Tire suggestions?

[bgardner]

I'm mostly a commuter, who on weekends likes to moderatly get it on in the mountains. I'd like the bias to be towards longer wear, but still have the confidence to lean it over with the revs up high.

The only time I'll ever scratch my knee is bending down to change the sparkplug in the lawnmower. :)

[NukleoN]

Hi there!

I'd recommend the Metzeler Sportec M-1! Got a great review in some recent magazine comparos. ;)

[Setter32]

Nuke, you and I know that the M-1s are awesome. Except I think it will disappoint Mr. b with its longevity.

Like Nuke said, the M-1s are excellento. They stick like a muther. I have a pair on at present, and I luv them. They'll probably last me for 7000 miles. I already have close to 6000 on them. Holding up well, even with a cut I found on my rear rubber :sad:

But if ~7000 is too short of a life for ya, look into the Bridgestone BT010s....... and if you really want a long life the BT020s. Ersigh swears by the BT020s, and Bugg swears by the BT010s. The BT010s will not last as long as the BT020s, but are stickier. Ofcourse there are other good tyres out there, so do your research before you buy. I have always heard good things about the BT010s in terms of stickiness and wear. In fact, I almost bought the BT010s, but at the last minute bought the M-1s instead............. did I tell ya they stick like a muther?.................. awesome tyres.

:D

[bwarbiany]

My BT010 rear isn't going to last much past 4000 miles. I'm going to need to get a second rear to wear the same as the front has, so that I'll have gone through 2 rears for one front. Try the BT010 front, BT020 rear combo. You'll get good stickiness still out of the 020, and it should last about as long as the 010... I don't know what kind of mileage you'll get though, as I haven't worn through a set yet...

Brad

[ersigh]

I don't swear by 020's. I just have them, and am happy with them.

Or rather, I'm happy with the rear tire. But not the front ... (the tread runs vertical, grabs everything) ...

I have not heard of 020's or 020's lasting more than 7k ... I was told I'd be hardpressed to find anything of a semi decent compound that lasts that long ...

My tires have 5k on them now tho', and seem to be doing well. Are only now beginning to flatten out a bit from freeway riding ... (well hmm, burn outs prolly don't help, lol) ...

[bgardner]

Thanks.

I'll probably go with the 020's. Seems more appropriate for my purpose, and the cost is okay.

Anybody have much or any experience breaking the a tire's bead with a large C-clamp. I hate taking my cycles to the dealer.

[Setter32]

Don't deny it Leigh........... I've definitelty heard you swore by your BT020s.................... and at other places also. It sorta went like " YOU MUTHER #%$& , YOU PIECE OF #$%#, EAT #$%#$ AND DIE #$$%#!!!. WHY I OUGHTA RAM THIS UP YOUR #$%#^!!!"

Sounds familiar now.

:D

[ersigh]

Rod, I don't know what the &^@%^ you are talking about, but if I were you (which i'm *&@#*& not), I'd take your (*#@ and stick it in your @(*#& and then go jump off a (*@#& ...

You got that, you @#*&# #*$&@# )#@( $#%^#^!!!!!???

(basically, i'm (@*^#% innocent!!!)

;)

[Valkula]

I just put the BT020's on about 1000 miles ago and so far so good. I'd say they feel atleast as sticky as the MEZ4's and hopefully will get more mileage. I'm running them at 33front-36rear now and that seems pretty good. Tried them at 35/38 and did not like the feel in the corners.
But, as the others said, there are lots of good tires out there. It's kind of a trial and error thing.

[panick]

what's the hot set up for the sv used mostly for canyon rides?

[Gmoney]

all personal opinion. your opening a can of worms. i have metzler M-1 sport tec's front and rear. they stick like glue. my self personally i wouldnt buy anything else.

[Setter32]

Anything................but the Mez4.

:D

[Burst]

I was running the Bridgestone Battleax 010 on front and the 020 on the rear. I used the 020 to get longer wear....
I thought this set up was great. It worked really well, never had the rear let go.

Then I got the 010 on the rear after a nail finished off the 020 prematurely. OH MY GOD!!!! I wish I was independantly wealthy and I could afford to buy new tires every 2 months. I will shred through these things in no time at all, but the bike feels like a tornado could not get these tires to let go of the road. I recommend the 010's if you do not put a lot of miles on your bike like I do. The rear will probably only last me about 1 1/2 to 2 months(about 5-6,000 miles)

As Rod said tho, anything but the Mez4. I used to think those were fine until I finally had to replace them and tried the bridgestones. It's a whole new world with some good tires.

[Kurt'sSV]

Dunlop 207's baby!:vic:

[bwarbiany]

For mostly canyon's I'd recommend the Sportecs... That being said, I ride on the BT010's and haven't had any problems. But I do a fair amount of highway/commute, so I want that dual compound...

Brad

[xs8080]

The big reason that they turn faster or lean more is that the profile of the tire is designed diferently for sport vice sport touring tires. If you like it then cool, if not you will have to find a brand that suits you. Tire design varies a lot between manufacturers. Sport Rider magazine had a great article a couple months back. And yes different makes can improve handling or hurt it. Anyone with tire questions should look for the back issue of Sport Rider.

[Setter32]

Compound wise......... don't know.

How quickly it leans (in regards to tyres) "usually" depends on the shape of the tyre. I know that for the M-1s (my current tyres)......for the front tyre......... the shape is more "v" - shape. This will enable it to turn quicker. The only complaint I have about this.......is with my riding habits...... as the tyre gets worn (mostly on the sides)....... the v-shape gets sharper. This caused my bike to drop extremely fast at low speed.

The same goes for all of the tyres I have used in the past. As the sides of the front are worn down........ you'll find that the bike will lean more quickly.

But if most of the wear is in the middle of the tyre......... then it will not be a concern for you.

Bottom line.......... the shape of the tyre will definitely influence its' handling characteristics..........

[NukleoN]

I upgraded early, no waiting around for some crappy tires to wear out...I considered it a sporting upgrade.

[dnakase]

Originally posted by bwarbiany
For mostly canyon's I'd recommend the Sportecs... That being said, I ride on the BT010's and haven't had any problems. But I do a fair amount of highway/commute, so I want that dual compound...

Brad

Just glanced at a tire comparison where the Rensport came out on top. Can anyone tell me the difference between the Rens and the M1s? (This was for a tire comparo for smaller, read 600cc, bikes)

[stough]

I was one of those who through that the Mez4's were just fine.... I just replaced them with the BT010 front / BT020 rear combination, and did Racetech springs, emulators, and fork oil. Woah!!! It was an amazing change. However, I don't know if it was the forks or the tires.

I can say though that it's the best ride that I've ever had. So much fun that I can hardly keep out of the canyons. I've put on 800 miles on the Crest and 39/GMR/GRR in the past week and a half since doing the forks and tires and can't say enough good stuff about it. :vic:

BTW, I run the standard 33/36 psi. I was running 34/37 with the Mez4, but the front tire was getting triangular...

Later,
Tim.

[panick]

i really appreciate the imput as i will soon be replacing the tires.
yeah i want to do the forks and then the rear shock as well.

[NukleoN]

The Rennsports are more intented to be race tires for the track. Go with the Sportec M1's! They warm up quickly and got pretty much the highest rating in a recent comparo. ;)

[bwarbiany]

Anyone want to scan some of these articles you're talking about for us here?

Brad

[NukleoN]

I don't have a scanner, but I can probably post some excerpts if I find that issue. The Mezteler Sportec M1's got a great rating, definitely the best rating for street tires since they warm up quickly, and they apparently performed well on the track as well.

Also, another writer in the latest issue of Motorcyclist (I think it was) said great things about the Metzeler Sportecs (and a few other tires). You can't go wrong with Sportecs! :)

[Aufaber]

yah, the M1s seem to be the best deal if you can't fit a 180 rear and you don't care about tire wear. I know Jeff was really happy with his, but only got about 1,500 miles out of his front... but that was ALL side wear, the center looked like a new tire.

I like my 010s.. 6200 miles on them, no flat spot and lots of tread still.

-AaroN G>

[Setter32]

Then something was wrong with his tyres........... or his psi was way screwed up..............or he's a bike stud.

My M-1s lasted 8000 miles............. and that's because of the rear. The front would probably be good for another 2000.

My riding habit consists of mostly canyon riding......... and the 8000 miles also included a track day. So they can take a reasonable beating............. and in my case..............last longer than the Mez4s. I got 7000 out of the Mez4s.......... with no track time.

Funky....monkey....

:D

[ward]

I hear these stock mez4 tires suck, since this is my first bike I couldn't really tell you if they're bad or not, they seem to work fine for me. I only get to ride canyons about 25% of my miles and I'm putting about 1000 miles a month on my bike, so I'm not really excited about these sticky tires that last only 3000 miles. Would I be a cracksmoker if I got new mez4's for my next set??
are there any other high mileage options??
how many miles out of those BT20's??

thanks

[Punkbrad]

Huh huh..hmm huh... you said "crackhead"..

[Kurt'sSV]

My Dunlop 207's have lasted me a long time, like 15-16 months. Of course I don't ride too hard unless I'm on a canyon road I like. The 207's are now the previous generation tire for Dunlop and are not as good as the BT's or M1, but because the 208's are now Dunlop's top tire, the 207's are not as expensive.

[RACERX]

Damn ward your just like me. though I thought I was a crackhead for already putting 8100 miles in my bike in 2 months. To my knowledge if your just commuting tires are tires. But I splurged and got the new sportecs . they are fucking badass.
later
Cory

[Natedawgg]

Don't waste your $$. I toasted my mez4's before I got new skins. Then I upgraded.

mez4 are good for beginning riders for a couple reasons:

a) as a beginner it's best not to be riding to the limit of a mez4, let alone a 207
b) they last a long time
c) once you really start riding, they'll start slipping, which is good because you'll get the experience of slippage (good as long as you don't lowside), and you'll love your new skins even better

....................just don't lowside :D

..............and I'm not responsible for anyone who breaks his or her neck taking my advice :D


And, always wear clean underwear............. just in case.

