Austone Taxi Tire Ride Report.

[Dubsvalk]

I put 167 miles on the 175R70/16 Austone Taxi Tire today.  It is as close to a motorcycle tire as you can get with a car tire.  Ruts, Grooves etc do not pull you all over the road like other car tires have been reported to do.  Fast sweeping curves hold the line just fine.  No wiggle or pushing.  I purposely leaned it hard into them and couldn't drag my kickstand like I would with the m/c tire.  Hard tight mountain curves were just as easy and predictable.  Lean in, roll on the throttle and go.  The tire is dead quiet and smooth.  The grip is just as good if not better than the E3 it just replaced.  I am more than pleased with this tire and would do it again!
Dubs

[fudgie]

How much?

[Grumpy]

Where did you purchase it, tried a search and keep getting over seas dealers.

[Dubsvalk]

Google Austone Taxi Tire and you should be able to get the site for universal destributors.  They are out of PA.  If you can't find it let me know And I will send you their phone number tomorrow from work.
Dubs

[Tropic traveler]

Universal Vintage Tire. 1-877-454-3954. Hershey, PA
It's called a 175R16 and sells for $143.

[PAVALKER]

Very interesting.... I like the profile of that tire.

Did you have to do the nut cage mod and is there any rubbing two up or loaded?

Specs state 6 ply, and I assume that is tread area.... what is the sidewall ply or is it the same 6 ply?

[Tropic traveler]

Very interesting.... I like the profile of that tire.

Did you have to do the nut cage mod and is there any rubbing two up or loaded?

Specs state 6 ply, and I assume that is tread area.... what is the sidewall ply or is it the same 6 ply?

Good questions, I would like to know too.
I don't think the nutcage would be a problem with that tire but the height question interests me the most. 
Also anymore observations on RPM drop at highway speeds??

 

[Mr Whiskey]

Dub, I'm only on my 2nd "Darkside" but I'm very interested in your new one. I could sure live with out the slow speed handling probs that come with a wide, sticker CT.
Here's what's on the 2KI/S now.

RIKEN RAPTOR ZR : 205/55ZR16 94W XL

Size   205/55ZR16 94W XL
Product Code   96406
Service Desc. (Load Range)   94W
UTQG Rating   300 AA A
Approved Rim Widths (in.)   5.5 - 7.5
Measured Rim Width (in.)   6.5
Overall Diameter (in.)   24.9
Tread Width (in.)   
Tread Depth (in.)   0.30
Max Load (lbs.)   1477@50psi
Tire Weight (lbs.) 22 lbs.
Please mark your mileage for us & keep us posted on how she rides as she wears.
Peace, Whiskey.

[Valkahuna]

A lot of the questions being asked can be answered by following this link.

http://mcdarksiders.forumotion.com/t4333-175r16-austone-taxi-tire

It points to a thread on another board where a guy did a very thorough evaluation and report over time of this tire on a GW.

[Dubsvalk]

Sorry for not posting, I was busy riding!  My tach showed I was turning about 200 RPMs slower with this tire.  Friends with Goldwings are seeing similar RPM drops.  It sticks well in the twisties, I think better than the E3 I replaced.  Smoother ride, quieter ride, not really any drawbacks at this point.  I removed the nut cage while I had the wheel off just in case.  I did bottom the suspension on a few dips and had no rubbing.  I believe the tire would clear the nut cage but it was easy to remove so I did.  I think this tire is 6 ply in the sidewall as well but I need to check to make sure.  It is difinately worth the $143.00 I paid for it.  For me it is a great choice.  I ride with SmokinJoe and the Wild Bunch on occassion and I believe this tire will let me stay with the group as before.  Although Wimp and I are trying to slow Joe down just a little.  Well, It Could Happen!
Dubs

[PAVALKER]

A lot of the questions being asked can be answered by following this link.

http://mcdarksiders.forumotion.com/t4333-175r16-austone-taxi-tire

It points to a thread on another board where a guy did a very thorough evaluation and report over time of this tire on a GW.

Yes, on that post there is some conflicting information and convoluted reports based on different bikes/wheel sizes etc etc.  The information regarding the tire ply is also conflicting... some lead you to believe it is 6ply (all over) with very firm and stiff sidewalls and then there is this quote....
 
"Want to dispel a myth about this tar: it's not "6 ply sidewalls." It's 2 polyester plies in the sidewalls + 2 poly and 2 steel in the tread for a total of 6. Sidewalls are maybe more flexible than the Bridgestone 020M I just took off."

