Graham, That IS weird !
I noticed your post say's "handbook", is copyrighted 8/2009, and part #3856501.
I have the Service Manual, copyrighted 1/2006, and part # T3859909, issue 2
Mine doesn't have page numbers like yours, mine has sections, and page numbers based on sections.
But mine states, section 14, page 14.8, that the America is;
front- 30 lb/in2, rear- 31. solo
front- 31 lb/in2, rear- 36. FULLY LADEN
Mine is a 790. Not the 865 as in your book, but the tire sizes seem the same.
Heck, the original Bridgestone tire states "max load / max inflation 36 lb/in2 !
Aside from being a 790, mine also came with spokes, which means tube tire. But the SM for '05 has the same pressure spec's (except for the front, solo, being 31) and it's a cast wheel, 865, tubeless.
I've NEVER had a motorcycle (or car) that ever spec'ed tire pressurs over 32 lb/in2. (till now)
42 must be like ridin' on SOLID RUBBER TIRES.
Heck, lets just go have a beer (with Obama even)
