I looked up Metzeler's website and for the ME 880 tires, they list the following sizes which is close to the stock 09 tire sizes:

Front - stock 130 80 17
possible replacements 130 70 17, 120 80 17, or 140 80 17

Rear - stock 180 65 16
possible replacement 180 60 16, 180 70 16

I was thinking I could go with the 130 70 17 for the front and 180 60 16 for the rear. Both would be just a little bit lower profile, but that doesn't seem like a problem to me. But, I'm no tire expert. I know with cars I went with a lower profile tire for my car with no problems. I don't know if this is different with motorcycle tires.

Any thoughts or suggestions on this?

 

Check their load ratings before you buy, some will fit bit cant handle the weight of the FLHs.

 

Check the how wide the new tires are to see if they fit in the swingarm, if so go for it.

 

I am sure they will be able to handle the load of your bike. Metzlers are nice and sticky, but do not usually last as long as the dunslops. I prefer a sticky tire any day.

 

Been using the 140/17" 880 front & rear for a while now. Not known for a long mileage but I like the ride and handling. I usually run in the 65~95 mph range The comfort is great + good grip in the rain also. Handling over saving a few $ on rock hard rubber for me.

 

Looks like Metzeler has blackwall 880's in the exact size and load ratings for '09 and up touring bikes now. They just sorta snuck 'em in.

 

this is good news.they must of added them recent.i was just looking alittle while ago.but did you notice the are not radials.must be a reason

 

They've been on their site for a while. I was unable to locate anyone who sold them online.

 

www.americanmototire.com

 

Metzler do list the exact sizes for the 09:
130/80 B 17 M/C 65H TL
for the front

180/65 B 16 M/C 81H REINF TL
for the rear.

Not available in Australia yet.

I was thinking of running:

130/70 R 17M/C 62V TL

200/60 R 16 M/C 79V TL

Both are radials, both are slightly different sizes. The front is 3 weight indexes under rated (55lb) and the back is 2 (56lb).

So with the new tyres I will be rated for 1547 lb, stock she is rated for 1658 lb.

What does everyone think?? I would like to go to radials, and V rating.