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I am about due for a new rear tire and was considering Metzeler because Avon's are getting too expensive, but after seeing this, I think I will bite the bullet and pay a little more for the Venom X.
I've been running Avons for years on a variety of bikes, and never had a problem. You're right about them being expensive, though, even if you buy them online. It's getting ridiculous.
One thing about the Avons: I spoke to an Avon engineer not long ago and he told me the same thing mentioned earlier in this thread about most people underinflating their tires. I ride solo, and he told me to use 38-40 front and 44-46 rear, which I do, even though the sidewall numbers are lower. Just an FYI.
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I've been running Avons for years on a variety of bikes, and never had a problem. You're right about them being expensive, though, even if you buy them online. It's getting ridiculous.
One thing about the Avons: I spoke to an Avon engineer not long ago and he told me the same thing mentioned earlier in this thread about most people underinflating their tires. I ride solo, and he told me to use 38-40 front and 44-46 rear, which I do, even though the sidewall numbers are lower. Just an FYI.
The pressures you are using are right at what I run in mine and I check it weekly. The lowest price I have found online (including shipping) for a 150/80/16 is from Dennis Kirk at $152. A little over a year ago the lowest price I found, including shipping, was just under $130. If Avon keeps raising their prices, I think I will start using Dunlop Elite 3's even though the back tire is only a 140.
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2006 Heritage Classic
Candy Blue w/Metalflake Ghost Flames
Chrome Slotted 6 Spoke Wheels
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S&S 510 G Cams
US Navy 1973-1977/VA-83/CVW17/CV59
FWIW - Triumph recalled the stock Bridgestone tires on the 2008 Rocket 3 Touring. They were not up to the massive torque put out at the rear wheel. The replacement? Metzler 880s. Should tell you something...
Been running with Metzler on both my rides for a few years now. The quality control between German and Brazilian made are the same..... no need to worry about that. I have even mix matched treads which many say is not recommended. On my AVATAR I'm running a SPORTEC M3 on the rear and a ME 880 MARATHON on the front. On my classic ride I'm running both ME 880 MARATHONs. Never had a problem with them... I will say that with better handling you may sacrifice faster wear then the cheaper brands.... it has to do with the compounds used in the manufacturing process. You get what you pay for.... if you have to save a few bucks to get a better tire cut back on the HD spark plugs.
Oh.... someone commented on running in the rain at 90 miles per hour.... I've seen it done.... it wasn't on a Dunlop.... live and learn. Check out Metzler's RACETEC designed for racing in the rain.... no poop.
Tire blow outis often the cause of negligence on behalf of tire manufacturers, not low air pressures. Tire falure could be prevented if manufacturers were impelled to create a safer more robust tire design and "implement a more stringent production and inspection process".
Jeez! I suppose next step will be "Tire Czar" so the goverment can "protect" us...
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'05 FLSTN
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Faster horses, younger women, older whiskey, and more money!
The Metzeler web site says 38 pounds but my shop showed me in the catalog 42/50. The 50 for two up riding which is what most of my miles are. I had him put on a Michelin Commander this time...we'll see how it holds up. I WILL be more diligent maintaining proper pressure with this one.
