What tire do you use?

[bohomus]

I'm going to replace my front tire on my GL 1500 trike. I've read the many threads on the pros & cons of using a rear tire mounted in reverse. After spending much time reading all this, I'm still not sure what to do. I don't want to rehash all that has been discussed to death but I sure would like to know what brand of tire you use, if it's a rear tire, and do you mount it in reverse. Not asking for explanations (of course unless you want to), just what you like.

 

[FRR]

BT-45 mounted in reverse

 

[Gold Rush]

BT-45 mounted in reverse

Same Here... Get between 14 and 18 thousand out of one depending on how much of that is twisties.. :xszpv: :xszpv:

 

[mhgoldwing]

I've used both the Michelin MPA and the BT-45. Both are the rear sport bike tires. I now prefer the BT-45 running in forward rotation @ 41 psi.

The only thing I didn't like about the MPA was the tread design caused a high frequency vibration and whining noise.

 

[beenthere]

I've used both the Michelin MPA and the BT-45. Both are the rear sport bike tires. I now prefer the BT-45 running in forward rotation @ 41 psi.

The only thing I didn't like about the MPA was the tread design caused a high frequency vibration and whining noise.

I agree 100%.ThumbUp.
GL1500 Roadsmith

 

[Bruce]

I've used both the Michelin MPA and the BT-45. Both are the rear sport bike tires. I now prefer the BT-45 running in forward rotation @ 41 psi.

The only thing I didn't like about the MPA was the tread design caused a high frequency vibration and whining noise.

:10: on the BT-45 running forward

 

[bohomus]

Thanks for all the responses. Apparently the B-45 is the tire of choice. Just to make sure before I order it, we're talking about the Bridgestone Battlax BT-45 Sport Touring Rear Tire?

There doesn't seem to be a consensus on the forward or reverse mounting thing, so I guess that is a matter of opinion. I'm not sure what I'm going to do about that.

 

[Gold Rush]

Thanks for all the responses. Apparently the B-45 is the tire of choice. Just to make sure before I order it, we're talking about the Bridgestone Battlax BT-45 Sport Touring Rear Tire?

There doesn't seem to be a consensus on the forward or reverse mounting thing, so I guess that is a matter of opinion. I'm not sure what I'm going to do about that.

I've mounted my BT-45s reversed but just for grins I'm going to do forward the next time. Probably isn't a lot of difference but I don't know of anyone that has had real issues either way. The theory behind the reverse rotation is to mount the tire in the direction exposing the tire carcass to the least amount of stress. It's designed for maximum strength during acceleration when mounted on the rear. Since you are mounting it up front the maximum stress is during braking. Hence the reverse mounting.

If you are a pretty mild rider or if you use lots of rear brake in conjunction with the front then I'd say forward. If you push the envelope and brake hard using lots of front then maybe reverse rotation is best.

 

[bohomus]

Thanks Gold Rush. I really hate to sound stupid but what does
"Get between 14 and 18 thousand out of one depending on how much of that is twists.." mean?

 

[beenthere]

Thanks for all the responses. Apparently the B-45 is the tire of choice. Just to make sure before I order it, we're talking about the Bridgestone Battlax BT-45 Sport Touring Rear Tire?

There doesn't seem to be a consensus on the forward or reverse mounting thing, so I guess that is a matter of opinion. I'm not sure what I'm going to do about that.

That's the one.ThumbUp

 

[Gold Rush]

Thanks Gold Rush. I really hate to sound stupid but what does
"Get between 14 and 18 thousand out of one depending on how much of that is twists.." mean?

That's the mileage I've gotten on the last three tires.... Pretty low by many standards.

Here in Texas many of the roads I ride are covered with a tar/gravel concoction that is not kind to tires. Add in the twisty road factor (yes we do have some of those) and my riding style -- the result is not the best longevity. I've heard of folks getting 25K or greater out of a BT-45 but that's just a fantasy for me... :xszpv: :xszpv:

 

[bohomus]

Oh yeah. Duh. I was trying to get something scientific out of that.

 

[Gold Rush]

Oh yeah. Duh. I was trying to get something scientific out of that.

LOL :xszpv: :xszpv:

 

[Konrad]

The only thing I didn't like about the MPA was the tread design caused a high frequency vibration and whining noise.

