Tire Time Again - Harley Forum

#1 06-05-2007, 10:31 PM

Well, its about time for me to put tires on my 01 Electra Glide again. The last couple time I've used the Dunlop 402's with pretty decent results. What I'm looking for is a tire that provides good traction and wear characteristics. A tire I can get some miles on. I usually get a little over 9k on my rear tire and change my front every second rear tire change. My first instinct is to stick with the 402's as they have proven themselves very well. But...I know many of you out there have tried other tires so any advice or input you can give me would be greatly appreciated. Thanks and ride safe. Clif

#2 06-06-2007, 12:17 AM

We have been led to believe that the stock tires are the best for whatever bike we have. They claim that a massive amount of research goes toward this endeavor & I tend to follow that suggestion.

frisco-rigid · #3 06-06-2007, 04:20 AM

Hey Clif
Over the years I've run soo many brands and types, only the best(for me) stand out...
In my experience I've had the best handling and wear outa the Metzler 880's and the Avon Venom(not the Super Venom) which, however, is a very good tire also...
You may remember several threads ago I reported on the 150HB 16" Venom on the 120" that had over 20,000 miles on it and that's with many dozens of hole-shots...
I replaced it a month ago with an 880, and dig it, it still wasn't down to the wear bar yet and had over an 1/8" of tread left... Freaky, must have been a fluke cuz I've never gotten wear and handling like that before...
However, I do NOT recommend the Avon Venom front, it was the worst handling and wearing tire in my memory...
Oh, BTW, over the years, I've prob run more mis-matched tire pairs than matched and never,,,, that's never,,,, felt a diff in handling compared to when I ran a matched set...

#4 06-06-2007, 08:32 PM

I also have had real good luck with the Metsler 880's especially in handeling, wear has only been slightly better than dunlops. Metzler by the way is the leading manufactuer of MC tires in the world. Lots of research. If you can go to a dealer who handles both Dunlop and Metzler and you will see many distinct differences. They also handle well in rain.
Tipper

#5 06-06-2007, 09:56 PM

I probably should have read more threads before posting, but I appreciate the info greatly. I was thinking Avon, Metzler and Contiental, but the most popular choices, that have actual user verification seem to be the Avons and Metzlers. You don't hear much about the Continental tires. Thanks guys.

fairfax1000 · #6 08-15-2007, 03:48 PM

If you're riding solo all the time, go with the police tire and expect 15k miles. Call Dunlop and ask for a tire with a slightly harder compund with the better wear characteristics. They will gladly help you. 9k???? You riding an ultra or passenger??

david