how to find tires for r1100r

[ranceg2]

Well I just found out why my rear tire went flat (the plug the previous owner put in is now leaking; guess that is one of the reasons they are illegal).
I live out here in the hills of Southwest part of VA... I want to replace the rear tire with the original metzler and size the two stores I have gone to say they can't find that exact size but can sell me a Metzler close to that one for 120 plus 50 if I bring the bike in or just 10 if I bring the rim in; the other place say the close tire is 180+ and they may not charge to change the tire...

I have never taken a tire off of a motorcycle but it is time I learned... What size tire (Metzler) is a good substitute and is it reasonable for a novice to take the rear tire off? more questions if you can telephone me...
thanks
Randy rgg8z@virginia.edu

[kbasa]

Moved to oilheads.

Carry on.

[Mr. Frank]

Hi Randy,

You don't want a size that is close, you want the exact size. Check the manual to be sure. Next you have to decide if you want a sport tire (very sticky but short lived), a sport touring tire (pretty sticky but longer lived) or a touring tire (OK stick but long lived). When you know the exact size and type tire you want come back, and there will be lots of opinions. Also be advised that there are lots of mail order/online tire places that can get you a tire in a week or so.

[ranceg2]

Originally posted by Mr. Frank
Hi Randy,

You don't want a size that is close, you want the exact size. Check the manual to be sure. Next you have to decide if you want a sport tire (very sticky but short lived), a sport touring tire (pretty sticky but longer lived) or a touring tire (OK stick but long lived). When you know the exact size and type tire you want come back, and there will be lots of opinions. Also be advised that there are lots of mail order/online tire places that can get you a tire in a week or so.

Thanks so much for your help. I probably need the long lasting tire .... I only know of Dennis Kirk, if you have other sources let me know. I hear people don't like putting a tire on for you unless they have sold it to you. Is it difficult for a novice to take the tire and rim off? (I know that is hard to answer (I usually replace my own brake pads, change oil, filters, plugs stuff like that - on my cars.... If you don't have time to answer I understand; but thanks anyway.
Randy

[Mr. Frank]

Changing tires yourself requires, at the least, some good tire irons, rim protectors, know how, and often a third hand. I don't recommend it. Many shops will change a tire you bought elsewhere if you bring them the wheel and make arrangements in advance. Expect to pay about $25.

Motorcycle Accessory Warehouse (mawonline.com, I think) has good prices and service. Dennis Kirk has very high prices unless you refer to a specific ad from another company in a current magazine.

If you want long life the Metzeler ME880 is probably the choice. Other choices for decent life would be the Bridgestone BT20, Dunlop 205, Michelin Pilot Road. Most people like to match tires front and rear.

[ranceg2]

Frank,
Since I should keep front and rear the same and the front is still in good shape I will go back with the Metzler and buy the Z6 (I wonder if this odd size (160/60, ZR18)will cause me problems down the road; don't seem to be many of this strange size around). Now I'm going to get in my little book that came with the bike, put it on center stand and proceed to take the tire off, then take it to someone to put the new tire on when it comes from MAW.
Thanks again
Randy

[Mr. Frank]

Check the manual to be sure you get the right size. There are plenty of your bike model around, so tire availability should be OK.

A trick in removing the rear wheel is to put the center stand on a piece of 1" thick wood. That will give you a little more clearance in getting the wheel out.