Pilot Road 2 for The Concours 14?

[Meanie]

Gotta put new tyres on the Concours already because of a puncture caused by a box cutter blade I had the Bridgestone repaired (vulcanised) but after seeing it show through on the week end i have lost all faith in the tyre now
I was never happy with the grip in the wet the Bridgestones have on the new ZG
Pilot raod 2 is probably my first choice because of the dual compound
I like the idea of sticky on the lean and good wear on the upright

What do you guys think ? and my second question
Do you think i should replace the front as well to match for handling etc Remembering that they have only just done 5000 ks and still look like they have another 5000 ks left on them

[KoroJ]

I had the same problem on the ST. Puncture on back at 4K, replaced with Road Attack which was great for 4½K then was crap and only lasted 9½K.

Put a pair of PR2's on which I've had mixed feelings over, but I think most of that is my psychological problems as I found I lost a lot of confidence with the Conti. The PR2's are wearing very well and I expect to get 16K+ based on the current wear.

Hitcher has had Storms and currently has PR2's on his FJR, so he might be worth a PM as to which he prefers.

Personally, I'd just replace the back and only replace the front once it's worn. I've had odd tyres on various bikes with no problems although I have read of riders have trouble.

[Hitcher]

I'm currently running PR2s on the FJR. Nice tyres. But I plan to return to Avon Storms at the next change.

Interesting your experiences with the new Battlax 021s. I've read some not-so-flash things about them on US reviews as well.

[banditrider]

Checking out Meanie's & my bikes the other day it looked like he'd bean harder on his rear (although it had had that puncture) while I'd been a bit harder on my front - correct me if I'm wrong Meanie. Like Meanie I'm not too keen on the Battleax's - esp front.

I've had no experience with either of the tyres you guys have mentioned (been a Metzler fan on my Bandits) or for that matter a big fat bike so your input is valuable.

Currently thinking of throwing on a 2nd hand Metzler Sportec front on that's lying around in my shed. Figure it's got 3,000km in it but Concours will probably shred it. At least this way the next tyres I buy will probably be a set (rear ok at the mo).

Koro - looks like the PR2's are giving you good mileage. What are they like in the wet and I guess how do they go when you're fanging it?

[puddytat]

I like 'em!!...though they're on a R6. Had my first decent ride in the wet on them over the w/end on the way to Greymouth streetraces & found them to be confidence inspiring. A mate of mine has a Metzler M3 on the front & PP 2ct on rear(road) & loves the mix...previously he had Azaros & he reckons PP rule

[KoroJ]

......Koro - looks like the PR2's are giving you good mileage. What are they like in the wet and I guess how do they go when you're fanging it?

I didn't seem to have more or less problems than anyone else in the light drizzle we encountered on the GC. As for fanging it...I wouldn't know...I ride like a nana!!

[homer]

Gotta put new tyres on the Concours already because of a puncture caused by a box cutter blade I had the Bridgestone repaired (vulcanised) but after seeing it show through on the week end i have lost all faith in the tyre now
I was never happy with the grip in the wet the Bridgestones have on the new ZG
Pilot raod 2 is probably my first choice because of the dual compound
I like the idea of sticky on the lean and good wear on the upright

What do you guys think ? and my second question
Do you think i should replace the front as well to match for handling etc Remembering that they have only just done 5000 ks and still look like they have another 5000 ks left on them

I have been doing a lot of homework on rear tyres
want a good grip and a long lasting tyre
sounds like the bridgestone 021 is really good
but something more interesting is that the metzeler roadtec z6 has been road tested in nz and works very well
so problem solved
as far as i know there are no other stats for a tyre tested on our roads
all over seas on the flat bitumen or concrete so dont go by the 16000km you hear they get you wont here.

[Pixie]

Liked the Z6 on the Bandit,but the PR2s are even better - lighter steering but and they stop turning in when you want them to.which was my one criticism of the Z6

[Hitcher]

What is it about the name that seems to encourage deafness in any discussion about sports touring tyre choices? Avon Storms!

[Ocean1]

z6 has been road tested in nz and works very well
so problem solved
as far as i know there are no other stats for a tyre tested on our roads
all over seas on the flat bitumen or concrete so dont go by the 16000km you hear they get you wont here.

What sort of test? Rider's evaluation or actual numbers from accelerometers?
Can post said tests?


What is it about the name that seems to encourage deafness in any discussion about sports touring tyre choices? Avon Storms!

Why? All round good performance or specific criteria?

And while we're at it why haven't I seen perdy coloured rubber for road bikes? Not quite the same performance?

[DougieNZ]

I am running Avon Storm ST's on my bike and am completely sold on them. They are very hard wearing and provide excellent grip particularly in the wet. A recent grand Challenge gave them a very good test in these conditions...

They came on Hitcher's recommendation - best advice I have ever taken!

However, I don't "fang it" much either, so you might want something a little more sticky if you do?

[Hitcher]

I have been known to occasionally "fang" on all of the tyres I have used between my bikes and the road. The Storms, like most sports touring tyres for that matter, are totally up to a bit of aggression. To a point where I wonder why sprotsbike riders who don't ride on the track and who go fanging for less than 10% of the distances they ride insist on buying small penis sports tyres when, for about the same money, they could use something that handles almost as well and lasts more than twice as long. Image is everything for some, I guess. Go figure.

[MSTRS]

Not sure that I agree with that supposition Hitcher.
Sprotsbikes are generally relatively light and nimble, therefore the best tyres to use tend to be softer so that they can get up to their optimum temperature to grip properly. But when you are talking 250/300kg whales, then the very fact of their weight is going to require something a bit harder in the tyre department, yet still reach operating temperature.
Yes, there are some sprotbikers out there who run touring tyres - but you won't see them taking their bikes to anything like the lean angles they are designed for without first spending a lot of time/movement getting the tyres hot enough. In the normal course of roadriding a light sprotsbike just can't reach and maintain 'correct' tyre temperature on touring tyres.
Edit - I have the PR2s both ends. I happen to like them and they fill me with confidence for my riding style (call me a wimp if you like).

[Hitcher]

In the normal course of roadriding a light sprotsbike just can't reach and maintain 'correct' tyre temperature on touring tyres.

If this were true, manufacturers would surely have published tables that showed km to reach "optimum" temperature for varying road and air temperatures. And I would have imagined that modern tyre compounds were increasingly less sensitive to things like temperature, compared to tyres from days of yore on which most myths and legends are based?

[MSTRS]

A table of suitability might be nice, but in truth will never happen. Too many variables. And tyre temp is still a biggie - try giving any bike a heavy lean within the first few hundred metres (at least) of setting off (cold) and see how you get on.

[jrandom]

Well, whatever y'all do, avoid Dunlop D221s like the plague.

I attach a photograph of what the rear tyre on the K1200RS looked like after less than a thousand km since new (bit of a pootle around the central NI, plus a Coromandel loop). Complete disintegration.

The heat cycles involved have hardened the rubber, and its grip is now pathetic.

The bike in question will be getting Avon Storms very shortly.

[Ocean1]

The Storms, like most sports touring tyres for that matter, are totally up to a bit of aggression. To a point where I wonder why sprotsbike riders who don't ride on the track and who go fanging for less than 10% of the distances they ride insist on buying small penis sports tyres when, for about the same money, they could use something that handles almost as well and lasts more than twice as long.

Whelp… I’m partial to my skin, (required coverage aside). I know pretty well how far I can push Michelin S12 knobblies, I’ve spent a bunch of skin establishing exactly that. I’ve got limited experience as to exactly where the limits of my road tyres are however, and not much inclination to discover them all at once. Sooo, I like the idea of a tyre that, (while maybe lacking in ultimate stickability), gives me some warning before failing to maintain a required skin/asphalt separation. The theory goes that’ll allow me to explore those limits with slightly less painful consequences.

The Super Corsa’s I had are my only experimental baseline, and I wasn’t impressed with their predictability on the road. Not surprising, they’re apparently not for the faint hearted, requiring a moderately brutal workout to achieve the desired result. I HAD organised some PR2s, a choice based on their rumoured effectiveness in sub-optimal conditions. The shop took this to mean Pilot Powers though, (in spite of the fact that they’d had my PR2s on order for weeks), and as it’d been a close call in the first place I let it stand.

