Bobby:
My tire choices were totally unconventional, but the damn bike handles like a dream. Very crisp and responsive. Great traction - wet or dry; have put the bike into some very hard corners and never a hint of traction loss or squirreliness. Velvety smooth - I can let go of the handle bars with never the slightest wobble; Have run a true 110 MPH and the bike is totally steady and well controlled. Great mileage - I now have 9,500 miles on them and there is still about 60% of the tread remaining. Should get 18,000 at least. Very even wear pattern, although the wear is very minimal.
For the rear, I chose a Dunlop Elite 3 in size 140/90-16, which is one size larger than stock. It is belted, and the tread is rock hard, even before being mounted on a wheel. The tread has almost solid rubber near the center, with a few large grooves that go outward diagonally. It is bias ply, but looks like a modern radial sportbike tire.
I was always bothered by the stock front 100/90-19 tire and narrow 1.85" wide wheel. The sidewalls bulged out from the rim and the handling was "rubbery". I am now using alloy wheels and the front is 2.15" wide. I chose a 90/90-19 front tire, which really fits the 2.15" wheel properly. I found an Avon Roadrider that I have been totally pleased with. This is a fantastic tire. The steering response is almost like driving a Formula 1 car.
Yes, I know that you should stick with the stock size tires, and a matched front / rear set. But today's sportbikes use 180 or 190 rears and 120 fronts. 190 / 120 = 158%. Stock KZ = 130 / 100 is 130%. My sizes give 140 / 90 = 155%.
Unconventional - yes, but highly successful.
Bill Baker
Houston, Texas
1982 KZ650 CSR
2008 Yamaha FZ1
2006 Yamaha FZ1
1977 Honda Supersport 750 four (sold)
1984 Honda Nighthawk 650 (sold)