I think I personally prefer a firmer sidewall in the event of a rear tire puncture/blowout, and one of my reasons for asking the questions here in a current related post specifically on Valkyries.  If you have ever had a rear tire failure, you might also consider a firmer sidewall that is specifically on a bike tire.

[Dubsvalk]

Only the tread is 6 plies.  With 36 PSI in the tire I did not feel any movement with this tire in the twisties.  I am going to try it at 34 PSI to see how it rides but don't think I will feel any difference.  The tire is rated at 1,640 pounds at 34 PSI so the sidewalls should be plenty strong to carry a
750 pound bike and my 195 pound carcass around.  If the sidewall scares you, don't use it.  I have several friends using this tire on GL1500 and GL1800 GoldWings, putting thousands of miles on them in mountianous terrain as well as the flatlands and they all swear by it.  They are the reason I went with it and have faith that it will serve me as well as it has them.  I'm not a professional bike or tire tester, but I trust my friends and I trust what I feel as I ride.  This tire is a keeper if you ride a lot of miles packed heavy on any terrain.  But it isn't a 100 MPH tire.  Don't get it to ride 120 MPH all day.
Dubs

[Michael K (Az.)]

Only the tread is 6 plies.  With 36 PSI in the tire I did not feel any movement with this tire in the twisties.  I am going to try it at 34 PSI to see how it rides but don't think I will feel any difference.  The tire is rated at 1,640 pounds at 34 PSI so the sidewalls should be plenty strong to carry a
750 pound bike and my 195 pound carcass around.  If the sidewall scares you, don't use it.  I have several friends using this tire on GL1500 and GL1800 GoldWings, putting thousands of miles on them in mountianous terrain as well as the flatlands and they all swear by it.  They are the reason I went with it and have faith that it will serve me as well as it has them.  I'm not a professional bike or tire tester, but I trust my friends and I trust what I feel as I ride.  This tire is a keeper if you ride a lot of miles packed heavy on any terrain.  But it isn't a 100 MPH tire.  Don't get it to ride 120 MPH all day.
Dubs

I may be nudged toward the Darkside with this one! I have lots of meat on my Avon but----I'm startin to think-----!

[Dubsvalk]

Micheal, I have friends that swear by Avons, hate E3s, would not use a car tire at all.  So it all boils down to what makes you comfortable and confident while riding.  I've had no problems with E3s but others swear that they will loose traction quicker than another brand.  Same with car tires.  After reading thousands of posts on the different tires people are using and talking with several friends that have a lot of long distance hard miles on various car tires, I picked this one, and for me, it is the right choice.  If you are always dragging the pegs running the curves as hard as you can, this tire might not be for you.  I do drag my pegs occasionally but it isn't how I ride normally.  It has a good reputation, I certainly feel comfortable on it and if it fits your riding style you might want to try it.  There are several other tires this size available as well, with higher speed and traction ratings.  Good luck on your choice!
Dubs

[Michael K (Az.)]

It sounds like we have similar riding styles altho I do like to hit 100 once in a while just to blow the dust outa my ears. I really like the roll off on the edges and to me it would seem that it would respond better than most ct's in sweepers and twisties. I read the goldwing reports which reminded me that the front tire could also have a lot to do with any floating effects that might occur. This without trying one yet. I have a few friends with ct's that I should probably test first. Hope to read other reports on this tire on the Valks.

[PAVALKER]

Only the tread is 6 plies.  With 36 PSI in the tire I did not feel any movement with this tire in the twisties.  I am going to try it at 34 PSI to see how it rides but don't think I will feel any difference.  The tire is rated at 1,640 pounds at 34 PSI so the sidewalls should be plenty strong to carry a
750 pound bike and my 195 pound carcass around.  If the sidewall scares you, don't use it.  I have several friends using this tire on GL1500 and GL1800 GoldWings, putting thousands of miles on them in mountianous terrain as well as the flatlands and they all swear by it.  They are the reason I went with it and have faith that it will serve me as well as it has them.  I'm not a professional bike or tire tester, but I trust my friends and I trust what I feel as I ride.  This tire is a keeper if you ride a lot of miles packed heavy on any terrain.  But it isn't a 100 MPH tire.  Don't get it to ride 120 MPH all day.
Dubs

So not 6 ply sidewall... that could be a good thing I guess.  How many Ply and what is the sidewall ply compound (usually marked on tire sidewall)  if I may ask?   I tried a Hancock CT on the Valk ... didn't care for it all that much... since it rubbed the nut cages and the sidewall flexed and rubbed the swingarm as well.

