Help with Avon tire choice

[jim snyder]

I am looking at buying the Avon AM-26 Roadriders and had a question. I noticed that Avon makes a 120/80-18 front. Now most say they run a 110/80-18, but the stock tire on the C-10 was a 120/70-18. So my ?? is wouldn't the 120/80-18 be closer to the OEM size? 

[Outback_Jon]

From what I remember in past discussions, the stock Dunlop didn't really measure out to what was advertized on the sidewalls.  I think 110/80 was the closer realistic number.

[lt1]

In width, yes.  In height, no.  At least nominally.  Sizes often vary between manufacturers.

[roger dodger]

The OEM tire for the C10 'said' 120 but really measured 112 or so. So yes, instead of pinching the wider 120, you could flatten a 110 and get a little better straight line stability, and save a few $$$. YMMV

[Sparkie]

From what I've read here its about the stock OEM size being closer to a 110/80-18.  The front rim width is narrower than most bikes now. I don't know what year bike you ride, the early rim size was only 2.5" and then later changed to a 3.0" width. But as others have said the original Dunlops were not really a true to size 120/70-18. Mark

[jim snyder]

Mine is an 02, and I am currently running a 130/70-18, so I figured the 120/80-18 would be a good choice.

[SteveJ.]

I'm on my second 110-80-zr-18 Michelin PR3 up front. It is currently matched to a Avon bias Venom in the stock Connie size. This combo really works, corners nicely, holds a line very well,  the front rides much smoother than a Pilot GT, stable in the wind, and the tires are quiet. My first Venom, on the rear, looks like it's gonna be around a while. I pulled the PR3 off at 13,800. It still handled very well. Dennis Kirk has THE price on the PR3.

YMMV

[yoman]

I have about 375 miles on my AM26's and am very pleased. I have been in the rain with them already with no probs. I put the 110/80/18 on the front.

[Boomer343]

When I got my Avon Storm 110/80 18 beside the Metzler that is on the bike I nearly had to change my shorts...turns out it is a 130 70 18.....no wonder it takes three men and a girl to get it into a turn....then it rides like a lumber wagon to boot.

Gonna feel like a youngin' when I get the old girl on the road this spring.....

[Uglydog56]

My 110/80 Avon roadrider measures 116 on the 3" rim.  I highly recommend these tires on the Connie.  I personally don't know why anyone would run the storms with all the problems I've read about.  I know radials are supposed to be better, but I can't reconcile that to real world experience.  I also have roadriders on my CB400, and that bike will make a log into a toilet paper holding bear.

[jim snyder]

Ok just ordered the AM-26's from Motorcycle Superstore. Would have gotten them from Murphs but he was temporarily out of stock. Thanks for everyone replies.

[Boomer343]

Oh sure now you tell me Rick!

Seems to be no tire that is universally loved.....or bike....had a guy tell me before he knew what I rode...he thought I still had my Gold Wing.....that of all the bikes that were on the road he "personally" detested Kawasaki's.....seems more than one had done him wrong....VBG

You pays your money and you takes your chances...as always your experience may vary....I'll give you an update in a few months....wind is from the north and blowing in snow....

[Roadhound]

Oh sure now you tell me Rick!

If I were you I wouldn't worry about that tire, I've run the Azaro front, the Storm front and the Storm II ultra front on my Concours. I've used several of each and have had absolutely no problems. The Storm II is an amazingly good tire with great stick, good feel and feedback and very good mileage. I've fitted a 17 inch wheel on my scoot and am running the Storm IIs on Front and Rear know. I've worn out 3 sets and have enjoyed every mile I've ridden with them.

Enjoy them.