A couple of weeks down the track, (well, road) I’m pleased with them, especially in the damp. They might not last as long but they seem to give more feedback AND more grip. It’s the predictability that interests me more though, and once I’ve learned a bit more about where those limits are I’ll have a baseline of 2 flavours of tyre, and hopefully what remains of my skin.

So, y’see for me it’s not about the ultimate in any specific handling criteria, it’s about broadening that difference between “whoops” and “Aw fuck”, because that’s where I learn. If someone had suggested that Avon storms offered such a characteristic I’d have bought them, even at the cost of outright handling performance.

[Meanie]

Thanks all for the sugestions, I am going to enquire about the price and size of the Storms against the PR2,s and make my decision from there and let you know what i decide to do
You cant ever have too much info
Curious as to why my bike would be chewing out a back tyre and Bandits a front tyre when they are exactly the same bike, we even are within 50 ks of each other. What would do this? riding style maybe

[Meanie]

Well, whatever y'all do, avoid Dunlop D221s like the plague.

I attach a photograph of what the rear tyre on the K1200RS looked like after less than a thousand km since new (bit of a pootle around the central NI, plus a Coromandel loop). Complete disintegration.

The heat cycles involved have hardened the rubber, and its grip is now pathetic.

The bike in question will be getting Avon Storms very shortly.

Aww crap thats not too impressive :oi-grr:
Thought about taking them back ?

[Ocean1]

If this were true, manufacturers would surely have published tables that showed km to reach "optimum" temperature for varying road and air temperatures. And I would have imagined that modern tyre compounds were increasingly less sensitive to things like temperature, compared to tyres from days of yore on which most myths and legends are based?

What, and leave wide themselves open to the inevitable lawsuits?
Besides, effective marketing is a far better tool for the selling of anything than mere numerical facts.


A table of suitability might be nice, but in truth will never happen. Too many variables. And tyre temp is still a biggie - try giving any bike a heavy lean within the first few hundred metres (at least) of setting off (cold) and see how you get on.

FWIW I can report that both a ZZR1200 and 'Busa running (coincidentally) identical pressures to my Buell get significantly warmer at exactly the same speeds/road.

[jrandom]

Aww crap thats not too impressive :oi-grr:
Thought about taking them back ?

They were fitted by eMoto (http://www.emoto.co.nz/) immediately prior to the bike being delivered. The tyre photos and explanation were sent through, but eMoto were not interested in discussing the suitability of their choice of tyre.

Shrug. Whatcha gonna do eh.

[MSTRS]

FWIW I can report that both a ZZR1200 and 'Busa running (coincidentally) identical pressures to my Buell get significantly warmer at exactly the same speeds/road.

Which was my point - heavy bikes heat their tyres up more/faster so can go with a harder compound to achieve (some) longevity.

[Zapf]

May I suggest the Strada's.

I am using PR2's on the Bird atm, and compare with the Strada. They do not turn in as fast, as they require more lean before reaching the curved part of the tire. So you can say they are fat in the middle and hence more rubber to burn.

On my last set of Strada they lasted over 10'000k and still have a 1/3~1/4 tread left. I would think the PR2's would last longer, but the Strada's are more sporty and warm up quicker.

So Strada is next for me on the Bird.

[NZsarge]

Well, whatever y'all do, avoid Dunlop D221s like the plague.

I attach a photograph of what the rear tyre on the K1200RS looked like after less than a thousand km since new (bit of a pootle around the central NI, plus a Coromandel loop). Complete disintegration.

The heat cycles involved have hardened the rubber, and its grip is now pathetic.

The bike in question will be getting Avon Storms very shortly.

Man thats insane! Just goes to confirm my feelings about Dunlops, They were never getting anywhere near my car and certainly not my bike..

[NZsarge]

Thanks all for the sugestions, I am going to enquire about the price and size of the Storms against the PR2,s and make my decision from there and let you know what i decide to do
You cant ever have too much info
Curious as to why my bike would be chewing out a back tyre and Bandits a front tyre when they are exactly the same bike, we even are within 50 ks of each other. What would do this? riding style maybe

Sounds like a fair call. The differences between your bike and Banditriders could be as simple as riding style, maybe different tyre pressures and you've done some two up work and so on.

[pritch]

I had the Bridgestone repaired (vulcanised) but after seeing it show through on the week end i have lost all faith in the tyre now

That was rather brave of you.

A Z rated tyre is rated at continuous use over 150mph (from memory). What do you bet a repaired tyre is rated at?

Bearing in mind you are actually betting your life on it...



I was never happy with the grip in the wet the Bridgestones have on the new ZG

I wasn't happy with the wet grip of the 020s either. I had read brilliant things about them in the Brit mags but they do their testing on a track. And that is really very different to our roads...



Do you think i should replace the front as well to match for handling etc Remembering that they have only just done 5000 ks and still look like they have another 5000 ks left on them

Absolutely! If you really want to use that 5000 Ks buy a Bridgestone rear.

Buy a pair of Michelins and give the old front to someone who still has a Bridgestone rear.

[pritch]

And I would have imagined that modern tyre compounds were increasingly less sensitive to things like temperature, compared to tyres from days of yore on which most myths and legends are based?

Actually the opposite is probably the case.

In days of yore you basically bought a motorbike tyre of the correct size. That was pretty much it.

Now there are cross plys and radials; touring tyres, sports touring, and some of the main makers seem to be offering at least three grades of sports tyre. None of which touches on racing rubber, despite what the names say.

As the number of types proliferates so the performance envelope of each becomes narrower. (Particularly toward the sportier end?)

In Europe it is possible to access technical reps from the various factories. If such people exist in this country they are laying very low...

[riffer]

Dan - looking at that tyre I'm wondering about its load rating.

I run Avons on the RF - a Storm rear and a Viper front as the bike seems to push the front a bit unless you go for a sports front and doesn't seem to have enough power to spin up the rear in the dry with the Storm.

Both of my Avons are the "B" load rating, for heavy bikes. It could be possible the Dunlop is an "A" rated tyre, in which case the carcass will be too flexible for the weight of the bike, leading it to heat up too quickly.

And I'll throw my weight behind the Storm as well. A great tyre, wet or dry. :clap:

[banditrider]

Thanks all for the sugestions, I am going to enquire about the price and size of the Storms against the PR2,s and make my decision from there and let you know what i decide to do
You cant ever have too much info
Curious as to why my bike would be chewing out a back tyre and Bandits a front tyre when they are exactly the same bike, we even are within 50 ks of each other. What would do this? riding style maybe

Stuck my old Metzler (off the Bandit) on the front today. Battleax did 6,500kms and I wouldn't have been to happy to keep riding on it in the wet. Hopefully the Metzler will last as long as the current rear so I can change as a set. Rear currently doesn't look too bad.


May I suggest the Strada's.

I am using PR2's on the Bird atm, and compare with the Strada. They do not turn in as fast, as they require more lean before reaching the curved part of the tire. So you can say they are fat in the middle and hence more rubber to burn.

On my last set of Strada they lasted over 10'000k and still have a 1/3~1/4 tread left. I would think the PR2's would last longer, but the Strada's are more sporty and warm up quicker.

So Strada is next for me on the Bird.

Talked to Bruce at AFC today & he recommended I try the Strada's too. Might do that and see how they go. Gonna have the kwaka long term so I figure I'll get to try a few combinations...

[Hitcher]

As mentioned in another thread, I am disappointed with the performance of my front PR2. After nearly 11,000km the rear is still OK and looking good for a few more 1,000km yet, but the front is getting pretty shagged -- the first time ever I've had a matched pair where the front has given in before its mate behind. The front only has a few hundred km on it. The right-hand side is badly chiseled. And I am scrupulous about pressures.

I had already made the decision to go back to Storms at the next change. This latest occurrence merely reinforces that.

[banditrider]

I think that'll definitely be a combination I try at some stage.

[NUTBAR]

May I suggest the Strada's.

