AE vs. AE2 Tread Comparison
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 14,160
Likes: 11,249
From: San Diego, CA
@LQQK_OUT I just saw this thread....
Water under thebridge, now that the AE2s are made offshore and have been changed... but...
Prior to Harley switching their OEM tires from the GoodYear Eagle A/T to the Dunlops, they had a meeting with Dunlop engineers. Harley came up with the OEM Dunlop tires from those discussions and switched to Dunlops in 1983...
After a couple years, the Dunlop Engineers heard feedback that some people were complaining about aspects of the OEM Dunlops. The engineers went to HD and suggested some chnages that would address the complaints. HD decided to pass on the OEM tire upgrades.
Dunlop reviewed their tire contract with HD. They decided that making and selling a new Dunlop with the improvements they suggested, would not violate their contact with HD. The Dunlop American Elite tires were born.
They are not the same tire as the OEM Dunlops. I believe they were the first tire to go dual compound for Harley bikes, but my memory could be off on that. They certainly went dual compound long before the OEM Dunlops.
I remember hearing the buzz about the new Dunlops around 85ish(?) for Harley, and put a set on my 1980 FXS... I have been using Dunlop American Elite tires since then....
I am bothered by the closing of the Buffalo plant, and even more bothered by the way it was done. I also liked that I found a US made tire that performed well... The AE tires have served me well for many years.
However, I will be watching any and all reports on the new AE2 tires. Since I now would have to buy an offshore made tire to stick with the Dunlops, I am willing to consider other contenders...
Club Member
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 11,593
Likes: 8,421
From: Inland NW
The AE2s are made in Japan, and even though I am sure that quality control throughout the world with major manufacturers of tires is fairly consistent, I have had good luck with Japanese made tires in the past and would trust them on my bike.
Also like you, I am also looking at others; specifically the Bridgestone, and the Avon based on the feedback from the guys here, and the reviews online.
Road Master
Joined: Nov 2010
Posts: 923
Likes: 305
From: Kincardine, Ontario, Canada
Over the years I've tried many different premium brands, always shying away from the economy brands. I keep coming back to Dunlops. As far as the smooth rear tire, from what I've read, tires are matched. Meaning the tread design of the front tire is to compliment the rear, in other words, the front tire clears the path of water for the rear.
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