Strange. I use the MPA, reverse mounted, and have never heard your whining noise but that could be because I'm basically deaf. But that same deafness tends to increase the sensitivity of the other senses and I have never felt any vibration from either the frame or the grips. Which makes me wonder if that is peculiar to your bike or perhaps the balance of the tire.

There have been numerous threads on this same topic over the last several years and if my recollection is correct the BattleAx and the MPA are the two favorites and just about equally divided. Seems you can't go wrong with either one.

 

[Calgary]

I recently replaced the OEM on my 1800 with a BT45 normally mounted and with ceramic balancing beads - 41psi.

Wow - what a difference - vastly improved handling but a little noisier.

I've got 1000 miles on the new tire and all is looking good - now hoping for the great mileage that users have been speaking of.

I just love it when you do something that brings about such great results!

:GL1800::GL1800::GL1800::GL1800::GL1800::GL1800:

 

[Pegasus1300]

I am now running the BT45 on my 1500.I have also used the MPA. I mounted it in reverse and the BT45 forward and I have noticed no difference in the handling. As to the tires,I liked them both.I buy mostly thru Jake Wilson as they are only 1.5 hours away but when I needed to replace the MPA in a hurry they didn't have another so I took the BT45 and had them mount it.

 

[JaysGone]

My trike came with a new MPA on it.
Being the basic cheapy that I am.
Having had some very good service in the past on my 2 wheels darksided.
Ill probably try a Kenda Cruz or Challenger rear on the trike.
Ive gotten some really good mileage from them on 3 bikes as fronts so far.
All were under $100 a piece.

 

[Teal]

BT 45 mounted forward --same as it is mounted when its on the rear. ive tried it both ways
reversing it is a fable and a fad.

 

[Irongoat]

I'm putting a BT-45 on today. I'll let you know what I think about it in about twenty thousand miles. Yes I'm an optimist.

 

[rmrc51]

I have the MPA mounted in reverse at 41 PSI. Nice and quiet, no complaints.

 

[bohomus]

Got my BT 45 mounted forward today. Hugh difference in steering. Much more responsive. I like the tire. Thanks for all the advice!!!

 

[Razor]

I ask my trike installer about this. He said it would be best to use the standard front tire. They have had several people come back in with a cut front fender. When a rock get lodged in the larger tire it will rub against the inside of the fender and cut through it. I did not ask how much a fender cost. It still might be more cost effective to take the chance and use a different tire. :xzqxz:

 

[cavie]

Tire mounting forward or reverse. Reverse= supposed longer life and better braking. Mounting forward = the tire was designed for to disperse water out and away from the tire to prevent hydroplaning. Are you engineer enough to decide which is safer. Trikes brake damn good with forward mounting.

 

[Solidbob]

I run an MPA Bias Ply Rear on the front of my Gl1800 Trike @ 41 PSI and always have, get about 23,000 - 26,000 and don't see that changing..
Here is a couple of communications from Michelin & Avon & Bridgestone explaining their opinions.

From an Email

[h=2][/h]From Michelin Tire Company:

September 08, 2013

Bob ,

Per our phone conversation regarding the Michelin Pilot Activ, this tire can be used on the front of a trike mounted to run in reverse.

Many consumers use a rear tire and turn it around (tire is mounted opposite to the directional arrows on the sidewall of the tire) to be used on the front.

The rear tire tread pattern is designed for acceleration while the front tire tread pattern is designed for braking and stopping. So the tread pattern must be reversed to change it from acceleration to braking and stopping.

The rear tire is used in these applications because it provides longer wear.

Thanks for choosing Michelin. We appreciate your business.

It is our goal to ensure that your issue has been resolved or you question answered to your satisfaction. If we can assist you further, please respond to this email or call us at 1-800-847-3435 (toll free) between 8:00AM and 8:00PM Eastern Time Monday through Friday or between 8:30AM and 4:30PM Eastern Time on Saturday.

Sincerely,
Dale
Michelin North America
Consumer Care Department
Certified Michelin Product Expert


Avon Response.... (July 17, 2013)

[h=2][/h] From Avon Tire Company
Tires Directional Arrows Explained By Avon Tyres
Published by Cyril Huze August 23rd, 2009 in Builders, Editorial and Wheels.

Before we can talk about directional arrows you must first understand a bit about tread patterns. There are many different tread patterns but there is one main reason to have any tread and that is to disperse water (dust, dirt). A tread pattern can be designed to disperse more water by making it rotate in only one direction. Thus, the need for directional arrows. The arrow tells you which way to mount a tire for maximum water dispersal.

