I need tires

[Netnorske]

Originally Posted by dandolfn

I never thought I had handling problems with the stock tires, but when the stock rear needed to be replaced at 5500 miles, I went with Avon Cobras, both front and rear.

What a difference!!

There were turns that I used to have to slow down for or really muscle thru countersteering to get thru.

With the Avon Cobras, I just sail thru the turns. They really hold a line well!

I've got about 6500 miles on them now and it looks like I'm going to need a new rear pretty soon. That's a little disappointing, but I still love the handling.

To be fair, I weigh 300+ pounds, so in effect, its like I'm riding two up all the time.

:-)

I have 13k on my current set of my Avon Cobras, about half of which is highway mileage. I run 50 psi in the rear and 43 psi in the front and have since they were new. Try increasing your TP's and I think you will notice a major improvement in the longevity! I just bought a new set but have not yet installed them. That will happen soon!

[redjay]

I have 12,000 kms on my rear Cobra and its not even half worn. Not too many twisties here in Southern Ontario. Two up riding most of the time.

[dandolfn]

I run 50 psi in the rear

I've been running 42 rear and 40 front.

I'm not sure I'll go as high as you did but I'll start stepping it up some.

Thanks for the suggestion.

[redjay]

40 front and rear for me.

[ells]

Somebody needs to mention the Dunlop E3s Got 8000 mi on mine and while I haven't measured the tread I'd estimate over 3/4 tread left. I'll be surprised if I don't 16K on both maybe more on the front. Bias on the rear, radial on the front.

[Netnorske]

Originally Posted by dandolfn

I run 50 psi in the rear

I've been running 42 rear and 40 front.

I'm not sure I'll go as high as you did but I'll start stepping it up some.

Thanks for the suggestion.

I only run those TP's because another member here (can't remember who) had the Cobras and said he had contacted Avon directly for their recommended TP's for the load he was carrying. 50psi R-43psi F is what he said they suggested.

I too thought that might be a bit much, but I tried it and have had no issues whatsoever. On the contrary, the tires have held up exceptionally well at those TP's and the ride has been very nice. Even after 13k, I still have some tread left of both tires, but will get my new set on soon regardless. Do what feels right for ya....but I will do the same on this new set!

[claybuster]

Originally Posted by Ells

Somebody needs to mention the Dunlop E3s Got 8000 mi on mine and while I haven't measured the tread I'd estimate over 3/4 tread left. I'll be surprised if I don't 16K on both maybe more on the front. Bias on the rear, radial on the front.

Ells,
Your the first I've heard putting a radial in the front and bias in the rear. Everything I've read and heard is the opposite, radial on the rear with bias up front.

[ells]

Edit:

Oops, I have bias on front and back. Got confused since the Dunlaps don't have a "B" in the tire size given on the side of the front tire but other sources do. My previous Michelins were also bias ply front and rear but for some reason I got them confused too in the post I just removed.

In any event, got 16K mi on the Michelin 880 bias 160 rear I had previously and looks like I'm headed for that with the E3 too.