don't hate me bit of a numpty question but we all had to start somewhere need a new rear tyre, after having read the article in performance bikes and one or two guys on this forum, i had my mind set on the Metzeler M5'S, popped into the tyre fitters on Saturday to ask about price etc, he recommended that maybe i should look at the Dunlop sportsmarts or Michelin Power pilot 3's instead (both of which he had in stock and were more expensive than the Metzelers) i am now confused and could do with some impartial advice if you'd be so kind. This is my first "proper" sports bike and i'm certainly no Valentino Rossi, the original tyre has squared off down to the tread marker whilst i still have a lot of tread on the tyre walls (chicken strips) which tyre would be best suited to my riding as i slowly get more confidence in my cornering ability ? also is it ok to keep the original front with hardly any wear on, or would you change that to match the rear thank you
What make is the front tyre? I'd be tempted to buy another back to match the front. I normally use 2 backs to 1 front.
I would say try the michelin pilot powers, if you dont use the last inch or so of the sidewall then you wouldnt need the 2ct's as its only the edges that are super sticky and if you are not going to use it then why pay more for a dual compound tyre.
I think you will be better suited to a sports tyre rather than the hypersports tyres you were recommended so look at dunlop roadsmart 2 , pirelli diablo rosso 2, mitchelin pilot road 3's. All of these will give you all the grip you need and should be a little cheaper
i agree with the tyre options suggested and as to running a different make front tyre to the rear - well everyone including tyre and bike manufacturers will say to run a matched set or at least tyres from the same company. but i have often run a mismatched set with no problems whatsovever. not by choice i would state but sometimes due to availability or financial reasons. i just took it steady for a while to ensure the bike felt ok and stable and then rode in my usual spirited manner. you state you wont be pushing too hard anyway so you should be ok but after saying all that if you can afford a pair thats the best option
Thanks for all your help fellas decided to go with a replacement Bridgestone s20 on the rear as the front still has plenty of life, don't want this to sound like an advert but i got my tyre fitted by Furlongs in Yeovil Aaron the guy who did it (who can talk for England) couldn';t have been more helpfull or honest i was well impressed and would not hesitate to use them again
Did you put the 50 profile back on? I find that the 50 profile squares of a lot quicker due to having slightly more tyre in contact with the road. I have changed my S20R to a 55 profile yesterday.
i put a 55 profile on yesterday - scrubbed it in and went for a ride. i can honestly say i am completely underwhelmed by this change.didnt really think it turned in especially faster or changed direction much different to a 50. wasnt hanging about either - the bike felt slightly more sluggish though - heavier tyre and an effevtive gearing change due to larger tyre diameter.maybe need more time on it but after rave reviews of transformed bikes " on another mainly american forum" i am a bit dissapointed.
Yes I agree that it does feel slightly 'Taller' especially when I have just set up my suspension and the 55 profile has tipped more weight on the front end. I will dial that out though and will report on that given that I will change the tyre again in less than 2 month due to milage!! I know what you mean about the bike feeling a little sluggish off the line but the overall gearing gain gives a far better spread of power in each gear.
