I have an 05 GS500f and need a new tire. On my second set of tires, currently running Pirelli Sport Demon's but I need a new rear. Question is has anybody switched to a different tire size and had any clearance issue in the swing arm. Stock is 130/70-17 looking to go to 130/90-17 without changing rims or modding anything, can this be done? Thanks for a fast reply as I am sadly sitting and starring at my bike and can't ride it till I get a new tire :icon_confused: :cry: Dang cords that are showing. :dunno_white:
There is a ton of information on running various size type and size tires on both the stock 3.5" wheel as well as 4" and 4.5" wheels off of other bikes. A simple search for "tires", "tire sizes", or "rear-wheel swap" would be a good starting point. Actually, the best starting point is here http://pantablo500.tripod.com/ (http://pantablo500.tripod.com/). Scroll down, along the left-hand side of the page are numerous topics, and you'll find "General tire info for the GS". Check this thread http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=25426.0 (http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=25426.0) about swapping your stock rear-wheel to a Katana wheel to accomodate a larger rear tire.
I've run Metzeler ME88, Dunlop K491, and Kenda K657 tires in the 130/90 or equiv MT90 size with no clearance problems. Will raise rear end of bike about 1" and quicken steering a bit.
i rube kenda k657 love themi
I run Shinko 005 Advanced.120-60 front 160-60 rear.I have a Bandit400 fender on the front because the GS fender will rub.I am running a Bandit600 rear wheel with modified spacers.Also my chain guard and caliper torque rod have been modified.
Got the cheapo King's tires 140/70-17 hard compound long life tire. Looks to be a 15,000 mile tire. Haven't switched the OE fronts yet at 14,000 miles it's almost due.
thats gotta be damned hard to ride in the wet tho :o
I think if not the most important thing on the bike . second to brakes i think , a decent set of tyres make the bike how its going to react in situations, i personally run 150 on a 4.5 inch rim and 110 Bt 45s , im going to go 160 and 120 next tho,