John Manderson
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« on: August 02, 2011, 01:59:58 PM » |
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I currently own a 1998 Valkyrie for the past four years and my last two sets of tires have been Avon Cobras. I'm thinking of trying the Metzler Marathon. Has anyone tried both of these tires for a comparison. I know tires are a topic that generates personal opinions and have never tried Metzlers and was just wondering if I'm missing out on a better tire or should I just stay with the Avons Cobras.
I'm not an aggressive rider and prefer the long distance gentle curves of the highway over the tight twisties. Any input would be appreciated. I like a quite tire that gets good mileage.
Thanks,
John
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sandy
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« Reply #1 on: August 02, 2011, 05:13:51 PM » |
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Mileage on both tire choices is similar, provided you maintain correct pressures (40-45 PSI f/r). Cost is probably your consideration if you're not too interested in handling. The Metzlers might be the better choice for you(cheaper). I like the twisties so the extra cost of the Cobras is my choice.
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Bronson
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« Reply #2 on: August 02, 2011, 05:20:54 PM » |
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I have run both Avons and Metzelers and find both to be great tires. I think the Avon is slightly softer, grippier tire. I think you would have to ride two identical bikes equipped with these tires to even tell the difference in most day to day riding. Twisties may favor the Avon. My 2 cents. Bronson
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John Manderson
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« Reply #3 on: August 02, 2011, 06:16:27 PM » |
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Thanks fellas for your input, appreciate it.
John
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Jess from VA
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« Reply #4 on: August 02, 2011, 06:54:13 PM » |
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I think the Metzlers are softer, and they are definitely stickier in bad weather (speaking to Venoms, don't know about Cobras, if there's a difference), but the Avons will outlast the Metzlers, especially in the rear, every time. Not being an aggressive rider, I believe you'll get more bang for the buck (miles) to stick with the Avons.
I ran multiple sets of Metz bike tires on two ISs, and needed a new rear every 8-10 months (8-10K), until I went to Goodyears. (Metz still up front)
BTW, the max psi on ME880s for valk, printed on the sidewall front and rear, is 50. I ran 44 rear/ 45 front for best longevity. 42 front and rear is good, but less miles (at least on MY pavement).
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« Last Edit: August 02, 2011, 07:11:13 PM by Jess from VA »
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Sergeant D
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Posts: 204
So your bike has how many cylinders?
Universal City, TX
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« Reply #5 on: August 02, 2011, 07:00:22 PM » |
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I can't speak authoritively about Valkyrie tires yet, but my last bike, a 1100 Virago, I put Pirellis on, the best sticking tire I ever used. I understand they make some for the Valks and Wings.
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"It's a friggen motorcycle, it's not supposed to be comfortable, quiet or safe. The windnoise is supposed to hurt your ears, the seat should be hard and riding it should make you crap your pants every now and then."
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Rio Wil
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« Reply #6 on: August 02, 2011, 09:09:14 PM » |
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I can't speak authoritively about Valkyrie tires yet, but my last bike, a 1100 Virago, I put Pirellis on, the best sticking tire I ever used. I understand they make some for the Valks and Wings.
Yeah....its called a P4 All Season in size 205-65-16....fits good and lasts a long time...
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X Ring
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Posts: 3626
VRCC #27389, VRCCDS #204
The Landmass Between Mobile And New Orleans
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« Reply #7 on: August 02, 2011, 10:24:58 PM » |
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I can't speak authoritively about Valkyrie tires yet, but my last bike, a 1100 Virago, I put Pirellis on, the best sticking tire I ever used. I understand they make some for the Valks and Wings.
Yeah....its called a P4 All Season in size 205-65-16....fits good and lasts a long time...  Marty
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People are more passionately opposed to wearing fur than leather because it's safer to harass rich women than bikers. 
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PhredValk
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« Reply #8 on: August 02, 2011, 10:40:08 PM » |
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I bought my Valk with Dunlop Elite 3's on her. Fimally got about 18-19k miles on them. The rear is a fine tire, but the front had a wobble at mid speeds that never changed as the tire wore, so I assume it was like that from the start. I could never take both hands off the bars with this tire. Now with the Falken on back and a D404 rear bias tire on the front I can go for miles without touching the controls (I don't do this regularly, just to see if the wobble was still there).
I think an E3 on back with another brand on front could be a good choice for longevity (unless mixing tires is not a good idea). Fred.
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Growing old is mandatory, growing up is optional. VRCCDS0237
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