[dnakase]

The reports I have read on the Sportecs is that they wear pretty well. If the prices is close between the two tires, buy the Sportecs.

[NukleoN]

If you plan to turn at all, get the Sportecs...they will invite you to ride your SV through the twisties...they will be way above your ability level and you can grow into them. They warm up quickly as well.

HIGHLY recommended!

[No_Brakes23]

Woe is me, I bought the tire replacement plan for my MeZ4s, I wonder if I can upgrade to Sportecs or Rennsports. I am blaming my 4s for my current bikeless period (over 6 weeks) as I low sided when they were cold.

[ward]

I guess you guys are right, when I wear out those mez4's I'll get something a bit stickier, maybe some bridgestones

later

[Golden_Eternity]

Originally posted by Kurt'sSV
My Dunlop 207's have lasted me a long time

I hear those are nasty until they warm up... A friend had them slipping on him through a low speed left hand turn from a stop light one very cold morning. Scared the piss out of him (not literally, though).

[NukleoN]

Your Sportecs cost you a certain amount of money. You'll save a little bit of money if you absolutely wear them out. You'll save another tiny bit of cash if you get less than superior tires when the MEZ 4's wear out.

Keep one thing in mind...

Motorcycles only have two wheels, and they lean over, decreasing their contact patch. The bike will have to tip in order to turn.

Therefore, get the best tires you can afford! Don't wait for tire X to wear out, don't try to extract mileage from a sub-standard tire...nope, I highly recommend getting the best tires NOW. This way, you're two points of contact with the ground are as good as they're gonna get, and any mistake you make thereafter which lands you on the ground can be owned, instead of having to wonder if your substandard tires were the culprit.

Again, I consider good tires not just a maintenance purchase, but a performance upgrade, better than any exhaust, jet kit or whatever.

When you have proper grip, you can always tweak the other parts of the bike with impunity.

That's just my backwards logic. :)

[bwarbiany]

Yeah, I agree with Nukleon... Get yourself some soft-compound slicks... Those'll grip like hell once they're warm...

Oh, don't blame me when you only get 500 miles out of them. And, don't ride in the rain. Slicks don't work in the rain...

Okay, seriously now... I'd suggest the BT010 front/BT020 rear combo... I've heard of some people slipping the 020 rear, but nobody at our riding level... And not a bad slippage either... The front will take a while to wear down, and you want something soft up front, and the rear is like stone in the middle, but still gets pretty sticky on the sides...

That being said, the Sportecs I've heard nothing but good things about. But, I've never ridden them, so I can't really comment on mileage. Others have said they're really good on mileage, and if so they're a better tire than the 010's... But the 010/020 combo will be a lot cheaper and last just as long, and although you ride pretty well, it'll take another set of tires at least before you can really put the 020 out of whack...

Brad

[stough]

I'm with Brad. I put the 010/020 combo on my bike after my balding Mez4 got a flat. I'm very happy with them. The only complaint I have is that they don't stick on gravel. Oh wait, I probably can't complain about that. ;)

Later,
Tim.

[RACERX]

changed to the sportecs from stock. I am very happy and will not buy any other tire except for them. the love going in to corners and stick like flys to shit.
Later
Cory

[Burst]

I am currently running the 010's front and rear. They work pretty well, but I need something stickier. I have started breaking the rear loose in the exits of turns up at Palomar. Nothing too bad, always recover just fine.

If you do not ride very aggressively the 010/020 combo is great. VERY long wear. I have over 10,000 miles on the front 010, had the 020 out back and it had around 5,000 miles on it when I got a flat. Still had plenty of tread left. Can't go wrong with these if you do not need a super sticky tire.

[dnakase]

Just occured to me you could probably find near new, under 800 mile, MZ4s that were swapped out for stickier rubber by racers or more agressive riders for cheap.

[Chim Chim]

The Sportecs are a fabulous tire, especially after riding Mez4s. And they wear really well for what they are, however they aren't a touring tire(duh!). I did a trip to San Francisco (800mi) last month and my Sportecs got noticeably flat spotted, like close to the wear bars flat spotted. Bear in mind that i took mainly back roads and spent maybe 200 miles on the freeway. So if you're racking up serious freeway miles the 020/rear 010/front might be a better option. But, in the twisties, the Sportecs are beauty and joy:love:

[RACERX]

I ride approx. 600 a miles a week just to work let alone my fun time on the weekend. The sportecs still havent got flat in the middle plus i have rode twice to LA on them. just check the pressure regularly
later
Cory

[NukleoN]

I've ridden between L.A. and San Jose 3 times on my bike on my Sportecs...no flat spot. That's 1200 miles...maybe your pressure is off? The 101 is pretty twisty thankfully...I'd be a bit more concerned on the 5 which is straighter.

[Chim Chim]

Well, unless my tire pressure guage is seriously out of whack, I don't think it's a tire pressure issue. I check my pressure before every ride.
I've even noticed a fair amount of rubber debris on on the center portion of my tire after long freeway hauls on hot days.
I do use engine braking a lot, I wonder if this could be a contributing factor???

[Burst]

I've got somewhere around 4,000 miles on my rear 010 and have JUST started noticing a bit of a square shape to it. 3/4 of those miles are a straight shot up and down the 15 between my place and SD. When my pressure is off I notice the remnants of chewed up tire from the freeway rides as well. I would try somebody else's pressure gauge.

Engine braking will actually be easier on the rear tire than the rear brake is. I wouldn't worry about that.

[Setter32]

I do use engine braking a lot, I wonder if this could be a contributing factor???

Like Burst said.......nope..............

I have M1s...........I engine brake.........alot..................... no flat spots.........

Chim Chim............. How much do you weigh?........if you don't mind me askin.........

If you're a heavy guy.............that "may" contribute to it...............though I doubt to the extent that you described....

If you're a heavy guy and like to whomp on that throttle...........often......................that "will" contibute to it.........

Just a thought...........

:D

[Chim Chim]

Nope, I'm not very heavy, probably around 165 with gear. I'm going to grab a new tire pressure guage and see what that shows. Though the guage I'm using now was almost dead on with a really nice german one when I took the time to compare.
If it's not the pressure I'm going to be really puzzled. The only other thing I could guess is that on that SF trip the temp was 90+ both on the way up and down, and I spent a lot of time over 90mph.

[Burst]

chim......

Another thing to check is that your rear tire is PERFECTLY aligned.... If it is not it will increase the amount of wear on the rear. It will also make the bike feel a little *funny*. Not anything very noticeable, but there will be moments when you hit a groove in the road or when you go to turn into a corner and it just didn't feel right for a split second. It is usually just enough to make you notice, but only enough that you think *bah, it's just me....*

[BluBallz]

well this tuesday i have an appt. to get my new tire from alba action sports in poway... any idea what tire i should get? im looking for a tire that will do good in wet and dry times but mostly wet because of the season... im thinking of the d208zr because of the price and what the guy said at the shop... but what would anyone else here recommend, any likes and dislikes people? lemme know... thx

[linp]

Use the "Search" function on either "tire" or "Dunlop".

http://www.socalsvriders.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=785

Everyone seems to love the Metzler Sportec M1s.

[Stinky]

Grippy tire, very quick turn in, and they wear really well. I'm getting another set soon.

[Gmoney]

i like the Metzler M-1 Sport techs. they have worked great and have stuck like glue. im going to need a new rear tire in a week or so and im buying the M-1's again.

[Kurt'sSV]

I like my Dunlop 208s. Don't know how well they will work in the wet. Like the M1's they have big fat treads in them, but not very many. I'm guessing this is to give you a larger contact point with the ground, which is good in dry conditions. In the rain, probably not so good.

[pcperks]

I know there has been previous threads that discussed tires, but I had to go searching around through multiple threads to find anything decent. So I thought we'd get a thread going on this and get everyone's input on what the best perfromance tires are that are still used for the street and how they hold up.

I was going to get the Metzeler M1 Sportecs, however, no one seems to currently have them in stock and I need them in a couple days. So I went with the Bridgestone BT010's. I'll be having them put on tomorrow. These are the only two kinds of tires that I know of that people have talked about for performance. I'd like to find out if anyone has had both and which ones they liked better.

[Burst]

I am currently riding the sportecs. I am not so sure I like them, just because the rear has squared off in a very short amount of time. But, that could be because I have not been doing as much canyon carving lately. The 010's are great tires. They stick well and provide good wear. I got around 15,000 miles out of my front 010, and went through a 020 and a 010 rear in that time. You can push them pretty hard before they let go. Only had the rear let go a few times. The front never failed on me.

The sportecs are stickier, they almost feel too planted. The bike just keeps leaning more and more, feeling more and more like instead of giving me a little *warning skip*, it is just gonna tear loose and I'll be toast.

I guess it really depends on you, what type of riding you will be doing most, are you on a budget etc. Both are great tires. 010 wears better M1, and M1 sticks better. Not much to it.

[SuperSpud]

I just got my first pair of non-stock tires, and from what I've heard these should really stick. I guess the D207's are getting replaced by a new version of the Dunlop D208's, so the back tire only was $80 new and the front $60. My front metzler still has some life on it so I may leave it on for a bit longer and try mixing it up. Is it really bad to do this? Anyway, I'll let you know how they wear soon.

[Setter32]

The M1s are great tyres.......in my opinion....

