Throughout this Bridgestone Battlecruise H50 review, we’ll explore the key features and benefits that set this tire apart from its competitors.
From its advanced tread compound and optimized profile to its impressive mileage and handling characteristics, we’ll explore how the Battlecruise H50 aims to elevate your cruiser riding experience.
But, the main question I will answer in this review is, is this the best cruiser tires for you? Let’s find out!
Bridgestone Battlecruise H50
Our Bridgestone Battlecruise H50 Verdict
I’ve been thoroughly impressed with the Bridgestone Battlecruise H50 since I first mounted it on my Harley-Davidson touring bike.
The H50s have exceeded my expectations in terms of handling, stability, and overall performance. I really like how the optimized tread pattern and newly developed compound provide excellent grip in both dry and wet conditions, giving me the confidence to lean into turns and enjoy the ride.
One of the standout features of the Battlecruise H50 is its durability. After putting thousands of miles on these tires, I can attest to their long-lasting tread life.
Bridgestone claims the H50 can last up to 50% longer than some of its competitors, and based on my experience, I believe it.
The tires have worn evenly and shown minimal signs of wear, even after extended highway trips and spirited backroad adventures.
I typically prioritize comfort when choosing tires for my cruiser, and the H50s deliver in this aspect as well.
The tires’ construction and profile work together to absorb road imperfections and reduce vibrations, resulting in a smooth, comfortable ride. I’ve noticed less fatigue on long rides, which I attribute to the H50’s shock-absorbing capabilities.
However, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. In my opinion, the Battlecruise H50 tires may not provide the optimal performance for aggressive riding styles.
They are designed primarily for cruising and touring, so riders looking for maximum sports performance might want to consider other options.
Additionally, while the H50s offer good wet weather traction, I’ve found that they can feel a bit less planted in heavy rain compared to some other premium touring tires.
It’s worth noting that prices for the Bridgestone Battlecruise H50 tires can vary, and special offers are often available from Revzilla.com.
I recommend checking out their website for the best prices before making a purchase elsewhere. Plus, Revzilla offers a price match guarantee, so you can be confident you’re getting the best deal.
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Introduction
For many years, Bridgestone has been recognized for producing top-quality tires for various types of motorcycles.
However, until now, the company has not released a tire specifically designed for American V-twin motorcycles. This is where the new Bridgestone Battle Cruise HP comes in.
This model is designed to meet the needs of riders who are looking for improved handling and durability in their tires.
It has been specifically created to handle the demands of American V-twin motorcycles, making it a perfect fit for popular models like the Indian Scout and Harley Davidson’s paired specials.
Battle Cruise HP Features and Benefits
Here are the bullet points for the Features and Benefits of the Bridgestone Battle Cruise HP:
- Competitively priced despite premium brand name and excellent performance, making it accessible to more riders
- Improved handling for easier motorcycle navigation
- Less effort needed at the handlebars for more comfortable steering and control
- Double the durability compared to other tires in its class, providing peace of mind on rides
Battle Cruise HP Specifications
When choosing the right tire for your bike, it’s crucial to understand the key specifications. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:
Battlecruise H50 Sizes
The Bridgestone Battlecruise H50 comes in a range of sizes to fit various cruiser motorcycles[1]. Common sizes include:
- 130/90B16 73H
- 150/80B16 77H
- 180/65B16 81H
Having the right size ensures optimal handling and stability for your bike.
Recommended Rim Widths
Pairing your tire with the appropriate rim width is essential for safety and performance. The H50 works best with these rim widths:
- 3.00″ to 3.50″ for the 130/90B16
- 3.50″ to 4.50″ for the 150/80B16
- 4.50″ to 5.50″ for the 180/65B16
Sticking to the recommended widths prevents uneven wear and handling issues.
Load and Speed Ratings
The load rating indicates the maximum weight they can support, while the speed rating shows the top speed it’s designed for. The H50’s ratings are:
| Size | Load Rating | Max Load (lbs) | Speed Rating | Max Speed (mph) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 130/90B16 | 73 | 805 | H | 130 |
| 150/80B16 | 77 | 908 | H | 130 |
| 180/65B16 | 81 | 1019 | H | 130 |
Choose a tire that matches your bike’s load capacity and riding style for a safer, smoother ride.
Tread Depth
The H50 boasts a deep tread pattern that’s built to last:
- 13/32″ tread depth for the front
- 14/32″ tread depth for the rear
More tread depth means better traction, especially in wet conditions, and longer life. You’ll enjoy confident cornering and braking mile after mile.
By understanding these key specifications, you can select the ideal Battlecruise H50 size for your cruiser motorcycle. Proper fitment translates to a more enjoyable, secure riding experience on the open road.
Note that all of these tires have a rating of 4.3 or higher, indicating that customers highly regard them. The highest-rated tire is the Bridgestone Battlecruise H50 Front (130/70B-18), which has a perfect 5-star rating.
