Wildguzzi.com
General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: harv7 on September 11, 2012, 08:26:12 PM
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So--My 2011 V7 Classic is about a year old now, 6500 miles. The original metzler tires, even though they are less than two years old and live in the garage, are weather checked. My dealer took pictures of them (did a nice jot too) and sent them off to Guzzi. Guzzi says it's just cosmetic, and is not interested in replacing them. So, next spring I will be buying tires. Not Metzlers. I thought I would ask for some suggestions. Criteria: Most important is sticking to the road. Not race bike tires that have to be hot to stick, but street bike tires that stick well. I only ride about 6000 miles per year, so longevity is not really that important to me. Price is not critical, so long as it isn't just crazy expensive. The bike rarely leaves the pavement--maybe a couple of miles on a dirt road if I wander off somewhere and that's the only choice to keep going the right direction. But not more that 5 miles out of the first 6500. As I write this down, I guess that sticking to the pavement, while accelerating, turning and stopping, is about the only important criteria, and for lack of anything else, price is a distant second. Thanks for any suggestions or advice.
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1) Pirelli Sport Demon.
2) Michelin Pilot Activ.
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I don't have any experience with the Michelin Pilot Activ, but I run the Sport Demons on my Lemans and my Bonneville (just sold). The Sport Demons work great on both those bikes and they were a huge improvement over the Metzlers that came stock on the Bonneville. The Sport Demons are reasonably priced and should last about 8k miles.
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This report said that the Sport Demons were great but didn't last long and gave them 2 stars. The Dunlop GT501, Michelin Activ, and Avons all got 5 stars.
http://www.ninjette.org/forums/showthread.php?t=9780
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Sport Demons are the standard tires for the latest V7 range and the previous Racers and are a significant improvement on the Michelins.
Most owners find they last pretty well. Mine are over 4000 miles and wearing well.
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The stock Metzelers on my 2011 V7C only lasted 4600 miles. They're being replaced with a set of Sport Demons as we speak. Do you guys always replace the tubes too?
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Yes.
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For what your asking Sport Demons are great. Excellent grip, handling & feedback, progressive at their limits. Wear rate will depend how you use them but they do wear faster than some other, less sticky tyres. However, unlike some, they do wear very evenly, so don't lose handling as they go.
KB
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Thanks to all you guys for the replies. This should put me on the right track.
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Bumping...loved my Sport Demons, but seriously considering the Michelin Pilot Activs to replace them...think I can get a couple thousand more miles out of them? Mor like 6-8 rear instead of 4-5???
Any experience?
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No experience yet, but the Michelins are next for me too. My Sport Demons held their profile nicely but after about 4000 miles, they're down to the wear bars.
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1) Pirelli Sport Demon.
:+1
I have these on my V7C, and they completely transformed the bike as compared to the original Metzlers.
My biggest gripe with the Metzlers was they followed rain groves and other imperfections in the road terribly.
The stock Metzelers on my 2011 V7C only lasted 4600 miles. They're being replaced with a set of Sport Demons as we speak. Do you guys always replace the tubes too?
I had new tubes put in when I had mine mounted. I figured, when I'm already paying for the tires and mounting, tubes are cheap.
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Bumping...loved my Sport Demons, but seriously considering the Michelin Pilot Activs to replace them...think I can get a couple thousand more miles out of them? Mor like 6-8 rear instead of 4-5???
Any experience?
I'll be watching for opinions on these too, as I'm at about 3,500 miles on my Sport Demons, and would say they are definitely more than half used up. I'm going to guess I'll be replacing the at around 5,000 miles.
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I'll be shocked if the rear Demon lasts to 5k.
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I find the rear Sport Demon on the 2013 Stone breaks traction easier than any tire I've ever used in my life. Even hard braking at 10mph will lock the tire in a slide. I'm guessing the sidewall is overly stiff and doesn't flex well, being a bias ply, and thus tends to slide easier. I'll be looking hard for a radial tire to replace it.
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My Sport Demons are shot at 4300 miles, almost all commuting. I'm looking for longer lasting as handling isn't a top concern.
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1) Pirelli Sport Demon.
2) Michelin Pilot Activ.
:+1 :+1
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My Sport Demons are shot at 4300 miles, almost all commuting. I'm looking for longer lasting as handling isn't a top concern.
Metzler ME880 are the best for long lasting if handling is not a concern. Looks like they have an ME888, but I don't know anything about those.
Ken
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I have had the ME 88, , and now the 880. They are on my 96 Cali 1100, and my 98 EV. They handle great on a cruiser, wet traction is good also. On any mule I think the Metzler is a great tire, the 88 or 880's anyway. For sportier use, there are better tires.
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1) Pirelli Sport Demon.
2) Michelin Pilot Activ.
The Michelins are VERY near to the Pirellis concerning grip, but will last 2-3 times longer.
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The Michelins are VERY near to the Pirellis concerning grip, but will last 2-3 times longer.
