It seems that some states have begun cutting grooves in the concrete on major highways, both as repairs and also prior to resurfacing. I guess that channels rain water better. I heard that Metzler tires react differently to the grooves and perform better than Dunlops. True?

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tires that do not have a pattern that follow the grooves react differently. They ride much smoother. I have only had the Dunlops since I have bought my Harley, but always ran tires without this on my metrics. Much nicer. I'm gettng some metzlers soon, and can only imagine the difference it is going to make.

 

I have run both brands of tires and really found no difference running on highways with grooves. The main thing to do is be sure to kept your tires properly inflated, if not you can get cupping on your tires and then they will bounce all over the place.

 

I've got two bikes. 00Standard with Metzlers and 07 SG with Dunlops. I would rather be riding the 00 over any grooved pavement. Metzlers do not track the grooves like Dunlops do. Won't be long and the Dunlops will come off the 07.

 

I had Continentals on one of my old Hondas and it would scare the **** out of you when hit grooves like that once you got in them, you hoped they were straight cause it was like riding on rails.

 

The Metzeler 880's make a huge difference when it comes to rain grooves. I just swapped out my stock Dunlops for the 880's, and the difference is night and day. The stock Dunlops follow the grooves and make for a very uncertain ride - the Metzelers completely eliminate this very undesirable tendency. Get the Metzelers!

Doug

 

Funny you should post this today. I was out riding earlier this afternoon, had cages riding all around me and I hit a fairly long stretch of grooved highway. Dept. Of Trans. was doing some resurfacing. Needless to say, I almost pooped my pants with my Dunlops!

 

I had the Metzler 880's on my WG and the grooves were not bad except for that 21" front tire following them. When I started got the EG with Stock Dunlops, WOW SCAREY. Seems I had more movement in the rear of the bike versus the front. I will keep the dunlps until I wear them out and will be moving up to the Metzlers.

 

So what is the price comparison and the wear rates of Dunlops and Metzeler tires??

 

Yep, Metzlers behave way better on grooved surfaces, especially wet metal bridge grates. Prices are pretty close, check out J&P. Metzlers wear a bit faster because of softer, sticker compounds. You may loose about 2-3k mileage compared to Dunlops overall, but the traction and handling are worth it IMHO.