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New here so apologies if this has been discussed. I've been looking at cobra chromes to replace the stock tires but only see a radial tires for the chrome in the rear (based on stock tire dimensions). Harley apparently recommends bias in front and rear, and I've called a few shops who said never to mix the two. However, I see a lot of people recommending the cobra chromes for the fat bob and other softails...so...is a radial ok in the rear? I've seen if you're to mix then a bias should be in the front with a radial in the rear. Wondering what others have put on their bikes. The metezler cruistecs also caught my eye and seem to be in better stock than the avons so might go with those. Looks like the fit there is two bias.
Last edited by emeyer87; Jul 24, 2023 at 09:02 AM.
I went with the Metzler Cruistecs on my 2020 Fat Bob for just that reason. Plus I think they look better than the Cobras. The Cruistecs are night and day better than the stock tires. The bike feels more nimble and corners much better (or I feel more confident).
The Cruistecs have great reviews and I think the perfect tire for the Fat Bob especially if you are a single rider without loading it up with gear and luggage.
I follow this guy on YouTube who has a TON of great info on the Fat Bob
Both are stock dimensions, but now I’m not sure if the front is radial or bias. The rear tire for sure as it has a “B” in the tire size, but the front tire is this one.
150/80-16 M/C 71H
Unless they specifically have an R in the number after the speed rating, they are bias ply tires.
150/80-16 = 150/80 B 16 = bias ply
150/80 R 16 = radial
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21 fat bob 114 tires - belt / radial