[Tropic traveler]

Dubs, that's good to hear about the cruising 200 rpm drop with no rubbing issues. 
How about 1st gear take off, lose any noticable low end power?
I'm still about 10K from needing a rear on the '97 so I'll be interested to hear what you have to say about the Austone.

[Valkahuna]

I'm with some of the others here, and think that this tire might be worth a try since it does have a profile more like a MC tire.    I would not be worried about an occasional speed in the triple digit range. As has been said, just don't ride that speed all day.

Dubs, I'll be keeping an eye on future posts about this tire. Thanks for the work and report!

[Dubsvalk]

I will try to get into the garage tonight and see if there is anything on the tire to give you guys more info on the sidewall plys etc.  At 36 pounds there was no wiggle in the rear at all.  On my 167 mile test ride I got 32 MPG so that should tell you I didn't baby the tire.
Going on a weekend ride with SmokinJoe and the Wild Bunch on Veteran's Day weekend
Nov. 11/12/13.  Will probably put 600 to 800 miles on it that weekend.  I should be able to give a better account of the tire at that time.
For the first 80 miles or so I rode on Sunday I was waiting to feel the difference in the feel, handling, reaction times, and all those other differences I was led to believe to expect.  I finally gave up and just rode like I always do.  It is that similar to a motorcycle tire.  IMHO!  Sa my friends in the UK say "Ride Safe Back Safe"!
Dubs

[Cruzen]

Not that I am interested in one but for those who are here is a picture of one mounted.
http://www.goldwingfacts.com/forums/view_topic.php?id=124723&forum_id=4&jump_to=1450699

[fudgie]

  I tried a Hancock CT on the Valk ... didn't care for it all that much... since it rubbed the nut cages and the sidewall flexed and rubbed the swingarm as well.

Which Hankook? I got the K-106, as a few on here do, and have no problems. My nut cage was already removed since I had the Metzler 200mm. It did bounce/flex on curves but I moved the psi up and all is good. I'm anywhere between 38-44psi.

[Dubsvalk]

I'm currently running the Austone at 36 PSI and it isn't flexing in the turns.  I'm going to lower it to 34 PSI to see if there is any change.  If it feels mushy to me I will raise it back.  But I think this tire is stiff enough to run at 34 since it is rated at 1,640 pounds at 34 PSI.
Dubs

[Hawkeye]

I seriously doubt the claim of a 200 rpm drop with the Austone Taxi Tire, unless it is the Austone Magic Taxi Tire.

The Austone 175/70/16 has a circumference of 80.57" and is slightly smaller (by .86") than the OEM 180/70/16 circumference of 81.43".  That results in an increase in rpm of 1.06% for a given speed rather than a decrease in rpm.  3,000 rpm OEM would be 3,031.8 rpm with the Austone.

All of this is pure math, not real world.  You would have to measure the inflated circumference of the Austone against the inflated circumference of the make/model tire you are replacing to see the actual difference in circumference, and even then that measurement is of static tires subject to change between the two tires when under a load and dynamic at any speed.

For the Austone to produce a 200 rpm drop from 3,000 rpms to 2,800 rpms, the Austone would have to grow in circumference by 6.66667% to a dynamic circumference of 85.94".

From all I've read about the good handling qualities of the Austone, it appears to be an excellent CT choice for the Valkyrie - however, I would put no hope in dropping 200 rpms at cruise. Just my 2 cents worth.

[BamaDrifter64]

I seriously doubt the claim of a 200 rpm drop with the Austone Taxi Tire, unless it is the Austone Magic Taxi Tire.

 Just my 2 cents worth.

Noted.  I doubt Dubsvalk is lying about his experience with this tire though.  Thanks for your time. 

Dave

[Michael K (Az.)]

I KNOW we're starved for info on that tire, Dubsvalk! What's the word after 4+ months later?

[texaninsouthfl]

I seriously doubt the claim of a 200 rpm drop with the Austone Taxi Tire, unless it is the Austone Magic Taxi Tire.

The Austone 175/70/16 has a circumference of 80.57" and is slightly smaller (by .86") than the OEM 180/70/16 circumference of 81.43".  That results in an increase in rpm of 1.06% for a given speed rather than a decrease in rpm.  3,000 rpm OEM would be 3,031.8 rpm with the Austone.

