Do you go for 36psi in front and 40 in rear?

 

It depends on what tires you are running. With stock tires that will work fine. If you are running different tires check the max PSI listed on the side of the tires. I run my tires at max PSI.

 

I run 40 front, 40 rear on my 2008 SG with stock Dunlops 402s.

 

Yes on my '13 SG stock. As recommended.
D402 130 front
D407 180 back

Seems fine for all conditions and loads.

 

40/40 with Dunlop 402's and have no wear problems.

 

Except I called Metzeler and they told me to follow what the bike manufacturer says and not to inflate to the max. There is huge difference in handling. Also, when I tried running at the max, it was very easy to lock up the rear wheel braking and to spin it when starting off fast. Back down to 36/40, and life is much better.

http://metzeler.com/site/us/tech-and...intenance.html

 

That is great advice, for Metzeler tires! Some brands, especially Avon, call for higher pressures than stock. As FS did, check with the manufacturer when changing brands.

As for the wording on tyre sidewalls, that is only there to give the maximum weight that can be used, at the pressure stated, that is all. It is not useful for deciding the most suitable pressures for best handling or comfort. Best to ignore them!

In the absence of any better information, use the pressures in the owners manual, but by all means try different pressures, especially when carrying a heavy passenger and a full touring load, when higher pressures may give a much better ride.

 

This is what I use.

 

If you run Metzelers at stock pressure they will wear out very qucikly. I think they need to learn a little about what they do for a living. Just my 02 after years of working with wheels and tires for Harley's.

If you feel a Metzeler tire does not handle as well as stock Dunlop there is a problem. Stock Dunlops are hard as a rock. they do not stick to the ground nearly as well as a Metzeler. To each their own but I have never been happy with the handling of a stock tire on any motorcycle. After trying many different brands I find there is always a drastic difference in how the bike rides with a better tire. But, everyone's perception is different.

 

Used to run 38 front and 40 rears on 402's, I run 40 and 42 with E3's.