Encouraging report!!! Will likely try one soon. ;-T
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Encouraging report!!! Will likely try one soon. ;-T
I got about 8 Ks out of my last two Demons. I like the tire too much to part ways with it, though Anders' report is most interesting!
http://littlebreva.wordpress.com/2013/08/23/new-rear-brake-pads/
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I got about 8 Ks out of my last two Demons. I like the tire too much to part ways with it, though Anders' report is most interesting!
Well, I do understand cause I definitely like the Demons.
But If I can't get a year out of a tire, when it's on one of the 3 bikes that I ride, then I might not be able to live with that.
I can at least try the Michelin and I can always go back to the Demon if that doesn't give me enough grip. But considering I like Metzeler 880s, I can't imagine the Pilot Activ would be a problem for me.
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Well, I do understand cause I definitely like the Demons.
But If I can't get a year out of a tire, when it's on one of the 3 bikes that I ride, then I might not be able to live with that.
I can at least try the Michelin and I can always go back to the Demon if that doesn't give me enough grip. But considering I like Metzeler 880s, I can't imagine the Pilot Activ would be a problem for me.
Well, Anders' reports tend to be quite accurate so it might definately be worth giving the Michelins a try, though Anders does ride that slow Red Breva. Those were the slowest, weren't they? ~;
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Well, Anders' reports tend to be quite accurate so it might definately be worth giving the Michelins a try, though Anders does ride that slow Red Breva. Those were the slowest, weren't they? ~;
Don't think so. A Demon will last for only 3000 kms on a RED Breva. :P
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Running Demons on my V7 with about 5k on them thus far and they are bald. And as mentioned, they slip, not a fan. I'm going to a set of BATTLAX and am looking forward to it. Not to mention, I don't like demonic nomenclature. ~;
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Can't comment on Michelin Pilot Activ mounted on a Guzzi, but I run them on a Ninja 250 and think they are terrific, wet or dry. Got about 11,500 on the rear--still had some life on it. Presumably a heavier/more powerful Guzzi would not last quite that long.
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I'll give them a try. Just ordered Pilot Active's for the Stone from Bike Bandit. $227.00 delivered.
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I'll give them a try. Just ordered Pilot Active's for the Stone from Bike Bandit. $227.00 delivered.
Sizes? I'd be very interested in your experience. I'll PM you if you don't post.
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I ordered the stock 130/80 x17 for the rear, but for the front, I went with a smaller 90/90 x 18. I remember how the larger size messed up the handling of old airheads, and thought I'd give the 90/90 a shot.
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I find the rear Sport Demon on the 2013 Stone breaks traction easier than any tire I've ever used in my life. Even hard braking at 10mph will lock the tire in a slide.
Erm, you do know it's a modern Guzzi and the brake pedal only operates the rear brake? ;D
I'm no riding expert, but I would say if you're braking hard and using the rear brake, pretty much any tyre is likely to slide as it will have little weight on it. Usual mantra is 75% braking from the front, but that depends a lot on the bike's wheelbase and centre of gravity (high CoG and/or short wheelbase means more weight shift so more emphasis on front brakes) and how hard you're braking; on a lot of modern bikes it is pretty close to 100% braking at the front if you're really trying.
If the rear really had poor grip, you should notice it under power, especially hard acceleration out of slower bends. But the V7 isn't all that prone to losing the back under power ;)
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I put the Michelin Pilot's on my V7 last tyre change and they are well over 7000 miles at the mo' with much more to go. Very impressed!
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Here's a brief rundown of my tyre history on the V7C. (In kilometers)
REAR
new - 17,136 Lasertec - 17,136
17,136 - 33,094 Sport Demon - 15,958
33,094 - 45,288 Sport Demon - 12,194
45,288 - 53,619 Sport Demon - 8,331*
53,619 - 62,265 Sport Demon - 8,646
62,265 - 72,365 Sport Demon - 10,100
72,365 - 81,661 BT45 - 9,296*
81,661 - BT45
* = flat tyre from folded tube - tube replaced beside the road - not re-balanced
(Doing my own tyre changes now - can't always trust the professionals - a wrong size tube twice now)
FRONT
new - 17,136 Lasertec - 17,136
17,136 - 45,288 Sport Demon - 28,152
45,288 - 63,671 Sport Demon - 18,383
63,671 - Avon AM26 - still going & looking good
Appears to be factors other than the brand involved in tyre wear.
Prefer the Sport Demon over the Lasertec (don't track on weather strips). Love the Avon on the front. The BT45 on the rear was used mostly on the trip to the Alice -lots of straight roads. Handles as well as the Sport Demon. Still looked good when I changed the tube at 8,000k but scrubbed out quickly on the 1,500k home when I didn't re-balance. Have balance balls in the current BT45. Testing how that affects wear.
It's all good fun, isn't it.
Mal
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I put the Michelin Pilot's on my V7 last tyre change and they are well over 7000 miles at the mo' with much more to go. Very impressed!
That's very encouraging, thanks ;-T
Malik :o How the heck are you getting that kinda wear out of Sport Demons???
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My curiosity too. Recognize that one's "worn" tire might be another's "perfectly good" tire, so YMMV. For me, once the profile goes to hell, the tire is crap, regardless of how much tread is remaining.
