Bridgestone Spitfire size

[Jeff488]

I am thinking to replace tires on my 100rt with Spitfires.
The PO put a Conti Tour on the rear, 120 x 18.
It just barely clears the drive shaft housing. Will the Spitfire 120 fit, or do I need to go to the 110?

[20774]

I had an S11 110/90 on the rear of my /7...a bear to get off/on. I'll never do that again. The Dunlop 110/90 is basically the same. My next tire is going to be inch-size...not sure what or where I'll get it, though...I do have some time to consider that. 110 size in one manufacturer is not the same for another, so beware...

Before the S11, I had a Pirelli Strada MT68 (they don't make it anymore) but I don't remember the size. It rubbed my swingarm, but I was able to mostly file the very edge of the tire down so it rubbed very little.

[sumran]

I have a Conti Tour 120/90-18 on mine as well. It is difficult to remove and replace (have to let the air out) but it handle and rides very well. Since the tire is new I'll probably ride it until it is due for a change. I'll be interested to hear what tire you choose and how it affects performance.

[sgborgstrom]

I had spitfires on an R100S 5 or 6 years ago. They were ok in dry weather but got squirrely feeling as soon as it rained. Something that may not be as important in Texas as it is here in Western Washington.

[169347]

I have them on my '83 RS. The front is a 100/90/19 and the rear is a 120/90/18. No problems with the tires, but then it's difficult to be subjective with the tire issue, it all depends on your ability and wallet.

Woodgrain

[Jeff488]

I have them on my '83 RS. The front is a 100/90/19 and the rear is a 120/90/18. No problems with the tires, but then it's difficult to be subjective with the tire issue, it all depends on your ability and wallet.

Woodgrain

How tough is it to get the rear on and off?

[169347]

With all the air out of the tire it's a bit of a chore. If you can raise the bike high enough to have the tire clear the swing-arm for removal, it makes a big difference. Try and get a friend to tilt the bike to the right side(while on the centre-stand) and you'll be able to pull it out easily. It,s the size called for in my Clymer manual, so that's what I put on. On my R75/5 I use the smaller 110/90/18.

Woodgrain

[peashootersteve]

Just put Avon AM26's on my R100, 90/90-19 and 110/90-18 , have'nt ridden more than a few miles but they feel nice, installed easy, and look great...I'll follow up after 1K miles....

[Jeff488]

With all the air out of the tire it's a bit of a chore. If you can raise the bike high enough to have the tire clear the swing-arm for removal, it makes a big difference. Try and get a friend to tilt the bike to the right side(while on the centre-stand) and you'll be able to pull it out easily. It,s the size called for in my Clymer manual, so that's what I put on. On my R75/5 I use the smaller 110/90/18.

Woodgrain

Yeah, that's the same problem I have with the Conti. I was hoping for a bit easier removal with the 110.
Oh well, I think I'm gonna go for the 110 on the rear as soon as it needs it.
Just got back from the Top of the Rockies rally and have to do some work on the bike.