Replacing front tire
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,395
Likes: 25
From: St George, UT
I typically get around 20,000 on the front, and 12-15,000 on the rear. A lot depends on how you ride. I use gears for most deceleration coupled with light braking pressure (unless more is needed to avoid a problem) which seems to extend the life of the rear tire.
Bear in mind that 70% of the braking power comes from the front wheel since the forces of weight and deceleration bear down on the front tire. Run 38 psi. The rear tire bears the burden of acceleration so if you ride in a gentle manner, the tire will last you longer. While braking, the rear tire unloads quite a bit and may skid or slide if braking too hard resulting in extra wear and tear. Run 40 psi for maximum wear.
Some people will replace the tires when they get a bit "squared" off, so when you're leaning over, the tire tread contact is reduced and it will feel a bit loose or squirming. If that doesn't bother you, you'll get great tread life. If it does, expect 7-8,000 on a rear tire.
I hope my 50 years riding experience helps you.
Bear in mind that 70% of the braking power comes from the front wheel since the forces of weight and deceleration bear down on the front tire. Run 38 psi. The rear tire bears the burden of acceleration so if you ride in a gentle manner, the tire will last you longer. While braking, the rear tire unloads quite a bit and may skid or slide if braking too hard resulting in extra wear and tear. Run 40 psi for maximum wear.
Some people will replace the tires when they get a bit "squared" off, so when you're leaning over, the tire tread contact is reduced and it will feel a bit loose or squirming. If that doesn't bother you, you'll get great tread life. If it does, expect 7-8,000 on a rear tire.
I hope my 50 years riding experience helps you.
Road Master
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 959
Likes: 5
From: Oswego, IL
The way these OEM tires wear I will be changing the front with the rear. It was cupped pretty bad...... Always had proper inflation.... Almost 18,000. Stock 17"/16" set up for a Limited
See how the 19"/18" CVO set up does......
See how the 19"/18" CVO set up does......
Supporter
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 4,133
Likes: 147
From: Grays Creek, NC
I always just change both out at the same time, two fresh tires always ride better to me than just one. Front run's me $105 for an American elite 19", normally pay $35 to have my indy install it on the wheel. I remove front and rear myself that saves a bunch.
Last edited by hd_rolling; Mar 13, 2015 at 01:44 PM.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 1,935
Likes: 90
From: Charlotte
On my current set, I have about 12K on both. The front seems okay but the rear is a headache. I always put 40lbs in the both. After a good ride, the rear will drop down to the 20's but the front is always constant. Last time I rode, I felt a good wobble from the rear while on the Highway. I'm just wondering if I should bite the bullet and just replace both (even though the front seems to be fine). I don't want to have to come back to the dealer in a few months...
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Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 3,328
Likes: 15
From: Pacific Northwest
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Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2012
Posts: 1,935
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From: Charlotte
Thank you!
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Joined: Feb 2008
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From: Grays Creek, NC
They all do there own thing but just before or during bike weeks most do some type of promotion.