I'm looking at replacing the front tire on my 2012 FLHR soon. 10K on both tires but interesting enough it's the front that I will be replacing first. Rear still has good thread and could go another 4-5K. Previous bikes, it was the rear that went first way before the front.

I'd like to stay with the Dunlop.

OE tires are Harley Davidson/Dunlop 130/80 B17 65H.

Outside of the dealerships, I can only find the same size/fitment but looks like the American Elite is what's available.

Different thread patterns (maybe proprietary) comparing both above.

Can I safely ride with the American Elite upfront, keeping the rear OE Dunlop until it's time to replace it too?

Interstate and city riding. Sometimes 2-up, mostly solo.

 

yep , will be fine

 

ps , may be so good you will want to change the rear to

 

i like the american elite a lot. seems to be a long wearing tire that handles well..even in the rain.

 

Try these, $141.99 plus free shipping.

http://images.motorcycle-superstore....nt_Tire_--.jpg

 

Strange front wore out before back. I have a 2011 RKC with 12,500 will be changing the back. Front still looks good. Staying with Dunlops. Good tire . Love the WWW

 

I've done about 800 miles with the American Elite on the front and stock in the back on an ultra. No problems on the twisties or the super slab! Will be changing out the rear to an American Elite on Sunday!

 

A little fatter a little taller. Filling out the fenders looks and rides great. Only mod I had to do was to trim the plastic belt guard a bit. Great riding weather in central fl. not quite spring more like sprang. Thats the way it is and I like it.

 

If your front is wearing before the rear you must have a problem. I would take it to the dealer to see what is up. Many tires have been replaced under warranty. Have not heard anything bad about the American Elite but but have no personal experience with it. The E III on the other hand is a sweet handling tire with good tread life.

 

+1 on have someone look at that tire, I have never had a front tire wear out before the rear. I am happy with the miles I get off the dunlop, I look for black friday deals and buy tires in the winter.