I am using PR2's on the Bird atm, and compare with the Strada. They do not turn in as fast, as they require more lean before reaching the curved part of the tire. So you can say they are fat in the middle and hence more rubber to burn.

On my last set of Strada they lasted over 10'000k and still have a 1/3~1/4 tread left. I would think the PR2's would last longer, but the Strada's are more sporty and warm up quicker.

So Strada is next for me on the Bird.


same for me too.
i had z6s on my fjr and found that they let go when i get the pegs down,
i changed to the strada for the rear and have had no slipage at all with the pegs down.

[Max Preload]

I attach a photograph of what the rear tyre on the K1200RS looked like after less than a thousand km since new (bit of a pootle around the central NI, plus a Coromandel loop). Complete disintegration.

:blink: That's some fucked up, repugnant shit.

[Zapf]

As mentioned in another thread, I am disappointed with the performance of my front PR2. After nearly 11,000km the rear is still OK and looking good for a few more 1,000km yet, but the front is getting pretty shagged -- the first time ever I've had a matched pair where the front has given in before its mate behind. The front only has a few hundred km on it. The right-hand side is badly chiseled. And I am scrupulous about pressures.

I had already made the decision to go back to Storms at the next change. This latest occurrence merely reinforces that.

I think this has to do with the softer sides on both the fr and rear on the PR2's seems that is what happens when you have soft compounds.... u trade performance for tire life

[Meanie]

So after all that my front tyre is the first to be needing repalcement so I will replace it after the Forgotten highway on Saturday
Going to put Storms on at this stage but am a little concerned about the wobble that some are getting from them at low speeds

[HornetBoy]

what would people recommend i run on the 919 ? PR2's or strada's ? ive got Pilot Sport on the rear and Strada on the front at the moment, which seems to be a really good combo in terms of mileage and stability,turn-in etc .But im not sure if i want to run a strada on the rear as the past 2 times ive found they puncture really,really easy :confused: what are peoples views on avon's and metz?

[Meanie]

Got my new tyres today, ended up buying a set of Avon Storms
Brought them from Bay City Motor cycles. Ordered them on Tuesday they turned up this morning They saved me quite a bit of money Thanks DMTD for recomending BCM and thanks Hitcher for the help in the decision making
Gonna put at least the front one on monday maybe both ill see what the rear looks like after the week end
Cant praise BCM enough for thier prompt service and dam good tyre pricing Ill be buying off them again, worth a call if your in the market for rubber
Ill keep you posted on how they handle and wear

[Storm]

I'm just so stoked that the tyres named after me are held in such high esteem:D

[banditrider]

I'm just so stoked that the tyres named after me are held in such high esteem:D

Does it make up for bikers cursing the weather pattern named after you? ;)

[Zapf]

what would people recommend i run on the 919 ? PR2's or strada's ? ive got Pilot Sport on the rear and Strada on the front at the moment, which seems to be a really good combo in terms of mileage and stability,turn-in etc .But im not sure if i want to run a strada on the rear as the past 2 times ive found they puncture really,really easy :confused: what are peoples views on avon's and metz?

I have a 919 and a CBR1100XX atm, they used to be both on Strada's. And I have given the PR2 a try on both of them. But I think next time it will be Strada's again, as they give a nicer ride and also more sporty handling. Because the Strada's are more rounded, where as the PR2's are fat in the middle and steepen quickly in the sides.

I haven't had a puncture on the Stradas or the PR2's for that matter. Perhaps is where you ride your bike? or the local tradesmen has a hole in his nail box?

[Pixie]

I think this has to do with the softer sides on both the fr and rear on the PR2's seems that is what happens when you have soft compounds.... u trade performance for tire life

PR 2 fronts use a harder compound on the sides than in the middle of the tread

[Hitcher]

PR 2 fronts use a harder compound on the sides than in the middle of the tread

I'll post a photo of my PR2 front that belies that claim.

[Ocean1]

PR 2 fronts use a harder compound on the sides than in the middle of the tread


I'll post a photo of my PR2 front that belies that claim.

Got the spec's at home, will look tonight.

From memory, P Power fronts are medium soft on centre and soft on the sides, not sure about PR's.

[classic zed]

I have a Bridgestone Battlax BT45 (dual compound) on the rear and a Metzeler Lasertec on the front, it handles incredibly well for a hippo.

The tyres have done just over 7,000 km and the Bridgestone has about 2,5mm left while the Metzeler is completely shagged. Iv never had a scary moment on them but this time Im going to try Bridgestone on the front and rear.

[Meanie]

I have a Bridgestone Battlax BT45 (dual compound) on the rear and a Metzeler Lasertec on the front, it handles incredibly well for a hippo.

The tyres have done just over 7,000 km and the Bridgestone has about 2,5mm left while the Metzeler is completely shagged. Iv never had a scary moment on them but this time Im going to try Bridgestone on the front and rear.

Yea i had Bridgestones on the mean streak and loved them, not keen on the ones that came on the concours

[Max Preload]

PR 2 fronts use a harder compound on the sides than in the middle of the tread

Other way around - softer on the sides.

I fitted a Pilot Power 2CT front and a Pilot Road 2 rear. Both are dual compound and seem to be wearing very well. I figured since I usually replace as a pair anyway, and the rear chews out first, I'd just put a stickier one on the front. I don't mind the rear squirming, but the front... no thanks! :shit:

One thing I noticed was the low speed rumble they make - feels like you're on knobblies just before you stop or when you're going as slow as possible. I put it down to just being quite a chunky tread.

[MSTRS]

One thing I noticed was the low speed rumble they make - feels like you're on knobblies just before you stop or when you're going as slow as possible. I put it down to just being quite a chunky tread.

Really? Can't say I've noticed any of that. Mind you, out here in the provinces we don't get the best of road surfaces :sweatdrop

[Ocean1]

Other way around - softer on the sides.

I fitted a Pilot Power 2CT front and a Pilot Road 2 rear. Both are dual compound and seem to be wearing very well. I figured since I usually replace as a pair anyway, and the rear chews out first, I'd just put a sticker one on the front. I don't mind the rear squirming, but the front... no thanks! :shit:

One thing I noticed was the low speed rumble they make - feels like you're on knobblies just before you stop or when you're going as slow as possible. I put it down to just being quite a chunky tread.

Michelin don't supply numerical spec's, PR fronts are described as having medium-soft compound on the middle 60% and soft on the sides. Rears have medium compound on the middle 20% and medium-soft on the sides.

Having said that I've just taken readings of the hardness of the 2CT PPs on the Buell, if there's a difference it's smaller than the resolution of my metre, which is a good one...

[Hitcher]

A new set of Storms is booked to go on this Friday. Fortunately the roads this weekend were dry, clean and hot. But even then on a few right-handers I had this unnerving "Is it, or isn't it?" thing going on. Hard work indeed.

If anybody wants a 180/55 17 PR2 with about 4,000km left on it, no squaring or any visible signs of distress, please let me know (it has already lasted 11,500km). It's a shame that the PR2 fronts aren't up to the task that the rears are.

[Meanie]

Just dropped mine off to have the storms fitted, having to do the rear as well now after the week ends effort, still be good to have both tyres matching
Scrub in session tonight i think :2thumbsup

[NZsarge]

Just dropped mine off to have the storms fitted, having to do the rear as well now after the week ends effort, still be good to have both tyres matching
Scrub in session tonight i think :2thumbsup

That friend of mine with the 2000 Bandit, is storm is cutting out alarmingly quickly, thought it might be tyre pressure maybe, we'll see. It was Vipers he had a good run on the set before. Does anyone know if the Avon Storms are particulars sensitive to tyre pressures?
Just fitted a Contisport attack to the Ace and the bloke who sold it to me said to keep a very close eye on the pressure as they seem to be highly sensitive incorrect settings. Pressure recommend for the Contisport Attack is 42psi!!

[Hitcher]

Does anyone know if the Avon Storms are particulars sensitive to tyre pressures?

I found the Storm front to be more sensitive to tyre pressure than other makes of tyre I'd run. I generally run all tyres at 36 front and 40 rear. I could always tell when the Storm was down a couple of psi, or if I'd added a couple too many. I found 36 to be ideal.

