OEM tyres

Ya can't beat that. My originals lasted about 16 000kms. Others had issues with them, but I never did.

That is many more miles than I expected. From what I've heard 5000 to 7000 miles is more typical. How is the wet and dry grip of yours? My originals seem a little slippery especially wet. Wondering if age has caused hardening of the rubber. Could account for high mileage.

bscrive said:

Ya can't beat that. My originals lasted about 16 000kms. Others had issues with them, but I never did.

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Just curious, What did you replace them with, oem?

20000km=12427.424

I'm right at 8000. Rear looks great but front is looking a little worn on at least one side which causes a little concern. I'm always wanting to find the right tire that will give both performance and range.

I've learned that brand does matter.

STLLOU said:

Wondering if age has caused hardening of the rubber. Could account for high mileage.

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Yes. And also that I tend to run the pressures on the high side (42psi rear, 37 front)

Can't really comment on the wet weather performance of the tyre as the only times I've been in the wet I've ridden very quietly (it doesn't rain much here!). I know Shrubbo didn't like them in the wet but that's probably because he couldn't wheelie on them

Just killed another Commanders at just under 10000k. The middle was fine but the side was kinda not looking so good. Got another 888 ultra on the back, wanted to try an Avon but none in stock and sort of the case of me walking in with a wheel and going hello, can you put tire on this now with an hour or so to go before shop shuts for Easter? Heh it nearly was a no. I really need to plan more ahead sometimes.


Also got a right angle valve put in because it was just too bloody hard before, might check pressure a bit more... or not... whatever

BTW awesome run Geepers, I got from memory around 10-11k from the front (stuffed) and 15++ on the rear which was really stuffed. Probably because at the time I could not actually get a rear tire... good times that was.

Ditto the Easter thing....just got back from my tyre guy with an hour to spare before he shut down for a week(!) In the end I just put the OEM's on again. For the sort of riding I do they're fine. And affordable. And I'm lazy and can't be bothered researching anything. If I get 20,000km again I'll be very happy. That's a set every 9 months for me so affordability is a big deal. And these things run relatively cheap. Was pleasantly surprised actually.

STLLOU said:

Just curious, What did you replace them with, oem?

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I replaced it with an Avon 3D and it lasted about 12000 kms. I then went to a Dunlop Roadsmart 2 and it has lasted 13000 kms so far and still going. I have another Roadsmart 2 tire waiting when this one wears out.

I actually wanted to try the Avon Cobra because it was a single compound (I think?) instead of dual. I don't usually wear the center section out before I gut the sides. No matter, there is plenty more time I think to try every freaking tire on the planet to find the best for my needs


I was even looking at some Harley branded tires because of the lol value but well also why not? If I can get more use out of the sides I will be happy. Not so worried about the grip within reason.

if you can find them in your size, Dunlop Elite 3's are 25k mile tires on a 850lb indian chief. I just put new Elite 4's on it. will see if they are as good. or more better? poncho

Ok I put Dunnys on it.

F=130/60 19 bias
R=200/55 17 radial

It handles like a crotchety rocket and I’ve never ridden one. 😄

Bye! I love this bike.

As much as I would like a 200 tire on the back, that is just not enough clearance for my comfort. I have not looked at what all is actually inside that black plastic box. Modification ideas?

KUGO said:

As much as I would like a 200 tire on the back, that is just not enough clearance for my comfort. I have not looked at what all is actually inside that black plastic box. Modification ideas?

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The 200 works but I believe the mechanic probably unfastened the box and forgot to make sure it was snug, it came loose, and I got to experience the result.

I mainly wanted the fatter tire to hopefully get a little better mileage on the tire and a tad more lean room although, I don't do much corner carving. I can definitely tell a difference and I like it!

I do not need a " wide " back tire as i am coming from a Hayabusa and BMW R1200R and prefer quick handling

what i want is Michelin pilots if i can find them

I can’t see the rear tire when I’m riding. I want handling and longevity. Stock size isn’t a big deal IMO.

Found my tires. Rear is the Michelin Road5 180/55-zr17. For the front I went with the Michelin Road 5 Trail 120/70-ZR19. All tires are nicer than what they replaced. Going to take some time before I know if I made a good choice.