Topic: Dunlop Elite III's (Read 30218 times)

SPIDERMAN · « **on:** April 28, 2007, 05:32:29 PM »

What's everybody paying for these in their area?

I need a new rear tire on LD and might as well swap over to the Elite III

B B

jfh · « **Reply #1 on:** April 28, 2007, 05:41:33 PM »

The best prices I have found are from Moto X Outlet. http://www.motoxoutlet.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=975

SPIDERMAN · « **Reply #2 on:** April 28, 2007, 05:45:50 PM »

Thanks for the link dude

I've heard prices are all over the map on the Elite III's for some reason. Are they hard to get- - re: backordered ?

B B

jfh · « **Reply #3 on:** April 28, 2007, 05:53:05 PM »

Quote from: SPIDERMAN on April 28, 2007, 05:45:50 PM

Thanks for the link dude

I've heard prices are all over the map on the Elite III's for some reason. Are they hard to get- - re: backordered ?

B B

I waited almost a month for the 160 rear tire. Back order was attributed to earlier Dunlop strike. You can call and see if they are in stock before you order.

SPIDERMAN · « **Reply #4 on:** April 28, 2007, 06:10:04 PM »

Quote from: hdfr120 on April 28, 2007, 05:53:05 PM

I waited almost a month for the 160 rear tire. Back order was attributed to earlier Dunlop strike. You can call and see if they are in stock before you order.

I'm the buy it now type. No patience whatsoever

B B

Tbone · « **Reply #5 on:** April 28, 2007, 06:15:37 PM »

B B,

I don't know what price they are in our area but they are available. I saw a set today while I was at our local tire store waiting on my bike.

Bob

Puzzled · « **Reply #6 on:** April 30, 2007, 07:33:54 AM »

ronayerssuzuki.com does pretty well with tire pricing. $10 shipping.

Ebay of all places usually has an ad or two from someone legit selling at a decent price.

jeffj · « **Reply #7 on:** April 30, 2007, 06:07:17 PM »

I just had my HD dealer install my pair of Dunlop Elite III's and first impression

I like them as they seem to have a little firmer bite and don't seem to follow the cracks in highway

Plan to put some rounds on the scooter in the next few weeks and will keep everyone posted

So far I give them a

jeffj

SEULTRA · « **Reply #8 on:** April 30, 2007, 06:53:06 PM »

Ummmmm.... is it OK to run the Elite 3 on the back while still running the OEM 491 on the front?

jeffj · « **Reply #9 on:** April 30, 2007, 07:07:23 PM »

Quote from: SEULTRA on April 30, 2007, 06:53:06 PM

Ummmmm.... is it OK to run the Elite 3 on the back while still running the OEM 491 on the front?

not sure how to reply however, for me I wanted the same type of tread so I switched both out at 7,500 miles

jeffj

mr_magoo · « **Reply #10 on:** April 30, 2007, 09:48:50 PM »

Whats the load rating in pounds for the rear tire? Been looking at a set of Michelin Commanders but cann't find a rating for a rear tire, will wait for a review on the elite III.

iski · « **Reply #11 on:** April 30, 2007, 09:56:49 PM »

BB - I have bought more than a few tires from this company - they stock most of the Dunlops, etc. & are competively priced:

http://www.americanmototire.com/

icybay · « **Reply #12 on:** May 01, 2007, 12:34:05 AM »

I ordered a pair from www.motoxoutlet.com on March 21 and they are still back ordered.

Dunlop Elite 3 Bias
1 $126.99 ELITE 3 160/80B16 GL1500 REAR
1 $86.99 ELITE 3 MT90B16 FRT
S&H $25.00
Total $238.98

jeffj · « **Reply #13 on:** May 01, 2007, 07:52:24 AM »

Quote from: mr_magoo on April 30, 2007, 09:48:50 PM

Whats the load rating in pounds for the rear tire? Been looking at a set of Michelin Commanders but cann't find a rating for a rear tire, will wait for a review on the elite III.

Dunlop Elite 3 Touring Rear

MU90B16 78H BW 4079-95 3.00 25.72 5.57 11/32 930 @ 40

The rear tire of the Elite 3 is just a little narrower than the OE HD Dunlop D402
However, The Elite 3 has a higher load rating 930 vs. 908

jeffj

mr_magoo · « **Reply #14 on:** May 01, 2007, 09:05:34 AM »

Thanks for the info. Looks like they don't make a replacement for the MU85B16 that comes on the rear of the newer bikes. The MU90B16 is a 130mm tire the MU85B16 is a 140mm thats why its a little narrower.

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #15 on:** May 01, 2007, 11:30:42 AM »

Just for informational purposes, the Metzler 140/90x16 is rated for 908lbs @50PSI and is just a hair wider than the stock Dunlop.

mr_magoo · « **Reply #16 on:** May 01, 2007, 02:24:14 PM »

I run metzlers now and want to keep the load rating. Am going to look at the elite III's like the 930# rating.

mr_magoo · « **Reply #17 on:** May 02, 2007, 10:45:19 PM »

Ordered a set from the dealer. MU90B16 for the rear $94.00 and a MT90B16 for the front $86.00 plus tax.

jfh · « **Reply #18 on:** May 04, 2007, 06:03:13 PM »

I just installed the Elite IIIs on my '07 FLHTC. I chose the 160/80B16 GL1500 rear tire which fit fine with absolutely no clearance issues. Load rating is 992 lbs.

mr_magoo · « **Reply #19 on:** May 04, 2007, 08:57:17 PM »

Wow kinda suprised it fit but I guess the lower profile helps.

reo · « **Reply #20 on:** May 04, 2007, 11:23:02 PM »

Quote from: mr_magoo on May 04, 2007, 08:57:17 PM

Wow kinda suprised it fit but I guess the lower profile helps.

