tires

[Hollywood]

just thought i'd post this, esp for newbies and darksiders! 

Q. What do speed ratings really mean?
A. While not recognized by the U.S. Government, speed rating designations indicate that high
speed testing has been performed on the tire. The designation "S" refers to speeds up to 113
mph. "H" refers to speeds up to 130 mph and "V" refers to speeds up to 150 mph.
Q. What is the advantage to identical front and rear tread patterns?
A. Handling dynamics such as straight-on tracking and cornering are enhanced when the same
tread configuration is applied to the road surface by both front and rear tires, provided the
particular tread design is appropriate.

[RainMaker]

But, what do the speed ratings tell you about the stiffness of the sides of the tires?

The tread patterns won't be the same no matter how hard you try on a car rear tire and motorcycle front tire, either.  Nor would you want them to be. They are designed to do different things.

I think the thing to remember is to get a unidirectional tire for the back, like the Goodyear Assurance Triple Tred, versus one that is designed for only the left or right rear of a car.

Please also note the thread for the Darkside Buyer's Group http://www.valkyrieforum.com/bbs/index.php/topic,25020.0.html

[Hollywood]

yeah, i totally understand what you're saying! you just have to check the tire by pushing down on it. if it flexes, it's not for a darkside tire. we got a bridgestone fusion, that was almost the exact same pattern as the avon venom front tire. right now we're running a metzler front, seems to grip better and last longer, just got a goodyear tire on the back. 

[SideCar]

And, the rating is for sustained, actual (vs speedo indicated) speeds vs. the occasional, temporary triple digit jaunts Valkyries usually see.

[GreenLantern57]

Anybody have the safety factor for the speed rating.  If assuming 50% then the tires can be rated 100 mph and can actually handle speeds of 150mph for briefs periods of time.

[RainMaker]

Anybody have the safety factor for the speed rating.  If assuming 50% then the tires can be rated 100 mph and can actually handle speeds of 150mph for briefs periods of time.

Probably.  However, I can't see going 150mph on the Valk unless I'm falling off of a cliff.