Someone please correct me if I'm wrong but my understanding is that Metzlers are a harder compound which reduces grip but increases tire life. On the other end of the spectrum are the Avons which are gumballs..., i.e., a very soft compound with exceptional grip at the cost of tire life because they wear quickly. The Dunlops are the compromise between the two.
Is this the understanding of others?
I run Metzler 880's front and rear which give me much better wet traction. They do square off on long freeway treks, however not as quickly as the Avons. I'm hoping to fit the Elite 3 in a 180/70/16 on some lighter wheels/rotors. Still working on getting a 17" front for us too. More will be revealed....
I know I may get flamed here..... But, I am not impressed with the D402. I can not say enough good things about the Dunlop 208 & 209 GP-As. But, that is another bike forum.
Ride On,
Andy