Battlecruise H50 Riding Conditions
The Bridgestone Battlecruise H50 are engineered to handle a variety of riding conditions, but they really shine in some areas more than others. Here’s how they perform:
Wet Weather Performance
I’ve found the H50’s wet weather traction to be a mixed bag. In a comparison test, they offered better-wet road feedback and grip than the stock Dunlop tires on a Harley-Davidson.
However, some riders have reported the rear tire spinning and slipping unexpectedly in the rain, especially on heavier touring bikes.
Bridgestone claims their new tread compound provides grip in both wet and dry conditions, but real-world results seem to vary. I’d recommend riding cautiously in the rain until you get a feel for how they handle on your specific bike.
Vibration Damping
Vibration reduction is another strong suit of the Battlecruise H50, especially the front. Bridgestone tuned the tire construction and rigidity distribution to absorb road imperfections while maintaining handling performance.
I find this tire is extremely quiet, with no noticeable road noise. The improved shock absorption fights fatigue on long rides, allowing you to rack up the miles in comfort. If you’re looking for a smooth ride, the H50 is hard to beat.
Optimal Operating Temperature
While Bridgestone doesn’t publish an exact temperature range, the H50 is designed for the demands of big V-twin cruisers.
The rubber compound, tread design, and construction are optimized to provide good grip and wear across the typical operating conditions these bikes will encounter.
However, I did find that they feel “loose” when pushed hard in turns, so spirited riding in hot weather may be beyond their ideal range. For normal cruising duty, the H50 heats up quickly and maintains its poise.
Overall, the Battlecruise H50 tires offer a compelling blend of mileage, handling, and comfort that’s well-suited to long-distance touring on heavyweight cruisers.
While wet weather performance is still an open question for some, their stability, vibration reduction, and wear characteristics make them a solid choice for the V-twin crowd.
Battlecruise H50 Cornering Stability
One area where the H50 really impressed me is cornering stability and handling. Bridgestone optimized the front tire profile for a larger contact patch and uniform pressure distribution.
The result is that compared to major competitors, you need over 40% less handlebar force to corner. On a Harley Softail, the bike “tracks like it’s on rails.”
Even on big, heavy cruisers, the H50 makes steering easier and more precise. If you love carving corners, these tires deliver confidence-inspiring grip and stability.
Optimized Front Tire Profile
Bridgestone designed the H50 front tire with a larger contact patch and more uniform contact pressure distribution.
Improved Grip and Traction
The H50 uses a newly developed tread compound that provides a good grip on both wet and dry surfaces.
This allows the them to maintain traction and stability while cornering, without slipping or sliding unexpectedly. Riders can lean into turns with more confidence.
Enhanced Shock Absorption
Bridgestone tuned the vertical stiffness of the H50’s construction to improve vibration damping and shock absorption, especially on the front tire.
This helps them absorb bumps and inconsistencies in the road while cornering, maintaining stability and contact with the pavement. The ride remains smooth and controlled even on imperfect surfaces.
Comparison Tests
In comparison tests, I found that the Battlecruise H50 provides much better feedback while cornering on wet roads compared to stock Harley-Davidson tires.
Tire slip is more easily detected and safely compensated for. Due to the’ predictable manners, the tires’ grip and handling limits can be explored with greater confidence.
Battlecruise H50 Durability
The Bridgestone Battlecruise H50 are built to last, delivering impressive mileage and toughness that cruiser riders demand. Here’s what you can expect in terms of durability:
Expected Mileage
I’ve found the H50 offers a significant boost in mileage compared to popular competitors. Bridgestone claims the rear H50e can last up to 50% longer than the Dunlop D401.
In real-world terms, if you typically get 10,000 miles from a Dunlop, you could see 18,000-19,000 miles from the Battlecruise H50 under optimal conditions. That’s a huge jump in longevity.
The H50’s mileage advantage comes from its larger contact patch and updated tread design, which distribute wear more evenly. You’ll spend less time and money swapping tires and more time enjoying the ride.
Resistance to Punctures and Cuts
While Bridgestone doesn’t provide specific data on puncture resistance, the H50’s durable carcass and tread compound are engineered to withstand the rigors of the road. They use high-tensile steel belts for strength and stability.
I haven’t personally tested the H50’s puncture resistance, but their construction and Bridgestone’s reputation for quality suggest they’ll be resilient against flats and cuts.
The fact that Bridgestone offers a supplemental road hazard warranty—their only motorcycle tire with this coverage—shows their confidence in the H50’s durability.
Tread Life Compared to Similar Tires
In head-to-head comparisons, the Battlecruise H50 consistently outlasts major competitors. Bridgestone’s internal testing shows:
- 48% longer tread life than the Dunlop American Elite rear tire
- Equal or better mileage than the Michelin Commander II with improved wet performance[6]
While these claims still need to be verified by independent third-party testing, they paint a compelling picture of the H50’s long-wearing tread compound and optimized profile.
