HI,
i have a gs500 with a gsxr 600 k8 front end and a rear r6 shock.
stock size for front is 120 70 r17
the bike has a bandit 600 rear rim.
i am looking for my next tires:
currently im using metzeler me33 120/70 front and 150/70 rear(way too big, i ordered 140 but received 150, not recommended, grind brake arm and wheel mudguard(destroyed it, barely fits in the frame)
i liked the front but the rear is horrible when wet, at least is predictable.
I would like to put something like conti trail attack 3 but i am unsure of which size to choose.
My first concern is the front-rear balance. i like having 120 in the front but a 130 rear with 120 front is ok? better 140?
i would like to put something like 140 /80 in the rear, thats when the problem to choose the front tire begins due to tire sizes availability, especially with trail oriented tires, because my front rrim is a 17 not 19 nor 21 inches.
if i had to choose i would put 120/80 in the front with 140/80 in the rear.
im lookin for tires with great grip in the rain and at least a decent performance in the dirt/gravel and ocassional mud/sand.
i can consider changing swingarm links lenght to stablize the change of size if neccesary.
im looking forward to hear your experiences and advice.
Look at trailwings. I know they're available in the 140/80X17. That's what's on my SCR. But yes its front is a 19.
Cool.
Buddha.
For checking out tire sizes, try a site called Fortnine. Big selection and good search filters, good place for research even if you don't buy there.
For checking the effect of your tire selections on your gear ratio and speedometer, check out a site called Gearing Commander.
The bike is too front heavy for dirt use, regardless of the tires; but at least with the 120 on the front you have more footprint to fight the tendency to wash out. I think the sizes you picked are a good compromise. My 2 cents: with a front heavy bike on a loose surface you don't want really overpowering rear traction; it is better to have the back tire break traction first, as it's easier to correct a fishtail than a front-end wash-out.
Would a 120/90 fit on the front? how about 120/90 + 140/70 0r 80. This would give the front more cushion and a little more rolling distance and the whole bike will sit a little taller.
(https://i.ibb.co/CzTVPP8/IMG-20230118-072505933.jpg)
I have a 160/80 with bandit swingarm. Front is a 120. I would say it handles great even set up like this.
Wow, a 160/80 that must be like riding on a cloud, what is the aspect of the front 120?
My neighbors 1985 ZL900 (like 600lbs easy) has a 160/80...looks pretty mean.
Thanks to all of you.
my front fender should be replaced anyways.
Im back on track, just got a new tank! so i will be ready soon.
Quote from: cbrfxr67 on January 19, 2023, 11:47:27 AM(https://i.ibb.co/CzTVPP8/IMG-20230118-072505933.jpg)
I have a 160/80 with bandit swingarm. Front is a 120. I would say it handles great even set up like this.
How did you make the bandit swingarm fit?
Is it longer? Also steel?
I replaced the swingarm for the OEM one.