Well I did it. having extreme fiscal difficulties i thought my riding season was over when the front tire was just to bald to be safe any more. Couldn't afford a new one (even shinko or chen sheng) so I found a rear tire that was approx the right size, 120/80-17, it looked like it would fit had lots of tread and so I did it! there were a couple of rubs the first hard stop but after that no prob. I knew you couldn't get away with a front on the rear (power etc.) but after an exhausting search where all I could find was "don't do it" without any good reason (to me) i decided it was that or put it away for the winter. put dyna beads in it (already had them) and it's smooth up to 100 mph. don't think i want to try further. handling isn't the best but at least I can stop with some authority.

 

I meant it was smooth up to 100 because i didn't want to go any faster (don't know the speed rating) I thinks it's off my sons ex 500 kaw. I put dyna beads for balance. Yeah I think the profile doesn't lend itself to extreme handling performance. But over the years I've had to save my bacon way more often with braking as opposed to lightning quick cornering or the ability to lean really far over.

 

If i remember correctly - the reason for the direction arrows on the tyres ( besides tread patterns) is because the construction of a rear tyre is to help put power down. The construction of a front tyre is to help the bike stop.

Probably not a factor if not being pushed too hard.

 

Damn...son! that old tire is so far gone that it is shined up nicely. You can see the reflection of the front mud guard on it.

 

Innovation is a wonderful thing......wouldn't go knee dragging with it though.
I 'd rightly have to say the old one does not owe you one cent ! LOL

 

Well at least you're still out riding instead of it sitting in the garage.

 

I bet you've seen a rear that bad, though....

You can't forget about this beauty here! I won't mention any names.

 

after a day of riding it's not bad. all the advice to take it easy will be heeded. It is a little easier to balance at a stop sign though