Dunlop alternate tires question.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 6,175
Likes: 1,966
From: Great State of Canada
I know it is perfectly OK to have a bias belted front tire combined with a radial rear tire but not a biased rear and radial front. The Softail Breakout FYI comes standard from HD with the bias front/radial rear combo.
Tourer
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 321
Likes: 2
From: Spring Lake
I've always heard this...but what is the science behind it? Not trying to hijack...just a question.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 6,175
Likes: 1,966
From: Great State of Canada
BF, BR
RF, RR
BF, RR
Not RF, BR
Former Sponsor
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 10,968
Likes: 54
Never have had an issue with any combo of bias rear or front and or radial front and rear. Never. It is funny as to how what some tire company says becomes true without anyone actually trying it. My opinion is that this myth is due to a tire company trying to sell more product.
I have been setting up wheels with tires for many years. Never have had this issue.
I have been setting up wheels with tires for many years. Never have had this issue.
Cruiser
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 230
Likes: 11
From: PA
Agree. I looked all over and bought a D402 for my RK. Free shipping and fast!
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Former Sponsor
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 10,968
Likes: 54
I have never had an issue with this. Right now I have a Michelin on the front and a Metzeler on the rear of my bike. No problems. I used to sell a bias front radial rear all the time with the most popular size of wheels I sell and never one issue.
The only "problem" you might have is a bike that handles better with a different tire. I have never found a stock tire to be the best handling option for any of the 20 motorcycles I have owned.
The only "problem" you might have is a bike that handles better with a different tire. I have never found a stock tire to be the best handling option for any of the 20 motorcycles I have owned.
Club Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 45,429
Likes: 2,898
From: Bedford UK
I've been riding for over forty years and only a couple of times had problems, when for some reason mixed tyres haven't got on together, but that was years ago! You should be fine IMHO.