But there are cons to the tyres.....

I ride more twisties than I do straight lines (freeways).......... therefore.....my last set lasted approx 8000 miles.....

Like Burst said.........if you do more straight line comuting.........it may last alot less......

Also......the tyres will stick right out of the garage.........we are talkin very little warm up time............ the catch?.......... at higher temp......they're more prone to skidding......... but when they slide......it's not too bad.....

The tyres never slid on me once............ but then I don't have the skill set to take the tyres temp up to the higher levels.......

....my neighbor has the skills.........and he has heated the tyres up pretty good.........and he said at higher temp, they slid on him.......but just a little.......

The BT010s are also a good choice.....


:D

[pcperks]

Gregg,
I was looking for the best grip in a road tire, and I guess that might be the M1's then. I'm going to Buttonwillow this Saturday and wanted the best grip that will also not wear out too quick. I guess I'll be able to tell everyone how well the BT010's handle at the track.

Phil

P.S. I'm still in the market for your undertail. :D

[Golden_Eternity]

Watch the 207s in the cold... My friend Toad had a pair spook him when they went sliding around on him making a chill left turn one frosty morning...

And this is a guy who plans his entrance to a particular freeway onramp based on the fact that he's going to clip a painted arrow with his rear tire, which will send it sliding around and then have it catch at just the point when he's straightened out heading up the onramp...

Crazy bastid. Luck like you wouldn't believe.

[Kurt'sSV]

I've never had M1s or BT 010's, just Dunlop 207's and 208's. Like'em bofe. Good wear, but they do take a bit longer to heat up then the M1's and BT 010's. Once they are heated up they stick fine.

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by pcperks
Gregg,
I was looking for the best grip in a road tire, and I guess that might be the M1's then. I'm going to Buttonwillow this Saturday and wanted the best grip that will also not wear out too quick. I guess I'll be able to tell everyone how well the BT010's handle at the track.

Phil

P.S. I'm still in the market for your undertail. :D

silky daniel (not sure if he still hangs around here) who was at the gathering from Norcal, actually had the BT020's at Buttonwillow... He's faster on those tires than I'd be on warmed-up slicks... He said they worked just fine, but then again he likes sliding... But I've heard from a lot of people that the BT010's are decent for the track...

Brad

[Aufaber]

Well if you are looking for the "best tire", well the canyon/track tire you are going to get really is going to be the 208GP, but they will wear very quickly, need to be warmed up before they will stick and they are vulnerable to multiple heat cycles reducing grip.

I run 010's right now, it's what my bike came with. They grip ok and last a long time. I have almost 11k miles on my front.

When I change this set out I am switching to M1's, though they are slightly more grippy the biggest difference is in the profile of the tire. If you sit my roommate and my bikes next to each other it's really obvias that the M1s have a much sharper profile, the 010s look like a flat mushroom next to them.

From what I understadn the D207zr's are the worst of both worlds. You need to warm them up, but they still stick like a street tire and heat cycles will quickly harden them up good.

or something


-Aaron G>

[Burst]

Bill took his 929 to Willow Springs with the 010's on it and said they did great. They heat up really well.

I do not think you will be disappointed with the tires. Just be gentle with the throttle on the exits of turns after you have the tires heated up. When they get real warm, I found a little too much throttle on the exit breaks the the rear loose. Happened to me a number of times up at Palomar. Though it only happened when I cracked the throttle wide open a little too early.

[Bigtime1]

I've run the 207's on mine and they worked very well, but only lasted about 4000 - 5000 miles a set. Currently I'm running the 010's and while they don't have quite the feedback of the 207's they are not wearing as fast. After almost a thousand miles they're just starting to feather the edges of the tread.

[pcperks]

Well, after changing my mind about a million times, I ended up with the 208's. And I definitely need to wear them in, as they are slick as can be. I've already slid once. Question is, do I need to put alot of miles on them before I hit the track Saturday to wear them in a little?

[panick]

i have no track experience to lend you but, my new D208's feel like i'm glued to the road compared to the stock tires.
my 2 cents worth, have a great time at the track!
cheers

[Burst]

Phil,
If I were you, I would go ride Palomar tomorrow with Paul and Steve.(like you need an excuse to go ride anyway?) Bill and I might be there also. One good morning of riding Palomar will have those slippery pups worn down to good rubber in no time at all. Usually by my second or third run up and down Palomar on new tires, they are good to go.

[linp]

I've gotta agree. Come Phil, it's for safety reasons that you're taking a few hours off work to properly scrub in those dangerously slick tires. I'm sure your workplace would understand.

[pcperks]

I'm actually in a military leadership class, so getting off early is not as easy as it normally would be. And I've got a few other things to take care of. I'll see how everything goes and hopefully can make it up there. If anything, I'll do a quick Julian run to get some wear on them. Thanks for all your help. And hopefully this single thread can help out any other people looking at new tires.

Phil

[Dan]

LMK when you do that julian ride

:geek:

[dnakase]

A guy I know who rides the crap out of his bike, (he is a motorcyle messenger), posted a review of a sport tire on LAbusas.org:


Super Maxxis Review Thread on LA Busas (http://www.labusas.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?p=334691#334691)

[linp]

Interesting read! I'm also interested in hearing about Continental's Conti Force tires. The Maxxis and the ContiForce cost about the same... ~$10 less per tire than Sportec M1's, which makes them pretty expensive still.

[Viniteio-181]

...aboot...sheesh...Canooks.

Has anyone had any experience with the Michelin Macadam 100x, Dunlop D220, or Continental ContiForce? I was reading these reviews...and shopping for a tire from here:
http://www.discountmotorcycletire.com/reviews.html?mgiToken=16CO9VL15IIAJFF88

In any case, I need a new rear like I need 10Gs, but I know it isn't a good idea to mix different brands/models of tires on any vehicle, much less a motorcycle. I didn't have any complaints about the Z4s...they're really good *monsoon* tires. People that live in Santa Clarita know what I mean. But, I want to try something else this time, yet my front tire is only half-worn, so I might have to up for another Z...unless I can trade in the front....:-?

[pcperks]

I don't know much, but I do know that the Dunlop 208's I've got are SWEET! They ran me about $180 for the set, not including mounting and everything else. And if you can find them at CycleGear, I'm sure they would be even cheaper.

[bwarbiany]

BT010's and BT020's (Bridgestone) are good wet tires... Hell, I think that's a UK company, we know they get enough rain there to design tires for it :D

Brad

[Viniteio-181]

The Continentals don't seem to be really bad tires, but I haven't heard anything good/bad about them.

I noticed that almost everyone on this thread changed from sport-touring (except for the BT020s) to full sport tires like 207/208/M1/Pilot/BT010. How do they wear? I don't do enough carving to justify tires that'll only last 5k, so I've narrowed down the choices to the Michelin Macadam 100x (heard great reviews) and the Dunlop D220. Both are cheaper than the Z4s, but the Macadam100 (not the 90) is more Pilot-ish than a tourer, which is probably the perfect balance for people who do more extended-distance, semi-sporty riding like me. Same goes for the Maxxis SuperMaxx... I'd rather trade some grip for more mileage...but still need good wet traction.

I don't know where else to ask this question, b/c most other sites are for hardcore sport riders who only post up Pilots/208GPs/M1s/Rennsports/BT012SS for max grip, or tourers who use H-rated tires that give up too much grip for mileage.

Any experiences?

[dnakase]

Originally posted by bwarbiany
BT010's and BT020's (Bridgestone) are good wet tires... Hell, I think that's a UK company, we know they get enough rain there to design tires for it :D

Brad

Think "Land of the Rising Son". Japan, also an island nation that gets it's share of rain.

I recently got a qoute on a set of Super Maxxis tires that was $35-40 less than a set of M1s. Think the Maxxis will be my next set of rubber.

If you liked the MEZ4s I think the longevity of the tire makes up for the extra cost. Mine have over 6k on 'em and I'm just getting rid of them 'cause I think mor sporting tires will squidify me. :squid: :D :D

[Troy]

Vini-I face the same dilemma. I put a lot of straight-line miles on my tires, so a harder compund with a longer tire life is a must. On the other hand, I want a softer compund tire for riding in the mountains and for track days next year. So, now I'm thinking I'll save some $$'s, and buy a set of rims/tires dedicated for sport riding, and continue to use MZ4's for my commutes to work.

:| :tired:

[Viniteio-181]

Originally posted by tc5479
Vini-I face the same dilemma. I put a lot of straight-line miles on my tires, so a harder compund with a longer tire life is a must. On the other hand, I want a softer compund tire for riding in the mountains and for track days next year. So, now I'm thinking I'll save some $$'s, and buy a set of rims/tires dedicated for sport riding, and continue to use MZ4's for my commutes to work.

:| :tired:

That's why I'm going to get the Macadam100s...it has much of the good street manners/mileage of the Z4, but has more in common with the Pilot Sport. A supersport/touring tire that's perfect for semi-hard riders that use their bike as a do-it-all main vehicle; better than a Maxxis/Z4/BT020, but still a notch below a Pilot/D208, and unsuited for track use. Your solution is best, since you're going track riding. I won't know for sure until I run a set...so only time will tell. 4-5 months.

http://motous.webmichelin.com/

[ValSVS78]

Hello to everyone,

So I want to change my Metzeler MEZ 4 but I don't know which tyres I can put on ......
Some people told me about Michelin Pilot Sport, Bridgestone BT010 on front and BT020 on rear wheel but other one told me about Metzeler Sportec M1..... They say that this tyre is the best choice for the SVS...

So could you help me ?

Thank's for your answers..... ;)

Valentin

[Kurt'sSV]

Depends on what type of riding you will be doing. The M1's are the best sport street tire, but they'll wear faster. The Bridgestones are a good, happy medium.

