1998 v11 California Tires

[surlyhal]

Hey Folks:

I've got a 1998 v11 EV that is in need of some new tires. I'm not sure what the deal is (probably a combination of the age and the supply chain backlogs), but I'm having a deuce of a time sourcing a matching set of tires. The specs call for 110/90-18 up front and 140/80-17 out back. The only matching set I can find are a pair of Michelin Road Classics. A friend has suggested I switch sizes and run a Michelin Road 5 GT 120/70-18 on the front and a Road 5 150/70-17 on the back. The Michelin Pilot Activ's in 140/80-17 I'm currently running barely fit width-wise right now, so going wider is not an option.

Does anyone have any suggestions/advice?

All the best,

Hal

[sdcr]

I took the advice I got here a few weeks ago, and went with the 130/90-17 Shinko 230 touring series. So far, a few miles in, not sure what the difference is, as I had changed very worn and old Metzlers that were the OEM size of  140/80-17.

 New tires always feel better.

[surlyhal]

Thanks Dusty!

[rocker59]

Hey Folks:

I've got a 1998 v11 EV that is in need of some new tires. I'm not sure what the deal is (probably a combination of the age and the supply chain backlogs), but I'm having a deuce of a time sourcing a matching set of tires. The specs call for 110/90-18 up front and 140/80-17 out back. The only matching set I can find are a pair of Michelin Road Classics. A friend has suggested I switch sizes and run a Michelin Road 5 GT 120/70-18 on the front and a Road 5 150/70-17 on the back. The Michelin Pilot Activ's in 140/80-17 I'm currently running barely fit width-wise right now, so going wider is not an option.

Does anyone have any suggestions/advice?

All the best,

Hal

Your friend probably is not aware that a 150 will not fit your 1998 California.  Some 140s won't fit.

My recommendation is Michelin Pilot Activ.

Currently out of stock there, but I have ordered many motorcycle tires from AMT:

https://www.americanmototire.com/street-cruiser-touring/michelin-pilot-activ-140-80-17-69v-rear-20811-mc.html

[surlyhal]

Thanks John, as well! I'll add those to the hunt and hopefully have some new rubber soon.

[sdcr]

Btw,
 The Shinkos came from Revzilla. $100 for the rear and  I think $90 something for the front. No charge shipping, came to my front door in two days.

Thanks John, as well! I'll add those to the hunt and hopefully have some new rubber soon.

[surlyhal]

Michael:

You are spot on, and I let him know the width issue. I an currently running the Michelin Pilot Activ's and really like them. The 140s do just barely clear the shaft in the swing arm. I'd hold out for another set of them, but I've waited too long for rubber. I think I'm going to give the Shinko 230 Tour Masters a shot and see how they go.

I appreciate everyone wisdom and willingness to share.

All the best,

Hal

[kidsmoke]

Michael:

You are spot on, and I let him know the width issue. I an currently running the Michelin Pilot Activ's and really like them. The 140s do just barely clear the shaft in the swing arm. I'd hold out for another set of them, but I've waited too long for rubber. I think I'm going to give the Shinko 230 Tour Masters a shot and see how they go.
I appreciate everyone wisdom and willingness to share.
All the best,
Hal

Pilot Active 140R 110F here as well, and always been pleased. After my experience with my G5 with 110R and 100F, and the insanely wonderful handling, I'll likely try Dusty's suggested specs next go. I'd encourage it!

Also wonder if you those of you on these bikes have raised the forks, how much and  what you found...but that's a different thread.

[Vagrant]

I've run the activ and stinkos.
Get Bridgestone A41 radials and never look back.

[Madtownguzzi]

I run Bridgestone Battlax BT46 on my 1998 V11 EV. They fit fine and Dennis Kirk has them in stock in the factory size.

[kingoffleece]

I put ContiGo tires on my 2001 jackal as that was all that was available when I needed tires.  Pleasantly surprised.