All of this is pure math, not real world.  You would have to measure the inflated circumference of the Austone against the inflated circumference of the make/model tire you are replacing to see the actual difference in circumference, and even then that measurement is of static tires subject to change between the two tires when under a load and dynamic at any speed.

For the Austone to produce a 200 rpm drop from 3,000 rpms to 2,800 rpms, the Austone would have to grow in circumference by 6.66667% to a dynamic circumference of 85.94".

From all I've read about the good handling qualities of the Austone, it appears to be an excellent CT choice for the Valkyrie - however, I would put no hope in dropping 200 rpms at cruise. Just my 2 cents worth.

I believe the Taxi Tire is a 175/80/16, not a 70 series.  Grumpy down here in Florida mounted a Taxi Tire a short while back and together with all the other good characteristics, also reported a 200-300 drop in RPM at highway speeds.

My rear tire is about done... the replacement will be an Austone. Now I just have to find someone in southeast Florida who will mount a car tire.

[Slick]

 

My rear tire is about done... the replacement will be an Austone. Now I just have to find someone in southeast Florida who will mount a car tire.[/quote]


I've got a guy in Lake Worth who did mine, LMK when your ready, and if you'd like I'll hook ya's up-

[Dubsvalk]

Sorry for not posting in a while.  Had a torn retina a few weeks ago, lazer surgery and a terrible bout with allergiers and an infected left ear.  Finally got out this weekend for some riding.  Saturday morning I rode a benefit ride for a Veteran injured in Afganastan.  About 100 bikes and about 125 miles.  A lot of slow speed riding and the Austone tracks and handles great at slow speeds.  I really hate riding in groups that big tho.  Sunday got out and rode 155 miles by myself.  The Austone tire continues to amaze me at how well it performs and how closely it rides like an M/C tire.  I have kept 36 PSI in it and will leave it there.  I can't say anything bad about the tire.  I have a ride with The Wild Bunch going to West Virginia in June and know it will be the last thing I have to worry about on this or any other ride I take this year!
Dubs

[Michael K (Az.)]

"I believe the Taxi Tire is a 175/80/16, not a 70 series.  Grumpy down here in Florida mounted a Taxi Tire a short while back and together with all the other good characteristics, also reported a 200-300 drop in RPM at highway speeds."

Mildly confused here. Above post says 175/80/16 and you say "70". Also, another post says math proves no rpm drop at speed due to circ. Could yours be an 80? Your pics sure visually show a taller austone.
Thanks.

P.S. I'm glad you're feeling better. Eye, nose and ear all at the same time would just about put me out of commission, sheesh!

[wild6]

I seriously doubt the claim of a 200 rpm drop with the Austone Taxi Tire, unless it is the Austone Magic Taxi Tire.

The Austone 175/70/16 has a circumference of 80.57" and is slightly smaller (by .86") than the OEM 180/70/16 circumference of 81.43".  That results in an increase in rpm of 1.06% for a given speed rather than a decrease in rpm.  3,000 rpm OEM would be 3,031.8 rpm with the Austone.

All of this is pure math, not real world.  You would have to measure the inflated circumference of the Austone against the inflated circumference of the make/model tire you are replacing to see the actual difference in circumference, and even then that measurement is of static tires subject to change between the two tires when under a load and dynamic at any speed.

For the Austone to produce a 200 rpm drop from 3,000 rpms to 2,800 rpms, the Austone would have to grow in circumference by 6.66667% to a dynamic circumference of 85.94".

From all I've read about the good handling qualities of the Austone, it appears to be an excellent CT choice for the Valkyrie - however, I would put no hope in dropping 200 rpms at cruise. Just my 2 cents worth.

Remember that circumference by itself is not what dictates a wheel's rotational speed.  When you measure the loaded radius (sit on bike and measure center of axle to ground) and use that to calculate circumference, you're much closer.  The loaded radius will give you a smaller effective circumference.  

That said, I believe that a loaded MC tire will compress/flatten more than a CT due to smaller contact surface area.  A difference in effective radius of as little as 1/2" could account for the above-mentioned 6.66667% circumference difference.  That difference may be what users of this tire are experiencing.

[Michael K (Az.)]

I guess I'm just trying to figure out which one to buy, the 70, or the 80.
Remember, "Man with two watches never know what time it is."