[ValSVS78]

In fact, 'cause of my location, I'm searching some quick warm tyres and also good tyres on the rain ....
Belgium is not a dry and sunny country so ......
And I'm riding a lot at high speed, belgian roads are same as moutain road ..... lot of turns so ...... :p
What tyres are the best for me ???

Valentin

[Kurt'sSV]

Well I don't thing the M1's are so good in the rain, but I think the Dunlop 208's are supposed to be okay. They changed the tread pattern to aid in wet weather riding.

[ValSVS78]

But some people say that this tires are particular profil like a triangle if you understand what I want to say ...
Bad sensation when you angle your bike ..... no ?

Is that true ?

Valentin

[Kurt'sSV]

With a triangle shape it is good when you angle your bike because the tire is made to be ridden more at a lean than completely upright.

[Dr. D]

Got some Sportec M-1 from Ronayers.com
Under $200 with shipping.
:D

[Vicelike]

I just paid $225 for the M_! from Lee's Cycle plus labor to install...

[SdGix]

I had the dunlop 207s on my gixxer and i switched to the M1s....i saw an immediate difference. My bike just wanted to lean where as the dunlop required more effort.

[Vicelike]

I just put on the M-1 Sportec at the same time I fixed my front suspension with Racetech stuff.

Not sure how much to credit each move but the package has made a noticeable change in the way the bike corners and the effort required to initiate change of direction.

[sarge]

Originally posted by SdGix
I had the dunlop 207s on my gixxer and i switched to the M1s....i saw an immediate difference. My bike just wanted to lean where as the dunlop required more effort.

i'm thinking of switching to m1's too. i've never ridden anything except the dunlops(and the stock metzlers of course). i'd eventually like to try out a few different brands of tires.

[mavic1kona]

Any thoughts on what would be good tires for a 2003 sv650s.

[smolvar]

I'm sure the ones that worked well on the 99-02's such as Bridgestone 020/010, Metzler Sportechs, Dunlop 208s would be fine on the 03's as well

[RageRage]

Okay, wherz the best .com to buy the Metzler M-1s? Thanks.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Do not go gentle into that good Night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

[Setter32]

Originally posted by mavic1kona
Any thoughts on what would be good tires for a 2003 sv650s.

....the M1s.....

....best set of tyres for the SV..........in my opinion........

....I've recently upgraded to the Rennsports..........they're alright.............but as soon as they are toast........I'm going back to the M1s........

.....the M1s gives me the most confidence (equates to fast warm up and plenty sticky).........but still give me value for my money (equates to last for a reasonable amount of time)....

....my last pair lasted about 6000 miles.............but may vary with your riding style.......and weight........




:D

[swll360]

Need some opinion's on the Dulop D208ZR's for the front. I want to get another Sport-Tech but I will have to order them and i need tire right now. The only thing available is the D208. Should i go for it? It's gonna be hard to part with the Sport-Tech.

[SdGix]

Ive had Michelin...Dunlop...and now metzler....
Hands down...Metzler M1's

[NukleoN]

Get the Metz Sportech M1 and get the suspension sorted if you haven't already...oh crap did I already reply to this thread? :D I tried the BT's and wasn't that impressed...didn't feel as good the M1's to me.

[Nanduccio]

I STILL think the best bang for your buck comes from the Bridgestones. Namely the 020R, and 010F combo.

(Even mix and match with 020F or 010R depending on style of riding.)

I've actually gone with a 020F on my bike, and I'm pretty damn aggressive, and I still haven't slid it yet. But I do let them warm up...

The magazines have also had nice things to say about the Dunlop 220's which ship on the '03 bikes. Seems like they are a fairly sticky touring tire. I'm actually thinking about trying a set next time...

[swll360]

Thanx for the info everone. I ended up finding a Sport-Tech. Can't go wrong with them. I was worried for a while there.

[98f3]

I have the pirelli dragon supercorsas....they are the street version of the supercosas...they are older and they dont make them anymore...some people still have old stock of them, and I personally love them and would get them again and again if I could find them and afford them. They are the best tires I've ridden to date... love'em love'em love'em

Ive tried the 208s....sucky...I slid around on them not too long after I had them, but in all fairness, my throttle control was even worse than it is now. the milage I got was so so...between 3-4k...cant remember.

I also have run the older pilot race and they took a long azz time to warm up but worked nice once warm. For me since I commute on my tires I need something with a little longevity and since Im not ballin' like all of you, I cant be buying new tires every 6-8 weeks. My tires are completely toast...funny thing is that I still trust them...they just dont have any tread...except for a little on the right side....those right handers...I always wuss out on...the front is fine and has plenty of life left, the tricky thing is that since they are like slicks on the sides its hard to determine how much tread I have used...the front hasnt ever slid out on me and I do not go fast enough to do that anyways...

I have 010s on my F2 and they are good tires, they have an super quick warm up time and I totally dig that since I usually commute to work in the morning and need to watch out for those crazy drivers eager to get to work, so for me that is comforting. I cant really give a lot of feedbak on them except that I trust them for as much as I can push them on my F2...It has the worst suspension ever and I think that the tires themselves are taking alot of absorption as a result.

I personally have been thinking about the rennsports if I can get a deal, and im talking about the street version again, and not teh race tires. I have also been thinking about the 010/020 combo, but after talking to some buddies, Im still debating. I commute everyday on my bike and I go to palomar(our local twisty fix) every weekend at least once. I try to keep up with the folks at palomar, but usually cant. I push myself to where I feel comfortable. I think that I have progessed on the supercorsas a lot and thats because I had a ton of confidence in them and I think that that is the number one factor in riding safe and having fun.

Has anyone tried the 020s, the 010/020 combo, diablos, or the michelin pilot sports?

Im interested in hearing some feedback since you guys are running the same tire size as me.

Im leaning towards either the 010/020 combo or the pilot sports....but a little hesitant on both...less grip...

My skills arent that great but I am learning so I feel that I need some tires that'll compensate for my lack thereof....

:geek:

[No_Brakes23]

Hey Kurt,

If there are any two brands you can mix, it should be Pirelli and Metz, since they are the same company. I have read repeatedly that they are identical except for tread design, (in Sport Rider or somewhere.) As far as I know, their models correspond to each other. (Like Dragon super Corsas = Sportec M-1s and Diablos = Rennsports-something like that.)

I keep hearing excellent stuff about the M-1s, so I'm gonna try those to replace the MeZ4s.


Anybody tried the Maxxis tires? I know they make great Bicycle and Dirt Bike Tires.

[zzzwillzzz]

i'm the guinea pig. unproud member of the tire of the month club. in about 10 months and 18000 miles i've rarely had a matched set. doesn't seem to bother me (except that i'm going broke).

fronts:
whatever came on the bike (i don't remember) 120/60
207 gp 120/70 8000 miles
207 gp 120/70 3500 miles
208 gp 120/70 in progress

rears:
whatever came on the bike (i don't remember) 160/60
207 gp 170/60 perfect except that it wears so fast
mez4 170/60 crap, but you knew that mileage wasn't good either(but i got it really cheap)
pilot sport 160/60 very good
208zr 160/60 grips almost as well as the pilot sport, wears too fast
010 160/60 one day old picked up a metal spring on the crest, (worked good 'til then)

been dying to try the sportec, but it never seems to be around when i need it

[Kurt'sSV]

Originally posted by No_Brakes23
Hey Kurt,

If there are any two brands you can mix, it should be Pirelli and Metz, since they are the same company.

Well that makes sense since they are both German companies. It also explains the coinsidence that you can only find 150/60's in Pirelli Diablo/Supercorsas and Metzler M1 and Rensports. Won't find that rear in a sport tire with any other company I've seen.

Thanks for pointing that out.

[Sunil]

Pireli and Metzler are not the same company. Pirelli is an Italian and Metzler is a German.

Pirelli is a publicly traded company: Pirelli & C. S.p.a. is listed on the Milan Stock Exchange with ticker PECI.MI.

For Metzlermoto I did not find the ticker symbol.

Here are my thoughts (not that anyone gives a F)on tire mix and match. I don't think that for regular riding it make too much of a difference. However, the difference in tires(brand) due to their unique approach in technology in terms of rubber compound hardness, tire radius, how fast they warm up and how well they behave under stress on the track or going up the Palomar may be out of sync.

Part411 has a special on Sorptec M1

[zzzwillzzz]

pirelli and metzeler are the same when it comes to motorcyle tires and have been for the last few years. they may be different companies but their tires come off the same production line and just use different tread patterns to differentiate between the brands.

[03SVS1KTX]

It's time for the SV1k to get some new shoes and was just curious what everyone recommends. I live in Houston TX where our roads are straight as hell but I don't mind making a road trip to TX hillcountry to hit some corners. I also do the occassional track day.....ride in all weather etc. What I need is a nice well rounded all weather sport tire. Something that gets decent mileage AND sticks. Is there such a beast?

[KevBigCBR]

I'm waiting to see how many people scream Metzler Sportecs.

[Setter32]

...... M1s.....BABY!!!!!........:sad: ......

......

......

.......that was inappropriate......................I apologize.....





:D

[Setter32]

....though your 1K should pretty much chew up........your rear rubber fairly quickly........

....so you may consider getting something a little more........of a sport/tourer type...........if you're concern about mileage......




:D

[tigger]

With the 650, I have the Bridgestone BT010/020 combo and I really love it. The front is a bit cupped from not running corners quite right, but the rear 020 is doing quite well.

Don't know how those would work on the 1K, but the 020 rear held up well for commuting (and has not squared off too badly yet).

[Tillers_Rule]

Originally posted by Setter32
...... M1s.....BABY!!!!!........:sad: ......

