I have heard that you should try to run the same tread pattern on our bikes. I have a 2010 RGC and am in need of new tires. I am looking at the Dunlop Elite 3 for the front and American Elite for the rear. Is this ok or will I have handling problems? I was happy with the life of my stock tires but wanted to try something new. Looked at the Metzeler ME880's but I dont think they will last as long as the Dunlops...suggestions?

 

Didn't know they made an elite 3 for a 2010.

I certainly would not think twice about using a different tread pattern. There is no way it will be deterimental.

 

Yeah, my buddy is running that exact combo on his 2010 RGC because the American Elite isn't available in the 18" front size yet. No issue

 

I just put the same combo on mine for the same reasons as the OP.
No issues yet.... working on suspension mods now.
Check back in a few thou and report........ cheers.

 

You don't need the same tread pattern on front and back. I have the American Elite on the front right now, next time I am going with the ME880, the Elites slip way too much on the tar snakes, got to be something better out there.

 

Do the Elites slip more than the stock Dunlops on the tar snakes? We got plenty of them on NJ

 

I've had the opposite result's. I replaced my front Dunlop 408F with an American Elite. I haven't noticed any slipping on tar snakes, plus it's a lot quieter than the 408F.

 

I may end up going with this combo... I was really starting to consider the Metzeler but I think this will work

 

Metzeler ME880s are the "stickiest" in my experience through the years IMHO.

 

But supposedly don't last near as long as the Dunlops from what I've read