Different brand front and back tires?

[BMorleyW]

I've been running Metzler Z6s on my 1150 RT and have been satisfied. However I, like a lot of others, am concerned about lack of tread indicators on the rear tire and, because I ride a lot of gravel, the lack of tread across the middle of the rear. As a result I think I'm going to try a Michelin Road Pilot or Road Pilot 2. Question, because I still have another 4,000 miles or so on my front Z6, any concern with having the Road Pilot on the rear and the Z6 on the front? Also, in your opinion, will the Road Pilot be better in gravel, mud etc. that I occasionally encounter in my camping trips? Thanks, Steve

[Mr. Frank]

I've run different brand tires many times including a Z6 front and Pilot Road rear and had no problem. As long as you are running the proper size and the same construction (radial), you are unlikely to notice anything. As with all new tires it is important to take it easy at first to familiarize yourself with any changes in handling.

[maxscycle]

I've been running Metzler Z6s on my 1150 RT, Steve

Is the me880 avalable in your size?
max

[PGlaves]

Is the me880 avalable in your size?
max

Yes

[BMorleyW]

I'm not familiar with the me 880. Who makes it and what are the advantages? Thanks, Steve

[PGlaves]

I'm not familiar with the me 880. Who makes it and what are the advantages? Thanks, Steve

The 880 is, more precisely the Metzeler ME880 Marathon. Obviously made by Metzeler. It is their touring tire. Not as sticky as the Z6 sport touring tire, but it provides somewhere about double the tread life compared to the Z6.

You can go here:

http://www.us.metzelermoto.com/web/products/product_literature/default.page

to download the Metzeler full product brochure in .pdf format. It pretty much covers anything Metzeler will sell you.

Fittment guide, pressure recommendations, tire lines, specifications, etc.

[BMorleyW]

Thanks for the info. I went ahead and ordered the Michelin Pilot Road 2 rear and will keep the Metzeler Z6 on the front, it looks like it will go another 4,000 miles or so. (I have 7,600 on the Z6s.) I ordered from an online outfit in Utah because it was the least expensive I could find ($162 plus $15 shipping). The tire has been shipped, we'll see how long it takes to get here. Looking at the Me 880 it just didn't seem like a good choice for the kind of riding that I do - mountainous, lots of twistys, although I did like the tread thickness and design. Thanks for all the help. S