Modified R3T with Stock Tire

[rocket31998]

I have modified the R3T to get back most or all of the power I had on the Classic. Now I keep getting warned by others to be careful of the rear tire as the 180 isn't rated for the speeds that the 240 is. My question is, if you are just a reasonable rider who likes more get-up-and-go off the mark, are there any serious concerns? I don't ride at 100 mph or pop wheelies, I just get from 0 - 80 faster than I used to. I really like the handling of the 180 and don't really want to go dark side after some of the initial comments I have read about R3T handling with a car tire especially at slow speeds. Any comments would be appreciated!

 

[Kmutt]

Like yourself I am not a speed junkie and do like the "quickness" at which the rocket gets to my cruising speed, plus its fun to twist that throttle for just a bit and than let off. This lets me have my fun and still be true to my responsibilities of work and family. Sounds corny I know but I will start with the GIPro and go from there adding only what I need and not what i want (pipes,bling and such). So to answer your question........no there is no drawback and the only limits are what you place on yourself. I considered darkside and maybe someday go that way (economically it makes sense) But I love the handle of this bike at parking lot speeds and two up as well. So be reasonable and you will get years of enjoyment without the wear and tear of "racing" your scoot. Just my .02

mutt

 

[azbbqer]

I really like the handling of the 180 and don't really want to go dark side after some of the initial comments I have read about R3T handling with a car tire especially at slow speeds. Any comments would be appreciated!

I considered darkside and maybe someday go that way (economically it makes sense) But I love the handle of this bike at parking lot speeds and two up as well. So be reasonable and you will get years of enjoyment without the wear and tear of "racing" your scoot. Just my .02 mutt

Don't discount " The Dark Side" too much. I had 2 Suzuki VL1500s before the R3T. I went to the dark side on both of them and loved it. You can get a good dark side for under $100. To me, it would be worth it, to at least try it and judge for myself. I was lucky enough to have a friend loan me a spare wheel, with a DS mounted, for a couple weeks. All it took was one ride in the rain, with a passenger, for me to decide.

 

[rocket31998]

Don't discount " The Dark Side" too much. I had 2 Suzuki VL1500s before the R3T. I went to the dark side on both of them and loved it. You can get a good dark side for under $100. To me, it would be worth it, to at least try it and judge for myself. I was lucky enough to have a friend loan me a spare wheel, with a DS mounted, for a couple weeks. All it took was one ride in the rain, with a passenger, for me to decide.

Have you gone dark side with your R3T? If so what tire are you using and what has been your experience with the difference in handling?

 

[xhdskip]

Rob,
Alot of guys who ride the VTX 1300 and 1800VTX with darkside tires,
without any problems at all.
I think a car tire wouldn't be out of the rhelm of possibilities for a good ride.

 

[rocket31998]

Rob,
Alot of guys who ride the VTX 1300 and 1800VTX with darkside tires,
without any problems at all.
I think a car tire wouldn't be out of the rhelm of possibilities for a good ride.

I'll keep an open mind.

 

[azbbqer]

Have you gone dark side with your R3T? If so what tire are you using and what has been your experience with the difference in handling?

Not yet. But my next tire will be a CT. If the GI Pro does what everyone says it will, I won't be waiting for the Metz to wear out. I'll need the extra grip. I used the Goodyear Tripple Tread on my Suzuki. You only really notcie the handling differenc for about the first 50 miles or so. Then you only notice the difference when you start "draggin' floorboards" or in the rain. On the LC I used to get loose in the "real leaners" with the Metz and the Brickstone. Not with the Goodyear. The more you leaned and twisted the throttle, the better it "stuck".

 

[STRIPES]

I like "hanging corners" on sport bikes and don't mind losing rear traction. But, I very much don't like feeling the ass end of the the Rocket getting loose in a curve. Unlike the Mezzlers, I have yet (knock on wood) to experience the Cooper 245 not staying hooked up (unless accelerating). I just bought a 235 Falcon to ease counter steer a little. Will report back when I get it mounted.