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I have just over 6k miles on my 2011. When I bought it used from AF1 last year it had about 2500 miles on it, and had a fairly new Sport Demon on the rear. I did not ask why. The front is still the original Metzeler, it's tread is pretty much done, but the sides have been cracked for quite a while. I'm planning on a new front next month and am going to order a Pilot Activ, it seems best for my uses based on people saying it lasts quite a while.
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No expert rider, but I've had/ridden Suzuki GS850G, Sukuki GSX1100G, DR650, TU250X and TW200. Here in Montana "panic" stops/slow downs from critters darting out from the sides of the road is pretty standard. Plus I practice sudden stops at least once every trip. Never had a tire/rear end lock up like the V7/Pirelli combo. It's TOO EASY to do. Doesn't breed confidence. All except the TU250X have factory radial tires.
Is there not a set of radial tires someone has tried that fit the tubeless rim of the Stone?
I may have to be the first
quote author=icenian link=topic=57392.msg983272#msg983272 date=1377595505]
Erm, you do know it's a modern Guzzi and the brake pedal only operates the rear brake? ;D
I'm no riding expert, but I would say if you're braking hard and using the rear brake, pretty much any tyre is likely to slide as it will have little weight on it. Usual mantra is 75% braking from the front, but that depends a lot on the bike's wheelbase and centre of gravity (high CoG and/or short wheelbase means more weight shift so more emphasis on front brakes) and how hard you're braking; on a lot of modern bikes it is pretty close to 100% braking at the front if you're really trying.
If the rear really had poor grip, you should notice it under power, especially hard acceleration out of slower bends. But the V7 isn't all that prone to losing the back under power ;)
[/quote]
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No expert rider, but I've had/ridden Suzuki GS850G, Sukuki GSX1100G, DR650, TU250X and TW200. Here in Montana "panic" stops/slow downs from critters darting out from the sides of the road is pretty standard. Plus I practice sudden stops at least once every trip. Never had a tire/rear end lock up like the V7/Pirelli combo. It's TOO EASY to do. Doesn't breed confidence. All except the TU250X have factory radial tires.
Is there not a set of radial tires someone has tried that fit the tubeless rim of the Stone?
I may have to be the first
No.
But if you can find radials fitting the SBs, please let us know.
Though I cannot see why SB-handling should be improved by radials.
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No expert rider, but I've had/ridden Suzuki GS850G, Sukuki GSX1100G, DR650, TU250X and TW200. Here in Montana "panic" stops/slow downs from critters darting out from the sides of the road is pretty standard. Plus I practice sudden stops at least once every trip. Never had a tire/rear end lock up like the V7/Pirelli combo. It's TOO EASY to do. Doesn't breed confidence. All except the TU250X have factory radial tires.
Is there not a set of radial tires someone has tried that fit the tubeless rim of the Stone?
I may have to be the first
quote author=icenian link=topic=57392.msg983272#msg983272 date=1377595505]
Erm, you do know it's a modern Guzzi and the brake pedal only operates the rear brake? ;D
I'm no riding expert, but I would say if you're braking hard and using the rear brake, pretty much any tyre is likely to slide as it will have little weight on it. Usual mantra is 75% braking from the front, but that depends a lot on the bike's wheelbase and centre of gravity (high CoG and/or short wheelbase means more weight shift so more emphasis on front brakes) and how hard you're braking; on a lot of modern bikes it is pretty close to 100% braking at the front if you're really trying.
If the rear really had poor grip, you should notice it under power, especially hard acceleration out of slower bends. But the V7 isn't all that prone to losing the back under power ;)
This looks like one of my attempts at using quotes on a smartphone. :BEER: :D
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This looks like one of my attempts at using quotes on a smartphone. :BEER: :D
You ride a Guzzi and have a smartphone? I don't believe you. Without carbs? 8)
Now, where were we...I very much prefer the Demons because ... :beat_horse
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On my bikes I've had Michelin Pilot Activ and Bridgestone BT45, and Metzlers, but never had Pirelli Demons.
The best IMHO are Dunlop GT501 ;-T
http://www.dunlopmotorcycle.com/tire-catalog/road/street/gt501/
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On my bikes I've had Michelin Pilot Activ and Bridgestone BT45, and Metzlers, but never had Pirelli Demons.
The best IMHO are Dunlop GT501 ;-T
http://www.dunlopmotorcycle.com/tire-catalog/road/street/gt501/
I'm not normally a fan o Dungflops, but we have so few options it's worth consideration. What do you like about them, profile, stick, wear?
They've got our front, but closest rear is a 130/70-17, instead of a 130/80.
Thoughts?
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Dungflops,
;D
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Malik :o How the heck are you getting that kinda wear out of Sport Demons???
