Triumphrat

UJMrider · 06-17-2005

Just wondering how many miles people are getting on their stock TB tires. My bike's going in for its 6000 mile service next week and I don't think I've ever had a tire last more than 10,000 miles, so I'll probably be changing at least one of them this Summer.

Also, what replacement tires are good, all-around, long-lasting ones? I don't typically ride really fast, so my biggest concerns are reliability and longevity.

Finally, dumb question, perhaps, but when you replace a tire, do you replace the tube, also? :???:

Geez - Chain drive, spokes, tube tires - Now I know why they call the Tbird a "classic" :-D

vonbonds · 06-17-2005

My stock Pirelli Dragon GT's lasted just about 8K miles. I replaced them with Avon Azarro 45/46ST tires. The Avon's are much better than the Pirelli's in my opinion especially in the wet stuff and are also considered a sport-touring tire. I always replace the tube when I get a new tire but that is me.

Tom

Rincewind · 06-17-2005

I only got 6.5k on my stock tires before they wouldn't pass inspection. My replacements were Avon AV's, too, and they are a nice improvement.

The front tube was replaced when they swapped tires cause it "had some rust on it" (from what, I'm not sure).

upNorth · 06-18-2005

I think I got 4,000 miles out of my stock Pirellis and even less with a couple sets of Bridgestones. Michelins are the way to go, in my opinion, although I just returned from my dealer who has convinced me to try some Dunlops, should have 'em on by Thursday. I usually get 5-6k out of the rear Michelin and replace the front every other time I replace the rear. I haven't heard anyone say anything bad about Avons - lots of positive comments, in fact - so maybe I'll give them a go in a few thousand miles.

Replace the tube every time - it's a wear item just like a tire.

Longevity is terrific but grip should be your most important criteria when deciding on tires.
Regardless of brand, be very careful the first few times you lean over with your new treads. They all need to be scuffed before being ridden with any enthusiasm. I almost dumped my bike turning into my cul-de-sac at about 25 mph coming home from having my first set of Michelins installed. I did one of those hog on roller skates all knees and elbows moves saving it, much to the delight of my Harley riding neighbor, but didn't go down.

[ This message was edited by: upNorth on 2005-06-18 13:25 ]

Slinky · 06-18-2005

My original rear Michelin lasted 15,000 miles!

The Prielli Dragon I have on the front now is about ready for replacement with 13,000 miles on it.

The AV46 Azaro I have on the rear now is not looking so good. At 5000 miles there is not a lot left on the centre.

rickykarate99 · 06-18-2005

My stock tires lasted til 7k until the rear picked up a nail. The shop said I should just replace the tube b/c the tires had so much tread left in them, and couldn't believe they had 7k on them, but I ditched them b/c they were awful in the cold and wet. And we have a lot of cold and wet here. I think they were in such good condition b/c they never actually warmed to operating temperature on my commute. The sure didn't grip like it. So anyway I switched to the Bridgestone Battleax BT-45s and they're great in the cold and wet and in the (relative) hot that we get up here.

jp99tbirdnm · 06-18-2005

Martin, I got almost 9000 out of the rear Pirelli front still had a lot wear left. Replaced both with the Avons, big improvement. They are wearing just fine. No flat spots at all, but that depends on your riding style. I avoid the interstates so I can hit the twisties. IMO Avons are the best replacement tires. Also replace the tubes, better safe than sorry.

Ride safe,
Jerry

WildBill · 06-19-2005

I replaced the original stock tires with Avon AV27 on the front,andRL30 on the rear.The look,handling and wear are exceptional.

LITTLEJOHN · 06-20-2005

My stock Pirelli Dragons have 18,300 miles on them and still have some tread left. Problem is they are drying out. The bike goes in tomorrow to have Avon Azarro's put on in preparation for my trip in a couple weeks. I'm hoping to get at least the same mileage that my Pirelli's gave me but with a little better handling.

MickMaguire · 06-20-2005

My pirelli's lasted about 6k. I then went to AV45/AV46 avons. I was impressed enough with those to have them fitted to the ZRX wheels when I did my mods.

As I rule I think tubes should be changed with at least every other outer change or if they reach more than a couple of years old. If you can get one fit a metzeler rear tube, they do one with a 90 degree valve stem which makes getting an airline on MUCH easier.

Shameless plug: If anybody wants a set of 1/3 worn AV45/46's including a pair of wheels in like new condition for a very reasonable price I have some available in the classifieds section.