Here in Chicago it is starting to get pretty cold, but that doesnt bother me one bit I'll ride even if its 10 degrees outside. My problem seems to be my tires. I was riding today, (about 40 degrees out) and whenever i left a stoplight my rear tire would loose traction. Now that made me a little uncomfortable in the turns. So today I took it real easy on the corners about 10-15 mph less than normal. Does anyone know the proper operating temp of my stock dunlops? Should i look into getting a different compound tire for the colder months? I know in my car i have z-rated tires also and that manufacturer recomends 60 degrees or warmer for proper traction could this be the same case for my bike tires?

 

I've rode year round too... not much to find on info about temps. Just have to go by feel. No matter how warm the tires get, the surface you're riding on is going to be cold, too cold for the tires to work like they should.

 

Don't know the proper operating temperature, but how hard are you accelerating from stop lights...I'm a Michigan winter rider and have never had a problem with my Dunlop or Michelin tires "losing traction" from a stop light...never! I almost hi-sided once from taking a turn to steep and fast on a 40 degree day, but I operate as if my tires NEVER come to temp on a cold day and take things extra cautiously!

Be safe and take it slow dude!

 

i used to ride throughout the winter months when i lived up in IL too. the only time i lost traction leaving a stop light... is when i got on it a little too much. definitely take it easy when it's cold out because like the others said - even though your tires will warm up the ground will still be damn cold which means less than desirable traction.

 

Just a theory. with the stock wheels (Uk spec) theres a hole which I assume is for dispersing water from the wheel. Assuming its a wet winters day. and water gets in from hole wouldnt the tire be cooled from the inside wheel wall as well as from the cold surface tarmac? Just a theory for you guys to correct me and ponder over.

 

Just toss tire warmers on about a 1/2 hour before you head out....... solves the tire temp problem every time[sm=icon_rofl.gif].

But yea, just slow down practice smooth throttle control.