Metzler Cruisetec vs. Avon Cobras

Martin_z_BA said:

Experience with Metzeler Cruisetec:
The feeling of driving was immediately different. Suspension on a normal road was like much stiffer and harder, but it is easy to get used to it.
On the sides, the compound is again noticeably softer, and in corners in higher gradients I had the feeling (not necessarily the reality) as if the rear wheel was gently drifting, but very controlled and not unpleasantly so.
In the rain I didn't notice any unexpected and unwanted behaviour. I drove in the pouring rain on the highway, sometimes even at 150 km/h, the tyres kept the track without hesitation. I was of course quite careful in the curves on the next narrow road, but I never had a bad feeling there either.
I don't know how long they'll last. Avon in the most frequent custom setting of ABS Road, MAP Road, TC Rain have given me more than 25000 km, two sets in a row. So far I have no complaints, the tyres are very good and give a feeling of confidence.

Click to expand...

Gimlet said:

It's a shame Pirelli don't make tyres in the Rocket's size. The Diavel I've just bought has the same 240 section rear tyre but it's 17", not 16" and wears Pirellis. They have a much more sporty profile than either the Cobras or the Cruisertecs. I think if they would suit the Rocket very well and make it feel lighter on its feet. They're also extremey grippy and give masses of feedback.

Click to expand...

Gimlet said:

It's a shame Pirelli don't make tyres in the Rocket's size. The Diavel I've just bought has the same 240 section rear tyre but it's 17", not 16" and wears Pirellis. They have a much more sporty profile than either the Cobras or the Cruisertecs. I think if they would suit the Rocket very well and make it feel lighter on its feet. They're also extremey grippy and give masses of feedback.

Click to expand...

Idaho Red Rocket 3 said:

Yeah it would have been really nice if Triumph had made the Rockets with 17 inch rear wheels.

Click to expand...

Martin_z_BA said:

Update after (I think) 8000 km: Everything works properly and I do not think about tires absolutely. No problem in very hot weather, nor in rain. No visible signs of wear.
By change I also changed the brake pads. I recommend to have complete set ready for use, because specially is needed to remove rear wheel for changing and is probably cheaper to do it during tire change than return again some time later. Front pads is possible to change home, but is needed to tighten the calliper properly. Again, is cheaper ask man with torque wrench in the service when they will play with the tire change and ballancing.

Click to expand...

Journeyman said:

@Martin_z_BA Get thee a torque wrench and ATV jack and prosper. It will take you less time, even the first time, than the time to ride to the shop and wait, or drop off and return later (tying up someone else to transport you). The manual is in Resources at the top of this page and there are many of us here to help- if needed.

As far as Avons vs. Cruisetecs - I like the later (a lot), but since they don't feel like making them enough to keep in stock, I won't give them my business anymore. I called Metzler and got a real "could give a $hite" attitude when asked when they were going to produce more. "Ask your dealer," he said in response to everything I said, as if a retailer would know more than Metzler itself.

The solution (and improvement) is the Exedra Max on the rear and a number of choices for the front (there is a current thread on this), my latest being the Dunlop Elite. The taller Max on the rear will shorten the rake of the bike giving better handling in the twisties. There is nothing magical about sticking with one of Triumph's recommended tires of the year. They switch oil brands too- it's a business relationship with them, not a requirement for us.

Click to expand...

rick danger said:

That slick would have to help. Do you have heavy clutch springs?

Click to expand...