| Author | Message | ||
     Gobadgers |
I have two questions concerning tires that I would appreciate thoughts on: 1. Does a 2 ply tire handle torque better than a single ply? Generally 2 ply are for heavier bikes, however, on a bike with torque like a Buell, should a 2 ply tire be a consideration? 2. In comparing street tires to dual sport tires, are dual sport tires thicker to handle limited off road conditions? I.e. would a Pirelli Scorpion Trail II tire be a thicker/tougher tire than a Pirelli Angel GT (single ply), Pirelli Angel GT "A" spec (2 ply)? Trying to evaluate these two comments I came across: -If you're viewing this tire (dual sport) for its 5% off road capability do take note that a full road tire and one that is 95-5 will perform the same in the dirt, but the 95-5 will be a compromise on the tarmac. -Comment referring to Pirelli Angle GT …..according to the Aussie distributor the A spec (Angel GT 2 ply) will handle the torque load a lot better and consequently give greater life expectancy (than the standard Angel GT single ply). Feel and handling wise both felt very similar. | ||
| Rdkingryder |
I would think the two ply is for a more durable tire for weight of the bike and more extreme conditions. But it probably makes for a more stiffer tire and creates more heat and handles worse. Think heavy duty truck tires | ||
| Tootal |
I believe the 2ply stiffer sidewall tires are for bikes like the BMW GS which are heavier machines especially when fully loaded. If you're traveling all loaded up or with a passenger then the stiffer sidewall tires should be a better choice. As far as heat build up, the stiffer sidewall should improve this since heat is caused by tire movement. That's why a tire with more air pressure will run cooler since it has less "squirm". If you're running solo and want the best performance then the lighter tire should be used. | ||
| Etennuly |
I cut the carcass of three expired rear tires several years ago to see what was there. I cannot find the pictures right now. I cut a Dunlop D16, a Pirelli Scorpion Sync, and a Michelin PRII. All were worn to no tread in the center but not into the belts. The Dunlop had about 5,800 miles. The carcass was fairly thick, as I recall about 3/32 at the center, looked like two layers of fiber belts, pretty flexible. The Pirelli had about 4,500 miles, single belt layer, very thin, less than 1/16 in the center, very pliable, looked more like an inner tube at that point. Very round balloon shape. The Michelin made it to 10,500 miles. Two layers of chords. Thicker carcass at 1/8" or so, and stiffer than the other two. Having stated all of that I, fortunately, have only had one tire cut down in service. I ran over a sharp piece of shale(think arrow head) that the front tire kicked up to magically hit the rear tire at it's optimum cutting angle. It sliced through with a 2" wide ninety degree cross cut that immediately deflated the tire. This was a Michelin Pilot Road II at about 6,000 miles. I rode all three on many dirt road adventures, but mostly on East Tennessee's twisty smooth pavement. To me the shape makes the bike's handling response, the compound makes the grip and limits of that response. The Dunlop handled well, pretty neutral, but I had it slide out a couple of times, and it cupped on it's tread. The Pirelli was awesome in the rain, it would make the bike kind of feel like it wanted to stand up transitioning corners. The Michelin was instantly 5 mph faster through corners than either of the others, it went in and out of the corners with noticeably less effort. I said all of that to say, everybody rides differently. Every bike responds differently. Thicker carcass tires are less likely to get damaged hitting stones and bumps of off road riding, but they can still fail. And note that most tire tests that you are reading about are done to the extreme of either riding. I have ridden the Michelin Pilot Road II on thirty mile trail adventures including three creek crossings, not much mud, mostly hard wet dirt trails and mountain access roads. I did it successfully, but don't want to do it again. If I was going to go there regularly I would do it on a dirt bike, regardless of tire type. I also nearly have dropped the bike in my yard on wet grass. I really think you won't know crap about it until you personally compare them for yourself. Good thing is, if you ride much you can try a couple of different tires a year, they are temporary after all. | ||
| Ourdee |
Personal preference is Angel GT A spec for the Uly and Angel GT for the Lightning. +1 on they are consumables. Try out some different ones. I thought of my XT as a great handling truck. I did haul more weight and larger stuff on my TW200 than on the Uly. Like a dining table and chairs when out yard selling. Or a 18"x18"x36" aluminum truck box from a 100 mile away craigslister. I'm looking for a tire capable of 10,000 miles and great traction in the rain. Anyone seen one? | ||
| Etennuly |
I've had over 10,000 on a rear Pilot II. Next I'm gonna try the Pilot III, that is if I ever wear this one out!  | ||
| Timinnc |
I recently put on Bridgestone T30 GT's on and really love them... | ||
| Xbimmer |
^^^ What he said. The GT does feel a little hard riding solo but that's what adjustable suspension is for and they handle great. I bought them for our 2-up trips loaded up. At that they excel, we took an overnighter 2 weeks ago through mostly mountain roads here in So CA and they handled beautifully. Nice and crisp with none of the heaviness of the BT-023's I've used (and also liked). Now if they'll last like the 023's I'll really be impressed. | ||
| Gobadgers |
Thanks all for your thoughts. Xbimmer, just to confirm, you put the GT "A" spec on your Uly? I do not ride highways or single track, but back roads--some gravel roads--in Wisconsin that more often than not are broken up and rough. Consistently these have sand and gravel in corners, many times from tractors that have a wheel off the road. So my search for a tire that fits this bill. | ||
| Crempel |
Ourdee, I just installed the Avon 3D-XM on the rear. G 15k mileage guarantee and free road hazard too. Supposed to be great in the rain and it seems good so far. Stuck like glue today on a great NC ride with the Hendersonville boys. Some wet, some dry and some wet leaves. We'll see about the mileage. I got 9k on the previous version, the Storm 2. | ||
| Ourdee |
Charles, I'll put a note in my profile so I remember them next time I need rubber. Thanks. Let me know if they go south on you before 15k mi. |
