Triumphrat

entropy · 03-08-2005, 02:09 PM

is any one running metzeler z6 roadtec rubber with tubes? and how have they been? i have searched the archives diligently and know that legend girl has so this also goes out to her. my query is i want to run metzeler's but a bias ply rear tire (170/60-17) isn't too common and running tubes with radials seems unwise.
i have a call into metzeler right now asking why they don't recommend this combo. is it due to the roughness of the inside of the tire or is it the actual construction of the sidewalls of a radial vs. bias ply? i understand this question is debatable, just looking for some sound advice...

:

thanks

FDTrumph · 03-08-2005, 02:27 PM

The advice I got here is that its no problem to run radials with tubes. The speed rating of the tire drops by one because of the heat buildup i think.
I just ordered a set of Avons AV45 and AV46 from Motorcycle Pro Shop online. I have seen other TBS here running this combination and I hope it will be a good choice. The tricky part is finding the right tubes. Metezler makes a tube for the rear tire no problem and I ordered a Kenda tube size 4.00/4.50 for the front.

TBSstunta · 03-08-2005, 02:36 PM

The TBS comes stock with radial tubeless tires, didn't you look at yours? Run whatever rubber you want it will be fine. I've have evrything from Avons, to BT010s to M1s & Z6es.

I like the Z6es and founbd them similar to the BT020s.

parrycm · 03-08-2005, 05:38 PM

I don't get it - the stock TBS has spoked wheels doesn't it? How can it run without tubes?

BTW - Avon and Bridgestone say you can run tubes in their tubeless tyres, but Michelin say that you must not. I don't know about Metzelers.

TBSstunta · 03-08-2005, 05:51 PM

The TBS uses innertubes, but you can use Tubeless tires with them. Same deal as all of the Thunderbirds. You can eliminate innertubes if you get your wheels sealed by Wheelworks.

http://motorcyclecruiser.com/tech/wheelseal/

parrycm · 03-08-2005, 06:00 PM

Sorry, I should read more carefully - I thought you said it didn't need tubes when in fact you said nothing of the kind.

zimtok · 03-08-2005, 06:09 PM

I run Dunlop radial with tubes on my 2K-TBS.

I always have a hard time finding the tubes to fit the tires but I manage eventually. (the last time I bought a spare tube)

entropy · 03-08-2005, 07:10 PM

good point regarding the originals being radials already however, metzeler unlike avon specifically states they advise against it... but whatever i just wanted someone else to say if they had done it already without a problem. and i stand convinced...thanks and by the way tbsstunta i love your bike and the black/white one in your photo album is also killer...

thanks for the advice to all...

mike_ · 03-08-2005, 07:11 PM

Do you replace tubes when fitting new tires?

TBSstunta · 03-08-2005, 08:06 PM

>>The advice I got here is that its no problem to run radials with tubes. The speed rating of the tire drops by one because of the heat buildup i think.

Well lets see, H-rated goes up to 130 mph, a V rated is to 150 mph, and a Z-rated tire is will go more than 150 mph. How often are you riding at greater than 100mph, I don't think its going to matter to you if your Z Rated tire is only good till 130mph.

>>Do you replace tubes when fitting new tires?

Although they say you should I always did it every other tire, and kept them as spares for when I'm travelling.