Tire Designation Question (Metzler ME 880)

[roginoz]

Metzler lists a 120/70 ZR 18 M/C (59W) TL, and a 160/70 B 17 M/C 79V REINFTL in their ME 880 line. Am I correct in assuming that the "59W" and "79V" are load ranges that are appropriate for the ST1300? Also, does anyone know the significance of the "TL" and "REINFTL" designations? Two Brothers guys? Other knowledgeable folks? Crazy guessers?

 

[dduelin]

The 79 is indeed the load rating for that tire and 79 is 963 lbs whereas the ST1300 recommends a load rating of 72 or 783 lbs. The extra weight rating might come in handy if you overload the ST by a couple hundred lbs but I would expect the narrower section and stiffer sidewall to give a stiffer ride and be less compliant in corners. The REINFLT designation I think is keyed to fitment or OEM replacement on a BMW K1200LT.