I've got the 160/80B16 80H elite 3 on the back of my seeg with the stock detonator wheel, put the MT90B16 elite 3 on the front. There is about an 1/8" clearance to the belt guard with no modifications, all other clearances are 1/4" plus. Been running that tire for about 2500 miles so far no issues. Did a write up some time ago but I think it got messed up with the forum upgrade.

btw: the load rating on the 160 is 992

mr_magoo · « **Reply #21 on:** May 05, 2007, 08:30:46 PM »

Well may have to change plans. Going to see the parts guy Monday.

reo · « **Reply #22 on:** May 06, 2007, 10:00:46 AM »

I started with this mod after MV because I literally burnt the back tire off my bike. I couldn't find anyone or any info on putting the 160 on a stock seeg but from what I was measuring it looked like it would work. I did a writeup back in December of last year but most of the write seems to be gone, here is a hotlink the side by side pictures are still there. http://www.cvoharley.com/smf/index.php?topic=9598.0

Here is a copy of part of the writeup from that link that was lost.

"The 160 was an elite III and it fit perfectly with about an 1/8" clearance from the plastic belt guard. I haven't felt any rubbing from the diameter change but I haven't taken it all the way up yet. I have to tell you I did quite a bit of measuring before ordering and it fit on my bike but I wouldn't count on it fitting every EG without maybe a spacer mod.

Yes I put the tire on the stock detonator, and I might point out Dunlop doesn't condome this tire on a 3" rim. It looks good in there and the tread not quite as nice as the Metzler or even the 150 sreamin eagle tire on my FatBoy but it looks much better than the stock one. I really liked the load rating being higher than the stock tire and much higher then the Metz. The Elite III tires have a skinny profile even the front tire is a little narrower so you loose a little width in the front.

I like the ride and handling so far with a little less than 1k so far (salt on the roads here). I'm not sure I would be a fair judge going from worn out hard stock 402's to the Elite III's, but I'm very impressed so far. Another by product of the switch for me was the speedo was 2-4mph off depending on the speed (I'm comparing this to my gps) and now its just about dead nut.

I would have to say the Elite III's with the 160 on the back seem like they were made for my bike.

One thing I forgot to point out: the Elite III's are narrower than published. I didn't measure them but my assumpsion is they are slightly taller than published. In fact my measurements before taking delivery of the tires confirmed I was going to remove or modify the belt guard but the tires are maybe 3/8" narrower than I was expecting. I know I used the 160 on a 3" rim but the front tire is narrower than published also. The profile of the front could be wider, I really would like a larger front tire to fill the fender but they don't make a larger one in the Elite III series. Actually the biggest reason for me going to these tires is the load rating. I literally burnt the stock back tire off my seeg comming back from M/V loaded up 100mph 9 1/2 hrs to Chi-town."

I have ridden the bike hard since the elite III install but because of my heavy work load haven't racked up the miles I usually do (about 2500 so far). So far the ride and cornering seems better and predictable, I like the feel in the turns. I haven't had the experience of riding in hard rain so I can't comment on that, one of the reasons I like these tires is because of the cut in the tread.

I wanted to make sure everyone knows how close the dimesions are and the fact that Dunlop doe's not condome the use of these on 3" rims but I do like them.......Roy

reo · « **Reply #23 on:** May 06, 2007, 10:32:12 AM »

One other thing I wanted to point out to anyone thinking about this mod: the tire does mildly rub on the belt guard. I did not modify or remove the guard because I didn't like the chance of picking up a rock in the belt and there is an 1/8 clearance on mine checking while turning the tire all the way around, but these things do move and thats why I'm showing a mark on the tire. There appears to be no damage at this point to the tire or guard but I wanted to let everyone to know about this issue. To reiterate its just a mark like a discoloration on the side of the tire in the close area.

jeffj · « **Reply #24 on:** May 06, 2007, 10:57:52 AM »

Quote from: reo on May 06, 2007, 10:32:12 AM

One other thing I wanted to point out to anyone thinking about this mod: the tire does mildly rub on the belt guard. I did not modify or remove the guard because I didn't like the chance of picking up a rock in the belt and there is an 1/8 clearance on mine checking while turning the tire all the way around, but these things do move and thats why I'm showing a mark on the tire. There appears to be no damage at this point to the tire or guard but I wanted to let everyone to know about this issue. To reiterate its just a mark like a discoloration on the side of the tire in the close area.

discoloration means heat......like to see a picture if you can

jeffj

reo · « **Reply #25 on:** May 06, 2007, 02:30:02 PM »

No no no! not from heat!

I have seen this discoloration before on Kenworths and peterbilts like where the flap rubs the front steer tires, more specifically on the side of the tire, same color. I can try and get a pic up some time if you need to see but I will be out riding today.

When you have a rubber plastic rub on a tire you get a shiney brown like mark. I just thought I would make people aware of this before they change to this tire. I don't want anyone to make a big deal out of this saying there is damage to the tire or this is a safety issue I just want to point it out so there are no surprises for anyone.

mr_magoo · « **Reply #26 on:** May 06, 2007, 07:52:47 PM »

Guess I'll just use what I ordered not willing to change rims, and if they recommend against a 3in rim I wouldn't risk it. JMHO

mr_magoo · « **Reply #27 on:** May 09, 2007, 09:46:06 PM »

Interesting bit the MU90B16 has a rating of 932# but at a max pressure of 40PSI. I run Metzlers at 50psi.

SPIDERMAN · « **Reply #28 on:** May 09, 2007, 10:01:29 PM »

Quote from: mr_magoo on May 09, 2007, 09:46:06 PM

Interesting bit the MU90B16 has a rating of 932# but at a max pressure of 40PSI. I run Metzlers at 50psi.

