Motorcycle tire reviews

Motorcycle tire review BMW R 1200 GS 2004-2007

#	Motorcycle tire review and specification	Tire tube type	We recommend
Motorcycle tire review and specification for BMW R 1200 GS 2004-2007
1	Front Tire: 110/80R19 59V	Tubeless(TL)	Dunlop Trailmax D607F Trail
1	Rear Tire: 150/70R17 69V	Tubeless(TL)	Dunlop Trailmax D607 G Trail

Soap It Up: Most tire manufacturers recommend that the only substance used to keep rubber shiny should be good old soap and water. Many alleged protectants actually promote premature cracking and finish deterioration. Make sure you wipe off any lube, brake fluid or gas promptly, too.

Scuff 'Em Up: Optimal grip is obtained only after the tread surface has been ridden on, so go into those first few twisties with a bit of caution. The suggested break-in distance is usually 100 or so miles. After that, check the tire's pressure again!

Eyeballing tires for under inflation or over inflation is not a good idea, particularly on a motorcycle. A bike on a center stand and with no riders on it could be missing half the weight or more the tires will end up supporting. In addition, it is necessary to get down and examine tires under the fender to see if there is any tire damage. With only a few small inches supporting the load on two tires versus a much larger contact patch on 4 tires it’s a much riskier proposition taking a chance with motorcycle tires. Check also for cracking on the sidewalls, in the grooves, stones or cuts.

Motorcycle tires work in much more brutal environment then car tires. Because of many factors such as load carried, horsepower and torque produced, and this being applied to a contact surface that is very small by comparison, one can understand why the tires are not only expensive but also work in a much more demanding environment. Therefore keeping the tire pressure correct and routine tire inspection is critical.

It is good idea to attend one of our tech sessions to learn how to plug the tires with a plug kit if that nasty nail has found its way into the tire carcass. That way if it does occur this temporary repair can be quickly accomplished on the roadside.