So I need a new rear tire, and the question that comes to my mind is which tire is better for someone who mostly commutes and does trips across washington state.

I would assume a sport tire is standard for these bikes, but would a sport-touring tire provide better wear and functionality?

 

that is what I did this time around. I mostly commute, but still like to hit some mtn. roads sometimes. So wear was most important to me.

 

Hmm thats the kinda thing I like to hear. Just wasnt sure if there was some large disadvantage to using a sport touring tire but it sounds like that's what Im looking for now.

Any suggestions on a high quality yet affordable (they dont usually go in the same sentance I know) sport-touring tire?

I was looking at tire prices and these darn things cost almost as much as a tire for my corvette which seemsa little silly to me.

 

I've been looking at the dunlop d616 lately, its a mean looking tire and its got a longer life than most sport tires.

 

Next question would be, since my front metzgar has a good amount of tread left and I dont need to replace it, is it ok to replace the rear with one of different tread pattern and brand?

 

People say its bad, and for crazy fast riding it is, but for most situations you wont notice unless the grip is reeeeeeeallllly different. Also, you have the problem (or benefit) of never replacing your tires at the same time.

 

I like to ride 100-110 for decent amounts of time, how fast is 'crazy fast'?

 

mph? Then i wouldn't worry about it, i've done that on my 1977 KZ650 with mismatched brands, front 15 year old tire and back brand new. Thats a situation for you lol. I was meaning crazy fast as in 200+ km/h, since I'm canadian and think that way. Thats about 125+ for you. But I doubt youd have a problem as long as both of your tires are rated for the speed you're doing and the wheels are balanced properly.

 

I personally change both at the same time. Just funny that way.

Sport Touring componds are harder and will last longer then the Sports. I have them, of course on our STs and we been known to travel at 100 + with no problems. Dunlop makes good SportTouring tires. My brand of choice even for the sport tires.

Crazy fast? ... close to the 168mph max of the Quailfier???

 

i just had the sports touring dont do it you lost so much grip now i ride on sports tires