Metzler Wet Traction???
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Intermediate
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 36
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Metzler Wet Traction???
I am on my 2nd set of ME880's on my '05 FLHT. The wear rate is great - I got over 16k on the rear of 1st set running at 40 psi w/Ride On in the front and rear. The dry handling is much improved of the stock Dunlops also. BUT the wet handling sucks. They seem to have no grip. I have accidentally locked up the rear once or twice on wet pavement and the bike just seems to slide like it's on a block of ice. Does anyone else have any different experiences with them? The reason I ask is twofold - 1) It has curbed into my riding time as I won't ride as much w/them on wet days 2) I am considering going to the new Michelins when it's time for new tires.
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Joined: Jul 2007
Posts: 2,424
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From: Hoboken, New Jersey
The OEM fitted Dunlops are the worst tire I have ever ridden on in wet conditions. It actually feels like I am riding a dirt bike the way the rear tire will bust loose under moderate acceleration....they just feel very unpredictable in the wet to me. On the other hand I have a set of Metzler 880's on my 03' Screamin' Eagle Deuce, and I feel totally confident in wet conditions with that bike. Admittedly I am the first bike looking for a place to wait out ANY wet weather, no matter what bike I am riding.
Road Master
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 1,121
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From: Huntersville, NC
I tried the Metzlers last year and experienced the same thing. They suck big time in the rain. They suck big time in the rain. I've used 42 in the front, 50 in the rear...nothing mattered. They sucked big time in the rain. Took them off before they were used up and haven't had a single issue with sliding in the rain since. So I would say your experience is right on the money....they suck big time in the rain.
05 Ultra, 42k miles, ridden daily.
05 Ultra, 42k miles, ridden daily.
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Joined: Jan 2008
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I have had Dunlops and Metzlers on so many bikes over the years. My findings are that Metzler ME880's are far superior in traction wet or dry over all the Dunlops including Harley OEM Dunlops. The compound and tread pattern just excel in wet conditions. I can't imagine why any would have different findings because mine were over so very many trials of both. I guess you never know what different people will find better.. That's the great thing about forums I guess, you get so many varied experiences to help make a decision.
Last edited by Cruise; Aug 21, 2008 at 09:55 PM.
Road Master
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 1,221
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From: Chester NY
Avons stick great Wet or dry. The mileage may not be the best out there, but is very respectable for a sticky tire.
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Intermediate
Joined: Oct 2007
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i'm glad at least one other had the same experience as me. i'll agree w/everyone else that other than the we traction the tires are awesome all the way around. i might go back to the venom x's - i had them on my old fxr. those tires were great no matter what. i am still thinking of the new michs though.
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Tourer
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 259
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From: Lincoln, NH
the only problem is if you have to replace them while on a trip....
can be very hard to find.
at least the mets are becoming more popular
al