Jesus Magoo, Hockey pucks at 50 PSI ? You must have been a board track rider in another life

B B

SEULTRA · « **Reply #29 on:** May 09, 2007, 10:07:53 PM »

Quote from: SPIDERMAN on May 09, 2007, 10:01:29 PM

Jesus Magoo, Hockey pucks at 50 PSI ? You must have been a board track rider in another life

B B

Dunno BB... Magoo impressed me as a no nonsense do it safe kinda rider. You didn't go all risky on us didja Magoo??? $:-\$

mr_magoo · « **Reply #30 on:** May 10, 2007, 08:38:38 PM »

Page 22 of Metzlers tire guide states.

Recommended Miniumum Tire Pressures(PSI)

ME880 Marathon Solo 2up light 2up Heavy
Front 38-40 40-42 40-42
Rear 44-46 46-48 48-50

I actual run the front @44-46 it feels better. JMHO

SEULTRA · « **Reply #31 on:** May 10, 2007, 10:32:29 PM »

I just knew it.... magoo, you've done it again!!

mr_magoo · « **Reply #32 on:** May 11, 2007, 09:01:18 AM »

Quote from: SEULTRA on May 10, 2007, 10:32:29 PM

I just knew it.... magoo, you've done it again!!

Yeap I did.

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #33 on:** May 11, 2007, 04:48:24 PM »

magoo, you are correct, sir!! The chart above says it, and I have talked to Metz reps and people who have run the tires...they MUST have more psi to wear/perform properly. You'd think they'd be hard as a brick with 50psi, but the ride quality is better than the stock dunlops, IMO.

iski · « **Reply #34 on:** May 11, 2007, 05:09:16 PM »

A friend of mine ran Metzlers at HD recommended pressures. Rear tire wore badly and was cupped. Metzler rep in Daytona confirmed those pressures - magoo nailed it.

mr_magoo · « **Reply #35 on:** May 16, 2007, 09:16:01 AM »

Got the new tires mounted and on last night. First impression very positive they feel good don't track the grooves, with less pressure bumps aren't so hard. We let you know when I have them broken in and some miles on them.

HWYMAN1 · « **Reply #36 on:** May 16, 2007, 09:54:20 AM »

Got about 5K on the E3's, ride great and good wear so far. Better grips in turns, don't have much rain use yet (knock on wood) lucky on all trips so far! But definitely better than stock, john

Boatman · « **Reply #37 on:** May 16, 2007, 02:44:49 PM »

Like Terry stated, run the tires at the maximum pressures on the ME880's and they'll like you for it. I will continue to run the 880's or try the Elite 3's when the time comes.. It's hard to believe the 880's ride as well as they do with 42F and 48R.. I will never go back to the stock tire. If I were to buy a new bike, the tires would be the first to go. We all know the MOCO know's what's best for us..

Midnight Rider · « **Reply #38 on:** May 16, 2007, 03:00:04 PM »

Quote from: Boatman on May 16, 2007, 02:44:49 PM

Like Terry stated, run the tires at the maximum pressures on the ME880's and they'll like you for it. I will continue to run the 880's or try the Elite 3's when the time comes.. It's hard to believe the 880's ride as well as they do with 42F and 48R.. I will never go back to the stock tire. If I were to buy a new bike, the tires would be the first to go. We all know the MOCO know's what's best for us..

Same here, Bob...could not believe the difference I felt with the Metz's on the bike. Will never own another 402 if I can help it. I have the EIII's on the rear of the Vrod, but they put a tire on the front, D208 ZR that has a straight line groove down the center which will follow certain grooves in the road. It's been replaced with the D207 ZR which has no centerline groove. I like the EIII, but will probably change to Metz because of the front when the time comes. If they ever come out with an 18" front in the EIII that's got a decent load rating, I might give them a try on the Ultra.

HDguy · « **Reply #39 on:** May 16, 2007, 03:25:43 PM »

Quote from: TCnBham on May 11, 2007, 04:48:24 PM

magoo, you are correct, sir!! The chart above says it, and I have talked to Metz reps and people who have run the tires...they MUST have more psi to wear/perform properly. You'd think they'd be hard as a brick with 50psi, but the ride quality is better than the stock dunlops, IMO.
[
/quote]

I just installed Metz's along with some renegade wheels and couldn't believe the difference in handling between them and the stock dunlops I'm with Terry about not going back to the 402's.When the time comes I will for sure install Metz's on my FLSTSCI.

displacing air · « **Reply #40 on:** May 22, 2007, 08:57:19 PM »

Just ordered a set of Elite 3 tires from Tires Unlimited in Ohio...
Phone#1-800-628-4737

They list on Ebay also...have 100% positive.

They currently have them on special.
mu90b16 for $97 and mt90b16 for $84 and shipping was $19 to Ky.

Just thought this might be helpful info. for someone.

Barry

displacing air · « **Reply #41 on:** May 22, 2007, 08:58:18 PM »

Forgot to add...they have about fifty of each in stock.

Barry

Twolanerider · « **Reply #42 on:** May 22, 2007, 09:03:07 PM »

Quote from: displacing air on May 22, 2007, 08:57:19 PM

Just ordered a set of Elite 3 tires from Tires Unlimited in Ohio...
Phone#1-800-628-4737

They list on Ebay also...have 100% positive.

They currently have them on special.
mu90b16 for $97 and mt90b16 for $84 and shipping was $19 to Ky.

Just thought this might be helpful info. for someone.

Barry

Thanks Barry. My E-IIIs went on right before MV. So 6-7k on them now. Front is still great. But will need a back before Nelson. It's fine now. But another 2-2.5k will have it down far enough to throw away.

ccr · « **Reply #43 on:** May 23, 2007, 05:32:18 AM »

Quote from: displacing air on May 22, 2007, 08:57:19 PM

Just ordered a set of Elite 3 tires from Tires Unlimited in Ohio...
Phone#1-800-628-4737

They list on Ebay also...have 100% positive.

They currently have them on special.
mu90b16 for $97 and mt90b16 for $84 and shipping was $19 to Ky.

Just thought this might be helpful info. for someone.

Barry

That is a good price. We were quoted in and around $160 for front and $180 for rear at the local HD shop.

nixobilly · « **Reply #44 on:** May 23, 2007, 09:03:22 AM »

I'm suprised more of you aren't using the Avons -- they grip great in rain and on grooved roads, they have a very high load rating, and they wear the sames as the Metz's and III.

This is my first set and I cant say enough good things about them.

Mark

mr_magoo · « **Reply #45 on:** May 23, 2007, 09:14:45 AM »

Quote from: Mrs.WeCVO on May 23, 2007, 05:32:18 AM

That is a good price. We were quoted in and around $160 for front and $180 for rear at the local HD shop.

Might want to check with another dealer. Mine where $94 for the rear and $86 for the front out the door.

Chief · « **Reply #46 on:** May 23, 2007, 09:24:34 AM »

Quote from: mr_magoo on May 23, 2007, 09:14:45 AM

Might want to check with another dealer. Mine where $94 for the rear and $86 for the front out the door.

Wow! Is that for E3's? Can you supply your source?

reo · « **Reply #47 on:** May 23, 2007, 10:32:27 AM »

Quote from: Twolanerider on May 22, 2007, 09:03:07 PM

Thanks Barry. My E-IIIs went on right before MV. So 6-7k on them now. Front is still great. But will need a back before Nelson. It's fine now. But another 2-2.5k will have it down far enough to throw away.

Hey Don,

I remember you were running the stock size Elite III on back, getting both put on at an amazing price. If you get 8-9.5k on the back as you suggested how does that compare to the stock 402's you had on before and was your riding habits pretty much the same or did you run more/longer bagged up trips with the later tires?

Roy....

Twolanerider · « **Reply #48 on:** May 23, 2007, 12:33:05 PM »

Quote from: reo on May 23, 2007, 10:32:27 AM

Hey Don,

I remember you were running the stock size Elite III on back, getting both put on at an amazing price. If you get 8-9.5k on the back as you suggested how does that compare to the stock 402's you had on before and was your riding habits pretty much the same or did you run more/longer bagged up trips with the later tires?

Roy....

Unfortunately Roy I can't make a comparison with the 402s over several tires. The original one last 12k and change. At that point it was very ready to come off. Subsequent two tires, however, were replaced prior to wearing due to road hazards.

I looked more closely at the E III last night. After finally giving the bike a good cleaning. Future tire wear is difficult thing to eyeball. But I might have underestimated it a bit. I was curious so checked it's usage to date for sure. It's got 6500 and a few miles on it. Given what I see on the ground right I'm comfortable it will go 10k and still be at that point where it's safe to ride but be ready for replacement.

If that's so it won't have lasted quite as long as the original 402. But it will have been in the ballpark of the other tire. It's handling is enough of an improvement (especially the wet road handling), however, that I'd consider the change to be more than worthwhile relative to the nearly identical cost factor.

reo · « **Reply #49 on:** May 23, 2007, 02:09:30 PM »

Quote from: Twolanerider on May 23, 2007, 12:33:05 PM

Unfortunately Roy I can't make a comparison with the 402s over several tires. The original one last 12k and change. At that point it was very ready to come off. Subsequent two tires, however, were replaced prior to wearing due to road hazards.

I looked more closely at the E III last night. After finally giving the bike a good cleaning. Future tire wear is difficult thing to eyeball. But I might have underestimated it a bit. I was curious so checked it's usage to date for sure. It's got 6500 and a few miles on it. Given what I see on the ground right I'm comfortable it will go 10k and still be at that point where it's safe to ride but be ready for replacement.

If that's so it won't have lasted quite as long as the original 402. But it will have been in the ballpark of the other tire. It's handling is enough of an improvement (especially the wet road handling), however, that I'd consider the change to be more than worthwhile relative to the nearly identical cost factor.

Thanks for the info Don. I'm thinking because of your getting used to this bike and all the mods youv'e had since, you probably drive longer faster, you think thats possible? My reason is: I really beleave the biggest thing that takes these tires down fast is riding hard, long and heavy. What do you think. Did you think about going to the 160 on back, you know the load rating is higher.

Roy.....

Twolanerider · « **Reply #50 on:** May 23, 2007, 05:23:26 PM »

Quote from: reo on May 23, 2007, 02:09:30 PM

Thanks for the info Don. I'm thinking because of your getting used to this bike and all the mods youv'e had since, you probably drive longer faster, you think thats possible? My reason is: I really beleave the biggest thing that takes these tires down fast is riding hard, long and heavy. What do you think. Did you think about going to the 160 on back, you know the load rating is higher.

Roy.....

Roy, it is absolutely true that my bike isn't really a local rider. Almost never use it for in town messing around unless my niece wants to go for a ride. When it goes it's usually out for at least an afternoon ride if not a road trip.

That does mean that significant majority of the miles on my tires are on longer (and likely hotter) stretches than would be a cruiser or a townie bike. And most of those miles are with the bike loaded. Like you I do think the load makes a significant difference. Really seems to be the case.

I had thought about the bigger rear. An alternative. I'm thinking going to end up trying a different alternative altogether though. The front currently installed will live through one more rear. The next new rear will go relatively soon. When they're both worn for replacement at the next cycle I'm going to radials. Will be very interested to see how those service us.

reo · « **Reply #51 on:** May 23, 2007, 08:19:03 PM »

Quote from: Twolanerider on May 23, 2007, 05:23:26 PM

Roy, it is absolutely true that my bike isn't really a local rider. Almost never use it for in town messing around unless my niece wants to go for a ride. When it goes it's usually out for at least an afternoon ride if not a road trip.

That does mean that significant majority of the miles on my tires are on longer (and likely hotter) stretches than would be a cruiser or a townie bike. And most of those miles are with the bike loaded. Like you I do think the load makes a significant difference. Really seems to be the case.

