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[2k]

Have read Indy tests on this tire and all claim 20K + miles. Never been able to get over 14K on my rear. Anybody tried one? They are on Amazon for $170 w/free ship. Almost bought, but want to make sure its not just hype. Inputs please. 180/65/16.

[Twolanerider]

The Commander II is new enough would be surprised if anyone has any longevity experience yet. 

[Skillet]

Never been able to get more than 7500 on a rear tire.

[1sharprdkg]

Go for it 2K be our test monkey!

[Limited Lou]

I have read same stuff like you, It sounds like Michelin is trying to re-establish their reputation with the Motorcycle Touring world. Competing with Dunlop. I may give the tire a try when it's time. Like mentioned above it's too new yet..

[SERK3]

If they are as good as what they have for 4 wheelers i'll run them.

[Tn.Heritage]

I'm going to give them a shot when my metz croaks out. I have around 7000 mile on the 880 rear so I figure 2000 more tops and I'll become a commander II trial guy.

[grc]

I suppose if you make the tread hard enough and dense enough and deep enough, 20k miles should be doable.  What we can't tell is if the dry traction is as good as the competition (they don't mention it in their sales pitch one way or the other).  The test results they hang their hats on aren't really independent, btw.  They were performed by someone other than Michelin, but they were performed under contract to Michelin.  That to me is not true independent testing.  

Anyhow, if they are as good as the claims say they are, they sound like something worth trying.  Especially if they will last that long and resist the cupping that seems to still plague the Dunlop's to some degree.  Go ahead and buy them, then do a coast to coast to coast to coast run so you can give us an unbiased and truly independent report.  

Too bad they chose to make the sidewalls so ugly.  That is liable to keep some hard core Harley folks from trying them, since style is more important than function don't cha know.


Jerry

[2k]

I never looked at it from there. If the Indy was under contract from Michelin......they would tend to say good things, if they ever want to test again!!

[2006ULTRA]

We have an independent Harley mechanic in our area that is giving big discounts to people who try these tires.  Not sure all the specifics but my impression is that Michelin is pushing the tire pretty hard through their dealers.

[32Lager]

I suppose if you make the tread hard enough and dense enough and deep enough, 20k miles should be doable.  What we can't tell is if the dry traction is as good as the competition (they don't mention it in their sales pitch one way or the other).   

Anyhow, if they are as good as the claims say they are, they sound like something worth trying.  Especially if they will last that long and resist the cupping that seems to still plague the Dunlop's.

Too bad they chose to make the sidewalls so ugly.  That is liable to keep some hard core Harley folks from trying them.

Jerry

I agree... I was planning to buy an American Elite rear this spring but these Michelin's are looking pretty interesting (except for the sidewalls). You can't help but think the Commander II's would have a hard compound to run 25,000 miles but does the new silica technology bring back the grip ?

Here's a few links I found this morning. I did an image search but couldn't find a good clear picture showing a straight-on look at the sidewall. It looks like they're using "raised grey" lettering.
http://blog.compacc.com/2011/08/michelin-commander-2-tires-preview/
http://www.webbikeworld.com/motorcycle-news/2012/michelin-commander-tires.htm
http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/3/31/401/41873/ITEM/Michelin-Commander-II-Cruiser-Rear-Tire.aspx

[LovemyCVOgirl]

My local Harley store actually had one of these tires on display.  I found the sidewall not to be ugly at all    It is a really great looking tire    I will purchase this as replacement tires when I am ready for replacements.

[1sharprdkg]

Never been a big fan of Michelin brand tires, car nor motorcycle. However the previously loved Chrysler Aspen SUV I bought last month has Michelin's on it and I have to say they ride, handle in wet and dry conditions very well. I know we can't compare SUV to bike tires but just saying I may have not given them a fair chance. When I need some new cycle tires I will consider these. Last tires I bought were Dunlop Elite 3's for the 03'RKC, they are doing fine.     

[JDOFLHRIDER]

I offer discount on these vendor discounts.ride safe jdo

[Twolanerider]

I offer discount on these vendor discounts.ride safe jdo

Don't need any yet.  Have used the old Commander on the SEEG and SERG though and have been satisfied enough to keep using them.  So for when the time comes what's an expected price? 130-16s front and rear.