 A tire question...
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All:
In getting my bike ready for PA inspection, I noticed that my front tire is at the ware indicators. Additionally, I'm starting to get a slight wobble between 40 - 55 miles an hour. I say slight in that I don't notice it if I'm holding the handle bars, however, if you let them go, the side to side movement begins. Since I haven't hit anything hard and there is no pulsing when breaking, I'm thinking I'm either out of balance or shifted a belt. Anyhow, long story short, I'm thinking of replacing the OEM Bridgestones with Metzler's. My no-so-local dealer can get the Lasertec (front) and the ME880 (rear) in for me and mounted/balanced by Friday. My question is, are these good tires? According to Internet reviews they appear to be, however, I'd like to hear first hand from the family. Does anyone have them on their bike now? If so do you like them? Would you buy another set?
For the record, my alternative tire is the Avon Venom. Should I consider something else? I'm hearing whatever I choose will be a step up from the OEM Bridgestones.
Any feedback would be great!
Thanks!
STeve B.
Sometimes it takes a whole tankful of fuel before you can think straight.
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 Re: A tire question...
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I replaced my stock Bridgestones with the Metzlers this May (about 3,000 mi. ago) The improvement in handling was immediate and pronounced, and after managing to get caught in a high mountain frog strangler a few weeks ago  , I know they handle the wet very well too.
Last edited by FCTush; 07/08/2008 4:21 PM.
Morituri Nolumus Mori
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Re: A tire question...
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Learned Hand
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Learned Hand
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IMHO - Both the Avons and Metzs are far better than the B-stones.
I've heard the Avons may be a tad softer - hence
handling+/Wear-. But you'll surely notice a difference from the stones in either case.
2004 Triumph Speedmaster (J Lo) 2006 Yamaha Stratoliner (Adele)
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Re: A tire question...
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Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
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I have the Metzler set up and like it. I also had the same wobble for some time when I was near the wear indicator also, so maybe it wears uneven or out of balance or something.... anyway, the new tires are great, better feel under you and the looks of the ME880 are a big improvement over the boxy looking Bridgestone
Always remember to be yourself. Unless you suck. Then pretend to be someone else.
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Re: A tire question...
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Learned Hand
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I changed from Dunlop 404s to the Metzelers a couple thousand miles ago ( about a month ) to see if they would get higher mileage. It looks like they will. They seem to be of a harder compound. They don't feel as "sticky" after a hard jaunt through the twisties, but have posed no handling minuses in my opinion. I rode in the rain / wet for about 3 out of the last four days, and have no complaints. I did 975 miles over the holiday long weekend, including many of the great roads like Cherohala Skyway, "The Snake" (hwy 421) and Hellbender (hwy 28). The tires performed well.  Two thumbs up from me.
Howbeit when He, the Spirit of truth, is come; He will guide you in all truth:
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 Re: A tire question...
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Joined: Jun 2006
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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+1 on the Metzlers. You can go wider than stock on the fronts. I'm using a 130/70 Marathon XXL and it fits with no clearence problems. Handles great and I think it looks better. 
Steelheart- '03 Speedmaster Black/Yellow
The Hayabusa Killa
16" Shorties/140 mains/Airbox drilled
Procom CDI
"There is no cure for Celibacy. But we can treat the symptoms."
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Re: A tire question...
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Piper, Roadworthy and Mrt,
Thanks for the feedback. I'm going to pull the trigger on the Metzler's. Hey, the unstated bonus is that my dealer will give me a loaner while he has the bike for a few hours. Could be a great opp to ride the EFI America. SWEET!
I'll keep you updated. Thanks,
Steve B.
Sometimes it takes a whole tankful of fuel before you can think straight.
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Re: A tire question...
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Loquacious
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Loquacious
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BTW, if you wipe the new tire down with Goof Off, the break-in period goes from 50 miles to about 10. 
Steelheart- '03 Speedmaster Black/Yellow
The Hayabusa Killa
16" Shorties/140 mains/Airbox drilled
Procom CDI
"There is no cure for Celibacy. But we can treat the symptoms."
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Re: A tire question...
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Joined: Aug 2007
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Should be Riding
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Should be Riding
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Quote:
BTW, if you wipe the new tire down with Goof Off, the break-in period goes from 50 miles to about 10.
my dealer told me 100 miles when they changed my shoes
Always remember to be yourself. Unless you suck. Then pretend to be someone else.
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Re: A tire question...
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I am on my second set of Metzlers and love them..I also believe that Triumph engineers spent time and money to figure sizing/brand/etc. so I stick with factory reccomendations..I change tires every march/april at between 7500 and 8500 miles.I also experienced some front wobble and I contibute that usually as a warning sign to replace front tire.