Do a lot of country riding, mostly loaded with gear. Try to hunt up the twistier roads. I do run tyrecheckers (www.tyrecheckers.co m.au/) and keep a reasonably close eye on tyre pressures. Still manage a lot of trips with the big blocks that have me scratching to keep up. (Some other small block riders don't seem to have that problem). Have noticed that some road construction techniques do seem to effect tyre wear - in particular, the Gulf of Carpentaria (which is under water part of the year) & the South Island of NZ (which gets a lot of rain). Didn't do these roads on the V7C, but although these road surfaces grip, they are hard on tyres. A mate ran a Dunlop K70 on the rear of a Carberry Enfield V-Twin to the Gulf from Cairns to Kurumba to Longreach - completely bald in 1,500k. The Avon AM26 on my Carberry handled it without that kind of wear at all. Still looked new 6,000k later when the bike caught on fire. (Google "Carberry Flambe"). 3/4 of the tyre is still perfect. Maybe your roads affect your tyres differently, too.
Mal
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Yes, do tell.
On my bikes I've had Michelin Pilot Activ and Bridgestone BT45, and Metzlers, but never had Pirelli Demons.
The best IMHO are Dunlop GT501 ;-T
http://www.dunlopmotorcycle.com/tire-catalog/road/street/gt501/
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Hey guys, I'm about to order a pilot activ for my front (100/90), but what size tube should i get? 2.5"x18"?
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Just bought a replacement front Sport Demon today for my Breva 750....9300 miles ;-T
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Just got the first 600 or so miles on the Pilot Activ front on my v7c. Initial impression is worlds better than the lasertec. I hit loads of "tar snakes" and never got nervous about it at all. I didn't do much aggressive or crazy twisty riding, but so far the grip seems great for my needs.
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Just got the first 600 or so miles on the Pilot Activ front on my v7c. Initial impression is worlds better than the lasertec. I hit loads of "tar snakes" and never got nervous about it at all. I didn't do much aggressive or crazy twisty riding, but so far the grip seems great for my needs.
;-T Thanks for the report - I'll keep watching for more as you rack up the miles.
My rear Sport Demon is definitely on its way out, but considering winter is coming I can probably hold off till spring for a replacement (probably a Pilot Activ).
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Kev, it's a shame you haven't moved down here to a warmer climate yet, as it really seems that you and I enjoy extremely similar types of riding. Maybe some day...
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Kev, it's a shame you haven't moved down here to a warmer climate yet, as it really seems that you and I enjoy extremely similar types of riding. Maybe some day...
Tell me about it :-\
I've been singing that tune to the woman in my life for many a year.
We've started the final countdown though - Jenn is FINALLY in her LAST YEAR of residency/fellowship (we met when she was starting college FIFTEEN YEARS AGO)!
So she's starting to send out her CV to hospitals that are hiring looking for a job when she graduates next summer.
And though she's concentrating on hospitals LOOSELY in the area there are some that are hiring in the south - and I believe Houston is one of them. So I can cross my fingers and hope that maybe, just maybe, we run south...
...time will tell.
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Kev, just out of curiosity, what specialty is she in?
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Kev, just out of curiosity, what specialty is she in?
Neonatology (NICU)
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Neonatology (NICU)
Austin would be perfect! We have Dell Children's Medical Center, and 6 other level 3 NICU's in city limits. I've been told by my father, the respiratory therapist, that Dell CMC is consistently on top ten lists for NICU.
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Austin would be perfect! We have Dell Children's Medical Center, and 6 other level 3 NICU's in city limits. I've been told by my father, the respiratory therapist, that Dell CMC is consistently on top ten lists for NICU.
I'll mention it to her...
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My 2012 V7R has 6500 miles on the Sport Demons and still a ways to go. I figure they'll last 7500 to 8000 miles. I already have a new set waiting in the garage. Love the tires! I had a set of MT66s on my Enfield. they were great on that bike. I think the difference is the speed rating between the two and the MT 66s were available in smaller sizes. They felt exactly the same as far as handling went. They haven't scared me yet! And there are definitely no wanker stripes.
Bare
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About 100 miles into my sport demons, I love them! Feel way more stable... maybe that's the word I want... than w/ the metzlers. Did a quick jaunt down a twisty today and during the turn, not once did I feel uncomfortable. When I would go out on my metzlers they felt like so unstable and turning is s dream :) Anyways, I love them!
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After reading this thread, making multiple considerations and wearing the current Demons to smithereens, I just placed an order from J&P Cylces, no tax, no shipping. And unlike my many past tire purchases being Battlax, I went with Dunlop GT501. J&P were the cheapest price on the web, same thing last time I purchased too. They cost about $20 more than the Bridgestone, but with no tax/no shipping, I went for them. Plus the tread looks super cool (shallow, I know). My biggest hurdle was the manual said Radial, but could only find Bias. After reading this thread, I see the manual is wrong! Just as it is about the valve specs! Grrr!
I plan to try and mount them myself with my new tire changer (Harbor Freight) along with some balance balls.
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Interesting. No one has yet to mention the Continental Conti Go. The previously mentioned magazine article rated them highly. I ran them on my Thruxton after going through two sets of Demons. I ran them so I could share first hand information with my customers and the local Rat Pack. I really liked them, good feedback and a little rounder profile than the demons. They will do the ton with very good stability! You can't go wrong with a set. The demons have been around for a while and they haven't changed the compound. The Contis are newer with what think is a better compound.