[NZsarge]

I found the Storm front to be more sensitive to tyre pressure than other makes of tyre I'd run. I generally run all tyres at 36 front and 40 rear. I could always tell when the Storm was down a couple of psi, or if I'd added a couple too many. I found 36 to be ideal.

Cheers for that, i'll have a yarn to my mate about it.

[banditrider]

Just dropped mine off to have the storms fitted, having to do the rear as well now after the week ends effort, still be good to have both tyres matching
Scrub in session tonight i think :2thumbsup

Yeah noticed a certain silver bike being hauled around on a trailer again...

[Meanie]

Yeah noticed a certain silver bike being hauled around on a trailer again...

He he he yea i dont want to run the risk of being given the volty to ride to work Oh the humiliation :shutup:

[KoroJ]

After much drama....I finally fitted a single compound Pilot Road (not PR2) to the ST last week and have now done 1300Kms in 15 - 30 degree temps and a wide range of speeds..??!!

Report here if you want a wee chuckle. http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/blogs/viewblog.php?userid=9500&entry=325

It's early days, but I would have to say that maybe the ST is too heavy for the softer compounds because after being a bit apprehensive, the tyre performed well. Kennif followed me over Mt Messenger and thought I looked a bit squirmy at the back but I certainly didn't feel it and would have thought that the rider would feel a shift before anyone could see it.

The proof will be in the pudding when I get in the wet and lower temps but for now, ....I'm impressed and maybe I'll get some good Mileage on it.

Will keep you advised as to how it performs.

[Al]

I had PR2s fitted to my BMW R1150RT 2 months ago and have found them to be better than the BT20s that I had before.
The roads here in the Northern Territory are "unforgiving", very hard on tyres due to the surfaces. Different because of the rain problems in the "wet", which is fast approaching / already here!
The road camber is also weird at first, helps with run-off of the heavy rain.

Lot of "straight-line" travel, but if you look around there are a lot of twisties, but have to keep an eye out for the GREY NOMADS in their campervans or caravan combos...

Have fun

Al

[Meanie]

Well, i done 1600 kms on the new Storms over the last four days and i must say at this early stage i am very impressed with them. Handle like a dream, stick like shit to a blanket, in the dry anyway and are scuffing up nicely with not too much wear showing yet And no sign of the "wobble" at low speeds. Very impressed :niceone:

[Hitcher]

On Saturday morning I picked up the FJR with its second set of Storms fitted -- with what was left of the Pilot Road 2 "experiment" consigned to TSSes recycle bin.

750km later I am a most happy camper. I just love the Storms. At one stage I thought that the PR2s were a similarly competent tyre, but I've now confirmed (to myself at least) that the Storms are vastly superior, particularly in the handling stakes, which is surely the most important consideration?

You think they're great in the dry? Well, they are. But wait until you get them out in the wet, where they are just outstanding.

Hmmm, Storms... Hitcher happy.

[Meanie]

Hmmm, Storms... Hitcher happy.


Meanie happy too :woohoo:

[Zapf]

Just came back from the mainland, where I clocked up around 5000km over the last 7 days. So far the PR2's have ran over 9000k's of road, and still there is much tread left on them, so I think they will last another 6000k's easy.

This is on a Blackbird with uprated suspension, and was hauling around 3 Givi boxes full of stuff over the last 5 thou k's. I am impressed at how well they are lasting.

[HornetBoy]

Just came back from the mainland, where I clocked up around 5000km over the last 7 days. So far the PR2's have ran over 9000k's of road, and still there is much tread left on them, so I think they will last another 6000k's easy.

This is on a Blackbird with uprated suspension, and was hauling around 3 Givi boxes full of stuff over the last 5 thou k's. I am impressed at how well they are lasting.

K i am contemplating what tyre to get next on the katana ,but am torn between avon storms and PR2's/PP2's havent seen as much praise for any of the other brands so ive got it down to these two..:yes: what would you guys/gals reccommend ? o and the type of rideing i do is touring and commuteing ,also sometimes getting the knees down:scooter:

[Blackbird]

Have a look at: http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php?t=46385&highlight=avon+storms

They are the best tyres I've ever had on the Blackbird, but they were really designed for the heavier "hyperbikes". I'm not sure that you realy need them, but it's worth checking out. Next time, I'm going for an Avon Viper sticky front tyre to go with the Storm rear as they are both compatible. I know this will shorten front tyre life but I don't really mind as I always change both tyres together anyway.

[Meanie]

K i am contemplating what tyre to get next on the katana ,but am torn between avon storms and PR2's/PP2's havent seen as much praise for any of the other brands so ive got it down to these two..:yes: what would you guys/gals reccommend ? o and the type of rideing i do is touring and commuteing ,also sometimes getting the knees down:scooter:

Ive only done 1600 kms on the storms to date but this was all two up with loaded panniers and a bag strapped down to the carrier Only one word to desribe them so far "Brilliant" but in all fairness i havnt tried the PR2s

[banditrider]

Another option?

http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/Article_Page.aspx?ArticleID=5934&Page=1

PS: So far the pirelli's I stuck on look ok. Look pretty hard wearing - after a couple of quick rides in hot conditions the rear did not look that scuffed up at all (compared to the original bridgestones). Yet to ride them in the wet.

[banditrider]

Another linky about tyres: http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/Article_Page.aspx?ArticleID=5624&Page=1

[Meanie]

Another option?

http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/Article_Page.aspx?ArticleID=5934&Page=1

PS: So far the pirelli's I stuck on look ok. Look pretty hard wearing - after a couple of quick rides in hot conditions the rear did not look that scuffed up at all (compared to the original bridgestones). Yet to ride them in the wet.

Looks promising especialy the claims it grips so good in the wet

[Hitcher]

Has Dunlop NZ imported the new Roadsmarts here yet?

[HornetBoy]

going to get the storms on the katana 600 and see what kind of milage they get (probably some crazy amount ) .

my current pilot road 2's have gotten 11,000kms and still going strong ,easily another few thousand ks left on them id say.

mind you its a 150' so they are flat in the first place and wear down amazingly slow

[Hitcher]

Mrs H's Storms (Bandit 650) are at 15,000km and there's still close to 3,000km left on the rear.

[Highlander]

Really liked the Z6's got 13500km out of the set.

Will think seriously about Storms or PR2's when I get back from the Mini's Return.

[banditrider]

Really liked the Z6's got 13500km out of the set.

Will think seriously about Storms or PR2's when I get back from the Mini's Return.

Used to like them on my Bandit but only got 9-10,000kms out of them. Don't think that they'd be that flash on the Connie...

[Zapf]

Just came back from the mainland, where I clocked up around 5000km over the last 7 days. So far the PR2's have ran over 9000k's of road, and still there is much tread left on them, so I think they will last another 6000k's easy.

This is on a Blackbird with uprated suspension, and was hauling around 3 Givi boxes full of stuff over the last 5 thou k's. I am impressed at how well they are lasting.

They did just do another 4~5 thou k's. And they still have tread. They will be replaced with some Stradas

[Owl]

Mrs H's Storms (Bandit 650) are at 15,000km and there's still close to 3,000km left on the rear.

Holy shit! My Storm shows early signs of squaring and I haven’t quite done 3000km.

[Hitcher]

Holy shit! My Storm shows early signs of squaring and I haven’t quite done 3000km.

Have you gone around any corners recently? I'm happy to post a photo of my current Storm after 11,000km and Mrs H's after 17,000km to demonstrate minimal *squaring* in both circumstances.

[KoroJ]

I ran a set of PR2's on the ST and although they felt good at first (after a badly squared and worn Conti Road Attack - 9500Kms ), I never felt totally comfortable on them.

When the rear went at 12,250Kms, I replaced it with a PR (single compound) which feels much better and is wearing well after 7,000 km and I expect to complete the 'Mini' on it.

The biggest change in the bikes handling characteristics has come recently after putting a Storm on the front. I got 18,000km out of the PR2 front, which was quite good but, wow, what an awesome ride I have at the moment. The bike feels really planted on the road as well as being more responsive through the transitions.....It's handling like a dream and the next replacement will be a Storm on the rear.