[wild6]

I guess I'm just trying to figure out which one to buy, the 70, or the 80.
Remember, "Man with two watches never know what time it is."

universaltire.com shows their tire to be 26.9" in diameter.
Calculating:  26.9 - 16(wheel diameter) / 2 = 5.45"
                                            Tire width = 6.89" (175mm)
                                                  Ratio = 5.45 / 6.89 or 79.1%

That would make it an 175/80 in my book

[wild6]

Remember that circumference by itself is not what dictates a wheel's rotational speed.  When you measure the loaded radius (sit on bike and measure center of axle to ground) and use that to calculate circumference, you're much closer.  The loaded radius will give you a smaller effective circumference.  

That said, I believe that a loaded MC tire will compress/flatten more than a CT due to smaller contact surface area.  A difference in effective radius of as little as 1/2" could account for the above-mentioned 6.66667% circumference difference.  That difference may be what users of this tire are experiencing.

universaltire.com shows their tire to be 26.9" in diameter.
Calculating:  26.9 - 16(wheel diameter) / 2 = 5.45"
                                            Tire width = 6.89" (175mm)
                                                  Ratio = 5.45 / 6.89 or 79.1%

That would make it an 175/80 in my book

I see that an Avon Cobra 180/70 R16 has a listed diameter of 25.8"
       That difference from the Austone (about 1/2" radius) would satisfy the 6.66667% circumference requirement.

[Hook#3287]

"I believe the Taxi Tire is a 175/80/16, not a 70 series.  Grumpy down here in Florida mounted a Taxi Tire a short while back and together with all the other good characteristics, also reported a 200-300 drop in RPM at highway speeds."

Mildly confused here. Above post says 175/80/16 and you say "70". Also, another post says math proves no rpm drop at speed due to circ. Could yours be an 80? Your pics sure visually show a taller austone.
Thanks.

Dubs;
I too am confused with this thread.  Is your tire the 70 or 80?  Do you NEED to do the "Nutcage Mod" or not?   Thanks for all your info and I'm glad your feeling better.

I don't need a rear tire this year, so I hope you can keep up with your report for us Non, but sometime will be, Darksiders.

Hook.

[Fatboyman05]

I am also very intrested in this tire and considering the darkside.... Would love some current pics of the tire on the bike and also

from Hook

Is your tire the 70 or 80?  Do you NEED to do the "Nutcage Mod" or not?

FBM

[Michael K (Az.)]

I am also very intrested in this tire and considering the darkside.... Would love some current pics of the tire on the bike and also

from Hook

Is your tire the 70 or 80?  Do you NEED to do the "Nutcage Mod" or not?

FBM

Poor Dubs bein run ragged on this but I know I'm getting one for my next R. tire! Just don't know if it will be a 70 or an 80 yet.

http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,34086.0.html

[texaninsouthfl]

I am also very intrested in this tire and considering the darkside.... Would love some current pics of the tire on the bike and also

from Hook

Is your tire the 70 or 80?  Do you NEED to do the "Nutcage Mod" or not?

FBM

Poor Dubs bein run ragged on this but I know I'm getting one for my next R. tire! Just don't know if it will be a 70 or an 80 yet.

http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,34086.0.html

Unless I missed something on the Universal Tire website... there is only one size, and while they don't list the aspect ratio in the description, it's a 175/80r16.

[Dubsvalk]

Guys, There is only one size Austone Taxi Tire.  It is a175/R16 Dunlap tire made in France.  It is about the same as a 175/80 in American language.  It does not require the nut cage mod because of it narrower width.  I hope this helps all you guys.  I love the tire and the increased comfort it gives.  Not to mention the fact that it handles like a M/C.  Good luck!
Dubs

[Grumpy]

Guys, There is only one size Austone Taxi Tire.  It is a175/R16 Dunlap tire made in France.  It is about the same as a 175/80 in American language.  It does not require the nut cage mod because of it narrower width.  I hope this helps all you guys.  I love the tire and the increased comfort it gives.  Not to mention the fact that it handles like a M/C.  Good luck!
Dubs

Ditto, got a little over 2000 miles on mine running 40 psi and I love it. Best handling dark side tire I have tried to date.

[Hook#3287]

Guys, There is only one size Austone Taxi Tire.  It is a175/R16 Dunlap tire made in France.  It is about the same as a 175/80 in American language.  It does not require the nut cage mod because of it narrower width.  I hope this helps all you guys.  I love the tire and the increased comfort it gives.  Not to mention the fact that it handles like a M/C.  Good luck!
Dubs

Dubs, thanks for setting me right on this.  Looks like when I'm ready, this will be the one.

Hook