That's alright - you beat me with the profile thing (deleted it from my post).Originally Posted by Quasievil
I don't think mixing the profiles is that big a deal, but mixing brands and types can get a bit weird. The profile shape does make a big difference though - a triangular-ish profile means the bike tips in quick, but can feel a bit insecure when leaned over, depending on how rounded the shoulders are. I've had three lots of sport-touring rear with sports front profile, and it works well, because the tyres wear out evenly and you get the quicker turn-in and extra grip in the front, with good wear in the rear.
On my VF500 it never had anything other than mixed tyres. Started off with a Metzeler front and horrible oversized IRC rear, then went to a Avon rear, then Dunlop front (horrible triangular tyre, with bad headshake), then a Metzeler front again (quite round in profile). The Avon was very hard, and was on the bike for about 4 years, still on when I sold it.
I don't think the mix'n'match thing mattered that much though, as the wheels were too - 16" front, 18" rear.
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