I had thought about the bigger rear. An alternative. I'm thinking going to end up trying a different alternative altogether though. The front currently installed will live through one more rear. The next new rear will go relatively soon. When they're both worn for replacement at the next cycle I'm going to radials. Will be very interested to see how those service us.

Don, keep us abreast if you find some radials that fit the bill. I looked into that as an option but with the detonators being new and finally (supposedly) fixed I decided to go the way I did.

Roy...

hdnut · « **Reply #52 on:** May 23, 2007, 08:21:34 PM »

What are the plus and minus of going to radials? :nixweiss:I know the them in car terms but on a motorcycle?

Twolanerider · « **Reply #53 on:** May 23, 2007, 08:30:18 PM »

Quote from: reo on May 23, 2007, 08:19:03 PM

Don, keep us abreast if you find some radials that fit the bill. I looked into that as an option but with the detonators being new and finally (supposedly) fixed I decided to go the way I did.

Roy...

Roy, with the SERK being fitted with radials I'm hoping the OE is moving that way generally. If so we'll start seeing more options. Admittedly there aren't a lot right now. But it's something I'm going to be watching between now and the next cycle of tires. When/if I see good options will definitely let you know.

Twolanerider · « **Reply #54 on:** May 23, 2007, 08:33:31 PM »

Quote from: hdnut on May 23, 2007, 08:21:34 PM

What are the plus and minus of going to radials? :nixweiss:I know the them in car terms but on a motorcycle?

Without knowing specifics of tread compounds we can't say with any certainty. But I'd hope to see longer tire life. For certain should be the stronger/stiffer sidewalls causing better handling in the rear. Road an 07 SERK last weekend with radials. Over 6-8 miles of country road exercised those tires to just short of abusing them (was someone else's bike). The differences you feel are both positive and noticable. Bike pulls upright faster. The firmness is noticable and effectiveness going through curves and twisties at "moderate" speeds. It was a good feel no matter how you exercised the tires.

reo · « **Reply #55 on:** May 23, 2007, 08:38:18 PM »

Quote from: hdnut on May 23, 2007, 08:21:34 PM

What are the plus and minus of going to radials? :nixweiss:I know the them in car terms but on a motorcycle?

Advantage is: the tire tread tracs better to the road as the sidewall handles the job at hand more effectively due to the design.

My biggest concerns would be belts shifting. I know now you don't see it as much on cars these days, I see it from time to time on truck tires especially when tire pressure is left low. My concern with the touring tires is because of the heat I believe they run hotter than the before mentioned and we defiantly don't give them any mercy. Well, we do have quite a few beta testing for us now that they put them on the serk, thats a start.

Roy.....

hdnut · « **Reply #56 on:** May 23, 2007, 10:12:36 PM »

Thanks for the info , I will look forward to your input.

mr_magoo · « **Reply #57 on:** May 24, 2007, 09:30:51 AM »

Quote from: Chief on May 23, 2007, 09:24:34 AM

Wow! Is that for E3's? Can you supply your source?

Thru our local dealer Colunbia HD in Vancouver, Washington.

mr_magoo · « **Reply #58 on:** May 24, 2007, 09:32:24 AM »

Don't believe there a radials avalible in our stock tire size.

displacing air · « **Reply #59 on:** May 25, 2007, 05:39:43 PM »

Well the Elite 3's came in today...

Wish I had a bike to put them on?
Soon...I hope!

Pretty quick ship...ya'll can look at earlier post to see how long it
took. $201 to the front door.

DisAir

jeffj · « **Reply #60 on:** May 26, 2007, 04:27:52 PM »

My Elite 3's have about 1,000 rounds on them and I like them

Rode a little bit in rain, last week and they seemed to hold the lane well
However, there should as they are brand new

As I get more rounds on the tires I will report back

jeffj

mr_magoo · « **Reply #61 on:** May 26, 2007, 10:25:16 PM »

Good to hear. I had mine up in the mountains and the twistes today and thought it handled very well, on par with what I've gotten out of Metzlers.

Hoist! · « **Reply #62 on:** July 01, 2007, 08:16:33 PM »

Interesting observation on tread wear on the stock Elite III Radials on the SERK3. Not very impressed with that right now, although I do like the ride and handling characteristics of this tire. 5300 miles, granted a lot of high speed, 2-up loaded and hard riding, but only at 3/32" right in the center of the rear tire. This tread pattern, with the radial at least, progressively gets deeper toward the outsides of the tire. Gets up to 7/32". It always had less tread depth in the center. I'm keeping an eye to see if the center continues to wear, but don't think I'm gonna get 7500 miles out of the rear tire.

Anyone have any observations on tread wear on these tires?

Hoist!

Twolanerider · « **Reply #63 on:** July 01, 2007, 10:00:19 PM »

Quote from: Hoist on July 01, 2007, 08:16:33 PM

Interesting observation on tread wear on the stock Elite III Radials on the SERK3. Not very impressed with that right now, although I do like the ride and handling characteristics of this tire. 5300 miles, granted a lot of high speed, 2-up loaded and hard riding, but only at 3/32" right in the center of the rear tire. This tread pattern, with the radial at least, progressively gets deeper toward the outsides of the tire. Gets up to 7/32". It always had less tread depth in the center. I'm keeping an eye to see if the center continues to wear, but don't think I'm gonna get 7500 miles out of the rear tire.

Anyone have any observations on tread wear on these tires?

Hoist!

What I've wondered (but haven't been able to find out) on the E3's is what the minimum is supposed to be per factory spec and measured from where on the tire? With the 402's it was a scary 1/32 as the HD spec for minimum. But with these the number completely depends on where you measure.

Got any idea what it was in the middle when the tire was new?

cuthbertss · « **Reply #64 on:** July 01, 2007, 10:11:22 PM »

Quote from: Twolanerider on July 01, 2007, 10:00:19 PM

What I've wondered (but haven't been able to find out) on the E3's is what the minimum is supposed to be per factory spec and measured from where on the tire? With the 402's it was a scary 1/32 as the HD spec for minimum. But with these the number completely depends on where you measure.

