Tires, tires, tires

[tkd]

I really need tires badly, but I am extremely confused. I have searched every board, asked every tech, talked to every parts department and I am still lost. My 4 choices

Metzler 880----you guys either love it or hate it, no in between
Dunlop 404-----great reviews, but y'all say it's a 5k tire....not good
Michelin Commander. Great name, great price, no feedback.
Dunlop E-3's. Don't know much about them other than Wing riders love them apparently

This is my first big bike and she needs shoes now. Someone help me out here. I'm not looking for anything to carve with, but some stickiness would be nice as would ride quality. Mileage is important, but it's the most variable by rider from what I read.

Someone point me in the right direction please?

[blowndodge]

What are you looking for in a tire?

[formikec]

Nobody ever mentions Pirelli tires. When I bought my '02 it had a new Pirelli on the back. Is there some issue with Pirelli?

[cactusjack]

I just replaced my factory tires about 3,000 miles ago, just prior to the Western rally. I went with the ME-880s. I found the same lack of consensus regarding tires as you have. I needed tires badly and just went ahead and got the Metzelers.

[tkd]

Things I think I would like in a tire.

Good handling--does not mean that I need to drag floorboards
stability and wet weather traction
Ride quality at least equal to the stock stones or better
if I could get 10k out of them, I'd be happy. (11k on the rear stone)
I guess in a perfect world, they would be quiet

[coot]

Installed 880's on my 1400 Intruder With Dyna Beads for balance.
After 4000 miles, could not be happier with the way it handles.

Satisfied enough with the 880's that have also put them on my 1600 Nomad (with Dyna Beads). Have about 2000 miles on these. Nice ride and I like the way they corner.

[speedbyu]

First week with the Michelins, very quiet and handle well.
Time will tell on everything else.
Bill

[socwkbiker]

I have the Metzlers and love them.

Avons best ride... least wear (I've been told)

Metzelers best overall but maybe #2 to Dunlop elite 3's

Dunlop 404's noisy (my experience)

Pirellis....... loved them on the Vulcan 800 (same company as Metzeler now)

Michelin Judi had Commanders on Volusia and was great.

Chinese... Maxxis, IRC, Ching chang chun.... don't touch 'em (my experience)


Bottom line....... Metzeler, Elite 3's....... till the new Pirelli's come out.... I will try them then.

IMHO which is worth .00001 cents

[bigdog]

Hey Speedbyu, I've considered the Michelin's. What sizes did you get?

[dank]

I'm on my second set of Metzlers and about to buy the third rear tire. Getting 12,000 - 13,000 on the rear. 22,000 on the front. Great in rain, super in corners. I have the radial rear and bias ply front. I have read mixed review on every tire I have purchased on every bike. Just give them a try. Unfortunately it isn't a 50,000 mile decision, so you will be able to change soon if you so desire, but I think you will be very happy with them.

Only ones I've ridden that can compare favorably with Metzlers are Michelin Pilot GT's (on a connie, not my nomad). Both are great tires.

[unwind2]

2000 miles on the Metz, very pleased.....this is the 2nd bike I've put Metz on without complaint.

[flavor]

Past experience on other bikes besides the Nomad..........

Had Metzler's and Elite II's. Thought the Metzler's were a good tire but I fely the elite's were better in the rain. Can't remember road noise on either. I believe wear was about the same but not sure.

When I replace the stock tires on the Nomad, I'm thinking of trying the elite III's.

[Kawhead]

If a quiet ride and great handling wet or dry is what your after go with the Metzler. Thats what I like about them.

Itsemt,

I like that vest! What brand is it? Is it padded as it appears, and does it have zip off sleeves by chance??

Nice pic btw... bike looks great and you look mean! ;) ;) ;)