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spam: I just sold my V7 Stone and have an unused Pilot Active. It is 90 /90 x 18 spec rather than a 100 spec. I wanted to try the smaller tire to see if it would lighten up the low speed feel.
New was $111.00
How about $75 plus shipping?
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I have used Conti Blitz many times in the past. They are really round and super fun to ride on, not all that sticky, but last super long, 10k-ish. They are priced great and the tread looks cooler than any other I can think of.
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For those that are short, consider the Bridgestone Battlax BT45. It is available in a lower profile, which reduces the bike's height.
It's the lowest tire I've seen, for the V7 series.
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I've tried Bridgestone Battleaxes, Pirelli Sport Demons and the Metzeler (rear only) on my Breva. I usually end up with whatever the shop has in stock, because choices here are limited and I have a disturbing tendency to go "hmm, tyre worn, better go get one", instead of planning ahead. Typically only one shop in the area has my size at all, and then only one brand. I've had absolutely no issues with mixing brands front/rear (as long as one of them isn't a radial).
My front Sport Demon is wearing much more evenly than the Bridgestone did on the front. No issues so far with the rear Metzeler, but I haven't had it long.
The rear Bridgestone wore flat in the middle despite being dual compound and then affected the handling a bit, particularly with a pillion.
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I had to Google Maitland, NSW after reading your tyre post. Conversing with like minded folks from all over the world, so very cool.
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Ross,
I'm disappointed the Bridgestone dual compound tires didn't live up to their promotion. I was hoping the dual compound would lengthen mileage.
So far so good with me, but let me rack on some miles for a better test.
Joe
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Ross,
I'm disappointed the Bridgestone dual compound tires didn't live up to their promotion. I was hoping the dual compound would lengthen mileage.
So far so good with me, but let me rack on some miles for a better test.
Joe
Not sure how the mileage compares because I've only recently fitted the Metzeler. I guess 15-20,000km, which is not bad for a back tyre, but not stellar either.
I do use them mostly for commuting, so not many corners :bike, plus about 25% of the time I have my son on the pillion (morning school run) together with his school bag, his sport bag, my laptop, his violin...
The back therefore gets rather loaded up - which was my rationale for trying the Bridgestone dual compounds.
Others who ride in a more spirited fashion with less weight over the rear may get different results.
I didn't like the front Bridgestone either. It became rather scalloped as it wore. So far no sign of that with the Sport Demon. I'd get those again.
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Not sure how the mileage compares because I've only recently fitted the Metzeler. I guess 15-20,000km, which is not bad for a back tyre, but not stellar either.
I do use them mostly for commuting, so not many corners :bike, plus about 25% of the time I have my son on the pillion (morning school run) together with his school bag, his sport bag, my laptop, his violin...
The back therefore gets rather loaded up - which was my rationale for trying the Bridgestone dual compounds.
Others who ride in a more spirited fashion with less weight over the rear may get different results.
I didn't like the front Bridgestone either. It became rather scalloped as it wore. So far no sign of that with the Sport Demon. I'd get those again.
15,000 km isn't bad, as you said, and it's pretty good compared to some soft hi-grip tires. I guess Bridgestone used a "normal" compound for the center, and went softer for the sides.
As for scalloping, I had some on the OEM Metzler tires. Got good miles out of them, around 10,000 miles (16,000 km), but the rear was scalloped. It was one reason the vehicle inspection station wouldn't give me a sticker.
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No expert rider, but I've had/ridden Suzuki GS850G, Sukuki GSX1100G, DR650, TU250X and TW200. Here in Montana "panic" stops/slow downs from critters darting out from the sides of the road is pretty standard. Plus I practice sudden stops at least once every trip. Never had a tire/rear end lock up like the V7/Pirelli combo. It's TOO EASY to do. Doesn't breed confidence. All except the TU250X have factory radial tires.
Is there not a set of radial tires someone has tried that fit the tubeless rim of the Stone?
I may have to be the first
I just recently started having issues with aggressive stops with the rear tire locking up. And it didn't help when I instinctively released the rear brake and the bike took a wild butt-clenching buck correction, however I was going in a straight line so it wasn't too bad. At least the smoke cleared out the tail-gaiters. I had attributed it to being cold and the tires not warmed up. And maybe I need to find a pea gravel lot and start practicing lockups to get my instincts into either holding the lockup or releasing when the bike slides back to center.
I have 5200 miles on my Sport Daemons and the tread looks good, except the flat wear on the rear tire.
I also routinely had rear lock ups in advanced riding classes.
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Have used both Sport Deamons (750 Breve) and Pilot Actives (2004 Stone). Both provide good traction and wear well. I perfer both to Metlerz.
Dave
Galveston
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Just read about a new tire from Dunlop, the StreetSmart. Claimed to be a modern tire for the classics - also found in SB dimensions.
