Triumphrat

CaptainFlake · 05-01-2005

On all my past Honda big bores I dropped down to a 180 to quicken up steering, any issues on S3s doing the same? TIA

SprinklerHead · 05-01-2005

I would imagine that since the 05's come with a 180 stock, there shouldn't be any problem with running one on the older ones.

geezerx · 05-01-2005

yes, 180 on the '05 but that's on a 5.5" rim. the '03 has a 190 on a 6" rim. betting that the '04 has the same.

i'ld be inclined to follow the tire manufacturers tire to rim size recommendations. however, my opinion is not based on any experience with using variations to recommended size.

[ This message was edited by: geezerx on 2005-05-01 18:54 ]

kuhlka · 05-01-2005

Anyone know about this for certain? I'm looking at getting a new set of tires in the next month or so and was considering going the 180 route on my 03...

geezerx · 05-01-2005

i stepped out for a moment to do a little research.
there's not a lot in this world that is "certain" but here's a sample of discussion regarding this very topic linked from another forum:

180 vs 190

[ This message was edited by: geezerx on 2005-05-01 19:43 ]

redsled · 05-02-2005

I wouldn't think there would be any issues with going down to a 180. For the record, the '04 is a 6.0" rim. From everything that I've been told, going to a 180 would give the bike a quicker turn-in. I'm considering the same thing as well.

For those of you that change your own tires, I'd appreciate any info on balancing the tire. I've changed many on previous bikes, but I've never done one on a single-sided swingarm. Can I get a smooth piece of conduit and roll the tire on my jack stands like I've done in the past? I'm *really* not wanting to pay dealer retail for a tire and mounting.

05-02-2005

After my test thrash on an 05, it's also in my mind to try a 180 to see how much difference it would make. I've not long changed my rear so I've got a few months yet to decide. Some feedback would be great if you go this route. My only possible concern was reduced traction, but the 05 seems fine so I don't really think that should be an issue.

jbt56 · 05-02-2005

I also heard debate on the subject. A couple of weeks ago, needing a new rear tire, I had MotoMeccanica install a 180/55 on my '03, based on their recomendation. I'm pleased to report that it looks fine, fits fine, and handles great. I can't really compare before/after, as I'd only had the bike a week, and the old tire was almost dead. Both were/are Metzeler M1's. Hope this helps!

CaptainFlake · 05-02-2005

I don't recall what the rim sizes were on my 954 or my RC51, but there were no issues dropping down to the 180 on those bikes. What I do know is that the steering/handling were fantastic after the switch and I had no traction problems. Sounds like this won't be an issue on the Triple, which is good news.

I was used to riding on really skinny tires when I was riding my NC30 and NC35 around and I never had any issues with lean/traction, so I can't see there being any on a bigger tire.

I ran Mezt M1s on all my Hondas (except the little ones) and was really happy with them. I've heard excellent things about the Pirelli Diablos so my next set for the Triple will be one or the other. The front stock Bridgestone is starting to cup pretty badly so it won't be long. Woot!

Thanks for the input all!

corners · 05-02-2005

I have run many 180 on my 03 triple and it is a 6 inch rim and the 04 has the same rim. It handles better in my opinion with the 180, and I am pretty sure that the Daytonas (955) have the same rim and come with a 180 stock