Last edited by odatbob; 07/08/2008 6:43 PM.
life is good..I am retired..sold my America in 2008,bought a Rocket and sold that in 3/2013 and now own a new Triumph Bonneville T-100
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Re: A tire question...
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love my 880's front and back
Frank
(Former)05 BA tbike pipes, ai removed, Freak, mikuni hsr 42's, 904, ported/polished head, 1mm oversized valves
NOW-2010 silver and black tbird
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Re: A tire question...
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Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
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I am sold on the IRC Wild Flare tires, less than half the price of the Metz.(I found a place in CA where there are $85!) I have had mine on the rear now for about 5,000 miles and it is wearing very well. I have ridden in the wet and dry and it holds the road very well. I think it is just as good as the Metz and just bought one today to replace Wendys Bridgestone. I have also seen they make them for the front but haven't checked sizes yet.
I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
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Re: A tire question...
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If you can mount them yourself or have it done check out www.americanmototire.com , I have saved a lot of money on name brand tires there.I am currently running Avons.The Metzlers are very good also I think.I ran a Bridgestone BT45 on the front and at first I liked it.I will not buy another one now unless I do not have the money for the Avon or Metzler.I ran IRC years ago and maybe I'll try them the Dog33 seems to like them a lot.
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Re: A tire question...
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Quote:
I am sold on the IRC Wild Flare tires, less than half the price of the Metz.(I found a place in CA where there are $85!) I have had mine on the rear now for about 5,000 miles and it is wearing very well. I have ridden in the wet and dry and it holds the road very well. I think it is just as good as the Metz and just bought one today to replace Wendys Bridgestone. I have also seen they make them for the front but haven't checked sizes yet.
+1 on the IRC Wild Flares, I've had one on the rear since early this year. Love it. Love the price even more. At Americanmototire, it was almost 40% less than the Metz.
And you don't have to mount it yourself.
I use a local old-fashioned 'bike shop' instead of the 'stealership'. They'll mount customer-sourced tires no problem.
Steelheart- '03 Speedmaster Black/Yellow
The Hayabusa Killa
16" Shorties/140 mains/Airbox drilled
Procom CDI
"There is no cure for Celibacy. But we can treat the symptoms."
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Re: A tire question...
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Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
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I have a tire machine to mount tires , rim clamp machine with a plastic head for no damage, mine is fully air operated so when I lock the head in place it lifts it off the wheel so when the wheel is in motion nothing touches it. So if you are close to the Poconos and need a tire mounted......
I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
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Re: A tire question...
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Loquacious
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Ian- Did you ever find a Wild Flare to fit our front? 
Steelheart- '03 Speedmaster Black/Yellow
The Hayabusa Killa
16" Shorties/140 mains/Airbox drilled
Procom CDI
"There is no cure for Celibacy. But we can treat the symptoms."
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Re: A tire question...
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Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
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I didn't look at the sizes but I did see they make fronts. I haven't had time to look into it farther. I am very busy over the summer but will when I get a chance.
I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
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Re: A tire question...
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Just found out, IRC make a Wild Flare 120/90-18, but it's 20mm taller so you would need to reposition the fender.
Only $58, though.
Last edited by BrianT; 07/09/2008 7:59 PM.
Steelheart- '03 Speedmaster Black/Yellow
The Hayabusa Killa
16" Shorties/140 mains/Airbox drilled
Procom CDI
"There is no cure for Celibacy. But we can treat the symptoms."
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Re: A tire question...
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All,
Thanks for the input! It looks like I'm going with the Metzler's! Since this is my first M/C tire purchase, my guess is that you buy the set, correct? My rear tire seems to have a lot of tread left, however, the first in definately on the bars. Guess I must be a little heavy on the front break(???). I don't know. Never thought I was, but I digress... (spelling?)
Thanks again. The family here is just awesome!
Steve B.
Sometimes it takes a whole tankful of fuel before you can think straight.
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Re: A tire question...
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Fe Butt
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Fe Butt
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Don't need to buy a pair just what you need.
I learned all I need to know about life by killing smart people and eating their brains.
Eat right ,Exercise ,Stay fit, Die Anyway!
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Re: A tire question...
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All:
I pulled the trigger on both Front and Rear Metzler's! First 50 miles I babied them and will probably continue for another 50. First impression is WOW! Definitely turns easier and with more control!
Thanks for the advise!
Steve B.
Sometimes it takes a whole tankful of fuel before you can think straight.
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Re: A tire question...