Who'se gonna be the voluntary guinea pig here? ;D
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Sorry for bumping such an old thread... But I just hit 4300 miles on my V7 Stone (wonderful 702-mile weekend adventure to the Lost Coast, CA) and my Sport Demons are DONE. Read about the Michelin Pilot Activ here and wanted to get an idea of your mileage on these tires.
I love the relative grippy nature of the Sport Demons, but I was hoping for a little more life in them. I ride pretty spiritedly around my local twisties but plan to do more touring this fall, so that means some mileage coming up soon.
So Michelin Pilot Activ... Thoughts?
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After reading this thread, making multiple considerations and wearing the current Demons to smithereens, I just placed an order from J&P Cylces, no tax, no shipping. And unlike my many past tire purchases being Battlax, I went with Dunlop GT501. J&P were the cheapest price on the web, same thing last time I purchased too. They cost about $20 more than the Bridgestone, but with no tax/no shipping, I went for them. Plus the tread looks super cool (shallow, I know). My biggest hurdle was the manual said Radial, but could only find Bias. After reading this thread, I see the manual is wrong! Just as it is about the valve specs! Grrr!
I plan to try and mount them myself with my new tire changer (Harbor Freight) along with some balance balls.
I now have over 4k on these Dunlops GT501s and am still very happy with them. I'd guess at least another 4k out of them. I'll keep ya posted.
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Hi there,
I am from Switzerland and Ride a V7 Stone.
I started Off with a Sport Demon, did not feeling comfy with The tire at all.
Changed to BT 45 what a difference in feeling and riding, like Riding a different bike.
But tire gone after 4k Miles. Changed to Dunlop arrowmax streetsmart felt as good as BT45,
Lasting 5,5k rear and 7k Front.
For me the tire just has to feel right, and needs to Stick to the Road if dry or wet conditions.
I dont care so much now Long they Last. My First choice is Dunlop arrowmax streetsmart.
Regards Remo
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Continental is now making a narrow radial that they claim works with vintage bikes... who wants to be the guinea pig?
http://www.conti-online.com/www/motorcycle_de_en/themes/motorcycletires/conti_classic_en/classic_attack_en.html
https://www.denniskirk.com/continental/rear-classic-attack-110-90vr-18-blackwall-tire.p544365.prd/544365.sku
according to dime city, the 110 is ok on a 2.15" rim. I might just fit a pair (put rear on front) to my EldoVert...
Color/Finish: Black
Dimensions: 110/90 or 3.50, 3.75, 4.10 for 18" Wheel
Tube Type or Tubeless: Either
Recommended Rim Width: 2.15" to 2.75"
Position: Rear
Material: "Black Chili" Rubber Compound
SKU: 29-0095
Fits: 18" Wheels
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I'm a Bridgestone BT45 fan. I like my bike to stick like glue and so far they do the best job of that. I decided to try a couple of longer lasting tires but soon removed them. The 45's are the tits in my opinion. I'll get 5 to 7,000 miles from the rear and nearly double that on the front. Yes they scallop but the center of the tire is shot at that point anyways. Plus they are very reasonably priced.
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So Michelin Pilot Activ... Thoughts?
Good tire. Nice handling. Good grip.
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Ok Kinda late, but I have gotten 6500 miles each out of two rear Sport Demons and 13,000 out of the front on my '13 V7R. I keep getting them because I like the way they handle and stick. And the price is right, $190 from Motorcycle Superstore in two days. I've thought about the Activs but they are about $40 more than the Sport Demons at MS.
Bare
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Good tire. Nice handling. Good grip.
Well, we'll see how long they last compared to the Sport Demons. I just ordered the Michelin Pilot Activs from Revzilla... $216.43 delivered. ;-T
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Well, we'll see how long they last compared to the Sport Demons. I just ordered the Michelin Pilot Activs from Revzilla... $216.43 delivered. ;-T
At leas twice the milage.
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At leas twice the milage.
Wow... 8K miles??
Anyhow, ordered the tires yesterday from Revzilla... They're being delivered TODAY via Fedex. WOW Talk about FAST!! ;-T
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I have to say, J&P Cycles is repeatedly cheaper than REVZilla or other sites suggested. I just checked on a set of Kenda tires for my KLR250 this morning and again, J&P wins my business.
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Not to rub it in, but I did 7,000 miles on my first rear Sport Demon, probably 75% touring. I reckon the front still has at least half that left, maybe all of that. I like the way they feel so I replaced the rear with another one.
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I have to say, J&P Cycles is repeatedly cheaper than REVZilla or other sites suggested.
I jsut checked J&P and there prices were about the same as Motorcycle Superstore for the Pilot Activ. And it's a hell of a lot easier to find what you need at MS. I don't care for J&Ps web site at all. I hate all those that you have to pick a bike before you can shop for anything. Car places are even worse. I may need something for a bike and they carry the item, but sure on any list that you can find. But they do sell things that work well if you can figure out how to get there. Usually have to go to the store.
Bare
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Not to rub it in, but I did 7,000 miles on my first rear Sport Demon, probably 75% touring. I reckon the front still has at least half that left, maybe all of that. I like the way they feel so I replaced the rear with another one.