......

......

.......that was inappropriate......................I apologize.....





:D


Instead of apologizing couldnt you have just went back and edited it:confused: :monkey:

[Kurt'sSV]

Originally posted by 03SVS1KTX
It's time for the SV1k to get some new shoes and was just curious what everyone recommends. I live in Houston TX where our roads are straight as hell but I don't mind making a road trip to TX hillcountry to hit some corners. I also do the occassional track day.....ride in all weather etc. What I need is a nice well rounded all weather sport tire. Something that gets decent mileage AND sticks. Is there such a beast?

Since you will be doing track days too, I wouldn't go with the BT 010/020 combo. I road my brothers SVS this weekend w/ that tire combo and I think that 020 rear sucks. You might as well get the 010 rear too. It's stickier, rounder, and will still last a while. The M1's get a flat spot real quick, and the Pilot sports are expensive. I guess the DP 208ZR's are supposed to be good in the rain. Maybe give those a try.

[Setter32]

I guess the DP 208ZR's are supposed to be good in the rain. Maybe give those a try.

.....you think the M1s squares out.........fairly quickly.......

......and you recommend the 208s?.....

...... ARE YOU INSANE???!!!!.......:sad: ......

.....

....

...

....actually...........I have no freakin idea what type of tyres the 208ZRs are........

.....just felt like giving kurt some doo doo................and having another inappropriate outburst........





:D

[Tillers_Rule]

I've used many sets on 208's and thought they were nice. I now am running a set of Pilot sports and they seem to stay more planted. Some say they take longer to warm up but I have not noticed that.

[madmakr]

I run dunlop 208's front and back. California superbike school runs them too. They come in a race compound also but are $$$$. If you can still get some discontinued 207's you could try those. They are wider (looks cooler) and seem to last a little longer. I get 5000 miles out of the 208's and 8-9000 out of the 207's. I commute everyday and have been told to try the 205's. They last the longest. But remember the longer they wear the less traction. But are you really draggin your knee on the way to the Dairy Queen? OK, Kurt is but he's not normal!

[KevBigCBR]

Just do what I do...Run Race Tires! As long as you get them warm...they STICK!

[Kurt'sSV]

Originally posted by KevBigTwin
...Run Race Tires! As long as you get them warm...they STICK!

Thanks for the delightful insight, Kevin. I don't think any of us realized that. :rolleyes:

[KevBigCBR]

Originally posted by Kurt'sSV
Thanks for the delightful insight, Kevin. I don't think any of us realized that. :rolleyes:


HA! Sorry Kurt...everyone just tends to make things so DAMN COMPLICATED!

Buy Sticky ass Tires...Lower the air pressure a bit...and they last longer...

I think we all should know that there is no "GOOD" combination tire. You either get a mileage tire that doesn't stick, or you get a sticky tire that you get no mileage out of...

[Kurt'sSV]

Originally posted by KevBigTwin


Buy Sticky ass Tires...Lower the air pressure a bit...and they last longer...



Wait, what? You lower the tire pressure and they'll last longer? That's not right. It's the other way around. You lower the tire pressure to get them to heat up faster and get a bigger contact patch.

[KevBigCBR]

Okay, perhaps we should look into some schooling here...If you jack up you air pressure, you reduce the contact patch which is why most people square off their rear. If you lower the pressure, you in turn use more of the tire (larger contact patch) which prevents squaring. The harder the tire, the harder the contact which will inevitably cause faster wear.

[oren]

The lower the pressure, the more heat that is generated, and the lower the life of the tire.

Short physics. High pressure tires, no room for air inside to expand and heat up. Low pressure, lots of room, more heat.

Too high, no stickyness since obviously you need some heat. Too low and you get a huge difference between cold pressure and riding pressure which indicates you have the wrong amount of air in.

There are very good compromise tires out there. You don't need SuperCorsas on the street or for track days when Diablo Corsas or Diablos are perfectly good compromise tires and give far more mileage.

I'd also suggest going by tire manufacturer recommendations on track which is 31/29 for Dunlops. On the street I kept them around 36-37/36-37.

[Setter32]

.....yeah.........my conception is that .....

..lower pressure = increased stickiness / less life.........

..higher pressure = less stickiness / more life..........and from my experience with my SV.......it seems to also increase stability.....

.....

.....anyhoot..........the point of this particular post is to point you guys with the 180 size or larger...towards the B012SS...........atleast I think there's an SS behing the #....

.....I have them on the RR now.............I've put 5.5 K on them........and they are still way good...............I can get another 2k (probably more) out of them for sure.......

....I was very surprised by this.............cuz....on the street anyway....they stick as well as the M1s.....

....not sure about their performance on the track though...........havent' tried them out there yet........




:D

[KevBigCBR]

Originally posted by Setter32
....anyhoot..........the point of this particular post is to point you guys with the 180 size or larger...towards the B012SS...........atleast I think there's an SS behing the #....

:D

Setter...I've heard that the 012SS is a very good tire. Also, there was a new tire release in Europe (don't think the tires are available in the US yet, Damn I need to read American Bike Mags) anyway...There is a new BT020 "NT" that is out.

It is supposed to have the stick of an 012SS with the Wear life of an 020...

Not sure if it is going to come state side...but that sounds killer!

[zzzwillzzz]

oren, it's got to do with the tire carcass flex, not air inside the tire. lower pressure means more flex as more tread is pushed onto the road surface, when the tires are at a higher pressure less flex is generated in the carcass and therefore less heat.

[swll360]

AHHHHHHHHHHHH.........M1.......YEAH

[bwarbiany]

Quick question...

If I buy tires online, will Cycle Gear still mount/balance for $12/wheel? I can get M1's for under $200 for the set online, but Cycle Gear is charging considerably higher...

[Kurt'sSV]

Originally posted by bwarbiany
Quick question...

If I buy tires online, will Cycle Gear still mount/balance for $12/wheel?

NO! I posted about this last week. It cost me 56 dollars to have them mount tires I bought else ware. Find someplace else to mount your tires if you buy them on line.

[KevBigCBR]

Originally posted by bwarbiany
Quick question...

If I buy tires online, will Cycle Gear still mount/balance for $12/wheel? I can get M1's for under $200 for the set online, but Cycle Gear is charging considerably higher...


NO THEY WILL NOT! I took in my race take offs when Burst and I did my 8K service...they TRIED to charge me $78 dollars...

Then Gregg and I looked at the guy behind the counter like we were going to kick the hell out of him...and they only charged me $60.00 (30 per tire). Jackasses!

[bwarbiany]

Ok then... I'm not too surprised by that... Anyone know somewhere in LA/OC that will do it for cheap? I'm sure I can do SD as well if needed...

[oren]

Mach One in Costa Mesa told me $15/tire once. I then go in with two tires and Long tried to get me for $20/tire. I ended up getting them mounted and balanced for $30 total and was ok. Your mileage may vary.

I think California Race Services in Huntington Beach will do it for $10/tire since that's what they charge at the track.

You could also ask both their price on M1s. They might be competitive with online.

[vipman]

Parts411.com has Dunlop 207's. A pair for sv runs about $190 + shipping etc. Any suggestions and a good place to get them mounted.
Dealer here in corona wants to charge $65 per wheel to remove and add tire. If I buy tires from them and take wheels to them myself they will do it for free but cost for a pair of 208's is $270 + tax. Which is a better deal?

[Setter32]

Originally posted by Setter32

.....anyhoot..........the point of this particular post is to point you guys with the 180 size or larger...towards the B012SS...........atleast I think there's an SS behing the #.....

.....I have them on the RR now.............I've put 5.5 K on them........and they are still way good...............I can get another 2k (probably more) out of them for sure.......

....I was very surprised by this.............cuz....on the street anyway....they stick as well as the M1s.....

....not sure about their performance on the track though...........havent' tried them out there yet........





......just checked...............the pair I have on is not the B012 SS........

.....the pair I have on the RR is just the regular B012..........no SS....





:D

[Setter32]

....last night.........I was offered a pair of Dunlops 207Fs........for $125..........

.....though the tyres on my RR are still way good.............the price for this pair was too good to pass up...........so I bought them.......

.....anyone has experience with the 207s................can you give me a little input on what I can expect from them.......stickiness.....mileage.....etc....

....thanks in advance....




:D

[TIE_Pilot]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=34284&item=2436478101&sspagename=rvi%3A1%3A2

Anyone have an opinion on these? For $50 back + $40 + $35 shipping seems like a pretty good deal on a set of tires (plus mounting of course)...

[dillweed]

www.swmototires.com is the shit.....no shipping charges if you buy 2 or more, and no tax either.

[Dr. D]

Originally posted by TIE_Pilot
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=34284&item=2436478101&sspagename=rvi%3A1%3A2

Anyone have an opinion on these? For $50 back + $40 + $35 shipping seems like a pretty good deal on a set of tires (plus mounting of course)...

Had them, super shitty, nuff said.

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by Dr. D
Had them, super shitty, nuff said.

I think the Avon 39/40 are good... One thing I've heard about Avon is that often they require a lot higher pressure than other tires... Like 39 front, 42 rear... That could be why they didn't work as well for you...

[bwarbiany]

I posted this in the tire poll, but figured I should cross-post it here since we talked about online costs and mounting costs...

I just got a set of M1's for $192+shipping from DiscountMotorcycleTire.com... Cycle Gear's current prices put them at $250 for the set plus tax... Now I just gotta get them put on (Cycle Gear quoted $21/wheel, and Mach One in Costa Mesa quoted $15/wheel, both assuming you bring them the wheels)...

