I had the Michelin Commander 2, BUT in the rain I was sliding around a lot. Almost lost her going on back road twisties thru West Virginia in the wet. So I went back to Dunlops but will most likely go with Metzelers next time.

 

The E3s are what I'm replacing right now. I got pretty good mileage from them but the rear is about to fall apart. I did only run it at 38psi. I think my next set, whichever it may be, I'll run a bit higher.

 

I just put a set of American Elites on my bike, had been running the standard Dunlops for 2 years prior.
Much improved ride and handling , and absolutely fabulous in the rain. In fact , I got caught in a torrential downpour about 40 miles from home .Had to ride the whole way home without it letting up, and never felt like I wasn't in control of the bike .
Scott

 

Tires are similar to oil in that everyone has an opinion and everyone thinks what they use to be the best. Personally I think proper install and maintaining proper tire pressure is the most important. I've run stock, Michelin Commander II's, Metzler 888's and a number of other tires. Personally, I find the Michelin to not be a great tire for handling. One cannot argue that they will last forever but the durability comes at the expense of handling in my opinion. Again, it's my opinion, take it as that. Metzler has my vote with the new 888 as it seems to have a bit from the durability side but also has the Metzler handling.
Just my 2 cents. Choose wisely!! LOL

 

C2's!

 

I have the Metz 888 on the rear, and it handles great.I have about 7000 miles on it. Now I need a new front , it will be a 888.

 

I like the 888's. Can't see changing, they wear well and seem to hold the road. Wet roads are what matters most to me and I've found them to be very good.

 

The choice is yours!

 

I have has 3 sets of Dunlops and one set of Michelin Commander 2s. I just got my second set of Michelins. I get about the same miles out of them unless the Dunlops get sidewall cracks or start to cup badly. I am careful with my tire pressures and just turned over 60K miles on my 2012 RGU. No more Dunlops for me - I like my tires to stay round. Just my experience. I found the best deal at RockyMountainATVMC.com and since their warehouse is so close they were at my door the morning after ordering them with free shipping.


I do not know if experience with 2009+ bike tires translates directly to pre-2009 bikes. Maybe you should go with advice from somebody running the same setup as your bike.