Anyone using sport bike tires?

[cos]

I was checking out rubber are there are a quite few choices (radial and bias-ply) for the rear from Bridgestone, Dunlop and Michelin. The 160/70-17 is just about the same size (O/A diameter & tread width) as a dual sport tire in the oem size of 150/70-17. The front is an odd ball size. The only thing even close is the grippy Dunlop 207 used on the front of the HD V-Rod.

-cos

[rider1951]

That is about it for the front tire. Some one on the Yahoo forum was running the tire without any problems.

[paul]

I just installed a new set (front and rear) of Metzler (motronic? or something like that) V-rated tires. Huge positive difference on the road...the rear is slightly wider than the dual stock and the front is the same size...

[cos]

paul,

Can you let us know exactly which model and what sizes your running. Any differences in turn in or braking, etc.?

-cos

[paul]

Cos - what part of Detroit are your from (I grew up in Allen Park)? The strom seems much more stable in corners (but I also lowered the front forks 1/2" at the same time I changed tires). Braking is quicker - but I may just be getting better with applying the non-ABS brakes. I was a previous BMW owner with ABS - I crunched the brakes hard without having to worry about skid. I was skidding for a while when I first got the strom...I guess I'm not offering any scientific proof - let's just say when the Metzlers were broke in - they felt a ton better in all aspects. Another non-scientific fact - on a hot run - I could usually smell rubber with the Bridgestones...I haven't had that problem with the Metzlers... I'll have to get back to you tomorrow with sizes...

[Kidder]

I'm hoping with the introduction of the V-Strom 650 that more manufacturers will start making some street tires. If they did, I'd ditch the dual-sport rubber. Pray with me, people! :D

[Meatsac]

I am with you Kidder. I dream of M1s but it will never happen. I would be pleased as punch if I could get BT020s.

[SwisStromie]

I also would like to try sport tyres.

But now I really like the Michelin anakee !
You can have a good feeling even driving hard. It's so easy to feel when the rear wheel is drifting.Puuuure pleasure I really feel in confidence !

If you have lowered the fork . How do you feel in curves? I mean the Strom is so often "producing sparks" on the road with the standard settings that I can't imagine reducing even more the "ground clearance"

V

[SwissStromie]

Just met a friend yesterday, who has try a BT020 in 160 on his strom and for him it's the best "mod" to do...

[Meatsac]

Hmm, that is interesting. Did he change out the 19" front wheel too? What tire is he running up front anyway?

[paul]

front - me33 laser 110/90-19, rear - me55a metronic 160/70B-17...much more confidence at high speed and cornering (like it's on rails)...

[Meatsac]

So you can just throw a 160 on the stock rim?

[Kidder]

Bridgestone does indeed make a rear 020 in the Strom size. And, after e-mailing Bridgestone, I have confirmed that they will be releasing a front 020 in the Strom size in Spring 2004.

My prayers have been answered! :D