Front tires?

[yeti66]

Hello All, well it's time for a new front tire and I was wondering if anyone has had any experience with the metz ME880 bias-ply (150/80/H/17) instead of the radial (150/80/VR/17)? there's a difference in price of about $50.00, the bp is speed rated at 130MPH, and the radial at 149! both rated at the same wight (783 lbs)

Money is a little tight right now and being that I rarely go over 120, I don't see speed ratings meaning much, but what about the ride? thanks.
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[dandiego]

Radial vs. Bias

Oy, vey! I've done a lot of research on this issue. My advice (and I know I'll bring down the wrath of the Rocket gods): Please match your front tire to your rear. Since your rear tire is likely a radial (Metz), use a radial for the front.

Some factory and many custom bikes mix the two (radial/bias), but it's ALMOST ALWAYS a radial in the rear.

Look for a good price online and get what the bike needs.

 

[HellFire]

It's too bad you are going for the cheapest tire you can ... the Avon Cobra is a sweet tire. Yeah it's the most expensive, but what a tire!

 

[britman]

I am running the Dunlop D404 for around $100.00 and getting great service out of it so far. See attached thread....
http://www.r3owners.net/dark-side/5257-lets-talk-front.html

 

[tdragger]

+1 on the Dunlop D404. I'm on my second one and have had great service.

 

[dandiego]

The Dunlop Elite 3 tires are some of the longest-lasting tires available, after some research.

Since I do the long-distance Iron Butt rides on my Touring, I would love a tire that provides more than 5-8 thousand miles. I'm giving them a try and will let you know how they work after a few thousand miles...

 

[saboteur]

It's too bad you are going for the cheapest tire you can ... the Avon Cobra is a sweet tire. Yeah it's the most expensive, but what a tire!

Just ordered myself a set!