Well, I finally went and put my money where my mouth is....mounted a Hankook the other night. My first concern came while mounting the tire I could not get the tire to give me the normal double "ping" of seating the beads. After reading some more of the forum posts, I saw that this was "normal" for this application of the car tire on a MC rim. So.....I took the ST for a cautious spin around the block. My first impression was what many have said about a little more bar input needed at initial turn in, and I also seem to have to keep a little more pressure to maintain the lean angle. The bike seems very ready to right itself (stand up) when the input pressure is relieved. Other initial observations include a little sidewall squirm or flex noted when shifting or applying the throttle abruptly while in a corner as well as it seeming a little rougher over surface defects.
Since my cautious first ride, and following multiple psi checks to allay my bead concerns, I have put the tire through a little more aggressive riding. During these more spirited rides I have gotten a better feel for the performance of the Hankook. Although the handling characteristics are without a doubt different from a MC tire, I'm feeling more confident in it's ability to perform. From my limited experience so far I can say that I have had traction in abundance for cornering, braking, and acceleration. I have yet to have wet conditions to test it with, but have no doubt it should handle well.
While I can't yet say I'll never put a MC tire back on my bike....I'm pleased so far and look forward to changing tires less often than every 3-6K miles!
Now I just need a Darth Vader sticker for my ST!:ds1:
