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Following is from dunlopmotorcycle.com, looks like all they say is the usual don't-sue-me-if-you-screw-it-up stuff.
Bias and radial tires have significantly different dynamic properties. They deflect differently, create different cornering forces, have different damping characteristics, as well as other differences. In order for radial tires to be introduced into the two-wheel market, it was necessary to change certain characteristics of the motorcycle. The introduction of the radial tire led to such things as modified frames, new steering geometries and suspensions. Therefore, it is recommended that a motorcycle be used with the type of tire construction that it came with originally. If a change is to be made, then it should only be done if the motorcycle or tire manufacturer has approved the change. Above all, do not mix bias ply and radial tires on the same motorcycle unless it is with the approval of the motorcycle or tire manufacturer.
The only place you would see the effects of mixing bias ply and radials would be on a trailer...the side load is a bit different but if you put them in line on a relatively slow bike (NOT RACING) you would notice little to no effect...I have never flinched about mixint brands and/or bias/radial on the past 8 bikes i have had...Manufacturers will want you to use matching sets as it assure sales and they cover their asses...
Well, it's kind of late now, I've ordered a front radial having bias ply rear. I ride it rather hard, will let you know how it feels and if it slows me down once I get it installed.
Well, as I promised ...
Replaced stock front with Avon AV45 Azaro-ST 110/80R-19. Metzeler 140/90/16 rear.
First, now I can brake hard without locking the front up (dry surface). With Dunlop I locked my front every now and then, very unpleasant feeling. (I can get the rear up with Azaro, yes.) That slight slip in speedy curves that held me back with Dunlop is gone. Improved front feeling is unbelievable. I'm in love with this front!
I haven't experienced any odd effects having radial front and bias ply rear.
Second, Avon Azaro lets me brake also in wet!!! I cannot believe they ship these bikes with a front tire that does not have any grip in wet.
My next rear is going to be Avon Azaro, too.
Will let you know ...
Last edited by Von_Zipper; Oct 29, 2011 at 08:10 PM.
Reason: Typo
I've been looking at an Avon Storm 2 Altra 160/70r17 cause its one of the few companies who make the exact replacement size for my FXDC Rear end. But they don't make a tire for my front end. other than that it looks like the only thing close in radial sizes are Bridgestones. Speaking of Bridgestones, they have a tire called the Excedra Max" radial", my problem is closest I can get to factory "100/90r19 front and 160/70r17 back " are the 120/70zr19 front and 170/60zr17 Note that they have load ranges of 50 and 72 which may help on those long heavy road trips! And they can go a lot faster. My issue is I have never seen a bike with them. I've heard they are the new 2012/13 tire for the jap Honda Gold Wings.
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