Here was Metzlers response to the tire question.
Thank you for the e-mail and being a Metzeler customer. Lets try to focus and look at facts to help you understand the situation. In 2006 our sales increases from 2002 have increased by over 100% and this is because of our clear focus on the cruiser/touring market. In 2007 we are again seeing double digit growth while the motorcycle business in general is flat. Please note that no other tire company goes to the lengths to test and then offer consumers the choice of tire sizes for metric and V-twins like Metzeler. We are famous for our Stage 1 and Stage 2 upgrades and for 2007 we have added even more choices including many new 2007 models.
Please rest assured that we are very serious about the quality of our products, and we monitor the warranty claims very closely. We are proud to tell you even with the 2006 sales increase our warranty claim rate percentage has not increased and it is still at the same low level as in 2002.
As a company that actively interacts with the dealers and consumers (supporting the dealers that sell and install) at rallies and events across the country over the last five years we are shocked by the amount of consumers riding with tires grossly under inflated. This lack of correct air pressure or using the incorrect non approved tires is causing the majority of the complaints, but you never can read or see this on the forums and hence where the mis-information comes from.
We always suggest that consumers use our brochure as a reference for fitment and air pressure requirements. These brochures can be picked up at a local dealer, from a dealer at a rally, at each of the Cycle World IMS shows across the country, or by simply downloaded from our web site. Thank you again and I hope this information is helpful and used properly.
Ride Safe
US Metzeler Moto
Thank you for your interest in our company and products.
Best Regards.
Customer Service
Metzeler MOTO
P.S. Visit our web site at the http://www.us.metzelermoto.com