Yeah, I'm pretty aggressive on the Guzzi around the canyons. I ride her just as hard as I do/did all my sportbikes. The only thing I didn't do this year with her was go to the track. Touring was great, and I'll do some longer rides in the near future, but I'm picking up an ADV-oriented machine for that in the next short months. Considering I will continue to ride the Guzzi aggresively, I personally wont see 7-8K miles on a set of tires. I'm hoping for 5K on the new Michelins... 6K is a stretch.
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Hey, guys,
I'm looking to change the tires on my bike (2009).
One of the things I absolutely hate are tires that follow rain grooves.
I noticed that the Michelin Pilot Activs have the same line down the front
that the Metzlers have, so do the Pilot Activs have the same propensity to
follow rain grooves as the Meztlers? It looks like it to me, but then I'm no
tire guru.
Looking to make a decision shortly, so thanks in advance. ???
Jim
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Usually I ride 2 up with full touring set up.
The Pirelli Sport Demon rear usually lasts around 7000 miles.
Metzler Lazertech again around 7000 miles.
Metzler Tourance around 9000 miles
Best for me, are the
Michelin Pilot Activ's, they are just as sticky as the Sport Demons, wet or dry but the dual compound = 14000 + on the Rear
Ok on my overloaded 750, I am not at extreme lean at any point.
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Usually I ride 2 up with full touring set up.
The Pirelli Sport Demon rear usually lasts around 7000 miles.
Metzler Lazertech again around 7000 miles.
Metzler Tourance around 9000 miles
Best for me, are the
Michelin Pilot Activ's, they are just as sticky as the Sport Demons, wet or dry but the dual compound = 14000 + on the Rear
Ok on my overloaded 750, I am not at extreme lean at any point.
What pressure do you run without gear & passenger?
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BUMP!
I've had the V7 Classic for about a month and a half, and have put 2,000 miles on it. The Lasertec's that are on it are good... but I don't have a basis for comparison, I've never run a different tire on this bike before. My front end has developed an annoying jitter between 50 and 62ish miles per hour (a sweet spot for me). Yesterday I took the wheel off and balanced it, which helped moderately... but there's still a bit of it it left at those speeds. I'm thinking the tire might be very slightly cupped? I'm a commuter, so my riding is a mix of city and highway. I'm definitely spirited through the corners, but I don't scrape footpegs.
After reading through three pages of this, it seems like the Pilot Activ is a solid bet... does anyone have any updates for the forum on solid tires for a V7 Classic? Specifically, the Metzeler Lasertec vs the Pirelli Sport Demon vs the Michelin Pilot Activ.
Thanks guys!
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Usually I ride 2 up with full touring set up.
The Pirelli Sport Demon rear usually lasts around 7000 miles.
Metzler Lazertech again around 7000 miles.
Metzler Tourance around 9000 miles
Best for me, are the
Michelin Pilot Activ's, they are just as sticky as the Sport Demons, wet or dry but the dual compound = 14000 + on the Rear
Ok on my overloaded 750, I am not at extreme lean at any point.
here is the answer. nice report by giving his comparisons. I like the sport demons that came on the 15 V7 but judging by this I will replace them with the actives UNLESS somebody comes back saying they do track the groves.
if your really cheap try the Shinko 230. I like them on the EV so far and no tracking.
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My Breva 750 (bought used with only 700 miles on the odometer) came with Sport Demons. Excellent handling characteristics but the rear wore completely out at 3800 miles and the front at 4700 miles. I check my tire pressures every week.
My 2010 V7 (bought used) had 18k on the clock when I bought it and was wearing Bridgestones. The bike did not handle well with these tires. Changed both to Metzeler Lasertechs and the ride improved dramatically. Good handling but not as good as the Sport Demons. I have a lot of experience with the Lasertechs on BMW airheads and have been happy with the wear and handling. I haven't had the Metzeler's on the V7 long enough to see how long they're going to last but if they are the same as the airheads I've owned, they'll get at least 6000-7500k miles from the rear and as much as 10k on the front.
Other bikes that I've owned since living here (since 2005) have gotten much better tire wear (by as much as double) than the Sport Demons so I think that their quick wearing characteristic (in my case) has to do with the type of roads that I ride on. I ride 100% on rural, country roads and mountain roads (no off-road riding) that are comprised of asphalt & gravel (they're known around here as a tar & gravel road). This type of road is going to cause faster tire wear than an asphalt road that has a much smoother surface.
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I have a 2015 v7 stone, the pirellis are shot after 7,000kms,
Just wondering if anyone has tried Michelin anakee 3 with this bike?
Used them on my last bike, and loved them.
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Replaced the worn Sport Demons on my 2014 Stone at 4000 miles. Installed Pilot Activ and am enjoying twice the mileage. Have 25,000 miles on the bike now, and the rear Michelin lasts >7500 miles and the front >12,500. Tire has a "harder" feel, as roadway seams, etc., are felt more than with the soft Pirelli tires, but handling and traction wet and dry are excellent.