[vipman]

Cycle City, Irvine has Sportec M-1's front for $89+ tax and rear for $107+tax. They will mount it free if you remove the rims and take them there. Balancing is $7 extra per tire. About same as off internet with shipping and etc. added.

[Dr. D]

Originally posted by bwarbiany
I think the Avon 39/40 are good... One thing I've heard about Avon is that often they require a lot higher pressure than other tires... Like 39 front, 42 rear... That could be why they didn't work as well for you...

I know about the tire pressure requirements for them, sure they lasted a long time but they stuck for shit. I will say that they were good in the rain, marginally better than any other tire I have had. If you tour I guess they could be good, I tossed them after 3K, no feadback, no traction, no thanks.

[dillweed]

Originally posted by bwarbiany


I just got a set of M1's for $192+shipping from DiscountMotorcycleTire.com...
yeah I was originally going to go with them, but the shipping was going to be $17, so the total would have been $209 and I think they were going to charge tax too, but I didn't stick around long enough to find out.

My total for M1's from SMT was $213 shipped.....which isn't really any different from the company you used, but the cool thing about SMT is that you could order a bunch of people's tires and never pay shipping or tax. Whereas with the place you used, every additional tire adds more shipping cost

[kc1717]

I highly suggest using the bt010's over m1's


my r1 would break the m1's loose all the fucking time

[Kurt'sSV]

Originally posted by kc1717
I highly suggest using the bt010's over m1's


my r1 would break the m1's loose all the fucking time

Well we're not riding R1's. The Sportech tire seems to work the best for the SV.

[kc1717]

yeah i know it seems like my comment is out of place, i was just suggesting that between the two tires i had more grip with the 010's

and ive ridden an sv with 010's on it and absolutly loved them

[Nanduccio]

Originally posted by kc1717
yeah i know it seems like my comment is out of place, i was just suggesting that between the two tires i had more grip with the 010's

and ive ridden an sv with 010's on it and absolutly loved them

But, Metz M1 Sportecs are really trendy...

All the latest SV's have them.

[NukleoN]

I tried the BT's with an SV and wasn't impressed...I like the M1's better. :D

[dillweed]

the 010 front is pretty slow-turning, which is why I wanted to try an M1 this time

[weegaz22]

pirelli diablo's are lookin to be hot contenders for replacing the 010's (production of 010's due to end soon)

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by weegaz22
pirelli diablo's are lookin to be hot contenders for replacing the 010's (production of 010's due to end soon)

Check out MotocycleDaily Diablo Review (http://www.motorcycledaily.com/10october03_pirelli_diablo.htm)

It's a review of the Diablo on an F4i and 929... Looks pretty good. Probably not as quick to turn as the M1, but looks like they'll provide excellent grip, and wear like iron...

Amazing things, these modern tires :D

[Golden_Eternity]

So, I really liked my M1's for the week I had them, but I was waaay too close to the edge on my front tires for comfort (no chicken strips left)... I had a slide on the right side thanks to some gravel, but it was about the same on the left, so I'm guessing its riding style... Maybe I wasn't countersteering enough? Should I go with a different profile tire?

[deno]

maybe try a 70 series profile tire or get off the bike a little more:confused:

are the slides happening entering, mid, or late corner?

[GetnJgyWitit]

Originally posted by Golden_Eternity
So, I really liked my M1's for the week I had them, but I was waaay too close to the edge on my front tires for comfort (no chicken strips left)... I had a slide on the right side thanks to some gravel, but it was about the same on the left, so I'm guessing its riding style... Maybe I wasn't countersteering enough? Should I go with a different profile tire?

Run a 70 series up front and lower the front end about 10mm afterwards. I lowered mine and put a 70 on and my can drags before I can even get to the edge. I still have about an 1/8th inch chicken strip on the front and back tire.

[Golden_Eternity]

Yeah, maybe a 70 would do it...

I don't think its a hanging off issue, since I still had strips on my rear tires... But I wasn't sure what the problem would be with my technique... The Mez4s that I had replaced also were worn closer to the edge up front, so I guess I'm doing something wrong...

[GetnJgyWitit]

Originally posted by Golden_Eternity
Yeah, maybe a 70 would do it...

I don't think its a hanging off issue, since I still had strips on my rear tires... But I wasn't sure what the problem would be with my technique... The Mez4s that I had replaced also were worn closer to the edge up front, so I guess I'm doing something wrong...

I had my mez4's worn edge to edge on both front and back, but with the M1's the bike doesn't allow me to.

[johnnyboywdz]

Hi guys
New bod on here from UK

Over here seems that the most popular tyres on the SV650S seems to be the combo of Bridgestone BT010s on front and BT020's on rear.
I'm running on Dunlops at mo, but gonna change pretty soon - After race cans fitted!!! :)

[jicko]

I have 6500miles on my SVS.

The front mez4 is still ok, the rear is going soon....

So, I probably would need to find something...

So, what's the price range of these wonderful M1s that you guys are talking about? And where to go get them?

I started to feel exactly what you said in your post. I start feeling them slipping on me... slipping when I drop gear too quickly.... slipping when I hit some bump headon fast....

So... should I just go get M1s? I mostly do home<->work commuting on my bike for about 5-10mins one way.... I occasionally do go up to Julian... but I am really not a frequent visitor.



Originally posted by Natedawgg
Don't waste your $$. I toasted my mez4's before I got new skins. Then I upgraded.

mez4 are good for beginning riders for a couple reasons:

a) as a beginner it's best not to be riding to the limit of a mez4, let alone a 207
b) they last a long time
c) once you really start riding, they'll start slipping, which is good because you'll get the experience of slippage (good as long as you don't lowside), and you'll love your new skins even better

....................just don't lowside :D

..............and I'm not responsible for anyone who breaks his or her neck taking my advice :D


And, always wear clean underwear............. just in case.

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by jicko
So... should I just go get M1s? I mostly do home<->work commuting on my bike for about 5-10mins one way.... I occasionally do go up to Julian... but I am really not a frequent visitor.

Supercommuter? Best bet, like the poster above, is Bridgestone... BT010 front, BT020 rear... You'll get 7k wear or so, I'm guessing... If not more...

If you do (or will start doing) a lot of sport riding, and tire life isn't quite as important as grip, then you need the M1's... But it sounds like that's not the right choice for you, based on what you're saying...

[No_Brakes23]

As far as a good commuting tire, I asked my Squadron Motorcycle Saftey Officer what he uses, (Cause he rides from to Murrieta to Miramar and back every day, and hits the canyons on weekends.) He said he gets the best life/grip combo on his 929 with...Sportec M-1s. He was a big Dunlop fan before that. He said his Sportecs last at least 6k and they never break loose except when he's "backing it in."

I realize that the Fireblade weighs a little less than the SV, but his testimony makes me believe in the commuting abilities of the M-1. He doesn't ride in the rain, however.

I have a brand new M-1 sitting in my garage waiting for me to buy it's companion front. I am hoping that I will get about a two to one ratio of rear to front tires. (I just rolled over 6k and my rear MeZ4 has no tread pattern in the middle, but the front looks almost brand new.)

[BioTek]

I dunno if this'll be merged but here goes.
I need to get a new rear (At last! I wanted to wait and trash the Mez4 on my commute) and I will be getting a BT020 coz I've run them before and liked 'em.
I cant afford to change the front out right now and theres thousands left on it yet anyways, am I likely to suffer problems from having two different grade and patterned tires on the bike.
I will be changing it out on Saturday and will almost certainly go with this combo at least until I can afford the new front, any tips on what handling characteristic changes I might experience would be greatly appreciated.

[Kurt'sSV]

My brother did that combo for a while. You'll be fine. I wouldn't hit the track with a weird tire combo, but for the streets it doesn't hurt anything.

[BioTek]

Thanks Kurt.

[wacky_woodch]

My two pennies...

M1's M1's M1's M1's.... :D

I burned through the stock Z4's in 3000 miles (front and rear)
then onto 010's front and rear. Fornt lasted 12,000 miles the rear 6k each. Great tire. M1's rear lasted 5,000 miles and the front is still good at 5k. The traction and feedback are so great it's not funny. And the mileage trade-off is worth it.

I'm a heavy bastard, and ride two up 50% of riding time, 45% commuting, 5% track/spirited road riding... A great tire. And you can get them cheap too...

[MikeCheng]

what are the differences between these two tires? i gotta make a decision before thursday night's cyclegear sale.

[doub1etap]

You will get a lot more mileage out of the 020's.

The metz sportecs and 010's felt the same to me.. But maybe I am not good enough to tell the difference.

[stingray]

M1's are "stickier" than 020's.

020's are considered sport touring tires. M1's are sport tires.

cause they're softer, the M1's will also wear alot quicker. 020's will last longer but won't give you as much grip.

if you commute/tour more, get the 020.

if you do alot of twisties, get the M1's

[sprice37]

Is it an in store only sale??:??

[POI]

I've had both....My opinons are both are good tires, but depends on your purpose. Remember, this is just my opinion based upon my individual experience. The 020's are great for touring. They still give pretty good grip, but they take a while to warm up. I used them on my approx. 3000 mile journey from Mexico to Canada and back. They still have a lot of life left. I used them for commuting to work and they have given me no major problem. I wouldn't really want them them in the canyons, but they seem like they could handle moderate use. I wouldn't use them at the track. Not after feeling the M1's. The M1 is great, seemed to grip really well. It could handle more than I could dish out at track day. Made me feel confident, and that was even though I went on the track with them brand new...not even broken in. I worried about slipping, but no problems. When I got the 020's new...I would slide the rear with even a little tap for at least a week. The M1 is really a great tire....turning felt easier (profile of the tire maybe) and it just didn't seem like it wouldn't do what I asked. Except for one thing.....last. I got them in December the day before our track day, and they are already going to need to be replaced soon. I use my bike a lot so M1's aren't the best commuters(in my opinion) unless I could afford to buy a set all the time, then that's all I would get. So....They are both good in their own respect, but they seem to be for different purposes. what do I think? M1's waaayy better grip, better turning, more confidence, wear out quick. 020's last a long time, not good enough grip for track (not compared to M1's) but ok grip for a little twistie (nothing serious tho) It's up to you and what you need them for.