The H50’s extended tread life means you’ll enjoy more carefree miles between tire changes. Combined with a smooth, confidence-inspiring ride, that makes the Battlecruise H50 a very attractive choice for cruisers.
So if you want a tire that can go the distance and shrug off road hazards, the Bridgestone Battlecruise H50 delivers the durability you need. It’s a tire built to eat up the miles with minimal fuss, leaving you free to chase the horizon.
Battlecruise H50 Tire Construction
The Bridgestone Battlecruise H50’s construction is engineered for the unique demands of big American V-twin cruisers. Here’s a breakdown of the key components:
Carcass Material and Ply Count
The H50 uses a high-tensile steel-belted carcass for strength and stability. The ply count varies by tire size, but it’s optimized to balance rigidity and compliance for a smooth, confident ride.
Tread Compound
Bridgestone developed a specialized tread compound for the H50 that’s formulated to deliver excellent grip in both dry and wet conditions. The rubber is designed to wear evenly, helping the tire last up to 50% longer than some competitors.
Sidewall Construction
The H50’s sidewalls are tuned for cruisers, with a slightly softer construction on the rear tire to improve damping and handling. This results in a plusher ride and easier steering, perfect for long-distance touring.
Bead Type
The H50 features steel wire beads to securely lock the tire to the rim. This classic design is strong, stable, and time-tested on cruiser motorcycles.
By focusing on these key areas of tire construction, Bridgestone has created a tire that’s ideally suited for heavy touring bikes.
The strong, long-wearing materials and cruiser-specific tuning give you the confidence to rack up the miles in comfort. Whether you’re riding two-up or fully loaded, the Battlecruise H50 is built to handle it.
Bridgestone Battlecruise H50 Tire Pressure
The Bridgestone Battlecruise H50 tire pressure varies depending on the motorcycle model and the rider’s preference.
Some riders on online forums suggest running the tire at 46 psi, while others recommend following the OEM’s recommended pressure of 36-40 psi.
The tire’s maximum psi is 49. Bridgestone’s 2019 Motorcycle Tire Data Book does not provide a specific recommended pressure for the Battlecruiser H50 tire.
Ultimately, it is important to consult the motorcycle owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic to determine the appropriate tire pressure for your specific motorcycle and riding conditions.
Comparison To Other Cruiser Tires
| Model Name | Features |
|---|---|
| Bridgestone Battlax BT46 | Bias-ply construction, long-lasting compound, increased wet performance |
| Michelin Scorcher ll | Designed for Harley-Davidson motorcycles, excellent grip and handling |
| Dunlop American Elite | High mileage, great stability, smooth ride |
| Pirelli Night Dragon | High mileage sport touring tire, performs well in wet and dry conditions |
| Metzeler ME888 | Designed for heavy touring bikes, great traction and stability |
The Bridgestone Battlecruise H50 is a high-performance cruiser tire that offers excellent grip, stability, and durability. Compared to the other tires in the table, it sits in the middle price range.
The Michelin Scorcher ll and Dunlop American Elite are premium tires designed specifically for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. They offer superior performance but come at a higher price point.
The Pirelli Night Dragon and Metzeler ME888 are also high-quality tires that perform well in various conditions.
The Night Dragon is a more affordable option, while the ME888 is designed for heavy touring bikes and comes at a premium price.
Overall, the Bridgestone Battlecruise H50 offers a great balance of performance and value compared to the other cruiser tires in the table.
Testing the Bridgestone Battle Cruise HP
To test the Bridgestone Battle Cruise HP, we rode for around sixty miles on this new tire model. Although we would have liked to ride for more extended periods, we were not able to do so. However, we can attest that they performed well during the time we spent on it.
While we did not have the chance to verify Bridgestone’s claim of double the durability of other tires in its class, we trust the company’s reputation for creating high-quality tires.
Bridgestone has been known for producing various types of cruiser tires that are highly regarded by riders worldwide. Therefore, I am confident that the Bridgestone Battle Cruise HP will provide excellent durability for riders.
Features and Benefits
| Features | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Specifically designed for American V-twin motorcycles | Perfect fit for popular models like Indian Scout and Harley Davidson’s paired specials |
| Improved handling and durability | Easier navigation and comfortable steering |
| Double the durability of other tires in its class | Added peace of mind on journeys |
| Competitively priced | Accessible to a wider range of riders |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Bridgestone Battle Cruise HP is an excellent addition to Bridgestone’s cruiser tire lineup. Its focus on the American V-twin motorcycle market fills a gap that was previously missing.
They improved handling, durability, and competitive pricing make it a great choice for riders who want high-quality tires without breaking the bank.
We highly recommend them to anyone looking for a reliable and performance-focused tire for their American V-twin motorcycle.
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