I ride two up quite a bit.. I run the Metz 150/70 and it is one of the stiffest tires made for two up riding.. It is a bit more expensive for the tire but worth it knowing I have another life behide me..

 

All sounding good on the 18x4.25

Does a stiff tire = stiff ride

Stock pulley too

 

Runnin 160/70 18 Dunlop Roadsmart radial on 4.25 rear. No rubbing, ride 2up often. Fender does need to be centered and make sure strut bolts do not extend too far into wheel well. Slightly a firmer ride, handles and feels much better then 16" rim all day long...

 

I've been searching for a Metz 140/70/18 rear tire before I order my 18x3.50 wheel and I'm starting to believe there isn't one available. Can find plenty of 150s. I believe Tab told me he can get it in the Avon but I'm kind of holding on finding a Metz.

(Thanks CountryD)

 

the 150 70 fits but its close no rubbing at any ride hight

 

Ok, I finally found a US coporate contact number for Metezeler. The 140/70/18 was discontinued about 5 years ago and I guess the supply pipeline has finally dried up.

The next closest size now in production is the 150/70/18 which will fit rim sizes 3" to 4.5". Of course because it is a custom application they would not confirm or deny fitment

 

Dang phone. I wasn't finished.

They of course could not confirm the application because it is a custome application.

I'm going to try and find some other brands in the 140/70/18 size because that's what I know works. So far I do know Avon and a brand I just found, Skinko, does produce this size. Apparently the Yokohoma tire plant in Japan was destroyed and a Korean company bought Yokohoma molds for this tire. Some of the reviews I've found so far on the Skinko are mixed but it seems the tire last about 5,000 miles and appears to be questionable in wet grip after a 1,000 or so miles of wear.

The search continues! Anyone heard of Skinko? There a very affordable (cheap) tire from what I've found.

 

Don't waste your time with cheap tires like Shinko. Avon or Metzeler are the way to go. I prefer Avon to Metzeler as they last longer. They cost more too, but it is what it is.

Drew

 

Drew thanks.

Here are just a few options I've found for the 140/70/18 rear. Understanding some of these are not tires I would use based on what some of you have already stated but I thought I woud list them each anyway just so people would know they have choices depending on their circumstances etc.

Avon Roadrider $153
Pirelli sport demon $142
Bridgestone Battlax $97
IRC Road Winner $107
Kenda Cruiser $95
Duro HF 918 $85

So anyway, I guess there are choices for the 140/70/18 for those wanting this option.

Just to clarify Metezeler does still make this size in a front but not a rear. I'll clean up all the typos later. :d

 

I'd choose the Avon or Pirelli. I have never tried a Pirelli but have heard they are really nice to ride on.

Drew