Got any idea what it was in the middle when the tire was new?

That is probably an important number that many of us need!

grc · « **Reply #65 on:** July 01, 2007, 10:35:53 PM »

Quote from: Twolanerider on July 01, 2007, 10:00:19 PM

What I've wondered (but haven't been able to find out) on the E3's is what the minimum is supposed to be per factory spec and measured from where on the tire? With the 402's it was a scary 1/32 as the HD spec for minimum. But with these the number completely depends on where you measure.

Got any idea what it was in the middle when the tire was new?

Can't find any specs on the OEM version of the radial, but here are the specs on the rest of the E3's. As for the minimum tread depth, Dunlop recommends replacement before reaching 1/32" on all of their tires - they don't break it out by tire model.

Jerry

Twolanerider · « **Reply #66 on:** July 01, 2007, 11:03:06 PM »

Quote from: grc on July 01, 2007, 10:35:53 PM

Can't find any specs on the OEM version of the radial, but here are the specs on the rest of the E3's. As for the minimum tread depth, Dunlop recommends replacement before reaching 1/32" on all of their tires - they don't break it out by tire model.

Jerry

This still begs the question of where the measurement is taken from. Here is an otherwise good tire. At the very inner ends it's already less than 1/32. Outboard only a tiny bit it's just over 6/32. It stays there for most of it's run but gets even deeper at the outside edge.

I assume they want the depth gauge stuck in the center/consistent part of the tire. But there are other options.

Hoist! · « **Reply #67 on:** July 02, 2007, 12:35:53 AM »

I took the measurement from the dead center. The radial has some treads that run across the front of tire. I only measured the rear. I didn't measure it when it was new. The front one looks OK as I expect it to. Maybe I shouldn't be so concerned right now. I'll still keep an eye on them. Hoist!

FLHRSE3 · « **Reply #68 on:** July 02, 2007, 06:09:18 PM »

SERK3 manual states wear bars will appear when 1/32” tread remains, wear bars run horizontally in the vertical channel in the center of the tire. I just measured and I have 1/32” inch to go until wear bar is flush with tire, 1/32” tread will remain at that time. I have 8400 miles, I would assume the less aggressive riding style of the first 5000 miles during the winter months has something to do with it.

Gregg

Hoist! · « **Reply #69 on:** July 02, 2007, 06:28:47 PM »

Quote from: FLHRSE3 on July 02, 2007, 06:09:18 PM

SERK3 manual states wear bars will appear when 1/32” tread remains, wear bars run horizontally in the vertical channel in the center of the tire. I just measured and I have 1/32” inch to go until wear bar is flush with tire, 1/32” tread will remain at that time. I have 8400 miles, I would assume the less aggressive riding style of the first 5000 miles during the winter months has something to do with it.

Gregg

Thanks for the update Gregg. I kinda thought that might be the case, because it's way too soon for the tire to be shot. Even the way I push it. If you can ride it awhile at 1/32, I should be OK for a little while longer like this. I'll keep an eye on it, but sounds more like I need to get used to a different wear pattern than before with bias ply tires. Hoist!

reo · « **Reply #70 on:** July 02, 2007, 09:45:09 PM »

Quote from: Twolanerider on July 01, 2007, 11:03:06 PM

This still begs the question of where the measurement is taken from. Here is an otherwise good tire. At the very inner ends it's already less than 1/32. Outboard only a tiny bit it's just over 6/32. It stays there for most of it's run but gets even deeper at the outside edge.

I assume they want the depth gauge stuck in the center/consistent part of the tire. But there are other options.

Don if you come up with the answer, please let me know. I as you really don't understand where to measure these EIII's. At the center of the back tire there is a point where there literally is no tread, and thats the point that will wear the thinest on long bagged up rides like we do. I would have thought there would have at least been some wear holes to measure from.

Roy......

Twolanerider · « **Reply #71 on:** July 02, 2007, 09:51:06 PM »

Quote from: reo on July 02, 2007, 09:45:09 PM

Don if you come up with the answer, please let me know. I as you really don't understand where to measure these EIII's. At the center of the back tire there is a point where there literally is no tread, and thats the point that will wear the thinest on long bagged up rides like we do. I would have thought there would have at least been some wear holes to measure from.

Roy......

Emailed asking this question awhile back. Twice. Never got an answer.

nixobilly · « **Reply #72 on:** July 02, 2007, 10:34:57 PM »

I checked the web site but I cant find the chart that says what the tire pressure should be for fat man (246 LB) and 24 days worth of luggage should be for E3 bias tires....

What is everyone running?

Thanks

Twolanerider · « **Reply #73 on:** July 02, 2007, 11:16:51 PM »

Quote from: nixobilly on July 02, 2007, 10:34:57 PM

I checked the web site but I cant find the chart that says what the tire pressure should be for fat man (246 LB) and 24 days worth of luggage should be for E3 bias tires....

What is everyone running?

Thanks

Whatever it says for max on the side of the tire.

nixobilly · « **Reply #74 on:** July 02, 2007, 11:29:04 PM »

My name is Mark not Max so I didn't think it applied to me......

Thanks 2Lane!

Mark

cuthbertss · « **Reply #75 on:** July 02, 2007, 11:30:06 PM »

Quote from: nixobilly on July 02, 2007, 11:29:04 PM

My name is Mark not Max so I didn't think it applied to me......

Thanks 2Lane!

Mark

Good one Mark

Twolanerider · « **Reply #76 on:** July 02, 2007, 11:40:56 PM »

Quote from: nixobilly on July 02, 2007, 11:29:04 PM

My name is Mark not Max so I didn't think it applied to me......

Thanks 2Lane!

