Triumphrat

Rincewind · 03-15-2007

I'm looking for opinions on these two rear tires. Here's the backstory: I ordered a Avon Azarro 150/80 ZR16 rear replacement mid-Feb. They said it wouldn't be in until March. March rolls around, and they say it won't be available till April. This is through a local independent Harley shop that deals with Parts Unlimited. Frustrated and in need of a replacement tire, I told them to get me a Bridgestone Battleaxe BT020. Today after work I took off my rear wheel, took it to the shop, and wait. Well, it turns out that the 150/80 16 BT020 is actually a front tire, not a rear! Frustrating!

So, the shop lady ordered me up a Battleaxe BT45 (rear!) in the 150/80 16" size. It should be here tomorrow or Monday. However, after I got home, she called and said she also ordered an Avon for me, so that I can choose between the BT45 and the Avon. I said, oh, is it an Azaro? No, it's the Venom series.

So, I'm soliciting opinions on which to choose, the Venom or the BT45. It will be running in conjunction (for now) with my Avon AV45ST front tire. I most want a tire that does well in the wet and corners well. As I understand it, the BT45 is a sport-touring tire, while the Venom is a cruiser-touring tire.

BT45

Avon Venom

Which would you choose, and why? Thanks for your opinions. And beware that there is some sort of shortage on the Azaro AV46ST's!

[ This message was edited by: Rincewind on 2007-03-15 17:09 ]

jimmyj900 · 03-15-2007

I've got the Venom-X Avons and I'm quite happy with them, but since I've never tried the Battleaxe tires I can't give a comparison.

I'd also mention that I prefer a 'do anything' sport touring tire to sticky, short-lived sport tires or stiffer "street" tires.

It's a personal choice, depends on whether you push it and how hard.

Jim

WoodsieIII · 03-16-2007

I run the battleaxes on the front, I prefer the 012ss, but apparently they dont make them anymore. I have an 020 on the front at the moment, Its giving good miles, has been on for approx 5,000 klms and doesnt show signs of wear yet. I dont think I'd like it for scratching though it feels a little hard.
I got a conti tour on the back, if you want wet weather handling dont get one of these.
From all reports the BT 45 is great for commuting/touring, but I wouldnt like to go into tight twisty stuff with them. A mate has them on his FZ1, and he's always bitching about lack of grip. He goes hard though.

I'd go with Jimmy though and get the venoms.

[ This message was edited by: WoodsieIII on 2007-03-16 02:05 ]

Rincewind · 03-16-2007

Thanks guys. At this point I think I'll go with the Venom. I like that tread pattern more. I just want to make sure that it isn't too much of a cruiser-type tire that would turn-in poorly.

GatorBait · 03-16-2007

From what I understand, the Avon Azaros are being discontinued.

[ This message was edited by: GatorBait on 2007-03-16 08:30 ]

Rincewind · 03-16-2007

Quote:

On 2007-03-16 08:28, GatorBait wrote:
From what I understand, the Avon Azaros are being discontinued.

According to the Avon website and the Parts Unlimited catalog, the Azaros are being replaced with Storms in most sizes. However, the oddball sizes not covered by the new Storm series are supposed to still be available in the Azaro style.

I'd be interested if anyone else has gotten a rear Azaro AV46ST this year. I can't believe they wanted me to wait 6-weeks!

[ This message was edited by: Rincewind on 2007-03-16 08:52 ]

ecrabbit96 · 03-16-2007

My biggest issue right now is finding a tire that comes in a matched set to fit the 2001 Adv, Metz has a set but I couldn't find any other brand that has a 150/80/16 rear and a 100/90/19 front of the same tire. Jimmyj900, do you know what the largest tire is that will fit the front? Will a 110 fit?

BigAl8295 · 03-16-2007

Quote:

I'd be interested if anyone else has gotten a rear Azaro AV46ST this year. I can't believe they wanted me to wait 6-weeks!

I got mine in the fall, no problem. I know...that was technically last year.

I had the BT45 on my rear wheel, but I didn't care for the tread pattern. The tread down the center doesn't have anywhere to move the water out the side of the tires.

GatorBait · 03-17-2007

I bought my Azaro Av45/46 set last fall too, and the salesperson told me there are no exchanges because that model of tire was being discontinued (Motorcycle Accessory Warehouse).