Metzler Bias vs. Radial

[NITRO]

I need a new front tire for spring and will be getting a Metzler as I was most satisfied with my Metzlers in the past. My question is this: is there any reason that I should choose the radial over the bias? The radial costs about $45 more, so I am curious about it.

Bias: http://www.denniskirk.com/jsp/tpl/tire/product.jsp?skuId=&store=Main&catId=&productId=p543226&leafCatId=&mmyId=

Radial: http://www.denniskirk.com/jsp/tpl/tire/product.jsp?skuId=&store=Main&catId=&productId=p542754&leafCatId=&mmyId=

[Bone]

Been running the Dunlop D404 on the front for 6 years with a CT on the back. Good mileage and cheaper. My riding style has calmed down so I can't tell you how a bias would work for you.

[Hoser]

+ 1 on the D404, I put mine on when I went to  Lacross last year, 14k since then, had a BS radial on the back, could not tell the difference on the roads we rode up there.  You know which ones.  Of course I'm no Turn Boy, but they were fine for me, and I could usually keep them in sight.  Gonna get another and a new rear D407 bias before I go to Maggie Valley. 99 bux on the 404, 152 bux on the 407 at Jake Wilson.  See you there.  Hoser

[98valk]

bought but haven't installed yet  conti-go  130/90V-17  $99.99 free shipping
 at http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/1/28/396/31010/ITEM/Continental-Conti-Go-Rear-Tire.aspx?WT.ac=SLIsearch

 OD is 26.85 which is the closest of all tires available in 130/90V-17 to the
OD of OEM D206 which is 26.90

[JimC]

I am running bias ply (D404) and (D407) on mine and I have no problems, although I admit I am not a peg scraper.
Jim

[Jess from VA]

Ran many sets of the Metz radials on two valks:  always radials (it's what's called for and you're running a rear radial right?; it's a better, tougher, safer tire (which is always good on the front).

Now I run a Goodyear rear on both bikes, and Metz radial fronts.  

Running a rear application bias tire on the front for more tread and miles I might understand, but not using the front application bias.  (It should certainly work, but not as well as the radial)

Radial may not last longer than bias, I wouldn't know.  I only get about 10-12K from radial fronts before I change (there's always some tire left when I change).  I ride aggressively, often.

I look for a deal, and usually order two at a time, so there's always one hanging in the shed.

[Jess from VA]

bought but haven't installed yet  conti-go  130/90V-17  $99.99 free shipping
 at http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/1/28/396/31010/ITEM/Continental-Conti-Go-Rear-Tire.aspx?WT.ac=SLIsearch

 OD is 26.85 which is the closest of all tires available in 130/90V-17 to the
OD of OEM D206 which is 26.90

Interesting, that's very close!  They look a little similar to Metz fronts.

Conti:  

Metz:  

[NITRO]

Thanks for the info. I'm running a GYTT on the rear and scrape the pegs often, so I was mainly concerned that I might lose some grip in the corners. Decisions, decisions...

I guess with our many feet of snow on the ground and the fact that I can order from Dennis Kirk and get the tire next day with standard shipping means I don't need to decide anytime soon!

[fudgie]

I got my last from Kirk. cheaper then others.

[98valk]

another tire opititon is the michelin Pilot Activ rear, 130/90V-17, it is listed as 26.85 OD with 9/32 tread depth.
The conti-go from earlier post is also offered as a H-rated tire but is only available overseas.