metzler vs. dunlap

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Jul 11, 2009 | 07:55 AM

eaheritage

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Tourer

Joined: Oct 2007

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From: Eagan, MN

metzler vs. dunlap

So when i get to the dealer, and ask about price difference what should i expect? and also is it ok to mix these two??? i have a 04 Heritage and need a rear tire front one is dunlap..... and is the metler that much better? thanks

Jul 11, 2009 | 05:23 PM

wahoo

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From: NE Ohio

Not sure which brand is better (I run Dunlops on my 07 Heritage), but it's not a good idea to mix n match tire brands....

Jul 12, 2009 | 05:40 PM

Stellar HDF Member

Joined: May 2005

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From:

If you mean Dunlop and Metzeler, sure it's OK to mix them, as long as both are bias ply. I personally think Dunlops are better.

Jul 13, 2009 | 08:46 AM

Prog Rocker

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Joined: Sep 2008

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From: Land of Confusion

Quote:

Originally Posted by mp

If you mean Dunlop and Metzeler, sure it's OK to mix them, as long as both are bias ply. I personally think Dunlops are better.

For liability reasons, both Dunlop and Metzeler (and any other motorcycle tire manufacturer, for that matter) will not recommend that you mix their products with those of another tire manufacturer. Motorcycle tires are designed to work together as a set.

Cheers

Jul 13, 2009 | 11:16 AM

iclick

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Joined: Sep 2005

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From: Baton Rouge, LA

Quote:

Originally Posted by eaheritage

There is no problem mixing different brand/models of tires, except bias and radial. Replace the rear tire with whatever you want and let the front Dunlop stay on the bike for its normal lifespan. I installed a Dunlop Elite 3 rear on my bike over a year ago and ran the stock D402 front until about three months ago, with no problems except the groove-tracking behavior continued on the front, which is a characteristic of that tire. Groove tracking is much reduced with the E3's.

You might also look into the Dunlop Elite 3 for your Softail, which is getting rave reviews on the touring forum. Do a search over there for plenty of feedback. It was originally designed for the Gold Wing to address durability complaints and it is a favorite among that group as well. Before purchasing my first E3 I searched the GW forums and read as much as I could, and feedback was almost universally favorable.

My present Elite 3 rear has 16k on the clock and still has about 40% of its tread remaining, while the first two D402's managed only 10k each. Performance is excellent in both wet and dry conditions, and I won't be using anything else as long as they continue performing up to this level.