The tyre/tire thread

[andyw]

There are already a number of threads on the subject I know...I've found these so far:

22/01/2004: Updated links posted on page 3

..so wanted to try and bring as much info to one place as possible, now that I've started my research as the rear tyre needs replacing now.

Still not made my mind up but leaning towards the BT020 or stick with another Pilot Sport.........the more input the better

[andyw]

Extracts from the Bike Magazine (June 2003 issue) Road Tyre Test (Tires!)

The review's of limited value I know, just one guy's opinion (that of an experieced test rider though) and the test bike wasn't an SV1K (GSXR750) - but every bit of info helps towards the tyre choice decision process though:

1st - Michelin Pilot Sport (4stars)
2nd - Dunlop D208 (4stars)
3rd - Pireli Diablo (4stars)
4th - Metzler Sportec M-1 (4stars)
5th - Bridgestone BT-012 (3stars)
6th - Avon Azoro SP (2stars)

I know the star ratings don't seem to differentiate between the top 4 but the test summary comments below explain.

[andyw]

...and the winner is:

[andyw]

..the test bike:

[andyw]

...and well tested rubber!

[andyw]

..and finally the review summary:

[teamtribal]

Hi Andy,

Does the Bike Magazine include Metzeler Rennsport in their test or would that be in a pure track tire test?

Been offered a good deal on some Rennsport's so some reviews could be helpful. Have previously tried Rennsports for track days and really like them but I'm a bit sceptical to how much mileage they will give me for hard road driving.

- TT

[andyw]

teamtribal...just the tyres listed above...road tyres. Looking for other reviews........

[Stevezuki]

Andy

I've just replaced my rear (tyre that is) and after much deliberation I went for the easy option and got another Pilot Sport, mainly because I'm too tight to throw away a hardly worn front.

The tyres I've seen recommended as suiting the sv are Sportec M1 (can't remember where ) and Avon Azaro AV45/46 by JHS although these are listed as a touring tyre.

Steve

[Andy.SP1]

AZaro's are great tyres in the dry, the profile aids turn in, they warm up quick, and better still Avon use some strange form of releasing the tyre from the mould, so there is very little releasing agent on the tyre, i.e. hardly need scrubbing in....


BUT......get some moisture on the road and you might as well have slicks on, I've ridden ZX6r and Ducrappi 748 on these.....

If I lived somewhere where it never rains maybe, but I will never waste my money on them again!!!!

Maybe they're better now, but being scared shitless around the Cantabrian mountains in Spain in the rain on 180degree hairpins with vertical drops to your side was enough for me to say NEVER again....

My pennies worth...I'm sure someone somewhere swears by them....Each to their own!

[andyw]

Stevezuki / Andy.ri.....

Avon Azoro - rated last in the Bike mag review and with real life experience from you Andy a definate NO

Sportec M1 not on my short list, partly due to the Bike review and in part due to mixed stories I've heard on Metzlers

My shortlist in no particular order:
Michelin Pilot Sport (standard fitment and a match for the front)
Dunlop D208
Pireli Diablo
Bridgestone BT-020

The Michelin is just ahead at the moment but one slight concern in the back of my mind is the number of times the back end has slipped out (nothing too scary to date but has me wondering)

So....more personal experience please like Andy.r1's input....ta

[SV1kS]

I have to change the rear tire in about 1000 km. It's now on almost 6000 km. I wonder how long you guys do with the original Michelin. I'm in doubt: is it going to be another Michelin Pilot Sport or will I go for a Bridgestone BT020.

[BJAM]

Fitted the Pirelli Diablos. First impressions:

1. The tyres are more stable when tipping into the turns - the bike doesn't fall in any more its just a smooth linear motion. This was disconcerting at first but a bit of counter-steer soon sorted this out.

2. There seems to be ample grip and the tyres are slightly softer to touch and get warmer in operation.

3. The bike is more stable upright but hit three figure speeds and it will start to weave - just confirms that this needs to be dialled out with the susupension adjustments.

4. No visible signs of wear yet but the tyres are harder to get off the edge for some reason - must be due to point 1 above. One thing to note is the tyres don't have the usual dimples all over them to wear away.

[gunnar_svendsen]

My rear Pilot Sport sucks after 3000 km.

Previous experience with MTR 24 Pirelly Dragon GTS and Pilot Road on a Thunderace was very good, but don´t know on a SV1000S. Any comments?

[Sid Squid]

I haven't had to change the tyres on the SV1000 yet but I'm still interested in the discussion as I have Azaro 49/50's on my ZX6-R, not only are they excellent tyres as far as handling goes but they're great in the wet too, comparable to the 207's I had before, very predictable and none of that 'edgy' feeling that I often get with Michelins.
On my SV650 I had the 45/46 Avons, more relaxed handling and steering than the 49/50 combination and equally as good in the wet, (better than Brigestones) lasted well too. I will have to see what the general feeling is when I need to get a tyre for the 1000, but my experience with Avons has been good and I'd be quite happy with them or 207's on the new bike.

Sid