|
|
Bandit 1200 tires
|
I'm looking into replacing the tires on my '03 Suzuki Bandit 1200
(180/55 R17 Rear ; 120/70 ZR17 Front); I'm looking for long wear along
with good handling, so I've been focusing on sport-touring tires. My
early research (including earlier rec.motorcycle posts) has pointed me
toward these:
Brand Name / Tire Name (Code) [Notes ; Best Price/pair]
Avon / Azaro ST (AV45/46) [Replaces Avon Azarro AV35/36 ; $242]
Bridgestone / Battle Axe 020 (BT020) [Replaces BT56 ; $193]
Dunlop / D220 [Replaces D205 ; $204]
Metzler / Roadtec Z6 (ME Z6) [Replaces ME Z4 ; $233]
Michelin / Pilot Road [Replaces 90X (OEM tire) & 100X ; $234]
Pirelli / Diablo Strada [$220]
I'd be interested in any comments about these tires, particularly from
Bandit riders. If you ride a Bandit and have used another tire, suggest
it.
My sources for prices are Tires Unlimited, Discount Motorcycle Tire,
1888FastLap, Chaparral Racing, and Ron Ayers. If anyone has suggestions
for other tire sources, those are welcome too.
Glenn P.
|
I'm on my 2nd set on mine, I replaced the original Mich McCadums with
BT020's, and it was a huge improvement.
The steering feels lighter, doesn't squirm in the corners like it used to,
and the headshake it had always had went away.
I don't think they are wearing as well, it looks like I'll get ~15,000 Km
out of the back. The old ones I replaced at about 25,000 Km.
But that's OK, I'm quite happy with them, and would probably replace them
with same unless someone talks me into trying something else.
btw, I think it's Battlax, not Battle Axe :o)
|
|
|