Hitchcocks Forum

Hi,

I recently picked up a 2012 Classic chrome bullet and i'm thinking of replacing the tyres with something a tad chunkier. Perhaps a 19" Mitas H02 at the front and something similar in 18" at the rear.

Can anyone advise if I need to take anything into consideration in terms of handling etc. I'm also slightly unsure what width tyres would be the best. Is it safe to go half an inch wider than the standard?

I'm very new to this motorbike lark so any input will be gratefully received.

ta
Martin

I've used two pairs of Mitas H01 and H02 tires on my Electra (X) and I can't recommend them, especially for unexperienced. They don't cost much but last only a summer being a bit wobbly and I dare say dangerous in wet.
Nowadays, I use Heidenau K34.

Thanks for that. how do you find the Heidenau's perform for you? They fit the bill in terms of the sort of thing i'm looking for.

I run a Mitas on the rear of my 2008 efi and apart from wearing quickly it's not too bad, a bit nervous in slippery conditions. One of the problems I have is the 19" rear wheel so interesting to hear yours in 18", do you know whether an aftermarket fitment as I've been thinking of going for this to give me a wider choice of tyres?

I believe the 18" rear is standard for my bike. Bit of a pain as it makes it difficult to get a matching pair

I put a pair of Mitas on my 2007E/S and took them off again a few days later. Awful tyres, every bit as bad a Avon Skidmasters and then some. The usual word that goes with cheap is nasty, just don't go there. Personally I swear by Dunlop K70, a classic tyre, or K82, a modern tyre with TT100/K81 tread pattern. Opinions on tyres and tyre pressures are utterly subjective though and are only personal preferences.

Heidenaus work very well for me, in fact I bought three of them last summer - two for back. I intend to use them on my beemer too when Metzelers wore out. I always buy "Tube Type" (TT) tires as I change them myself with hand tools: tubeless are much stiffer.

Too chunky equals less grip on sealed roads. A wider rear tyre will foul the wiring harness under the mudguard. Beware of changing from factory specifications.