Another, less apparent reason for directional arrows is the tread splice. What is a tread splice? When a tire is manufactured the tread portion of the tire starts out as a long flat strip. This strip is wrapped around the tire and the two ends are cut on an angle so one end overlaps the other rather than having square cut ends. This overlapping point or splice offers a bigger surface area to bond together, rather than the small surface area provided by square cut ends. (Imagine gluing your fingertips together, as opposed to gluing along the entire length of your fingers laid on top of each other. Like an angled splice, the overlapping fingers result in a much stronger bond). To further ensure the strength of this bond along the tread splice the directional arrow will show you which way to mount the tire so that when the rider is “on the gas”; the acceleration force on the rear tire is pressing the splice together, rather than peeling it back.

As for braking, 80 % of the braking should take place in the front on most bikes. Therefore, the front tread splice is run in the opposite direction than that of the rear, so when the rider is on the brakes, he’s not peeling the tread splice back.

If you are using a tire that has a directional arrow for rear rotation only and for some reason you want to put it on the front, make sure it is rotating in the opposite direction so you don’t aggravate the tread splice.
Avon Tyres.

Bridgestone Response... even about the "Darkside" (July 18, 2013)



We spoke to Bridgestone Tires’ T.J.Tennent, to get some sensible advice from a man who has the impressive title of “Engineering Manager, Firestone Consumer Products, Government Products, Bridgestone Motorcycle & Karting Products.” An avid long-time motorcycle rider, Tennent in his spare time is also an instructor for the Motorcycle Safety Foundation and is Chairman of the Tire & Rim Association, Motorcycle Sub-Committee, which decides specifications for bike wheels, tires and tubes that are sold here in the U.S.



Tire Dos
Before you ride your bike you should check your entire motorcycle over every single time. “That doesn’t always happen in the real world,” said Tennent. “But it should. It’s a bit like being an air pilot carrying out a pre-flight inspection. You should examine your bike from front to end and pay particular attention to your tires. With a motorcycle you only have two wheels on the ground and you should take time to inspect your tires as often as you can.”
Even if you are a long-time experienced rider, Tennent recommends some basic things you should do to keep you and your bike safe out on the road.
Firstly, buy an electronic tire pressure gauge from any good automotive store. They are not expensive and start from as little as around $10. An analogue gauge is good too, but the electronic ones are a little more accurate and easier to use.
Before you ride anywhere you should always check your motorcycle’s tire pressures – both front and rear. Get down and look them and see if there is any unusual wear, bulges in the sidewall or anything sticking into them. If you do find something wrong you should take a photograph and e-mail or text it to your tire dealer or even the tire manufacturer’s customer service department, who will tell you whether they think it’s safe for you to ride.
“We also recommend that you read your owner’s manual that came with your bike to see what the recommended tire pressures should be,” said Tennent. “But if you don’t have a manual you can sometimes find it marked on the sticker on a bike’s swing arm. Failing that, call the manufacture and get the correct figures.
“Some people like to ride their bikes with reduced psi (pounds per square inch) as it offers a softer ride. But don’t do that. The load bearing capacity of a motorcycle is not in the actual tires but the air inside them. In effect you are compromising your tires, the way your bike handles and possibly your safety.
“The best way to achieve the ride you want is to adjust the suspension. Not all bikes have a sophisticated suspension systems but most will allow you to make some adjustments. It’s a much better and safer option than playing around with your tire pressures.”
Tennent also advises that a rider should run their tire pressures between one and two psi above the manufacturer’s recommendation. That way you take into account any changes in weather (heat and cold can affect pressures). But also if you are only going to do the bare minimum and check them just once a month, it will compensate for that too, as on average tires will lose one psi every four weeks under normal riding conditions.
“Once you have checked both tires are in good condition with no serious wear or damage, you should then do the pressure check. This should always be done when the tires are cold. If you have been out riding let the bike stand for an hour and let the tires cool off,” said Tennent.
“Move your bike each time you take each pressure reading so the tire valve stem is directly at the bottom of the wheel. Press the gauge as firmly as you can into the stem to make sure you get a good seal.
“If you need to increase the pressures use a regular air pump. Ideally you should be putting in dry air or even nitrogen but that can be an expensive option. As long as the ambient air is dry that should be perfectly fine.”



On average, a sport motorcycle’s front tire can last 3,700 miles and 1,800 miles for a rear before both need to be changed.

