On 1/25/04 5:30 PM, "J" wrote:
> I have a 98 Yamaha 600R. At 4000 miles I have to replace the rear tire, and
> since this is my first bike, I need a little advice.
>
> First, if I replace the rear, should I replace the the front at the same time
> as the read?
>
> second, I have read about Pirelli Diablo tires. Are they any good for dry
> and wet weathers? What would be reasonable milage out of them with a healthy
> ride every day?
>
> Thanks for the advice.
I've been told by a reliable source that the Pirelli Diablo is essentially
the same tire as the Metzeler Sportec M1, in which case they're pretty good
street tires in the wet or dry. I've run a couple of sets of Sportecs, and
usually got around 4k miles out of a set.
But my favorite all-around street tire is still the Bridgestone BT010. They
seem to wear a little longer than the Sportecs, and yet for me they felt
more sure-footed in a wider range of riding conditions than did the
Metzelers. The best wet weather sport tire I've ever had, bar none.
As for replacing one versus both tires, it's up to you. Here are some
considerations:
* How much life is left on your front tire? What does that equate to in
dollars? Is saving that money worth the extra down-time when you have to
eventually replace the front?
* Sometimes mismatched tires can produce odd handling quirks. Generally
nothing dangerous, but your bike might feel strange with a half-worn front
and a new Pirelli rear.
Personally, I tend to replace both tires at the same time. Maybe it's the
tires I choose, or the way I ride, but when my rear tire is worn to the
nubs, usually the front is not far behind. So rather than have to make two
separate trips to the tire mounting shop, I just do them both.
--
Jamin Kortegard
2002 YZF-R1
2003 WRX<!-- ~MESSAGE_AFTER~ -->
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