The ST is very heavy, especially when we tour fully loaded and it's really tough on tyres as pace gets up a bit, especially if the temp is 25+ as well. I doubt I'll ever put another dual compound tyre on as the sides can't hack it. But that's on the ST.

[Meanie]

What pressures are you running Hitcher
My rear has squared off a little after about 6500 kms but nothing to worry about but i am wondering if i may have it a little soft
I have noticed at low speed cornering a bit of a wobble coming from the front tyre, mainly when i am going left, but after reading about it before i purchased the storms i did half expect it

[Hitcher]

I run my Storm rear at 38 and front at 36. As tyres start to noticeably wear, I sometimes increase the pressures by a couple of PSI. Indeed, at 10,000km I nudged the front up to 37 as it was starting to get a bit scuffed.

Other tyre choices I have had on the FJR I have run at 40/36, because that is where they handled best. I have found that that the Storm rear handles best at 38.

[Owl]

Have you gone around any corners recently? I'm happy to post a photo of my current Storm after 11,000km and Mrs H's after 17,000km to demonstrate minimal *squaring* in both circumstances.

I believe you Hitcher and yes I do go around corners. The squaring I mention is feel and not visible yet. I hope I don’t give you the impression that I don’t like theses tyres. I actually think they are brilliant though I need to spend more time in the wet. I was hoping to get 7000km out of these, so we’ll just have to wait and see.

[banditrider]

http://forum.concours.org/index.php?topic=46184.msg0;topicseen#new

Got 10,600km out of my first set. Front still had more to go but it's winter...

2nd set on now...

[Meanie]

http://forum.concours.org/index.php?topic=46184.msg0;topicseen#new

Got 10,600km out of my first set. Front still had more to go but it's winter...

2nd set on now...

Yep, very happy with mine so far, they feel very stable and seem to have heaps of grip. ill be interested to see how many ks i get out of them

[banditrider]

ill be interested to see how many ks i get out of them

Ya maniac!

[Hitcher]

Nearly 10,000km off my current Storms, two-up with luggage on US concrete and macadam roads. Quite a bit of that is 120kmh+ riding. Probably about another 2,000 to 3,000km left. I'll probably replace in Las Vegas in about 10 days time.

[Meanie]

Nearly 10,000km off my current Storms, two-up with luggage on US concrete and macadam roads. Quite a bit of that is 120kmh+ riding. Probably about another 2,000 to 3,000km left. I'll probably replace in Las Vegas in about 10 days time.

I am very envious, sounds like your having a good time and those storms sure are going the distance
Hope your taking lots of pics for us back home

[Meanie]

Well i got the southern cross in a few weeks and my avon storm front tyre has a nasty bulge in it. Cant get any new storms untill late march, so I put new pilot road 2ct,s on the concours today so we will now see how well they do on a heavy sports tourer
In about four weeks and about 6000kms ill see how well they do

[Owl]

Well i got the southern cross in a few weeks and my avon storm front tyre has a nasty bulge in it. Cant get any new storms untill late march, so I put new pilot road 2ct,s on the concours today so we will now see how well they do on a heavy sports tourer
In about four weeks and about 6000kms ill see how well they do

It will be interesting to see how you go with the PR2's. I've done 6000km on the Triple so far with the PR2 and still plenty of meat left.:yes: My Storm lasted 6500km all up.

[NZsarge]

Well i got the southern cross in a few weeks and my avon storm front tyre has a nasty bulge in it. Cant get any new storms untill late march, so I put new pilot road 2ct,s on the concours today so we will now see how well they do on a heavy sports tourer
In about four weeks and about 6000kms ill see how well they do

You'll have to get 'em scrubbed in on a couple of FNR's. :niceone:

[Meanie]

You'll have to get 'em scrubbed in on a couple of FNR's. :niceone:

Hell yea :banana:

[banditrider]

You'll have to get 'em scrubbed in on a couple of FNR's. :niceone:

He won't be the only one either...

[banditrider]

Looks like some yanks are getting huge miles out of there PR2s: http://forum.concours.org/index.php?topic=52888.msg0;topicseen#new

I guess their roads are a bit better than ours...

[Meanie]

Looks like some yanks are getting huge miles out of there PR2s: http://forum.concours.org/index.php?topic=52888.msg0;topicseen#new

I guess their roads are a bit better than ours...

He he he................ most of those miles will be done with there bike on a trailor :rofl:

[banditrider]

They're not Harleys...

[Meanie]

They're not Harleys...

True, but a lot of them on the kawaski forum talked about dragging thier bikes around on trailors to meets

[TOTO]

Looks like some yanks are getting huge miles out of there PR2s: http://forum.concours.org/index.php?topic=52888.msg0;topicseen#new

I guess their roads are a bit better than ours...


wow and thats in miles :gob:

I got 12000km out of a rear Pilot POWER 2ct - but thats constant trashiing. I think I will try the Pilot roads for the winter - looks like they may be very good or those guys in the states dont have any fun roads at all.

[Meanie]

Thier roads must be in top condition to get that sort of mileage, no chance of that here

[slofox]

I found the change to Pilot Road 2's totally transformed the handling of the SV...for the better I might add...

[MSTRS]

I don't see what the big deal is. Mine are currently on 17,000k and nowhere near the wear bars.

[Hitcher]

Mine are currently on 17,000k and nowhere near the wear bars.

That's a lot of laps around your back lawn...

[Ocean1]

I replaced a 2cv Pilot Power rear recently with a 2cv Pilot Road. I was well pleased with the PP on the Buell but it cut the centre out some 20% before the sides. :baby: The Road is the same compound on the sides and a bit harder in the centre, so I went that way. It's exactly as I expected, very good, especially in the wet, but it's definitely more squirrelly on engine braking.

The brother is near the end of his first set of Pilot Roads on the ZZR1200, he's very pleased with the feel and they've outlasted everything else he's used over the last few years.

[Owl]

I replaced a 2cv Pilot Power rear recently with a 2cv Pilot Road.

2CT...........:2thumbsup


The Road is the same compound on the sides and a bit harder in the centre, so I went that way. It's exactly as I expected, very good, especially in the wet, but it's definitely more squirrelly on engine braking.

I think the side compound on the PR2 is the same as the standard Pilot Power!

[Ocean1]

There's a funny echo in here...

[Owl]

There's a funny echo in here...

Ok Ok! I thought you were referring to the PP 2CT.:shutup:

[Ocean1]

Ok Ok! I thought you were referring to the PP 2CT.:shutup:

Merely a cunning pedant trap.

[banditrider]

The important thing is that we're going to find out the answer to Meanie's original question...

[TimeOut]

I found the change to Pilot Road 2's totally transformed the handling of the SV...for the better I might add...

Same here on the V Strom completly different bike in the corners 12000 km on the rear still another couple left in it.

[banditrider]

First impression after tonight's wee pootle: feel fantastic, bike felt very nimble and tipped into corners really nicely.

Now for the interesting bit: wet weather performance and longevity...

[yod]

my bet is 9-10k - i'd expect similar wear to the bird

[banditrider]

I'd like more as my first set of Stradas did just under 11...Gonna know for sure in a few months...

[Meanie]

I'd like more as my first set of Stradas did just under 11...Gonna know for sure in a few months...

Id like to get 11k as well but wont hold my breath
Ill be happy if they wear evenly and i get 9k without too much squaring off. After all the connie is no feather weight

[banditrider]

After all the connie is no feather weight

Felt like one at times tonight! :devil2:

[banditrider]

Oh no! Someone's got a death wish: http://s633.photobucket.com/albums/uu57/ibewdave/

And they're getting slammed for it on the Concours forum: http://forum.concours.org/index.php?topic=53445.0

[Owl]

Oh no! Someone's got a death wish:

I hope they have the arrow going in the right direction. Wouldn't want a mishap!:laugh:

[Meanie]

Oh no! Someone's got a death wish: http://s633.photobucket.com/albums/uu57/ibewdave/

And they're getting slammed for it on the Concours forum: http://forum.concours.org/index.php?topic=53445.0

Only in America, mind you the roads are pretty straight and long :oi-grr:

[banditrider]

Well here they are after 6,600km and though it's a bit hard to tell there is still plenty of life in them. I can't really report on the wet weather performance as we had very little rain on the Southern Cross but otherwise the grip is still fantastic - scraped the pegs on both sides coming over Glen Hope the other day...:niceone:

They are wearing very evenly - there's pretty much the same tread depth at the sides as there is at the middle. I just dug a stone out of the rear and it appears to not be leaking so that's a bit of a bonus.

