Tires, What are the Latest Opinions?

[hcage]

Hi, I'm planning a November trip in the Texas Hill Country. I'm probably going to replace my stock TW tires for this trip. I've read favorable comment on the Tourances, BT020 and Dunlop D607, and I'd likely be happy with any of these. However, I'd like to ask for opinion before I make my choice. My criteria are:

DL650.
100% On Road Use.
I'm not seeking to ground pegs on corners, but like tires that *could* do that.
Combined rider, passenger, cargo weight 350lbs.
Rarely exceed indicated 100mph, but like tires that *could* do that.
Comfort is a high priority.
Cost not a major priority, but only because I'm low mileage, not because I'm loaded :-(

On my previous bike (VTR1000), I used Dunlop D207zr, and was happy with them except the rear tire life was rather short (3000/4000 miles ish). I've heard a couple of people complain about BT020 stability, yet many others do not say this. I know least about the Tourances except that most BMW riders are happy with them.

So, all you guys that have changed from the stock TW, and especially DL650 guys, tell me what you think. Hopefully this info will be useful to others besides myself.

Oh, I've read all the archives, but I was after some fresh opinions.

Thanks, Joe

[Bobb_Todd]

Think ME880s.
Meet all your criteria and last a long time

[Motornoggin]

I have the Tourances. Wonderful tires! I have close to 8500 miles on them now (put them on in May). They offer more grip, more predictable handling and are more durable than the T/W's. The front seems like it will last to 20k or so, the rear will need to be replaced at around 10k-11k.
My father has the Dunlops. They are better than the T/W's IMO, but they are not as predictable as the Tourances, nor will they last as long. I have not had experiance with the Bt's, but I'm no fan of Bridgestone tires anyway.

[Bliz]

I replaced my stock tires with BT020's. Made the bike ride much smoother, less road noise. Turns and handles with a much lighter feel. More stable when cornering. Can't comment much on the wear since I only have about 1000 miles on them. I had thought about ME880's but these tires have a very stiff sidewall. These tires were designed for Goldwings and Valkyries which weigh 3-400 lbs. more. Wasn't sure how good they would work on a Strom. Very happy with the BT020's.

[GB #121]

I have the Tourances. Wonderful tires! I have close to 8500 miles on them now (put them on in May). They offer more grip, more predictable handling and are more durable than the T/W's. The front seems like it will last to 20k or so, the rear will need to be replaced at around 10k-11k.

Me too, but I have nearly 12k on the rear tyre (nearing 15k on the bike) and seem to have significant tread left. I use to run Battleaxes on my Bandit, but the Tourances seem to offer as much confidence on the V-Strom in the corners and the occasional hard stopping. I no longer worry about the wet, leaves, farm debris etc.

[Bobb_Todd]

I had thought about ME880's but these tires have a very stiff sidewall. These tires were designed for Goldwings and Valkyries which weigh 3-400 lbs. more. Wasn't sure how good they would work on a Strom
........................
I think they make versions for smaller bikes than GLs.

I tried them at the recommendation of a DL1000 owner who said they handled well and make the ride feel more "plush".

On the 650 I tried running the pressure a little lower [42 instead of the max 50] but the rear ran hot so I boosted it to 50 lbs.

Handling is fine. They are bias rather than radial so the steering is not as light. This is fine since I found the 650 to be a bit twitchy. Less wandering and movement in sidewinds and truck blast now.