Sportbikes are not beginner bikes

[No Worries]

Originally Posted by Rider

What is the aspect ratio(sidewall height)? If they are equal (say 55%) then the contact patch would get longer and wider...

That's what I always thought. But Archimedes proved us wrong over 2000 years ago. As the 130 tire is now, the contact patch is rectangular with the long dimension front to rear. With a 180 tire, the contact patch area will be the same according to Archimedes. The contact patch could now be rectangular with the long dimension left to right, or even square. Which is better for cornering traction? Long dimension front to back, or long dimension left to right? Which is better for accelerating out of the corner?