Winter is just around the corner so it will be interesting to see how they go in colder and wetter conditions (esp half worn).

Overall I'm pretty happy so far and it looks like they should be good for at least 10K at this stage - maybe more :2thumbsup

[Meanie]

Well here they are after 6,600km and though it's a bit hard to tell there is still plenty of life in them. I can't really report on the wet weather performance as we had very little rain on the Southern Cross but otherwise the grip is still fantastic - scraped the pegs on both sides coming over Glen Hope the other day...:niceone:

They are wearing very evenly - there's pretty much the same tread depth at the sides as there is at the middle. I just dug a stone out of the rear and it appears to not be leaking so that's a bit of a bonus.

Winter is just around the corner so it will be interesting to see how they go in colder and wetter conditions (esp half worn).

Overall I'm pretty happy so far and it looks like they should be good for at least 10K at this stage - maybe more :2thumbsup


Mine are similar and i,m very happy with the handling of them and the way they are wearing, very little squaring off in the middle Awesome so far

[banditrider]

Someone's very keen to change to PR2's...

[Meanie]

Someone's very keen to change to PR2's...

Too much money, i rekon, looks cool though

[banditrider]

Interesting thread to keep an eye on: http://forum.concours.org/index.php?topic=55911.msg0;

Still a while before I know how many k's from mine. Doubt I'll get 16,000miles like 1 guy is saying...

[Meanie]

10,050 kms on the PR2,s now and they still havnt squared off. They have even wear over the whole tyre and looks like i still have at least 1000ks left on them yet............... FMS

[Owl]

10,050 kms on the PR2,s now and they still havnt squared off. They have even wear over the whole tyre and looks like i still have at least 1000ks left on them yet............... FMS

That's shit hot Meanie, so will you be buying another one?:D Mine is at 8900km and still going good.

Front BT-016 is nearly buggered at 6900km, so eating a front before rear will be a first for me.:blink:

[banditrider]

Damn straight. I reckon I'm going to see 12k easy. Have not had that sort of mileage from a tyre since I was riding small bikes. The even wear (and hard compound in the middle) over the rear is the key I think - the rear (metzler) on my VTR is squaring off, getting pretty thin in the middle while there is still a bit on the sides...

[Southern man]

Im on my third set the bandit and getting average of 12,000 per set. Great tyres. Tried other now where near as good.

[NZsarge]

10,050 kms on the PR2,s now and they still havnt squared off. They have even wear over the whole tyre and looks like i still have at least 1000ks left on them yet............... FMS


That's shit hot Meanie, so will you be buying another one?:D Mine is at 8900km and still going good.

Front BT-016 is nearly buggered at 6900km, so eating a front before rear will be a first for me.:blink:


Damn straight. I reckon I'm going to see 12k easy. Have not had that sort of mileage from a tyre since I was riding small bikes. The even wear (and hard compound in the middle) over the rear is the key I think - the rear (metzler) on my VTR is squaring off, getting pretty thin in the middle while there is still a bit on the sides...

Reckon PR2's are a great all round tyre, done over 9k on mine from memory. Can't bring myself to put one on the front though, love the way the Power 2ct feels and grips when ya givin' it a bit of stick.
I'd really love to try a Power 2ct 190/55 on the rear to see what that did for the turn in, made a noticeable improvement on the FZ1 but in the end I think i'll probably stick with the Road 2 coz getting this milage for me is just unheard of... Mind you to be fair I usually run Powers so...

[Meanie]

That's shit hot Meanie, so will you be buying another one?:D Mine is at 8900km and still going good.

Front BT-016 is nearly buggered at 6900km, so eating a front before rear will be a first for me.:blink:

Yep be buying them again in fact ill be using nothing else now

[banditrider]

Reckon PR2's are a great all round tyre, done over 9k on mine from memory. Can't bring myself to put one on the front though, love the way the Power 2ct feels and grips when ya givin' it a bit of stick.
I'd really love to try a Power 2ct 190/55 on the rear to see what that did for the turn in, made a noticeable improvement on the FZ1 but in the end I think i'll probably stick with the Road 2 coz getting this milage for me is just unheard of... Mind you to be fair I usually run Powers so...

Thinking about PP on front and PR2 on the rear for the Honda...

[NZsarge]

Thinking about PP on front and PR2 on the rear for the Honda...

I think that'd be an excellent choice, I think you'll find your bike will turn in nice and sharp i'd say...

[banditrider]

Ok, so I've got a bit of a dilema. My PR2's are at 9,500km and still look great but the GC is coming up in October. I have a new set of PR2's ready to go on but I think I'm going to struggle to wear the old ones out by then.

Option 1, park the Connie for a month and hope the tyres pass scruitineering (I'd pass it as I reckon that there's a minimum of 2K left in them).

Option 2, Keep riding them and hope they're gone by Oct (or possibly change them in October anyway and loose some kms from them).

Are they liable to wear out quicker now that they're down a bit (and the temps are coming up too) or will they go hard until they're kaput?

These tyres have blown me away in terms of performance and longevity. Very impressed!

[Meanie]

Ok, so I've got a bit of a dilema. My PR2's are at 9,500km and still look great but the GC is coming up in October. I have a new set of PR2's ready to go on but I think I'm going to struggle to wear the old ones out by then.

Option 1, park the Connie for a month and hope the tyres pass scruitineering (I'd pass it as I reckon that there's a minimum of 2K left in them).

Option 2, Keep riding them and hope they're gone by Oct (or possibly change them in October anyway and loose some kms from them).

Are they liable to wear out quicker now that they're down a bit (and the temps are coming up too) or will they go hard until they're kaput?

These tyres have blown me away in terms of performance and longevity. Very impressed!

Keep riding Andrew and fit new ones before the GC You wont want a flat in the middle of the night and middle of nowhere, refit the old ones when you return for a few weeks and get the last few ks from them

[banditrider]

Still trying to kill 'em. At 10,310km so far.

[Meanie]

Still trying to kill 'em. At 10,310km so far.

Easy another 2000ks on them yet

[banditrider]

Yep, so I have to do that this month...

[mouldy]

So after all that my front tyre is the first to be needing repalcement so I will replace it after the Forgotten highway on Saturday
Going to put Storms on at this stage but am a little concerned about the wobble that some are getting from them at low speeds
I thought the Storm wobble only happened on Blackturds

[cowboyz]

Still trying to kill 'em. At 10,310km so far.

any of that out of first gear?

[Hitcher]

Based on my experience with Storms (three sets on an FJR1300, two sets on a Bandit 650, and one set on a Shiver) the "wobble" is a myth.

[banditrider]

any of that out of first gear?

1st's all I need to keep up with you...

[Meanie]

I thought the Storm wobble only happened on Blackturds


Based on my experience with Storms (three sets on an FJR1300, two sets on a Bandit 650, and one set on a Shiver) the "wobble" is a myth.

Well i can tell you first hand the wobble is no myth. the tyres were great to ride on but the front did develop a slight wobble when more than half worn, only when on a slow lean around a tight corner. The first set i managed to wear right out, the wobble from the front was not a problem. The second set had a floor in the front tyre and developed a major wobble all the time. The importer paid out half the value of the tyre and AFC who sold it to me paid out the other half. I did like the way they felt on the road but now i am running the PR2s i am more than happy with them. Great mileage and next to no squaring off with remarkable even wear.

[Blackbird]

I thought the Storm wobble only happened on Blackturds

It was there on all bikes. Might have been a bit more apparent on 'birds because because it was pretty much the tyre of choice for them in Europe and here but it's been well-reported on all makes. It was tracked down to an intermittent fault in the manufacturing process where the ends of the belting could overlap rather than being butt joined. This caused a lateral imbalance and the infamous shimmy. As far as I know, it hasn't recurred beyond the first year of manufacture.

