So I bought my 96 cbr600 a few weeks ago, and I knew it would need a front tire. So today I go out to the garage and see what kind is on the back, as it has plent of tread left and I'd want them to match. Its a dunlop sportmax 180 tire. Ive read in these forums that that is frowned upon by some and the people who just go for cosmetics say its fine. I dont plan on racing it or anything insane, but is it going to decrease performance or something? It is pretty damn close to the chain. Should I just buy a new set and toss that on ebay? And where would I go to get it mounted?; as this is my first bike, and I dont know if regular tire places do bike tires. Thanks in advance.

 

Personally if that was my bike I would change it, but then it is your choice. You could run it till it needs replacing then go back to a 160.

 

chances are if you didnt read something about it on here you wouldnt be worried because you probably dont know the difference in how the >180 feels ... unless you really like to cut the canyons , you will be spending most of your time in a straight line in which the 180 will serve you fine.

also if you are dead set on changing tire sizes go with the (M) pilot powers or the (D) qualifiers

hope i didnt offend you just trying to put it the best way i can think of @ 2 am lol

 

Just beat the **** out of that tire and have some fun with it. It's not very often that you'll get the opportunity to destroy your tire without regret.

 

Ok, and how about changing them? I know I can buy a set on the internet, but do you need a tire machine to get them on or is it even possible to do out in the garage? If I cant do it, then where do I take it? I dont have to worry about it for a few weeks, as the bike is getting new front fairings and a nice black paintjob. (with chrome silver and red decals... ooh i cant wait) And thanks for the replies so far!

 

any motorcycle shop should be able to mount tires. You might want to check out your local shop's prices before you buy online though. For me, if I buy one there they'll mouunt it and balance it for free. If I bring in the tire, they'll charge me. It ends up being cheaper just to buy the tire from them. I got a pilot power front tire for $92 mounted.

 

I'd just go ahead and use it until it's worn out. Having a wider tire on your bike is going to cause it to wear out more quickly. I'd consider going back to the original size when it's time to replace.

 

I'm rolling a 180 on my bike and I would keep it until its worn out. I would also switch to a 160 when it wears out. I have a 160 street tire and 180 drag radial.

 

I've had 180/55 on96 F3ever since I got it and never had any problems. True it is close to the chain so the alignment has to be straight. also the width of the rim will affect the shape of the tire. If you put a 180 on a 4-1/2" rim it will have a different profile than if it were on a 5" rim. A tire may fit the rim but it may not handle as it was designed.