This is if both tires are well maintained and are regularly checked. However, by running two or even three psi less than the recommended pressures you can actually cut the life of a tire by as much as half.

“It may not seem a lot but let’s say you rode with 27 psi in your rear tire rather than the recommended 32psi for an average sport bike. Then you will be lucky to get as many as 1000 miles out of the tire. You’re reducing its durability by almost half. Not only that, by running deflated tires you are altering the way your bike handles and performs and ultimately could be putting yourself in real danger.”
If you are checking a tire and you are unlucky enough to find a nail or a piece of debris stuck in it you should not attempt to ride the bike. Instead you need to find a way to get your bike taken to the nearest motorcycle tire dealer either on a trailer or in the back of a truck.
“If there’s a nail in the tire do not under any circumstances use a rope plug to repair it. There is an option for patch and plug that looks a bit like a mushroom. An expert should fit it, as it fits inside and creates a seal around the material of the tire. In all honesty the best thing to do is replace the tire if it has been damaged in any way. It’s not worth the risk,” explained Tennent.
If you do opt to use a patch plug to repair your tire remember you lose whatever speed rating the tire had before it was damaged. With a repaired tire your maximum speed is reduced to no more than 85mph. You also should not under any circumstances take a passenger on a bike with a patched tire.



Tire Don’ts
Never ever consider using a car tire to replace a motorcycle tire on your bike. Known as ‘Riding On The Dark Side’, some bike owners have done this as they think they will get better durability out of a car tire rather than a motorcycle tire.
“A Bridgestone car tire and a Bridgestone motorcycle tire are completely different and have been designed for entirely different purposes. For a start, there are different compounds in both and different traction properties.
“The contact patch on a motorcycle tire is much larger than a car’s. In wet weather with a car tire on your bike you will have less water dissipation and the bike could be fundamentally dangerous. Just don’t do it,’” said Tennent.
If you also like to attend track days with your motorcycles, pay extra special attention to your tires. Check with the manufacturer before you go and seek advice from other riders at the circuit as to the best tires and set-up and ask them what they suggest.
“You may also be at a track that has a lot of right hand corners. Consequently you may start to notice a lot of wear on the right side of the rear tire and not the left.
“Some people have been known to take the tire off and flip it around. Don’t do it. That is potentially very, very dangerous. Motorcycle tires are unidirectional – marked by those arrows you see on the sidewall and are designed to rotate in just one direction. You potentially could have a very big accident as the tire’s material will start to peel and then the will tread come off.”
It’s worth remembering that your bike’s tires are the two things that separate you and your motorcycle from the road. Check pressure frequently and keep an eye on them for wear and tear. It could save your life.

These are NOT MY OPINIONS, just thought you would want to see from the EXPERTS!!! JUST FYI....:Coffee:

 

[Veritas44]

:clapping: BRAVO Bob :clapping:
Speaks for itself Loud & Clear.
Should "Stick a Fork In" the droning Debate & Op Eds on several Subjects regarding Tires on Bikes & Trikes.

Vote for "Sticky" Status ThumbUp
(with Bob's Post moved to the Top of the Thread)

 

[msocko3]

:clapping: BRAVO Bob :clapping:
Speaks for itself Loud & Clear.
Should "Stick a Fork In" the droning Debate & Op Eds on several Subjects regarding Tires on Bikes & Trikes.

Vote for "Sticky" Status ThumbUp
(with Bob's Post moved to the Top of the Thread)

:Agree: Very informative post.

 

[SMSgt]

I have the MPA mounted in reverse at 41 PSI. Nice and quiet, no complaints.

What he says. I also have Dyna Beads in all three tires.

 

[saab9k]

I like tires there are speed rated, has the best traction and braking.

 

[Mick]

ThumbUpThumbUpThumbUp on the sticky. Amazing how many people can make it to the forums but a lot of the newbies wont search or Google before posting.

 

[Teal]

reverse or not will always be a topic of discussion .
no. one i dont reverse because i dont use the front for excessive braking, that is for emergency only for me.

if you as as a rider plan on clamping on the front brakes heavy they you may want to reverse it,,
but what about heavy braking when its installed on the rear wheel- it happens too. its all about common horse sense.
going thru water-- if your worried about shedding water on the front wheel your probably driving too fast anyway.
i got very bad wear pattern when running BT in reverse.
each to his own.