Using a "rear" tire on the front wheel

[johnb]

I had my bike (VN1600 Nomad) inspected this morning. They passed it, but said I needed a front tire real soon. I expected it, but thought I might get another 1,000 miles out of it. Decided that while I was there, I might as well get a new tire installed. I'm not that picky, although one of these days if I have the money, I'd like to try a "matched set" of Avon Cobras and have them put on at the same time.

I have a Dunlop D251 (180/70R 16) on the rear. The dealer checked what he had in stock and came up with a Metzeler which was OK by me. I didn't think of asking what model but said go ahead and install it. Turns out to be a Metzeler Metronic ME55A (150/80VB 16). When I looked the tire up on the web, it is specified as a Rear tire.

What do you think about using this on the front? Driving it home the 10 or so miles home, and in the rain no less, it felt fine. Of course, it seems an omen, that it rained, since it was raining last year when I had the rear tire replaced.