I'm going to change tire at 8000 km (5000Miles)

[Allan S]

I want to use Avon cobras. What size tyres are recommended for front and rear. I have 13.5 inch shocks and have been told a 140 tire in front is the way to go for improved handling?

 

[barbagris]

Put a Bridgestone E-Max on the rear. 240/55R16. Be aware with ABS you have to be a bit more careful than we pre-ABS folk. @1olbull has some good info on sizes that can and cannot be mixed. I use a 150/70VR17 on the front. Just as good as the 140 I had on prior to this.

 

[1olbull]

 

[1olbull]

Here youse go . . .

 

[Allan S]

Here youse go . . .

Thank you!
Does the fact that I put on Hagon Nitros 240mm which is 3/4 inch longer than stock make a difference to the charts. I know the axle height remains unchanged but the loading on the front tyre will be heavier and wheelbase very slightly shortened right?

 

[Ishrub]

Before the ogres snap, 340mm I think you meant

Axle height should increase at least .5" from 12.5" length stock. Add a Exedra Max with an extra .5 " and you get a full inch, most blokes would pay a fortune for an extra inch
)
Match with a 140 front tyre which (I am yet to do myself) and you should end up with a far sharper steering response than stock.

 

[Steel]

Before the ogres snap, 340mm I think you meant

Axle height should increase at least .5" from 12.5" length stock. Add a Exedra Max with an extra .5 " and you get a full inch, most blokes would pay a fortune for an extra inch
)
Match with a 140 front tyre which (I am yet to do myself) and you should end up with a far sharper steering response than stock.

I agree that the taller tire will raise the axle. But the shock can't raise it.

 

[barbagris]

I know the axle height remains unchanged but the loading on the front tyre will be heavier and wheelbase very slightly shortened right?

A tiny change in head rake and thus trail (on linear suspension) - and miniscule weight shift. The rear axle height being raised (and/or front dropped) does indeed load the forks especially under braking. An R3 in OEM condition actually nose dives very little. This is not too evident with stock suspension - but it is with sorted geometry.

 

[Ishrub]

I agree that the taller tire will raise the axle. But the shock can't raise it.

Your right , not all axle height increase, but rear of bike and ride height effect totals an inch.

 

[1olbull]

The Exedra Max 240/55 R16 raises the rear axle up .5 inch and levels both axles. The 140/75R 17 front lowers the front axle .5 inch and decreases trail which quickens steering.
Use of taller shocks does not affect axle height, but it does affect (reduce) rake & trail, further quickening steering and reducing higher speed stability.