Another tire question....

[DeeG]

Time for new rubber on the R45.  I would really like to keep the vintage tire look, but having a hard time finding a 'matched set'.

I did find a set of Avons, the Speedmaster for the front and the Safety Mileage for the rear.  Problem is, the front does not come in an 18", only 19 and 21.

Question: Can I put 19" tires on the bike?  Anyone do this? How does it handle?  

Thanks!!

Dee

[georgesgiralt]

No, if you try to put a 19" size hole on an 18" "thing" the thing will pass trough the hole without even touching it.
Look for Heidenau tires. They're ex est German and produce tires in the size we need with some old designs. Very good for money and very good for BMW bikes.
You may also find some Continental with old look but it will be difficult to persuade a tire seller to order them for you (and as these could be the only time they will be sold in your country, take an awful lot of time, too)

[DeeG]

lol.  I realized what I tried to ask after I posted the message.  ~sigh~

What I meant to ask was.....

the front is a 3.25x18.  Will a 3.0 or a 3.5 fit?  I'm guessing not, but one never knows.

Thanks for the tip on the Heidenau's.  Hmmm....

That K36 looks exactly like Metzler ME77 that's on it now.  And the K34 will fit perfectly up front, seeing as Michelin discontinued the M38.

[nhmaf]

They don't appear to be much available yet, but I see that Kenda is coming out with their "RetroActive" tire line sets for old/classic bike sizes.   Might want to keep your eyes open for those to possibly try.   I guess I still like the Bridgestone BT45 tires or maybe Spitfire S11 tires for all around utility.  Heidenau K34/K36 definitely have an old school look to them

[georgesgiralt]

DeeG, I was smiling along writing my answer  
As per the Heidenau, they have very good press here in France.
I think they will be the next shoes on my R65 !

[Barry]

Metzeler still do the ME11 front which is very close to the original style and they match it to ME77 rear.  

[steve hawkins]

I continue to shod my bike with Conti's.

Rev. Light

[DeeG]

I've got time to wait on the tires, as long as I get them swapped out before the National in Oregon. hoping I can find something that's fairly soft and grippy and comfy.  Will see if the Honda dealer can order up the Heidenau's, if not, Metzler it is. (Yes, I order from the local Honda dealer.  These folks will match internet pricing, I don't pay for shipping, and they're just all around good people.)

Since the bike will have a vintage plate on it, I can't use it as a daily rider, so long lasting/mileage isn't that big a deal to me. The tires will probably die of old age long before they get worn out. Much like the set that's on it now.

[Rob Valdez 79 R65]

...and comfy.

Dee, if you want long range comfort without adding too much to the seat height, I highly recommend the Butt Buffer cushion.  If I lost mine today I would have another one on the way as soon as I got close to a computer.

http://www.buttbuffer.com/Butt-Buffer-Top-Cushion/c1/p40/Medium-size-Butt-Buffer/product_info.html

It made my broken-down seat (refoamed) bearable!



And it now relieves the buzz of the CBR250R:



But(t) , I found that once I installed my new solo seat from S. Meyer, I didn't need the pad any longer!

As far as tires are concerned, I loved the Bridgestone Spitfires.  I installed my 3rd set just before I gave up on my bike.

[Ed Miller]

Do they make your butt look comfortable?

[wa1udg]

I have had good luck with Shinko.  

[79beem]

Michelin Pilot Activ is my choice, modern tread pattern, great grip = confidence = fun.
No one can see the tread whilst your hooking into the twisties [smiley=laugh.gif]