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Oil Expert
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geez the tire stuff seems confusing. No wonder the dealers can charge so much. Motorcycle superstore has these Metzeler-Lasertec Bias Sport Touring Front Tire 110/80H-18 for $97.99 and these Metzeler-ME 880 Marathon Touring Rear Tire 170/80/HB15 for 140.99 including shipping. Are these the right sizes and compatible and is the price reasonable? I think I prefer the lasertec tread pattern for the front at least. somewhere i saw something about a triumph-specific lasertec but i've lost it now.
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Re: A tire question...
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Quote:
+1 on the Metzlers. You can go wider than stock on the fronts.
I'm using a 130/70 Marathon XXL and it fits with no clearence problems. Handles great and I think it looks better.
I went with the 130/70 as per your other post about it and have about 100 miles on it so far...it's an upgrade of the highest order. Thanks for sharing that with us.
Bought it from americanmototire.com and got it for 128 plus 11 shipping every place else wants 170 and up.
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Re: A tire question...
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Guys, Stupid question # ? I just had the Metzler's installed at a place that I truly trust. Lasertec on the front, ME880 on the rear. These tires are great and they handle millions of times better then the stock Bridgestone (05 America). However, I've noticed that I feel a little bit of a vibration while riding. I don't ever recall that being there when I had the Bridgestones on. Its more noticeable when coasting to a stop. Have you guys experienced the same type of change on your bikes? Just curious if it is the tires or do I have to start looking at the bike before something expensive happens. I've put about 1120 miles on these so far. Any advise? Steve B.
Sometimes it takes a whole tankful of fuel before you can think straight.
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Re: A tire question...
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Quote:
Guys,
Stupid question # ? I just had the Metzler's installed at a place that I truly trust. Lasertec on the front, ME880 on the rear. These tires are great and they handle millions of times better then the stock Bridgestone (05 America). However, I've noticed that I feel a little bit of a vibration while riding. I don't ever recall that being there when I had the Bridgestones on. Its more noticeable when coasting to a stop. Have you guys experienced the same type of change on your bikes? Just curious if it is the tires or do I have to start looking at the bike before something expensive happens. I've put about 1120 miles on these so far.
Any advise?
Steve B.
I've got zero vibration from the tires on mine. Could be a balance problem, look at the wheels and see if you can tell if any weights came off. Also could be they misplaced a spacer on the wheel and you have alignment problems causing the vibe. You should take it bakc and tell them and see if they will check it out and fix anything they might have gotten wrong.
edit:just reread your post...after 1120 miles most likely a weight fell of rather than setup prob I would think.
Hope you get it sorted out . 
Last edited by EDG1911; 07/13/2008 4:45 PM.
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Re: A tire question...
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Bigbill,
Thanks for the reply! Actually, I only have about 120 miles on the tires. I'll bring it back to the shop and have them take a look. Thanks for the info.
STeve B.
Sometimes it takes a whole tankful of fuel before you can think straight.
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Re: A tire question...
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Quote:
Bigbill,
Thanks for the reply! Actually, I only have about 120 miles on the tires. I'll bring it back to the shop and have them take a look. Thanks for the info.
STeve B.
Uhoh, another misidentification...I'm not Bigbill my handle is EDG1911 the Bigbill in my sig is a quote by Bigbill. The quote is from another misidentification I found humorous in another post here...how ironic. 
I originally read 120 then when I reread it in the quote as I was replying and saw the 1120 and thought of it differently. Yeah you should go back and see if they'll at least recheck the balance.
Regards,
Eugene
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Eugene,
Sorry 'bout the mis-id! I'm planning on going back to the shop this Tuesday. Its going to rain alot here tomorrow.
I'll keep the board updated. Thanks for your opinion and help.
Steve B.
Sometimes it takes a whole tankful of fuel before you can think straight.
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Re: A tire question...
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Quote:
Eugene,
Sorry 'bout the mis-id! I'm planning on going back to the shop this Tuesday. Its going to rain alot here tomorrow.
I'll keep the board updated. Thanks for your opinion and help.
Steve B.
no sweat Steve. It's funny.
Hope to hear you have it right soon.
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Re: A tire question...
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Quote:
Quote:
BTW, if you wipe the new tire down with Goof Off, the break-in period goes from 50 miles to about 10.
my dealer told me 100 miles when they changed my shoes
I just put on Metzlers front and rear (lasertech and 880). The place where I had it done is not my regular dealer, but instead a place that is going out of business and gave me a very good price. They didnt mention anything about a break in period, but I wish they had. Leaving the dealership, I made a left turn into traffic and hit the throttle. Much to my surprise, the rear tire broke loose and the bike went sideways. Thats about as close to putting it down as I have been since I got it. I didnt know if it was tire glaze or those little stubbly things on a fresh tire causing it to spin, but it definately gave me a jolt of adrenalin. Live and learn, I guess, but I'm definately gonna look for that Goof Off....
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