Changing to Metzeler ME888 Bias Ply tires on my 2014 Valk.

[BlueElf]

I haven't been on the forum for some time (moved and been riding too much).  My 2014 Valk has finally run through the second set of OEM Dunlops.  I have been researching all of the tire options for our new Valks and hate the fact that we are forced to buy our OEM tires direct from a Honda Dealer (it just pisses me off).  I've read all the pros and cons of going to the Michelin and other tire combinations using various radial tires that come close to the OEM tire size.  

Like some, I find the stock OEM Dunlops to be okay but not great for our bikes, I have lost traction on some occasions on wet roads both accelerating and braking and they are not reliable on roads with lots of debris (dirt, leaves, sand, etc.).  

All of my other bikes except for my VMax which I use the OEM Bridgestones are set up with various Metzeler tires (ME880 & ME888 radial & bias types).  I have always had great results with them especially with the ME888 bias tires on my CVO FatBob. Now my question:

I found that Metzeler makes their Bias ply ME888 in a 130/60B-19 in a 61 H front tire and a 180/60B-17 in a 75 H rear tire.  The rear tire is very slightly taller due to the 60 profile in lieu of the OEM 55 but I have no problem with that difference.  My main concern is going from a front/rear radials to front/rear bias tires.  Looking for opinions and/or any riders experiences in doing this kind of tire change.  I have read up on the ME888 tire both in radial and bias and it does appear that the tires are designed for bigger cruiser/touring bikes like our Valks.  Please respond if you have any experience with this.

Thanks,
BlueElf  

[PAVALKER]

I have had the ME880 on my SuperValk and also a VTX1800R, but I believe they were of the radial flavor if I recall correctly.  Good, soft tires for the twisties but they wore quite fast and had cupping.   I would be very interested in hearing how these wear on the GL1800 F6C.

Presently I have an Avon Cobra on the front in a 120 vice 130 size, and will be needing a new rear before the next years riding season.  I'm on the prowl for a  replacement.... and considering options.

[zackod]

Consider running the Metzeler Roadec 01 180/55ZR-17 HWM (Heavy Weight Moto) on the rear instead of that Bias Ply Blue.   Gets stellar reviews from the pro's.   For me currently, this tire is far superior to my previous OEM Dunlap and Michelin Pilot GT rears.    'Guessing' you'll have zero issues with that Bias front and this Radial rear.

[PAVALKER]

Consider running the Metzeler Roadec 01 180/55ZR-17 HWM (Heavy Weight Moto) on the rear instead of that Bias Ply Blue.   Gets stellar reviews from the pro's.   For me currently, this tire is far superior to my previous OEM Dunlap and Michelin Pilot GT rears.    'Guessing' you'll have zero issues with that Bias front and this Radial rear.

Curious in what ways is the Roadec 01 180/55ZR-17 far superior to the others?

[zackod]

Mileage compared to the GT.   At 4k my HWM looks barely used.    At 4k my GT was 1/2 toast.    To EOM, grip and wear far superior.   Check the pro reviews - very positive.    The Metzeler radial front is not doing well though.   They don't make a HWM in 19" front.   It's cupping and de-form'ing.    Will replace soon, maybe with a Bias 130/60 R19 to stay in spec.

[BlueElf]

Consider running the Metzeler Roadec 01 180/55ZR-17 HWM (Heavy Weight Moto) on the rear instead of that Bias Ply Blue.   Gets stellar reviews from the pro's.   For me currently, this tire is far superior to my previous OEM Dunlap and Michelin Pilot GT rears.    'Guessing' you'll have zero issues with that Bias front and this Radial rear.

Thanks Zackod, I will research that Metzeler Radial and maybe go with a radial in back and bias up front.  Was just wondering if anyone in the forum had actually ridden our Valk 1800 with a bias on rear or on both front and rear, wanting to know if the Valk still handled well and if suspension adjustments were required.  If no one seems to have road the Valk with a bias in the rear, I may just try the ME888 bias scenario out and see how well they handle and last.