Confused..Help about 92 GS500E

[wannabebikechic24]

I am confused???  I had a topic about tires before, but now even more confused.  I am looking to put 120/80-17 on the front and 140/80-17 on the rear.  My rear tire needs replaced first.  I think the bike has the wrong tire on it.  I this size ok and does it make a difference than stock size???  Which is better bias-ply or radials???  I just got the bike about 3 weeks ago and top speed for me has not gone above 80 for now!!  Just learning how to ride.  Please give me any advice, knowledge or own experiences with BT45's, Avon AZ45/46, Pirelli Sport Demons, or any tire that is comparable.

Thanks to everyone that replies and might help with my dilema!

Wannabebikechic24

[JamesG]

120/80 is too big for the GS's front rim.  Besides being heavier than the right size the tire will be pinched on the rim which will affect handling and wear. You can get away with a 140 on the rear, but it too will change your handling and will make the bike taller. All else being equal, radials are better tires.

Do a search on here for "tires" and you will have a couple days worth of reading.

[Kerry]

As you may have found out already, the stock tire sizes are:

Front: 110/70-17
Rear: 130/70-17[/list:u]If you go with radials you will not be able to find these sizes (at least not for the rear) and will have to go bigger.

But if you're just starting out, I would heartily recommend Bridgestone BT45s (H-rated, not V-rated) in the stock sizes.

You can bump the "70" numbers to "80" if you have to.  I found that the 130/80-17 was cheaper than the 130/70-17, but it also wore out more quickly down the center.  That is my CURRENT situation, and now I have to replace the rear tire even though it still has LOTS of tread left on the sides....