[bling_thing]

Poi,

How many miles on your M1's? How many more do you think you have left?

I was hoping for 6K. That's at least 6-8 months worth for me. I've had mine since December going up to watch the Track Day up in Rosamond and commututing every single day since. Rain or shine. I don't think I have over 2k on them. The rear looks fine. The front is still good but wearing a little quicker I think.

[NukleoN]

I love my M1's and won't be switching unless some new tire gets universally rave reviews...yeah, the wear isn't the greatest, but if you're gonna ride, use the best, stickiest tires you can get unless you're planning on doing a lot of touring. I consider replacement of M1's an operating cost, but more than that, they're a performance mod which require a more frequent replacement interval than what they're replacing (lesser tires).

I'd much rather spend more cash on M1's and track days (for software updates) than exhaust, jetting and other fun but less-essential mods. :)

Unless you're gonna do a lot of touring, get the M1's...you'll be glad you did.

[GetnJgyWitit]

I have only ridden the M1 out of the three you are asking about and it is an awesome tire! Hopfully Burst will post his opinion on the M1. He commutes over 100 miles a day on his bike and he uses the M1 and that kid is fast as hell in the canyons with them. If I was looking to get a set of M1's right now I would jump on that free front Diablo tire from Pirelli. The Diablo is the same tire as the M1. Same rubber, carcas, just different tread pattern. Supposidly the Diablo is a little better because they threw a little more R&D into the tire.

[chrdog]

dont know where i picked up this, but its got reviews on a slew of tires for road, track/road, and race. good stuff

http://www.tl1000.com/pb_tires/sport_rider_sep_2001.htm

[GetnJgyWitit]

I don't see the M1 anywhere in that review, but pretty cool.

[jicko]

AND THEY HAVE A KILLER DEAL!!!

Buy the rear (@ $110 from Lemon Grove Cycle) and get a free FRONT ($20 shipping, 120/70 tho)

- JiK

PS. For what I have heard the Diablo and M1s are the same tires with different thread pattern! The shipping of my front tire was charge my Metzeler(further proof that they came from the same place)!!!

[SVChris]

I just bought a used 2002 that I was told was setup for racing. The tires need to be replaced, the tires that are on the bike are the D207F 120/70 Front and 170/60 Rear. My question is, should I stay with those sizes or should I go back to stock. I was thinking about going back to stock BT10 Front and BT20 rear. I am new to the bike and sport, so I won't be doing any track days anytime soon. Mostly a learning bike and cruises around town, not aggressive at all. Thanks for any input.

[poopoohead]

if you do go back stock check to see if your steering geometry is back to stock also, the previous owner may have raised the tripple to get his steering back for the 70 up front.

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by SD SV Guy
I just bought a used 2002 that I was told was setup for racing. The tires need to be replaced, the tires that are on the bike are the D207F 120/70 Front and 170/60 Rear. My question is, should I stay with those sizes or should I go back to stock. I was thinking about going back to stock BT10 Front and BT20 rear. I am new to the bike and sport, so I won't be doing any track days anytime soon. Mostly a learning bike and cruises around town, not aggressive at all. Thanks for any input.

I don't what racers would run the 170 on the rear. I've seen 170 Dunlops on two bikes now, and the profile is all funky on the stock rim. It gives a big flat spot in the middle and a tiny contact patch leaned over...

You might want to check and make sure the rim is standard. The only way I see a racer running the 170 is with a widened rim.

[zzzwillzzz]

keep the front size 120/70 but put the back back to stock 160/60.

[GsxrGregor]

How did you guys get so many miles on your M1's? I've got less than 2000 miles on my rear and it's almost toast. I maintain tire pressure at 35psi front and rear. My front tire is fine, it's the rear that seems to get burned up quickly.

And no, I don't do burnouts :p

[bwarbiany]

How do you toast a rear tire in 2000 miles? Do you square it off, or are you doing it on the sides...

If you're roasting the tread on the sides of the tires in 2000 miles, you're pretty damn fast... And if you're squaring it off, I recommend a new tire pressure guage :D

[GsxrGregor]

It's the center and the sides. No squaring off - I think it's a combination of the weekends in the canyons and the commuting during the week. I weigh about 205, would that make it wear faster?

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by glsvs2002
It's the center and the sides. No squaring off - I think it's a combination of the weekends in the canyons and the commuting during the week. I weigh about 205, would that make it wear faster?

I've weighed anywhere between 230 and 260 on my Sportecs, and I got about 4500 miles out of that...

I don't know how you can go through them that quickly... :confused:

[stough]

Well, Brad, do you commute? I was only getting 3000 miles out of my 010's and I get feeling that the M1's are stickier than the 010's. Oh yeah, those were 3000 stretched miles 'cause the front tire was bare on two 1" wide swaths on either side of the center. That is about 60-80% Angeles Crest.

I ride with 020's and get 7000 miles before I've worn the sides bald. While they're not the stickiest thing on the planet they work great for my canyon excursions. But, I'm a 50 in a 45 rider, not a 70 in a 45. ;-)

Later,
Tim.

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by stough
Well, Brad, do you commute? I was only getting 3000 miles out of my 010's and I get feeling that the M1's are stickier than the 010's. Oh yeah, those were 3000 stretched miles 'cause the front tire was bare on two 1" wide swaths on either side of the center. That is about 60-80% Angeles Crest.

I ride with 020's and get 7000 miles before I've worn the sides bald. While they're not the stickiest thing on the planet they work great for my canyon excursions. But, I'm a 50 in a 45 rider, not a 70 in a 45. ;-)

Later,
Tim.

I used to commute :D

Seriously though, I would switch between commuting and twisties, and still not blow through a set that quickly... And my first set of BT010's, I got about 5K out of the rear, and that was very heavily commuting (no car at the time)

Methinks we need to get Gregg's thoughts on this one... Not only does he commute more than anyone else, he's also one fast bastard...

[GsxrGregor]

Heh.... I'm more of the 70 in a 45 rider :p

I've got the Diablo on order, so I'll see how that one goes. I'm also going to have the shop make sure that the wheel is true and straight when it's mounted, that's the only other thing I can think of that would cause it to wear more quickly.
I did notice that the left side of the tire seems more worn than the front, but I also feel like I can turn harder going left than right.

Burst! Let's hear your opinion on this!

[tcody360]

hey, anyone try the Michelin Pilot sports? go with a 120/70 on the front. drop the forks about 1/2" (120/70 is 1/4" taller) You'll notice a nice difference.... Anyways theyre pretty decent tires. And for on the street the ONLY difference you really notice is basically the profile and thus the "feel" of the tire. With your tires, even tire pressure changes make them perform better. Have fun, and burn off those edges in the twisties!

[03SVS1KTX]

Confirmed............... D208's square out quickly on the 1k. I got a good deal, but have to say that after 3800 miles I am about 1000 miles over due for a new rear tire. Pisses me off that I have no cormers to re round them on.:mad:

When UNCLE SCAM sends me my money, I suppose I'll try some sport techs...........................conformity is king. :p

[dabame]

i kinda agree on the sqaure out issue for the D208's.. but mine are stll new enough where is doesnt matter. but my question is as follows: i have the 208's in the rear and i think bridgestones up front.. this cant be good can it? the way i figure is becuase the profile/ sidewalls are different (208's look more agressive) should i pop another 130 for the front or leave it. ... well i know what i SHOULD do but really my question is do you think it makes that big of a deal with handling? i still have a chicken strip on my rear but not on my front (using the front to capasity)

[Setter32]

Originally posted by 03SVS1KTX
Confirmed............... D208's square out quickly on the 1k. I got a good deal, but have to say that after 3800 miles I am about 1000 miles over due for a new rear tire. Pisses me off that I have no cormers to re round them on.:mad:

When UNCLE SCAM sends me my money, I suppose I'll try some sport techs...........................conformity is king. :p


....I think you'll run into the same "squaring" problem.........with any sporty tyres.......on a 1K.....

....therefore........I'm guessing the sport techs will not fair much better........longetivity wise.....

.....they (the liter bikes) have a bad habit.......of chewin up rubbers insatiably...

.....with the 1 K.........the only way around this........is getting sport/touring tyres.......

.....but if you're gonna carve canyons.........I wouldn't recommend it.........




:D

[neattoes3000]

IS it worth spending more money on tires that are better than Sport Tecs? Are they worth it? I'm thinking about getting the Pirelli equivalents, but I don't know if it is worth the extra cash. I liked M1s on the SVS, but I don't about the 636. The stock Bridgestones didn't last too long. I like the sport tecs, but I don't know if I should change. I guess my question is, wha tis your favorite tire and why?

Craig

[DOC]

I just bought a Pirelli Diablo rear. It's a nice tire, I like it! Cost me $127 total, tax mounting, balancing, everything. Pirelli has a special going right now wher you can get a free front by sending in your receipt for the rear. I'm currently waiting for my new front tire.
DoC

[stingray]

what kind of riding do you do? "better" is subjective. which do you want "better?" more grip? more feedback? more mileage?

you can try the diablo cause you get a free front. if you want something stickier, get the diablo corsa. anything stickier and you're going into race tire territory.

