Tire sizes

[rash_powder]

I will soon be needing a new rear tire. Likely going to change out both front and rear at the same time.

So I am looking through tires and seeing that the stock 180/70-16 is a rather uncommon size. Without talking car tires - I don't want to go that route - what are some alternate sizes that will fit under the back fender? I saw a post that said something about a 200 series tire, but can't find it again. A few different sizes would really help open up the selection.

Thanx,

Matt

 

[atomsplitter]

You can fit any 16 you want as long as the fender and driveshaft will accomodate it. If the 180 spec is your rear then you own a Touring.

You should be able to find the OEM size in Bridgestone Exedra G702, Dunmop Elite 3, Dunlop D251, Metzeler 880, and Avon Venom.

From the OEM size measure the gap between your tire and the shaft and tire to fender. You can up the width (and decrease aspect ratio) in increments of 10 (10mm) for width. In other words if you go to a 190 the aspect ratio should be reduced so the tire isn't a lot taller as well. Say a 190/60. That's because the second number is a percentage of the width. A 180/70 is 180mm wide and 126mm (sidewall) tall. If you go with a 190/60 you'll have a 114mm tall tire. A 190/70 would make the tire 133mm side tall (thus the bun is 14mm overall larger) and could smack the fender over bumps. To keep the same profile tire with a 190 the aspect ratio would need to be about a 65 (good luck finding that). For a 200 you need a 63 aspect ratio for a 126mm sidewall (let me know where you can buy those).

 

[kmrmike]

I run a 195/60/16 car tire on the rear. Very happy with the results

 

[GPMAZ]

If you're going to try a different size just make sure you check the tire manufacturer's suggested wheel widths. If I recall the R3T wheel width is pretty much at the limit for the 180 rear and going wider may be pushing your luck.

 

[Ygransom]

Is the Bridgestone approved for the R3T? The origianl R3T's came with Bridgestone G850 which were replaced with the Metz due to internal failures.

 

[GPMAZ]

I emailed Bridgestone when the new Excedra Max was announced and asked them if they would recommend the tire for the R3T.

They replied and told me no, that I should use the Metzler.

 

[atomsplitter]

I emailed Bridgestone when the new Excedra Max was announced and asked them if they would recommend the tire for the R3T.

They replied and told me no, that I should use the Metzler.

I would also see what BMW is running on their bikes. They spec the rubber for OEM and it is usually heavier built (they run heavy bikes too).

 

[rainman]

I run a 195/60/16 car tire on the rear. Very happy with the results

i run a 205/60/16 on mine and it only up my speedo by 1mph

 

[Elvis]

I run a 195/60/16 car tire on the rear. Very happy with the results

Is it the Continental Tire everyone is talking about feeling identical to a motorcycle tire?

 

[Elvis]

i run a 205/60/16 on mine and it only up my speedo by 1mph

What Brand?