FYI--I wrote Dunlop in regards to discussion on another threads about the 407 and 408's.

It was just a standard request through Dunlops website. The first part is my questions and the second is a response by a Dunlop rep.

To Dunlop:

Comments :
I have a 2009 Harley Davidson Ultra Classic with Dunlop 407's.
I heard recent information that you are taking the exact same tire and
reversing the direction for cupping issues?
1) Does this affect water displacement for hydroplaning?
2) If cupping occurs this early and you have changed model numbers mid
model year. Will this be a warranty issue?
3) At some point will the Elite 3's be available for the 09 touring line?

Reponse from Dunlop:

Thank you for taking the time to contact us with your Dunlop motorcycle
tire questions. The Dunlop D408 offers exceptional wet and dry performance
and grip characteristics. Dunlop Motorcycle Tires has not changed tire
model numbers mid-model year. This tire model change, D407 to D408, wasinitiated by Harley-Davidson. In fact, we simply manufacture the origina equipment tires to meet H-D specification for use on their vehicles. Also,there is no known "cupping" issue with the Dunlop D407 and there is no warranty issue with this tire model. Finally, there are no plans at this time to expand the Dunlop Elite 3 model line.

This reponse was received this morning. Time will tell if MoCo will put out more info???

 

Thanks for the info bksmokey.

 

Many thanks for the update bksmoky. As I stated in another thread, my 09 Ultra (built mid January) came with 407's front and rear and I was concerned that Harley was dumping their left over tires on us just to get rid of them.

 

Wondering if anyone else is making tires for the 09 yet. Avon's site says in development and I do not see anything at Metzler - Any ideas???

 

Thanks for the info. My tire has cupping issues. I checked the tire pressure and it was low, about 25psi. Found out today that it was a PITA to check the pressure on the tires.

 

I am pricing these - just have to buy them I guess - Latus and Chicago list the D408 part #43115-09A Latus is not discounting them Chicago is. Of course there are still D407's out there too.... does it matter can I buy the older tire? I bet that is what my dealer was going to sell me they made me a list of part #s and no -09A.

 

So what's the difference in the D407 vs the D408? the tread was changed? Interesting... Thanks for the info

 

My 407 front tire (09 ug) has what hd calls a "coast down wobble"..from day 1 nov 2008
so the moco is sending my dealer a new 408 to replace the 407. Ps: A brand new 09 ug on the floor of the dealership was taken out 4 a ride.. Same coast down wobble (from 30 to 22 mph) . Dealer could not fix the wobble...!!! Someone dropped the ball on the 407's !

 

Just bought new tires. Had a good time trying to get the parts guy to get me the D408F. Two dealers here did not know of the change. Seems the part # is the same as a D407F with an A on the end. The correct HD part number is 43109-09A. Tire will be here Tuesday. The rear they had in stock. 7140 miles and the D407F is cupped and on the wear bars. Hope the 408 works a little longer. Thanks to all for the info.

 

Appreciate the info having an 08 Electra my tires are 402's but going with Elite 3's when do my 10,000 mile service regardless of tread ...