Radial vs Bias Ply?

[peltz.chris]

Looking for help on tires. My 2022 Speedmaster takes a 150/80R16 radial tire while the front is bias ply (these are the factory installs). Working with Colorado Moto to get new tires but a radial back has been improssible to find. A number of folks with the same bike have used bias play for the rear (eg Michelen Commander III) but the mechanic mentioned that we should follow the factory setup with radial in the back, bias ply in the front.

I don't want to wait too long for radials to be in stock (Cobra Chrome specifically), but also don't want to ride it on long rides given the tread on the back tire is almost gone.

What do you all say?

[Steve Smith]

Chris,

Unless you’re cornering at a good clip you’re probably okay with the bias ply rear. The ride will be a bit stiffer because of the sidewall construction but the load capacity will be higher and the price lower. 

I would suggest checking the Triumph forums for other riders experiences if you haven’t already. It’s apparently not a new subject of discussion amongst Bonneville owners. 

I’m not recommending that you ignore the factory fitment but it’s worth investigating other options since the specified tires are somewhat low on stock. Good luck. 

Steve

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[Steve Smith]

https://www.revzilla.com/common-tread/why-things-are-bias-ply-and-radial-tires

Just some more info about the differences

Steve

[Chris Peltz]

Thanks Steve. Very helpful. A number of other Speedmaster owners are putting bias ply on the back simply because the Cobra Chromes have been out of stock for a while. And I'm not one to scrape the pegs on corners, so it sounds like it should be ok. 

I know I can get the bias ply with Dunlop, Metzeler, Michelin, Pirelli, and Shinko. Any tire brands that the group recommends avoiding? 

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[Jim Kerick]

Bias ply have a wide range for hard middle and sticky outer edges.

Depending on your choice you will the have more than sufficient traction when leaned over.

I've run the stock Pirellis, Michelin Pilot 3, and currently Connie Road Attacks. All bias ply, all plant(ed) really well in the corners.

If you aren't knee dragging you should be fine.

Jim

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[peltz.chris]

Thanks Jim. It is odd that there are few radial options for my rear tire size (150/80/16). Seems like most radials start at 180 and higher. Avon Cobra Chrome is the only one I have found and that's the one out of stock everywhere.

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[Norman Wright]

You might check with TFOG, 303-216-2400.  Located in Arvada.  He's put tireso n my Bonne.  He installs tires on Sat by appt while you wait at a fair price.