Need threads on alternative treads

[Tool Man]

I've seen lots of reviews from the ST1300 folks, but I need some advice for my old '97 ST1100ABS/TCS. The manual says: FRONT:120/70ZR18 Bridgestone BT-54F or Dunlop D202F, REAR: 160/70ZR17 Bridgestone BT-54R or Dunlop D202. I'm sure there are lots of alternative manufacturers, but I'm concerned about any degradation of the ABS/TCS system. The manual notes the sizes are different for the same year non-ABS, and Metzlers are listed as an option only for the non-ABS. How much does size (stop laughing! :D ) and manufacturer matter for proper ABS function? Thanks very much for the help and advice! Tim the "Tool Man"

[Killtimer]

Tim

As long as you stay with recommended sizes you should be fine. I ran 'lop radials, 205's IIRC, on my '00 ABS. A lot of ST1100 pilots have had good luck with the Avons. Metzler has their disciples too. :) I've always been a believer in having the same brand/model front and rear but that's just me. Tires and oil...... there's always debate, never an answer. ;)

[Tool Man]

Thanks Steve for the reply. I'm just getting back into motorcycling after 20 years and the technology has been moving pretty fast. I see lots of tire type that have been superceded, even since 1997. I thought it was interesting though that Metzlers were applicable for non-ABS in the manual, but not for the ABS, and wondered why. What is the difference between "ZR" amd "VR"? I didn't see that the M880's came in my rear tire size with "ZR", only a "VR". Anyways, looks like the safest bet for my first tires on this bike is maybe to go with D205's front and back. Thanks for help!
Tim

[Killtimer]

Tim

The ST1100 Std. has a different front rim/tire size than the ABS model. The Std. was shod OEM with bias ply tires where the ABS. came with radials.

[dannyk]

ZR and VR, the first letter designates speed rating the second letter R is for radial.

[Tool Man]

Thanks everyone for the good information. I need to get new tires real soon, and the great board members came through! Tim Allen :bow1:

[Don-STOC237]

I've tried a lot of different combinations on my 98 ABS model, the best I've found so far for handling is the Avon Azaro AV45/46 radials. I'm using them now and other STriders have been reporting good mileage >10K from them.

I've used Dunlop D205's, Dunlop D220 F w/Metzeler ME880 bias rear, Metzeler Mez4's.

Also, some riders are reporting good results with Bridgestone BT20's but I'm not sure what mileage they are getting out of them.

I ride mostly mountain roads with some long distance touring, try to stay off of interstates, and I live in the west, where the roads are made of sharp aggregates. I'm also pretty hard on tires with a lot of engine braking and short acceleration in the mountains.

I've heard of some guys getting in the mid-teen thousands of miles with the Avons when they use them for regular commuting and mixed riding.

As always, YMMV...

[irone10]

iam about due for a new set also. my o4 came fitted with bridgestones bt20
millage is 12500 almost to the wear bars. ill see if i can purchase off the shelf
a set of avon av 45/46 or metzeler z6 whichever is available. my question is,
do you guys mount mount your own tire to the wheel? do you ballance the
aseembled tire? i used to change my own tires when i had spoked wheels they were eassy but last time i tried to breake the bead off a cast wheel, i coud't do it i tried every thing (i think) so i had to take my new tires to the local indi where they were done eassyly on a tire machine. but most shops wont mount them if not purchased from them. thanks in advace for the inputs

irwin