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My '13 Stone came with Metzler Lasertecs. When I sold the bike with 12,000 mi they still had a bit of tread left, but they were worn square and had some weather checking.
My '16 Stone came with Pirelli Sport Demons. I replaced the rear tire at 8100 miles, although it probably could have lasted to 9000 mi. I replaced the front tire at 10,100 mi but I think it could have lasted to 11,000 mi. Both tires had worn evenly and had no checking, and I replaced them with Sport Demons.
I guess my riding style is kind to tires.
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here is the answer. nice report by giving his comparisons. I like the sport demons that came on the 15 V7 but judging by this I will replace them with the actives UNLESS somebody comes back saying they do track the groves.
if your really cheap try the Shinko 230. I like them on the EV so far and no tracking.
I did the rear Activ at 5000. it had 500 left in it but I was leaving for a 3000 mile trip. did the front at 8000 but could have gotten the 1000 miles home but who knew.
not a lot to choose from in the stock sizes.
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I've only got 3,500 miles on my V7 Special's rear Sport Demon, and it is already looking pretty worn.
I'd guess that it'll be bald by 4,500, or, maybe even 4,000. :sad:
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Just completed a tour in the Massif Central, (around 2000 kms), Pilot Activs seem to work well with the V7 on all road surfaces wet and dry, no problems
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Just back from a 30,000km trip on the two V7s (cousin rode the Special) - and updated my tyre history. The Avons & the Pilot Activ seem to give a longer life, along with better handling, at least for me. 36psi front & rear around town, 36 & 38psi loaded for trips.
V7 CLASSIC
REAR TYRE Km Mi on both
Metzler Lasertec17,136 10,648
Sport Demon 15,958 9,916
Sport Demon 12,194 7,577
Sport Demon 8,331 5,176
Sport Demon 8,646 5,374
Sport Demon 10,100 6,276
BT45 9,296 5,776 BB
BT45 11,483 7,135 BB
Avon AM26 18,874 11,728 BB
Avon AM26 19,614 12,188 BB
Avon AM26 20,785 12,915 BB
on both
BB = balance balls/Dyna Beads
FRONT TYRE Ks Mi
Metzler Lasertec17,136 10,648
Sport Demon 28,152 17,493
Sport Demon 18,383 11,423
Avon AM26 55,365 34,402
V7 SPECIAL
REAR
Pilot Activ 19,505 12120
Avon AM26 17,954 11156
Avon AM26 20,737 12885 BB
FRONT
Sport Demon 18,153 11280
Avon AM26 53,000 plus - still going BB
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Might as well toss my hat in the ring.
Had to replace my rear Sport Demon at 8000 km. Probably could have gotten another 500-1000 out of it, but had a trip coming up.
Front is now at 17,500 km, and down to about 2mm of tread left. Needs to go... but I am having a HELL of a time sourcing one. Been waiting... well... for the last 9,500 km (wanted to replace them as a set).
I've ordered another rear Sport Demon for the end of the month, but I am not holding my breath that it will show.
What I *would* like, is a good set of 90/10 dual sports that don't sacrifice road handling... but that 18" front makes choices pretty slim.
All the tires I find with "good mileage" seem designed for bikes almost twice the weight, and that seems like a bad choice.
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I've got 8k on my 2013 Metzlers that do not look wore out.What is the safe max millage?
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It's more about depth of tread and condition of rubber, than any hard and fast "mileage".
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There!!! I think I see my old Lasertecs. Lots of tread left on them. :tongue:
(http://i1299.photobucket.com/albums/ag77/Penderic/Penderic002/tires_zps8a46smyf.jpg)
Love my Pilot Activs.
:kiss:
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I have a 2015 v7 stone, the pirellis are shot after 7,000kms,
Just wondering if anyone has tried Michelin anakee 3 with this bike?
Used them on my last bike, and loved them.
I'm having my front hub laced to a 19" rim for more tire choices, and will be putting on a set of Anakee IIIs. I too had them on a previous bike (newer V-Strom) and really liked them. I haven't seen them offered in 18" fronts though. I'll let you know how it work out.
PS: I now have available a front Pirelli Sport Demon with ~4200 miles on it, and a tube with exactly the same mileage. Free for pickup in Tucson, AZ.
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I'm having my front hub laced to a 19" rim for more tire choices, and will be putting on a set of Anakee IIIs. I too had them on a previous bike (newer V-Strom) and really liked them. I haven't seen them offered in 18" fronts though. I'll let you know how it work out.
PS: I now have available a front Pirelli Sport Demon with ~4200 miles on it, and a tube with exactly the same mileage. Free for pickup in Tucson, AZ.
Curious - who's doing your new wheel?
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Curious - who's doing your new wheel?
Woody's in Denver.
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Woody's in Denver.
:thumb:
I'd be interested to see how it turns out.
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"I'm having my front hub laced to a 19" rim for more tire choices"
How are you dealing with the speedometer change?
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How are you dealing with the speedometer change?
No change. Speedo is driven by transmission output speed magnet & sensor at the rear hub.
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Well, then. Learn something new everyday.