[banditrider]

Okay, I think that they're just about had it. 11,795km of fantastic performance. They have only just started to square off a little on the rear (getting a bit thin there now too) and the front is reasonably well worn on the sides. Very happy with the performance over the entire life of the tyre and nice to have the front and rear wear out at roughly the same time. No issues on greasy roads today either...

Time to put a fresh set on!

[AllanB]

Man if you've got 12k out of the PR2's on your 14 I'll get mega out of the pair on my Hornet 900!

5,000 on them now and little wear. I'd killed the original tyres at 6,000, looks like I'll easily double that on the PR2.

[banditrider]

Yep, I'd say so. My mate has just put some on his Bandit too. He got about 12K out of some Z6's so he's probably looking at 15k or so...

[Meanie]

Aaaw you got another 2k on them yet
Mine look similar to yours and about the same ks
Gonna put a fresh set on tomorrow

[banditrider]

Righto, finally got the new tyres on and yeah, they feel a lot nicer than the worn ones but I'm still very impressed and can't really say a bad word against the PR2's.

http://banditrider.blogspot.com/2009/10/its-that-time-again.html

[banditrider]

These might be worth a try at some stage.

http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1380

A few of the guys on concours.org are trying them so I'm keeping an eye on their threads. A few are still singing the praises of the Stradas too - they prefer the handling to the PR2's. Dunno what they're smokin...

[cowboyz]

be aware that ambient temp plays alot into the hands of how a tyre will handle too. Bit different riding in 10-15 deg rather than 35-45 deg...

[MSTRS]

Okay, I think that they're just about had it. 11,795km of fantastic performance. They have only just started to square off a little on the rear (getting a bit thin there now too) and the front is reasonably well worn on the sides.

They've done well on that heavy bike of yours. My PR2s looked like that at 18,000 on the GSXR. There would have to be a serious contender to try a different tyre, with the results that PR2s give.

[banditrider]

These might be worth a try at some stage.

http://www.amadirectlink.com/news/story.asp?id=1380

A few of the guys on concours.org are trying them so I'm keeping an eye on their threads. A few are still singing the praises of the Stradas too - they prefer the handling to the PR2's. Dunno what they're smokin...

Ok, so Angels and a Connie - don't do it!

Here's my rear at just under 7,000km - they really went downhill fast during the 4 points. Front has maybe 1,000km left in it. New PR2's going on tomorrow...

[Owl]

Less than 7000 is bloody poor. Got a feeling my Rosso's are not going to last long, so I'll get to try the Angel's soonish.

[Kiwi Graham]

Its looking more and more likely that the Concourse will replace my mighty 14 and when it does it will have PR2's on from new.
Why?
Because of grip and feed back with the added bonus of amazing mileage.
Stick them on any 'heavy ' bike and it feels like its looses 10's of kilos, the steering is sharper and the transition from upright to full lean confidence inspiring and predictable. The feedback you get in the corners is amazing in the wet and the dry. I have toured on these tyres and given them a bloody hard time on the circuit and only have praise for them.

[Grubber]

I've been running the PR2's on my Daytona for 11k now and they still have maybe 1 or 2 k left in them. It would take one helluva tire to get me to change now. They were really good in the wet and corner like a dream. Road out onto a wet road the day they were fitted and i felt full of confidence even being new on the wet surfaces.
Awesome tire.

[banditrider]

Its looking more and more likely that the Concourse will replace my mighty 14 and when it does it will have PR2's on from new.
Why?
Because of grip and feed back with the added bonus of amazing mileage.
Stick them on any 'heavy ' bike and it feels like its looses 10's of kilos, the steering is sharper and the transition from upright to full lean confidence inspiring and predictable. The feedback you get in the corners is amazing in the wet and the dry. I have toured on these tyres and given them a bloody hard time on the circuit and only have raise for them.

Agree with all your points there. When I first stuck the PR2's on it felt like a different bike. The Angels felt great when they went on but went off really fast - just not up to the weight and torque of the Connie.

Scrubbing in my first ever set of PR2's:

kKG5SEDI_aQ

[Meanie]

I wont be changing from the pr2,s now unless they come up with something that does better ks without loosing the handling. I am suprised they dont seem to square off untill they have neared the end of thier life, especialy on such a heavy bike.
I seem to get about 13k out of mine, so far consistantly
Awesome all round tyre

[NZsarge]

Agreed, nice work by Michelin, bring on the Road 3 (?), might be even better.

[NZsarge]

The Angels felt great when they went on but went off really fast - just not up to the weight and torque of the Connie.


Agreed, the Angels went of on the ZX14 quite quickly too and were positively horrid at the end of their life...

[Hitcher]

Scrubbing in my first ever set of PR2's

I can't remember the last time I did most of that stretch of road, the other way. It's a favourite too!

[banditrider]

I can't remember the last time I did most of that stretch of road, the other way. It's a favourite too!

I remember when you did it last! Caught you just before Apiti and it looked like the Shiver was enjoying it too!

[banditrider]

Agreed, nice work by Michelin, bring on the Road 3 (?), might be even better.

http://translate.google.co.nz/translate?hl=en&sl=fr&tl=en&u=http://www.moto-station.com/article10179-scoop-pneu-moto-tout-sur-le-nouveau-michelin-pilot-road-3-.html

[NZsarge]

http://translate.google.co.nz/translate?hl=en&sl=fr&tl=en&u=http://www.moto-station.com/article10179-scoop-pneu-moto-tout-sur-le-nouveau-michelin-pilot-road-3-.html

Good spotting Mate, certainly a bit of a departure from the Road 2 but interesting though. Hope it copes as well with heavy bike as well as the Road 2 but at least the Road 3 is not a Road 2 replacement. Also means Road 3's will be more expensive too. Keen to try a rear out on the 14 at some point soon.

[Owl]

"The rear tire has a rounded shape"

That's good.............as square tyres just don't cut it:no:

[banditrider]

"The rear tire has a rounded shape"

That's good.............as square tyres just don't cut it:no:

Gotta love Google translate...

[Ocean1]

Interesting. Based on moderately low technical understanding I like the tread pattern. Makes sense, (to me) of the claims re breaking surface water up front to get improvements in the wet both ends.

If they can do that and improve the life over an already very good PR2 it'll be a winner. Somehow doubt the technology will flow through to a PP/Pure replacement, though.

[davebullet]

15,000kms on the PR2s on the SV650 and still going Getting a bit of cupping at the edges (tyre pressure wrong?) Just passed it's WOF.

[crash99]

Agreed, the Angels went of on the ZX14 quite quickly too and were positively horrid at the end of their life...

Horrid at the end of their life, sarge? :blink: Yep a similar story for me- I put some on my 900 Hornet but they were just plain horrid from the start!! And I don't quite have the same amount of power as the 14 . . . :weep: Felt harsh and skittery. Played with the pressures but decided they were just not the ones for me. Wonder what bike they are suited to then?

Does anyone like them or are they really just the marketing dept gone mad - I believe they had design students working on the project.

The only time I have been pleased to get a puncture that couldn't be fixed . . .

PR2s for ever . . .

[banditrider]

Horrid at the end of their life, sarge? :blink: Yep a similar story for me- I put some on my 900 Hornet but they were just plain horrid from the start!! And I don't quite have the same amount of power as the 14 . . . :weep: Felt harsh and skittery. Played with the pressures but decided they were just not the ones for me. Wonder what bike they are suited to then?

Does anyone like them or are they really just the marketing dept gone mad - I believe they had design students working on the project.

The only time I have been pleased to get a puncture that couldn't be fixed . . .

PR2s for ever . . .

Skittery is my memory of them on the East Cape road too.

What bike are they suited for - one that I don't own...

[NZsarge]

Horrid at the end of their life, sarge? :blink: Yep a similar story for me- I put some on my 900 Hornet but they were just plain horrid from the start!! And I don't quite have the same amount of power as the 14 . . . :weep: Felt harsh and skittery. Played with the pressures but decided they were just not the ones for me. Wonder what bike they are suited to then?

