I was driving today and the back tire is so worn out on the back that I almost wiped out. I decided Im worth more than whatever tires cost. I want the absolute best, safest and largest (for the front, I like back stock size) that can fit on my 2009 Custom. And wheres the best place get them? Help before I wipe out.
Rob
PS:Largest front tire with or without front fender.
I recently joined the Metzeler owner's club...
Fast fifty rebate program nets you an additional 50 bucks via a Visa prepaid card on a set ...
Tipped the scales vs other brands for me ...
Got mine from DK...
Best price at the time...
Rob,
How did you almost wipe out? How did your shot tire contribute?
My Triumph had the original 4 year old tires when I got it and they had gotten hard; the rear locked up too easily a couple of times.
I figure if you're showing threads; that can make a slick spot on the tire.
But, if your tire isn't several years old and it isn't showing threads you should still have plenty lateral and stopping grip.
Actually a smooth tire will have better grip.
Not, trying to bust your b*lls. Most of us have either dropped a bike or came close.
I just think a lot of myths and newbie mistakes about riding can be avoided if we're clear and specific about actual problems.
You know; get rid of the "had to lay her down" and "don't use your front breaks" stuff.
Sometimes equipment is faulty but a lot of people blame the bike as a crutch.
Interesting observation Scott. These are the original tires with 6k miles on them. They are worn in the back smooth. Maybe that doesn't mean they are slippery. But when I accelerate the tire wants to spin when switching gears and gets a little squirrely.
And I am not a newbie rider. Been riding bikes for 30+ years. But I get what your saying. So maybe the tires don't need replacing? I feel they need it. Your thoughts now? @Scott_in_TX
The Metzlers on my R3T were 2011 OEM when I bought it in 2014; so they were probably near 5 years old.
Had the rear lock up under moderate braking a couple of times while I was still learning the bike.
When I noticed I had pulled a couple chunks of rubber off the tire I replaced them immediately.
Scott is correct about DK ...
Didnt want to break any possible rules on the forum, hence the initials.
I ride a 1600 Classic so your sizes will differ.
Can't wait to get the new rubber on and till warmer weather hits !!!
I went with Shinkos and have been more than satisfied. Best tires I've had. They wear well, although don't have the marathon characteristics of some others.
Price is not a factor. Just want the absolute best front and back tire made. And whats the biggest tire I can put on the front if I take off the fender?
Most of the guys that I ride with have Michelin Commander 2s. Based on their reviews and thoughts on them, I decided those are what I am going to get this spring. Just trying to decide on where to get them.
90/90-21 but you will have to tweak the front fender. I just replaced the tires on my 08 Custom, Michelin Commander 2. Went with stock size up front 80/90-21 and changed the rear to 170/80-15. Wanted a taller tire to keep the rpms down a little. 200/70-15 was my first choice but decided it was not worth the extra money. I was worried about changing the handling with larger tires, glad I went with the sizes I chose. Bike lays over a little easier with 170/80 over the stock 180/70 and can not tell they are narrower.
Pirelli 90/90 front without touching OEM guard.
Pirelli 200/70 rear without problems. Have my second set of these tyres on now. The only handling difference I remember to the original tyres was that I needed to 'muscle' the bike around a bit more with the Pirellis. But it's more 'sure footed' now - more grounded.
Cost was not an option for me either.
Which Pirelli @Lone Star ? And no need to tweak the front fender to fit?
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