Quote:

So I need some good grip, but would like to get better than 6,000 miles per tire.



6000 miles just doesn't sound right. Riding in the mountains should increase wear on the sides but you should be getting better than 6000. The sides of my tires look like new and I'm almost at the indicator in the center (16,000 miles), but I live in Florida. What tire pressures do you run?

P.S. North Carolina sure is a beautiful place to ride. Took my bike up there for a week last year (Linville). We rode from Ashville to Virginia on the Blue Ridge and did the "Snake" between NC and TN on 421. My next trip up there will definitely include the Cherohala Skyway. I really like the mountain scenic roads better than turns for the sake of turns although I'll probably ride the "Dragon" when over that way.

Bob 2005 America, 904cc - sold. 2014 Trophy SE.