Does anyone like them or are they really just the marketing dept gone mad - I believe they had design students working on the project.

The only time I have been pleased to get a puncture that couldn't be fixed . . .

PR2s for ever . . .
I got on with them quite well at the beginning but it wasn't long before I considered them to be average to ride on through to the last quarter of their life at which point I couldn't wait to get them off.

[Hitcher]

What bike are they suited for - one that I don't own...

The Shiver didn't mind them too much, until the rear wore out spectacularly down it's steel mesh middle.

[Gremlin]

The KTM Supermoto liked the Angels... I didn't like the lack of life, but they performed very well in all road and weather conditions.

[crash99]

The KTM Supermoto liked the Angels... I didn't like the lack of life, but they performed very well in all road and weather conditions.

"Lack of life" is probably the best description I've heard Gremlin. True they worked, its just they didnt feel like they worked. I think there are much better tyres out there I guess is my view.

[BigOne]

As mentioned in another thread, I am disappointed with the performance of my front PR2. After nearly 11,000km the rear is still OK and looking good for a few more 1,000km yet, but the front is getting pretty shagged -- the first time ever I've had a matched pair where the front has given in before its mate behind. The front only has a few hundred km on it. The right-hand side is badly chiseled. And I am scrupulous about pressures.

I had already made the decision to go back to Storms at the next change. This latest occurrence merely reinforces that.

if one side of your front PR2 is badly chiseled, I'd bet there's something wrong with your wheel alignment?
I have fitted about 3 sets of PR2s on my GSX1400 so far, and the rears last 12-14k, and the front still has about 2mm at that point. But I always change them as a pair. I'll be trying the PR3s next, depending on reviews as to how well thos rain sipes last...........

[pritch]

I liked the Angels but didn't take them into the last quarter of their life as I sold the S4R.

One assumes rightly or otherwise, that with the advent of the PR3 the PR2 is consigned to the bargain bin of history?

[banditrider]

Hey Meanie you need to start a "Pilot Road 3 for The Concours 14" thread...

Got a quote (yet to have another ring around) today and it'll probably cost about $30 more (for the set) to go to 3's rather than 2's...

Just checked on the Concours forum (which appears to have moved (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php)) and they're talking a tyre life of around 8,000 miles which compares pretty good with what I/we seem to get from the 2's. The Yanks tyres do seem to last longer than ours generally (some huge claims abound for the 2's, eg > 10,000 miles) so I guess I'm still a bit skeptical.

I'll see what the other quotes come in at and maybe I'll be a guinea pig again - they just better not disappoint me like the Angels did...

[Gremlin]

I have a PR2 front on the CB900 that's just passed 22k... wouldn't have believed it until I checked the receipts. Doesn't spend much time in the country though, almost all of it was commuting in and around town. Rear should get 15-20k at a guess, currently at 10k and looking quite new.

[banditrider]

I have a PR2 front on the CB900 that's just passed 22k... wouldn't have believed it until I checked the receipts. Doesn't spend much time in the country though, almost all of it was commuting in and around town. Rear should get 15-20k at a guess, currently at 10k and looking quite new.

:gob: 12k is the magic number for a PR2 on the Connie - both ends.

[Gremlin]

:gob: 12k is the magic number for a PR2 on the Connie - both ends.
Put your bike on a diet :lol: I imagine the weight (plus luggage and pillions) would play a large factor, along with torque etc. Hornet is light, but always has a top box with stuff in it. Torque isn't large and delivery is extremely smooth.

Once the PR3 is on the BMW (odd sizing) it will give some more variety to the numbers, as it's a heavy bike with decent torque. Down south I ran out a Scorpion Trail set in about 5000km... extremely disappointing mileage, but it was heavily loaded the entire trip.

[banditrider]

Put your bike on a diet :lol: I imagine the weight (plus luggage and pillions) would play a large factor, along with torque etc. Hornet is light, but always has a top box with stuff in it. Torque isn't large and delivery is extremely smooth.

Very happy with 12k - I get better than others on lighter bikes...helps that I'm a nana...

Once the PR3 is on the BMW (odd sizing) it will give some more variety to the numbers, as it's a heavy bike with decent torque. Down south I ran out a Scorpion Trail set in about 5000km... extremely disappointing mileage, but it was heavily loaded the entire trip.

Didn't want to hear that - just put a Scorpion on the front of the DL...

[NZsarge]

Hey Meanie you need to start a "Pilot Road 3 for The Concours 14" thread...

Got a quote (yet to have another ring around) today and it'll probably cost about $30 more (for the set) to go to 3's rather than 2's...

Just checked on the Concours forum (which appears to have moved (http://www.zggtr.org/index.php)) and they're talking a tyre life of around 8,000 miles which compares pretty good with what I/we seem to get from the 2's. The Yanks tyres do seem to last longer than ours generally (some huge claims abound for the 2's, eg > 10,000 miles) so I guess I'm still a bit skeptical.

I'll see what the other quotes come in at and maybe I'll be a guinea pig again - they just better not disappoint me like the Angels did...
I think for $30 more the 3's are worth a crack, from what Dog's has been posting they seem mint. I honestly can't you you getting any worse milage out of them than the 2's.

[Gremlin]

Didn't want to hear that - just put a Scorpion on the front of the DL...
Which Scorpion? They're actually a range, like Pilots.

I ran a lot of Scorpion Syncs on my KTM, about 6500-8500km on every set. Beautiful tyres, but a bit soft for longevity. Pirelli seems to be expensive, great performance, but don't last too long.

Trails replace the Syncs, more sizes etc... BMW didn't fair too well, both tyres squaring off at 5000km, but a lot of weight and demanding riding.

[banditrider]

Which Scorpion? They're actually a range, like Pilots.

I ran a lot of Scorpion Syncs on my KTM, about 6500-8500km on every set. Beautiful tyres, but a bit soft for longevity. Pirelli seems to be expensive, great performance, but don't last too long.

Trails replace the Syncs, more sizes etc... BMW didn't fair too well, both tyres squaring off at 5000km, but a lot of weight and demanding riding.

It's a trail. It replaced what I think was the original Bridgestone at 15k so I think the Strom might be reasonably easy on fronts...

242449

[banditrider]

I think for $30 more the 3's are worth a crack, from what Dog's has been posting they seem mint. I honestly can't you you getting any worse milage out of them than the 2's.

Yeah, that's what I'm thinking. Just got to do a ring around and see if there's a better deal out there...

[Kiwi Graham]

Not been on the 3's for very long and have had many sets of 2's so here is my view.

2's were predictable neutral and lasted well. They gave great feedback in both wet and dry and gave a heavy bike that 'lighter' feel.

The 3's are the same, predictable, light and neutral with the same degree of feedback. I can not comment on longevity but I don't see why they would be any worse than the 2's. I'm riding a heavier bike now than I did when using the 2's and feel as confident in 'throwing' this bike around on 3's as I did the lighter bike.

As Banditrider has stated in the USofA many are raving about them in terms of wet grip and longevity

The promotion says they give greater grip/confidence in the wet over the 2's. I cant say I have noticed a difference yet. I thought the 2's were excellent in the wet and wouldn't really change my riding style much if it was wet other than increasing braking distances and avoiding the shiny bits.

I would recommend them to anyone looking for excellent all round performance and neutral, confident handling with the very real likelihood of good mileage.

KG

[Ricardo S]

replaced the original dunlop tyres on the drz for a set of PR3's and if there's such a thing as too much grip that is it - wet and dry

[Meanie]

Let me know how you get on BR, it will be a while, thanfully before i need a new set. You should have stacked up a good few ks on them ny then.
Everything seems to point to them being as good as the PR2,s but time will tell

[banditrider]

Ok, so the last set of PR2's only lasted 11k so I bit the bullet and did this: http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/140281-Pilot-Road-3-for-The-Concours-14

[Meanie]

Ok, so the last set of PR2's only lasted 11k so I bit the bullet and did this: http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/showthread.php/140281-Pilot-Road-3-for-The-Concours-14

ill be watching with keen anticipation