Mark

If my bike weren't in the trailer already to be left at the dyno shop tomorrow I'd take a magic marker to the back tire and take a picture

!

nixobilly · « **Reply #77 on:** July 02, 2007, 11:44:39 PM »

ROFL! I guess that this Tulsa boy has lived too long, too close to Texas A&M!!!

Hope all goes well at the Dyno as we are about a week out or so from our little road trip.

Mark

Tony - www.1700cc.co.uk · « **Reply #78 on:** July 03, 2007, 04:50:20 PM »

Quote from: grc on July 01, 2007, 10:35:53 PM

Can't find any specs on the OEM version of the radial, but here are the specs on the rest of the E3's. As for the minimum tread depth, Dunlop recommends replacement before reaching 1/32" on all of their tires.

Jerry,

The tables were helpful. I am starting to believe that I might understand this tyre mumbo-jumbo one day.

I am on my 3rd MU85 B16 77H stock rear tyre. Correct me if I am wrong and fill in the blank spots;

1. MU85 - No idea what this means!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2. B16 - The 16 indicates 16" diameter wheels (not sure about the 'B')
3. 77H - The 77 is based on some algorithm that determines load or maximum weight that it will take
4. 77H - The H indicates it is designed to handle 'H'igh speeds (presumeably V is for Very high speed)
5. 140, 150 or 160 - Suspect that this is the measurement that says how tall the tyre is off the rim?

??
6. What indicates the width? (I don't think it could be much wider & still clear the fender)

All help appreciated!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

grc · « **Reply #79 on:** July 03, 2007, 05:28:51 PM »

Quote from: Tony - www.1700cc.co.uk on July 03, 2007, 04:50:20 PM

Jerry,

The tables were helpful. I am starting to believe that I might understand this tyre mumbo-jumbo one day.

I am on my 3rd MU85 B16 77H stock rear tyre. Correct me if I am wrong and fill in the blank spots;

1. MU85 - No idea what this means!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
2. B16 - The 16 indicates 16" diameter wheels (not sure about the 'B')
3. 77H - The 77 is based on some algorithm that determines load or maximum weight that it will take
4. 77H - The H indicates it is designed to handle 'H'igh speeds (presumeably V is for Very high speed)
5. 140, 150 or 160 - Suspect that this is the measurement that says how tall the tyre is off the rim???
6. What indicates the width? (I don't think it could be much wider & still clear the fender)

All help appreciated!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tony,

1. The MU85 part of the designation is the section width and the aspect ratio. This is the "alpha" sizing method, as opposed to the "metric" method which in this case would be 140/85. Basically this means the tire is 140mm wide (sidewall to sidewall), and is 85% of that tall (140 X .85 = 119mm tall). Life would be much easier if everyone would just use the metric designations.
2. The B16 indicates the tire is a belted tire which fits on a 16" rim.
3&4. The 77H indicates the load rating and speed rating as you suspected. 77 corresponds to a load rating of 908 lbs, and H corresponds to a max speed rating of 130 mph.
5&6. See #1, this is the metric width (mm).

Speed ratings: S=112mph, H=130mph, V=149mph, Z=149⁺mph

Load Index ratings: 72=783lbs, 73=805lbs, 74=827lbs, 75=853lbs, 76=882lbs, 77=908lbs, 78=937lbs, 79=963lbs, 80=992lbs, etc.

Jerry

Tony - www.1700cc.co.uk · « **Reply #80 on:** July 03, 2007, 06:08:04 PM »

Quote from: grc on July 03, 2007, 05:28:51 PM

The MU85 part of the designation is the section width and the aspect ratio. This is the "alpha" sizing method, as opposed to the "metric" method which in this case would be 140/85. Basically this means the tire is 140mm wide (sidewall to sidewall), and is 85% of that tall (140 X .85 = 119mm tall). Life would be much easier if everyone would just use the metric designations.

Jerry,

Nice one!!!

We are getting there ... so my stock tyre is 140 mm wide.

There is very little clearance between the tyre and the fender.

Are you guys saying that my stock bike will take a 150 mm wide tyre?

Many thanks
Tony

bisounours · « **Reply #81 on:** July 04, 2007, 03:36:43 AM »

Quote from: grc on July 03, 2007, 05:28:51 PM

Tony,

1. The MU85 part of the designation is the section width and the aspect ratio. This is the "alpha" sizing method, as opposed to the "metric" method which in this case would be 140/85. Basically this means the tire is 140mm wide (sidewall to sidewall), and is 85% of that tall (140 X .85 = 119mm tall). Life would be much easier if everyone would just use the metric designations.
2. The B16 indicates the tire is a belted tire which fits on a 16" rim.
3&4. The 77H indicates the load rating and speed rating as you suspected. 77 corresponds to a load rating of 908 lbs, and H corresponds to a max speed rating of 130 mph.
5&6. See #1, this is the metric width (mm).

Speed ratings: S=112mph, H=130mph, V=149mph, Z=149⁺mph

Load Index ratings: 72=783lbs, 73=805lbs, 74=827lbs, 75=853lbs, 76=882lbs, 77=908lbs, 78=937lbs, 79=963lbs, 80=992lbs, etc.

Jerry

Thanks for the explanations, it's clear

Jacques

mr_magoo · « **Reply #82 on:** July 04, 2007, 11:49:19 AM »

And everybody measures tire size a little different. The dunlops in the same size as a meztler is narrower not much maybe 5mm or so.

reo · « **Reply #83 on:** July 04, 2007, 08:13:35 PM »

Quote from: mr_magoo on July 04, 2007, 11:49:19 AM

And everybody measures tire size a little different. The dunlops in the same size as a meztler is narrower not much maybe 5mm or so.

Heck Dunlops from model to model in the same size measure up differently. The front tire (MT90B16) in an EliteIII is 5.24, and the D402 is 5.20 now this is directley from the chart Dunlop has online. When I changed over on my seeg using the same detonator rim I can tell you the EliteIII is about 3/8 " narrower than the 402 that came on the bike, go figure that one.

