For those on stock tires - UP YOUR TIRE PRESSURE

[dinosnake]

I just came back from today's ride, which included minor 2-lane twisty state roads, major state road with high speed twists and even a 45 MPH roundabout (traffic circle) and major parkways.  I ran the tires today 38 front / 42 rear and the bike handled far more neutrally and reassuringly.  I should have realized this before: Honda claims that the new Valkyrie has a 50-50 weight distribution...so why such a dramatic difference in recommended front vs rear air pressures?!

The difference is noticeable, and I'm a lightweight at 148 pounds (usually about 142).  For you big guys, 200-250 pounds, the 36-pound front must be flexing the carcass all over the place.  My guess is that the Ford mentality is at work here: they set the recommended pressure based on comfort, not on best performance.  Up your pressures and see what happens!

[AdrianR]

I did, several times...I weigh a buck 75 or so...The Honda recommended pressure made the bike handle like a sponge to some degree...41 psi front and back was far better...but then constituted a rough ride and tires that wouldn't stay planted well unless the concrete was exceedingly clean...and without cracks...

Those tires SUCK...

[dinosnake]

Midline Dunlops have a habit of being that way, it seems.  I've had worse, though.

[havoc]

i'm 210lbs and running 38-40 in the front, 42 in the back. so far so good. Come time to replace the tires though, i DEFINITELY won't be buying these same tires.