Road King Tires?
Road Master
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 806
Likes: 1
From: Upstate NY
RE: Dunlop Tires?
The stock W/W are dunlops right? I have not yet taken delivery on my king yet.... it is at the dealer, just waiting for back ordered parts. I only ask, because if they are crap, then I would have the dealer change them...
Cruiser
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 235
Likes: 0
From:
RE: Dunlop Tires?
The stock Dunlops are fine, but if you ever change to something else, like the Metzler 880's for example, you'll never go back to the 'lops. Good reports coming from the E3's as well, plus the new Michelin Commanders, which are "endorsed" by HD. I cannot speak to the latter brands as I have not personally run them on a touring bike, though I do have the E3 on the rear of my Vrod.
Compared to the 'lops, the Metz's provide better wet weather performance, instilling more confidence, at least for me. The biggest thing is they do not follow grooves in the pavement like the 'lops, so less "wiggle" when riding those interstates with the rain grooves cut into them, and the slight edge which comes from the two lanes being slightly different in height, when changing lanes. The Metzler also "falls into" turns easier, and IMO handles better.
I don't know that I would swap tires on a brand new bike, as the 402's are quite servicable, but lacking in performance compared to some other brands/tread patterns.
For the fellow who's got 10K on the rear and expects to get up to 17K...that is remarkable!!! I've never gotten over 8K on a rear tire, regardless of brand, and I don't do burnouts. I do, however, ride agressively in twisties, and use the gears to brake, rarely using the brakes except when necessary in the twisties. From things I've read, gearing down causes some tire wear. Generally, I go through two rear tires for every front, or change the front with every second rear, barring tire failure by puncture.
Compared to the 'lops, the Metz's provide better wet weather performance, instilling more confidence, at least for me. The biggest thing is they do not follow grooves in the pavement like the 'lops, so less "wiggle" when riding those interstates with the rain grooves cut into them, and the slight edge which comes from the two lanes being slightly different in height, when changing lanes. The Metzler also "falls into" turns easier, and IMO handles better.
I don't know that I would swap tires on a brand new bike, as the 402's are quite servicable, but lacking in performance compared to some other brands/tread patterns.
For the fellow who's got 10K on the rear and expects to get up to 17K...that is remarkable!!! I've never gotten over 8K on a rear tire, regardless of brand, and I don't do burnouts. I do, however, ride agressively in twisties, and use the gears to brake, rarely using the brakes except when necessary in the twisties. From things I've read, gearing down causes some tire wear. Generally, I go through two rear tires for every front, or change the front with every second rear, barring tire failure by puncture.
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Tourer
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 466
Likes: 0
From: Ontario, Canada
RE: Road King Tires?
I don't have any problem with the Dunlops. Metzelers and the like are undoubtedly good tires but until I experience dissatistaction with the Dunlops I'll continue to use what the factory put on in the first place. I make it a point to check the tires regularly for any abnormal wear, cuts or cracks and air pressure.
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Cruiser
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 190
Likes: 0
From: California
RE: Road King Tires?
I rode my 07 RK Custom for 9100 miles with the Dunlops. After getting my 21 18 combo & Mets I realized what a difference it made. You really don't know until you ride with both. With the Mets, it handled better and the ride was smoother. Also I did notice I had more control in the groves on the HWY. I will always by the Mets or Avons for now on. I know the Mets will wear a little faster, but for a better ride and a smoother ride, it's worth it.
Rico
Rico