[rb643]

Hey Craig. If you want to save some cash I would jump in on the deal that Pirelli is offereing. The diabo is supposed to be the same as the Sportec (so I hear) so hurry up and order your rear.:grin: I'm sure you've seen this tread already, but if not:

http://www.socalsvriders.org/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=6531

[Slaughter]

Originally posted by stingray
what kind of riding do you do? "better" is subjective. which do you want "better?" more grip? more feedback? more mileage?

you can try the diablo cause you get a free front. if you want something stickier, get the diablo corsa. anything stickier and you're going into race tire territory.

Somebody probably posted this already but the Diablo Corsa is still unavailable for the rear of the SV (but coming any day now!)

Still only in 120/70 and 180/55, 190/50

(bastids, don't they know I'm out here waiting??)

[Chris_az]

Oi.. that's alotta tire info to soak up, but what's the best set of super dooper beginner tires out? i just bought the bike this weekend and the MEZ4's are in need of replacement.. these will effectively be my first set of tires on my first bike so i don't really need anything that'll let me drag knee <"The only time i scrape knee is when kneel down to fix my lawnmower"> I'm thinking another pair of MEZ4's? they seem to be right up a beginner's alley.. Honestly, i don't see myself pushing the bike or a tire's limits any time soon, and with a rainy season just two months away i'd like a tire that can handle rain well....

anywho, if ya'll could chip in 2 cents...

thx
chris

[Knightshade]

Hey Chris...I ordered my tires from the place that dillweed suggested.

http://www.swmototires.com/

Haven't gotten my tires as of yet, but no shipping..no tax? Can't beat that.

I went from a slightly squared off set of mez4's to some dunlop d220's (oem on the 03) and they feel like a better tire...so much so (but I'm a newb, so keep that in mind), that I was thinking about just buying another set. However, the BT-010F and BT-020R actually comes out a couple of dollars cheaper..and if the info this thread is to be believed, they're a pretty good combo.

I did think about getting those diablos everbody mentions too, but I thought, for my level of riding....I'm sure I'd be wasting ALOT of the potential on that tire. Maybe next set....(I hope to be that good by then...)

[borrego]

http://mc.bridgestone.co.jp/jp/products/battlax/bt014.html

But unlike the 010 it replaces, the 160/60 size is "officially" to fit to a 5" rear rim

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by Chris_az
Oi.. that's alotta tire info to soak up, but what's the best set of super dooper beginner tires out? i just bought the bike this weekend and the MEZ4's are in need of replacement.. these will effectively be my first set of tires on my first bike so i don't really need anything that'll let me drag knee <"The only time i scrape knee is when kneel down to fix my lawnmower"> I'm thinking another pair of MEZ4's? they seem to be right up a beginner's alley.. Honestly, i don't see myself pushing the bike or a tire's limits any time soon, and with a rainy season just two months away i'd like a tire that can handle rain well....

anywho, if ya'll could chip in 2 cents...

thx
chris

Like Knightshade said, BT010 front, BT020 rear. For a newbie, it's definitely the best bet. Anything stickier (Sportec, Diablo), will wear too quickly and give you grip you'll never use. By the time you're done with this set of tires, you'll be ready for the sticky stuff...

[Knightshade]

Originally posted by bwarbiany
Like Knightshade said, BT010 front, BT020 rear. For a newbie, it's definitely the best bet. Anything stickier (Sportec, Diablo), will wear too quickly and give you grip you'll never use. By the time you're done with this set of tires, you'll be ready for the sticky stuff...

ready for the sticky stuff!!!! aaawwwwww....yeeaahhh...

:cool:

[mark754]

Anyone use the BT014's? A local shop said that they replace the BT010's, which have been discontinued. Price is about the same.

I'm a newbie and, after reading this thread, will get either the Sportech M-1's or the BT 010/014 front, BT 020 rear combo. What do you guys think the difference in mileage would be (e.g. if the M-1's will last around 7k, would the Bridgestones go 9k)?

Also, do any of you guys put a center stand on your SV's to help with tire changing? Or does it add too much weight? I don't even know if one will fit...looks like the exhaust is in the way. Anyway, if you were to get a flat in the middle or nowhere, you'd have to lay the bike down to take the wheel off without a center stand. I'm using a car jack now.

How important is it to torque all of the bolts correctly? I lost my torque wrench. Where's a good place to buy a new one, Sears? How much is a decent one?

[poopoohead]

WHOA.....easy there cowboy.....dont lay the bike down to take the wheel off, get a swing arm stand for the rear and a stand for the front...and yes you should torque it down to spec you could do wrong with over tightening or not tight enough.....if theres an autozone or kragen in your area they have decent torque wrenches there.

oh wait i didnt read your post well...if you get a flat in the middle of nowhere then......that sux

[chrdog]

torqueing things to spec is pretty crucial. i got my torque wrench at sears for like 50 bux or something. thres a cheaper version though. you can get them online also. harborfreight.com probably has a few

[mark754]

"get a swing arm stand for the rear and a stand for the front..."

No, I'm not laying the bike down to change tires in my garage..I may be a newbie, but I'm not an idiot! ;) I was asking if it's a good idea to put a permanent center stand on the bike, instead of just having the side stand. With a center stand, I could get by without buying the swingarm and front stands. Can anyone suggest a good one for the SV ('01)?

[MellonHead]

Okay guyz i need a new rear rubber... got 6000kms (for you USA guys 3750miles) out the one i have..and want to know what is a good tire... i want one that is a lil harder.. one to give better miles..but still give me good grip.....
help!!!!!!!!!

[Kurt'sSV]

Michelin Pilot Road.

[bwarbiany]

Bridgestone BT020

[Tillers_Rule]

Dunlop D220

[giraffe]

Metzler Sportec M1

[DOC]

Originally posted by Tillers_Rule
Dunlop D220 Alfred E. I love it!
DoC

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by giraffe
Metzler Sportec M1

Not if you want lots of miles...

[dabame]

i hope all this helped to make your decision easier :p

[NukleoN]

I've heard good things about the Michelin Pilot Road with regard to miles and grip (from a bike mechanic and SV owner) .

[Tillers_Rule]

Pirelli something(cause nobodys mentioned it yet:p)

[MellonHead]

man you guys have cheap tires in the states...... for a BT020 it;s gonna set me back about $280AU

[GMAN]

I've had positive experiences with the BT010. The compound is stiffer in the middle for longevity, but softer towards the sides. It performed flawlessly on my old TLR.

[borrego]

Originally posted by GMAN
I've had positive experiences with the BT010. The compound is stiffer in the middle for longevity, but softer towards the sides. It performed flawlessly on my old TLR.

One may want to just wait for a while for the BT014 (010's replacement) to come out. The BT 014 is already available in Japan and here in Hong Kong. According a some Japanese magazine, it is even better than the Diablo

[GMAN]

Originally posted by borrego
One may want to just wait for a while for the BT014 (010's replacement) to come out. The BT 014 is already available in Japan and here in Hong Kong. According a some Japanese magazine, it is even better than the Diablo

Interesting. Thanks for the info! I'll need to read up more about that new tire.

[borrego]

Originally posted by GMAN
Interesting. Thanks for the info! I'll need to read up more about that new tire.

Here you have the tire info in Japanese, but there is at leaset some English:

http://mc.bridgestone.co.jp/jp/products/battlax/bt014j.pdf

[zoltan]

i'm replacing my stock mez4 since the flat ring on my rear on is getting huge. i've been riding for about 1 year, and am putting about 6k-7k miles on per year. during nice weather i commute roughly 150 miles per week, and do more spirited riding during the weekend. i'll sometimes ride in the rain. my current optins are:

1.bt010f/bt020r - good compromise, i'd expect about 6k before i need to change the rear.

2.bt010f/bt010r - i think i've been hearing about 5k for the rear.

3.pirelli diablo - from what i understand it's the m-1, except with better wet performance and possibly better wear? i'm not sure how much mileage to expect from them, but if they get more miles than the 010/010 combo, i'd rather get the diablos.

4.sport tec m-1 - again, i believe the diablo is an updated version of the m-1, so i'm not considering these much.

[mojo mofo]

If it matters, you can't get the diablos in a 120/60 front, you have to take the 120/70. I have had the M1s and liked them quite a bit. I am currently running a taller (120/70) supercorsa up front, and again no complaints there.

[zoltan]

the diablo is now available in 120/60:

http://www.ronayers.com/browseparts.cfm?searchstring=3_1430200

[skibum]

After 5,100 miles, my stock front MEZ4 is in need of replacement. The general consensus for competent sport tires on this thread seems to be M1's. I'd like to replace the old front MEZ4 with an M1, but I recently installed a new MEZ4 on the rear when the original picked up a nail (didn't know any better, as I hadn't found this great source of information at the time #-o ). Since the rear is almost new, I'd like to get some miles out of it before I replace it with an M1.

Would it be stupid to put an M1 on the front and still run the MEZ4 out back? Would this give me a confidence-inspiring sticky front tire that might cause me to "over-ride" the rear, or cause just general wierdness in the handling?

The bike is used mainly for fair-weather canyon riding, and sees very little commuting or freeway duty. Oh, and I may do a track day this summer.

I apologize if this has already been addressed elsewhere on the board, but I didn't find my exact situation after considerable searching. Thanks for any guidance you all can offer.

[linp]

While it's not the best to have mismatched tires, it's fine.

[bwarbiany]

Originally posted by skibum
Would it be stupid to put an M1 on the front and still run the MEZ4 out back? Would this give me a confidence-inspiring sticky front tire that might cause me to "over-ride" the rear, or cause just general wierdness in the handling?

Sliding a rear is typically better and easier to recover from than sliding a front. So if you have a choice of which tire needs to be better able to stick, I'd choose the front...

Of course, this is coming from someone who broke an M1