Triumphrat

djharte · 01-15-2013, 08:56 PM

Hi Folks,

I am wondering if you guys can provide some advice on what the best tire is for dealing with the poor quality roads we have here in NJ. I've had my Thruxton (used '10) for a year and a half and it has a Road Winner RX01 (130/80-17 65H) on the rear and a Metzeler Lasertech (100-90-18) on the front (which were on it when I bought it). Now, since this is my first bike I don't really have much point of reference but over uneven surfaces the bike really doesn't feel stable.

I am looking to get the BC performance pack installed and may go all the way and replace the tires if I think it's going to make much difference. The only other bike I have ridden is a friend's Honda Fury which was way more stable. I am not too concerned about longevity.

By the way, I recently fitted the Maund FEK which I am very impressed with; really good quality.

Cheers,
David

upchuck64 · 01-15-2013, 09:43 PM

I'm planning to switch this spring to Michelin Amakee 2's, I travel mostly on secondary roads enjoying the sights and twists.

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rodhotter · 01-15-2013, 10:10 PM

lots of tire posts!!!! read and decide for yourself

djharte · 01-15-2013, 11:21 PM

Yea, thanks, just spent the last couple of hours reviewing them. I think I am leaning towards the Pirelli Sport Demons, just trying to figure out if it's safe to go with 140-80/17 on the rear and 110/80/18 on the front. I see someone had a clearance problem with 110/90 18. I am a real novice at this stuff so if you are using this tire/size please let me know if all is good. Thanks.

wenzel850 · 01-16-2013, 01:52 PM

Those Pirelli's will wear out quickly, especially on the crap roads you talk about.
Now since I don't live that far from you I understand crappy roads. I use a Metzler Lazertec 100/90/90 on the front of my Bonneville T100. With a Metzler ME88 on the rear in a 130/90/17 size. The rear tire is the only tire I have found that doesn't wear just looking at it.

I'm not a Michelin fan in anyway shape or form.

djharte · 01-16-2013, 06:57 PM

Thanks guys. I am really not concerned about tire wear, stability and handling are far more important for me. Based on my research it seems like people really like the speed demons so those are currently my first choice.

On a side note, I phoned my local dealer today to get a price for the BC Basic Performance pack install. They charge $105 per hour and the guy I spoke with reckoned it would be 4 to 5 hours work, sound reasonable?. Also, he recommended that I don't do the air injection removal as it's more hassle than it's worth in terms of potential popping/pinging problems.

cyco1450 · 01-16-2013, 10:06 PM

I just put Avons on my 07 Thrux after much debate w/ my Triumph dealer. 110 on front, 140 on rear. Handles great next door in Pa.

djharte · 02-27-2013, 11:38 PM

... so I now have the Pirelli Speed Demons installed and they are great, all of my handling issues have disappeared. I also got the BC Basic Performance Package installed (with the Predator exhaust, Air Box and AI removal) and it is Awesome although i'm not sure my neighbors would agree !. Also, a big thumbs up for Triumph Metuchen NJ, they wen't above and beyond the call of duty to get everything installed in a timely manner and were a pleasure to deal with.

Cheers,
David

rodhotter · 02-28-2013, 09:36 AM

on the service price you are getting Rap!!!!d, most stealers are OVERPRICED!!! as for tires the lower profile tires handle better a slightly higher profile adds rim protection, better handling, stickier tires because they are softer wear faster, so many choices so many opinions, most brand name tires today are pretty good for sure, a 140 on the rear is the max recommended for a 3.5" rim, look at tire sites for detailed info on diameter for specific sizes traction etc

djharte · 03-03-2013, 10:48 AM

I thought they were reasonable in fact, $80 bucks per hour and then took 3.5 hours to do the BC kit install. In addition they picked up and dropped off the bike from my home (30 miles away) at no charge and even gave it a wash (the wheels have never looked better) before sending it back. They also didn't have a problem with me purchasing the kit from BC directly (and availing of my new member discount), same for the tires (although I'm sure they would have preferred me to buy the bits from them). You can't expect them to work for nothing, I was very pleased with the service.