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[jsfenster110]

It is almost that time.  I have 9,000 miles on stock Dunlops and they are loud and hard.

I am not sure if Avon makes a front in 19" but I see great reviews on these tires.  For those of you that like a little sporting with your touring, which of these would fit the bill best?  Wear is the last concern for me as I am looking for handling and comfort first.  I know the Mich will most likely wear the best followed by the 888s.

[Twolanerider]

I've got the Commander II tires on my Road Glide.  Great tires, handle well, perfectly acceptable tire life.  Really good highway touring tire and good on wet roads too.  If you're mounting your own the sidewall stiffness makes them a little tougher to work with; but even that's not too bad.

Have the Avon Venoms (you asked about the Cobras) on my Road King.  Both bikes have 18" front and 16" rear.  The Avons are a softer tire.  Handles the twisties a little better.  Tire life is approximately 60% of the Michelins.  Handles ok on wet roads but I'd not want to push it too far.  Great handling on dry roads though.  The tires suggest the different way I use the two bikes.  Both are great for what I use them for.

[coloradotom]

I love my Avon's, they wear great, ride great and are much better in the rain. They do make an AV71 (that's the front model) in 19" it's just a 120 not a 130.

[RonandJanet]

I have the Commander II tires and they have been great. I don't push her in the corners and when riding out of town typically it is two up. Riding to work is just me and at times I have had to make some very sudden stops and the tires have done great! 

[jsfenster110]

Thank you for the comments.  What is the deal I keep reading about the Commander IIs not havin the best wet traction?  It seems to be a common theme.

Do the AV71 120 actually fit the front in the 19?  Is that smart?

[Ironhorse]

Currently running Commander IIs. They are good tires and I'll probably run them again when the time comes. Good traction, nice ride, acceptable life span.

[jsfenster110]

I have seen some mix and match.  Can you run an av72 in rear and elite on the front?  Any issues with this?

[grc]

I have seen some mix and match.  Can you run an av72 in rear and elite on the front?  Any issues with this?

People have been known to mix all sorts of tires, so obviously you can.  The important question is if you should.  Tire manufacturers will tell you, and I agree with them, that you shouldn't.  Different brands with different compounds and tread will handle differently, which can throw off the balance of the bike.  It may not be a problem for the casual rider but if you plan to push the limits of the bike you could regret ignoring the experts.

Btw, while you're looking at replacement tires are you just looking for something that will fit on the rim, or are you considering everything including load ratings?  Many of the tires on the market that will physically fit your rims carry a significantly lower load rating, since they were originally designed for much lighter sport bikes.

Jerry

[jsfenster110]

Jerry,

Thanks for the help.  I am looking for consistent load rating from Michelin, Dunlop, Metzeler and Avon as far as I know.  Factory wheels and replacement tires.