries the official H-D stamp of approval.

Performance-Focused Tread and Compound

The Scorcher 31 features a unique tread pattern designed to maximize the contact patch at all lean angles. Michelin utilizes a Carbon Black-enriched rubber compound that balances durability with high-performance traction. Unlike some touring tires that feel “wooden,” the Scorcher 31 is incredibly supple, allowing it to absorb road imperfections while providing excellent feedback through the handlebars. This makes it an ideal choice for city commuting and aggressive canyon riding where quick transitions and “flickability” are more important than sheer straight-line mileage.

Expert Advice: Scorcher 31 vs. Commander III

Riders often ask whether they should stick with the Scorcher 31 or switch to the Commander III. Pro Tip: The Scorcher 31 is a “performance cruiser” tire. It has a softer feel and quicker turn-in than the Commander III, which is a “touring” tire focused on maximum mileage. If you enjoy a “sportier” feel on your Low Rider or Iron 883, stick with the Scorcher 31. Maintenance Tip: These tires are sensitive to rim alignment. Because they provide such precise feedback, even a slight misalignment in your rear axle will be felt as a “vibration” or “wobble.” Always check your alignment and maintain a cold PSI of 36 front / 40 rear for the best balance of grip and wear.

The Purist’s Aesthetic Choice

Beyond the technical specs, the Scorcher 31 is about the authentic Harley-Davidson experience. The sidewall branding is a badge of quality that signifies this tire was built specifically for your frame geometry. It is the perfect choice for the purist who wants their bike to be “100% Harley” from the engine cases to the rubber on the road. It provides a quiet, smooth, and predictable ride that has made it a favorite for millions of riders worldwide.

Fitment Note: Ensure you check your specific year and model. While standard on many bikes, some later-model Harleys moved to the Scorcher “11” or “21” patterns, which are optimized for different rim sizes and weight distributions.

Michelin Scorcher 31 Tires

MICHELIN Scorcher “31” tires are supplied as original equipment on 2011-later XL1200C/X Harley-Davidson motorcycles, with approved fitments for additional model years.

Features:

• Cruise With Confidence: Innovative rubber compounds, incorporating know-how derived from Michelin’s decades of road-racing experience, provide remarkable grip on both wet and dry roads
• Exceptional Comfort and Handling: The supple casing design and profile of MICHELIN Scorcher “31” tires promote rock-solid handling on winding roads
• Long Mileage: Michelin carbon black-enriched rubber compounds promote excellent durability without compromising performance
• Available in “Reinforced” for heavyweight touring bikes, two-up riding, or when required by OEM specifications