Perhaps the original photo describes one of two things: Metzler tires aren't worth a darn because they wore out at 11000 miles, or they're so good they'll run even after the rubber is gone. I'd try a different brand.

 

This is why I check my tires (and tire pressure) at least once a week.

 

I have a '13 CV Ultra and I got just under 21,000 miles out of the OEM (Dunlop) rear tire and could have went a bit more but the tire gauge read 3/32nds and I was getting ready for a trip so I had BOTH tires replaced. The front had a bit more life in it but I didn't want to have to have it replaced during my trip.

My friend got nearly 30,000 out of his OEM rear tire on his '10 Ultra but he did a lot more riding in cooler temps than I did.

Tires (touring type) do have a better lifespan than they once did but improper inflation, heavy acceleration and braking can shorten that time.

 

I definitely think my Guardian Angel was with me. I probably should have had it replaced before the trip. Live and learn. Now not sure what to replace it with.

 

The bigger question is how did you not notice that before you got back? I'm always taking a quick glance at my tires and if I was on a trip, I would be checking them out at every stop. You definitely had some guardian angels with you.

 

Dunlop E3. I got 24+ I forget what it was. My buddy who swears by them 880's gets half. Think they did away with the E3 now it's an E4. Or an American Elite. But never Metzler. For me. Your results may vary.

 

Gotta say I'm always amazed at tales of 30k mileage from a rear tire. I'm even more amazed if I get 10k from any make of tire down to the wear indicators, and I don't drive hard.

30k on a rear would indicate maybe 50k+ on a front?

 

My rear tire is getting a bit thin-I look at it every time I get on the bike.

 

I can believe it! I've just gone over 10,000 on my stock tires (Dunlops) and it looks like I'll easily get 20K out of them (2016 Road King)

 

Wow. You certainly got all the wear you could out of that tire.