Need a new front tyre! Where can I find a Bridgestone Battlax 090 120/60 R17?

[Vinz0r]

The front tyre on my NC30 has given up the ghost, and I am in need of a new one! The right side is almost completely worn, and the left isn't far off.
It currently has a Battlax 014 on it, which has been ok, but I wouldn't mind something that inspires a little more confidence. Apparently the Bridgestone Battlax 090 is the tyre of choice for these bikes, and works well with the 014 I currently have on the rear.
I spoke to the chaps at Boyd Suzuki in Hamilton, and unfortunately they couldn't get one in. The offered an S20, but I'd rather the 090 as that's what I'll replace the rear with when it goes (S20 doesn't come in an 18 inch for the rear!).

So if anyone knows of somewhere in Hamilton that sell the Battlax 090 120/60 R17 please let me know!

[sil3nt]

You won't be able to find the 090 front. Grab the Dunlop Alpha 13 or BT-003 if you want something sticky.

Otherwise I can lend you my spare rim with the shinko on it

Best option in NZ for matching tyres for the NC30 is the Alpha 13.

No idea why they bothered importing the 090 rear without the matching front.

I believe the Bridgestone guy is on KB. If he sees this thread he might be able to provide more info.

[haydes55]

I think his moniker is jayracer or something. If all else fails, import your own

[sil3nt]

I think his moniker is jayracer or something. If all else fails, import your own

I believe it has changed to a different KB'er but I could be wrong.

[Vinz0r]

You won't be able to find the 090 front. Grab the Dunlop Alpha 13 or BT-003 if you want something sticky.

Otherwise I can lend you my spare rim with the shinko on it

Best option in NZ for matching tyres for the NC30 is the Alpha 13.

No idea why they bothered importing the 090 rear without the matching front.

I believe the Bridgestone guy is on KB. If he sees this thread he might be able to provide more info.

What are you running on yours? Going by your last trackday photos you don't seem to have any issues with grip.
I think the BT-003 would be a little bit overkill for me, I don't hit the track enough to make it worth it!
I'll have a look at the Alpha 13, but they seem to be scarce in New Zealand as well.

[sil3nt]

What are you running on yours? Going by your last trackday photos you don't seem to have any issues with grip.
I think the BT-003 would be a little bit overkill for me, I don't hit the track enough to make it worth it!
I'll have a look at the Alpha 13, but they seem to be scarce in New Zealand as well.

I am running Alphas. They would be on par with the 003. Get a 17" and run s20 all around

S20, 003, Alpha....grab the cheapest. They will all have plenty of grip (in the dry at least...)

[sidecar bob]

I think his moniker is jayracer or something. If all else fails, import your own

Jay no longer works for the Bridgestone distributor, he can now be contacted at TSS Red Baron parts division in Wellington. I would highly recommend seeking his advice prior to buying tyres.
His knowledge on the topic incredible.

[Squiggles]

Give AJ @ Motohaus a call, he used to have a fair few stowed away. Else i'm sure he'll have a good alternative set, he's owned and traded in many an NC30.

[Vinz0r]

I am running Alphas. They would be on par with the 003. Get a 17" and run s20 all around

S20, 003, Alpha....grab the cheapest. They will all have plenty of grip (in the dry at least...)

After reading up a bit on the S20 I think it might be a good option. A bit leery about mixing tyres, but I won't be racing so I don't think the differing heat properties of the tyres will be a huge issue, and they have a similar tread pattern... Apparently the S20 heats up quite quickly and has a wide range of effective operating temperature, which will be useful with a reasonably light low powered bike.

Jay no longer works for the Bridgestone distributor, he can now be contacted at TSS Red Baron parts division in Wellington. I would highly recommend seeking his advice prior to buying tyres.
His knowledge on the topic incredible.

Thanks for the tip, although I'd feel a bit weird soliciting advice from a shop employee with no intention of buying from them! Might have to use the secret KB codeword.

Give AJ @ Motohaus a call, he used to have a fair few stowed away. Else i'm sure he'll have a good alternative set, he's owned and traded in many an NC30.

Mm I have dealt with him before when trying to find a cut NC30 exhaust system. Might give him a call and see if he's willing to part with a BT090

[sidecar bob]

Thanks for the tip, although I'd feel a bit weird soliciting advice from a shop employee with no intention of buying from them! Might have to use the secret KB codeword.

D

Tell him I sent you. But why wouldn't you buy off the guy with the best advice, what with internet banking & decent couriers, you wouldn't even need to leave home to do it. And they're not the kind of thing that often turns up broken.

[Vinz0r]

Needed to get my WoF sorted quickly so ended up going for an S20 as that's all I could find locally. Seems nice so far, turn in is noticeably smoother, it doesn't feel like it's 'falling in' anymore. I'll will post some more feedback when I've put some more KMs on it.

[Vinz0r]

S20 is mint. Feels very smooth and controlled. No nasty surprises mid corner. No front end juddering. I like it.