Roy.......

mr_magoo · « **Reply #84 on:** July 04, 2007, 09:09:31 PM »

I got about the same result with Metzlers, as far as width.

REGGAB · « **Reply #85 on:** July 05, 2007, 12:20:15 AM »

Quote from: Twolanerider on July 01, 2007, 11:03:06 PM

This still begs the question of where the measurement is taken from. Here is an otherwise good tire. At the very inner ends it's already less than 1/32. Outboard only a tiny bit it's just over 6/32. It stays there for most of it's run but gets even deeper at the outside edge.

I assume they want the depth gauge stuck in the center/consistent part of the tire. But there are other options.

Something about that tread pattern..........and that slick strip down the middle that just gives me the willies. Doesn't look right at all.......disclaimer: purely my opinion.

grc · « **Reply #86 on:** July 05, 2007, 08:15:08 AM »

Quote from: REGGAB on July 05, 2007, 12:20:15 AM

Something about that tread pattern..........and that slick strip down the middle that just gives me the willies. Doesn't look right at all.......disclaimer: purely my opinion.

Sort of looks like a racing slick in the middle, doesn't it? Of course, that's a big part of the reason that the tire grips better - more rubber on the road - and doesn't squirm around and follow every little road irregularity. . You might think that it wouldn't be worth rat snot in the wet, but according to the reports posted here the wet performance is at least as good as the D402.

Jerry

cuthbertss · « **Reply #87 on:** July 05, 2007, 09:50:54 AM »

Quote from: grc on July 05, 2007, 08:15:08 AM

Sort of looks like a racing slick in the middle, doesn't it? Of course, that's a big part of the reason that the tire grips better - more rubber on the road - and doesn't squirm around and follow every little road irregularity. . You might think that it wouldn't be worth rat snot in the wet, but according to the reports posted here the wet performance is at least as good as the D402.

Jerry

always felt nervous on the D402 in the rain... on these, not in the slightest ( so far)

REGGAB · « **Reply #88 on:** July 05, 2007, 10:36:05 AM »

Quote from: grc on July 05, 2007, 08:15:08 AM

Sort of looks like a racing slick in the middle, doesn't it? Of course, that's a big part of the reason that the tire grips better - more rubber on the road - and doesn't squirm around and follow every little road irregularity. . You might think that it wouldn't be worth rat snot in the wet, but according to the reports posted here the wet performance is at least as good as the D402.

Jerry

Therein lies my mantra: If it aint broke, don't fix it. I'm not so sure the trade off of increased stick on dry pavement would be worth the possibility of having the sled come out from under me on a wet curve. These things are fairly new..........and I respect the expert advice and opinion of everyone on this site since the greater majority is far more experienced than I. Once these tires get some time and miles on them by this populace, and the reports come in, I'll do my own analysis and make a call at that point. Until then, I've only had one close call.........on sand.........with a D402, and none on wet pavement, so I'll stick with them for now.

grc · « **Reply #89 on:** July 06, 2007, 02:29:12 PM »

Quote from: Twolanerider on July 02, 2007, 09:51:06 PM

Emailed asking this question awhile back. Twice. Never got an answer.

I also emailed Dunlop, asking where they recommended the tread depth be measured on the Elite 3's. This is the answer I finally received:
-----------------
Good morning Gerald,
we recommend you check tread depth in three separate places.
The tread closest to the center and go out from there.
If you need any further assistance, please send us and e mail or call
Dunlop Motorcycle Consumer Affairs @ 800-845-8378
thank you,
Virginia Gallant
Consumer Affairs Representative
-----------------
Doesn't help all that much, since the area closest to the center will always show the most wear (assuming you don't ride purposely heeled over 30° to either side to equalize wear and maintain the original tire profile

). If it were me (which it will be once I wear out the current set of D402's), I believe I would measure approximately 1/16" outboard of the end of the tread nearest the center line of the tire, to avoid the rounded profile at the very end, and perform the measurement at several points around the circumference of the tire. Any reading of 1/32" or less should have you looking for a new tire ASAP.

Jerry

erniezap · « **Reply #90 on:** August 01, 2007, 02:53:10 PM »

I put the E3's on my SEEG right before the Nelson trip. They seem to be a little "cushier" on the highway, giving a niver ride. They also seem to stick better and feel softer. Rode in a pretty heavy rain for about an hour and they were fine, no bad feelings whatsoever. The only left to see is the mileage. I have about 4K on them now and they have a lot left. I'll buy them again...

soups7 · « **Reply #91 on:** August 17, 2007, 02:32:02 PM »

New wheels, E3's and Lyndall pads put on before trip to Sturgis, 5000 mile round trip. E3's track better than stock over grooves and tar strips. Felt fine in the one down pour we rode through. Only concern, and it may not be the tires, was a high speed (85-90mph) oscillation. Seemed to be better with more miles on the tires.

displacing air · « **Reply #92 on:** September 01, 2007, 07:06:03 AM »

Soups,

I noticed that oscillation also...at 90 to 95...coming back from Gatlinburg last week.
I thought maybe the tire was more sensitive to the wind on the fairing...
I am going to have the dealer check the tire alignment and front end tension before
hot spings. Overall though the E3 rode much better than the stock dunlops!!!

Barry

SEULTRA · « **Reply #93 on:** September 14, 2007, 01:30:50 PM »

Good price for these now at http://www.motoxoutlet.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=975
$184.98 plus $25.00 shipping = $209.98 to my front door in Colorado.

Another site is AMT (American Motorcycle Tire) where you can get BOTH the MU90B16 and MT90B16 for $182.10 plus shipping
http://www.americanmototire.com/index.html?lang=en-us&target=d872.html

Local HD dealer quoted me $430 just for the tires and $130 for mounting and balancing. .. and don't forget tax.. that comes to ummmm, carry the two,... $600.32 GAG!!!

Author Topic: Dunlop Elite III's (Read 30218 times)

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