Tires

Similar, but tubes are sized in ranges rather than one specific size. As an example - one size 18" tube might cover 3.25/4.60, 110/70, 120/70, 110/80, 100/90, 110/90 sized tires, and a different size 18" tube might cover 4.00/4.25/4.50, 120/80 to 140/80, 120/90 to 140/90 sized tires. Ed

I run Dunlop K70's on my vintage bikes and I'm happy with the performance/price, and the look is pretty much keeping in line with the era..

I liked the Dunlop K81 up front but ran a Chin Shin on the back. Might go back to the K81 repo and run the Shinko 230 in back. The Shinlo front doesn't have as much tread. :dry:
Steve

I ran Dunlop K70 tires for many years on my BSA, but they really did not provide nearly the same level of traction as modern tires. I ran the original Dunlop K87 / F6B and later the Dunlop K91 kevlar belted tires on my KZ650, and frankly found them to be marginal at best. I also have used Michelin with PZ2 racing compound and Michelin with street compound. I have found that modern tires, such as the Pirelli Sport Demons, provide superior traction and control while providing reasonable longevity. Ed

I ran the K181 and was disappointed. It followed the rain grooves like the stock POS.
Steve

I also did not care for Dunlop K70s. Poor traction and handling. I had the Shinko 712s on the 550 and they were sticky and looked good. Not sure how well they wear as I sold that bike. Shinko 230s on the Vulcan and will put a Shinko 712 on the front of my KZ1000E2 tonight. At the price point even if they only go 5-10 mile that's ok, the tire performs well and looks good. There is a practically new D404 on the rear now and I will monitor the wear, not sure how old it is. Still has feelers and no dry rot. R

rrsmsw9999 wrote: There is a practically new D404 on the rear now and I will monitor the wear, not sure how old it is. Still has feelers and no dry rot. R

If it is too old to have a date code on the sidewall, then I'd HIGHLY recommend tossing that dude on the burn pile.

I have an 82 kz440. I love my Shinkos. I got them online at J&P Cycle-$104.00 for both tires (on sale).