What's the deal with Metzeler?

[humpbackbob]

I have been reading some reports concerning A) non-conforming tire sizes and B) sub-standard quality, on the newer tires manufactured in Brazil by Metzeler.
Apparently the sizes do not match the German made tires and the Brazilian made tires are not wearing well and shedding the tread. Something to do with "cold" set joints. I am about to change rubber and had decided on Metzeler. This rumour is making me wonder? Anyone got something definative on this?

Bob....Glad i saw your post. I too was gonna give Metzeler a try this Spring. Ive normally just stuck with stock Dunlops but wanted to try something a bit more sticky. Maybe someone knows. Botz

[94flhtcu]

I'm not quite as glad...just put the metzlers on BOTH scoots, front and rear. They seem fine. Actually, they are great. Hopefully, someone will have info. Where did you get yours, HBB?

[humpbackbob]

Originally Posted by 94flhtcu

I'm not quite as glad...just put the metzlers on BOTH scoots, front and rear. They seem fine. Actually, they are great. Hopefully, someone will have info. Where did you get yours, HBB?

Hi 94, There is a thread on the XL Forum. The OP said he spoke with a rep from Metz at a show recently and was put off onto the Pirrelli rep (Parent Co.). A flood of posters on that forum confirmed a reduction of quality in the Brazilian rubber. One guy even said he was going back to Dunlops cos Avons are no longer available in the size he needs.

I haven't heard of the quality of the rubber but only in size differences. I think it is mostly the 150 mm size that is the issue. The problem is that the width can vary that put's it closer to a 140 in width or less. The problem with that is that the premium price paid for a 150 mm is a rip off. That said, I have been happy with Metzlers...they offer the best in traction and high mileage. The one thing that must be addressed that effects the 150 mm is that the load range is lower. So, if two up riding with two heavy people and fully loaded dresser is involved it is pushing the weight rating limits.You have to take into consideration that a single tire does not support the total weight for sure so it's not like one tire should take total weight into calculations for entire load, but it does have less weight rating than some comparable tires so, just sayin....

[DesertSpeed]

One of the guys in Phoenix that I used to ride with had a serious problem with his new Metz shedding rubber. I never foud out the outcome of his fight with Metzler. Time to check, I'm about do for a new rear tire.

[frisco-rigid]

So that explains why the 150/80 hb 880 I got a couple months ago is 1/2" narrower than the 150/80 hb 880 I put on the shovel several months ago..
Metz and Avon have been my fav for many years soo, I think I'll go back to that great Avon Venom 150/80 hb that I liked so much..
It gave a great ride, beau coup hole-shots and killer mileage.. Life is good..

Yeah, I am running 130's front and rear for now with Brazilian made Metzlers and they are spot on in width. But I am not paying the price for a 150 that is a 140 or less since I have converted my drive for a 150 mm. I have every confidence in the reliability of the Metzlers but refuse to pay the premium $$ for a wider tire and get a a narrower tire at that price. For me it is a size issue, it will force me to go with Avon Super Venoms with my next tire change and give up a little extra mileage for a comparable sticky tire.

[Jayson459]

Just get puzzled at this reduction stuff you expect a size to be what it says it is from what I checked if want a 150 tire with Metz need to go to a 160 this sucks..

[94flhtcu]

Jayson, I always expect to get what I pay for, and it happens less and less all the time.

This I saw painted on the tailgate of a dumptruck..."Get used to it!"...seems like good advice. Not that it's okay, but ya can't win every battle.

Take care, have a good weekend!