PNW Riders

Armand · 07-14-2009, 11:41 AM

So I got to thinking that soon I'll be getting some new tires on the r1 and I'm not too sure which size I want to try lol. Bike came with 190/50s. I changed last year to 190/55 which aparently is a bit odd in some peoples eyes lol. And I've also seen a lot of people run 180/55 on liter bikes.

So what is your opinion on advantages and disadvantages on tire sizes.
And yes I know there's an article that explains the size difference, but I want your opinions lol

FZ6Rider · 07-14-2009, 12:06 PM

I dont think that 180/55 can support 1 litters a$$ that well and for that reason they came with 190. I have been told few times that bike turns better with 55 insted of a 50, all in all I think its riders preference more than anything else.
If you cant my your desicion than go with the stock size.

theJrod · 07-14-2009, 12:12 PM

190/55 is the absolute best size for a bike with a 6" rim. Now that you can get 190/55s in street tires, there is really no contest.

The only reason why people ever put 180/55s on liter bikes was because 190/55s were only available in race compounds at the time.

There are probably a dozen threads about this, so if you want more information on the benefits, just do a search.

Nefarious · 07-14-2009, 12:16 PM

Originally Posted by thejrod

190/55 is the absolute best size for a bike with a 6" rim. Now that you can get 190/55s in street tires, there is really no contest.

The only reason why people ever put 180/55s on liter bikes was because 190/55s were only available in race compounds at the time.

There are probably a dozen threads about this, so if you want more information on the benefits, just do a search.

holypiston · 07-14-2009, 12:20 PM

Originally Posted by theJrod

190/55 is the absolute best size for a bike with a 6" rim.

6"? Now that's a low rider.

WRtard · 07-14-2009, 12:33 PM

Originally Posted by holypiston

6"? Now that's a low rider.

that would be 6" wide...smartass

theJrod · 07-14-2009, 12:33 PM

Originally Posted by holypiston

6"? Now that's a low rider.

Width holmes, width.

pv2 · 07-14-2009, 12:36 PM

figure the lower profile allows for more straight line stability.
The higher profile allows you more flickability and also your contact patch for deeper cornering will be bigger/ wider for a given profile.

Much like the difference between a chicken eggs profile on one side vs the other, e.g., top/ bottom; be it non elastic and a bit exaggerated.

Cages are a bit different, lower profile generally reduces sidewall flex and gives you more exacting control and a number of deficits and benefits.

pv2

late apex · 07-14-2009, 01:31 PM

you also get more bump absorption out of a taller sidewall when at full lean. 190/55-17 is the only way to go.

jprv4pilot · 07-14-2009, 02:14 PM

190/55-zr17

Transported · 07-14-2009, 02:43 PM

I haven't tried the 190/55-17, but I switch between the 190/50-17 and 180/55-17 and don't notice much difference. The 190s look cooler, but they also cost a shitload more. I buy whichever is on sale or cheaper, which is usually the 180.

Then again, I don't race or do track. But, for street, can't really tell the diff.

mfrankpdx · 07-14-2009, 05:38 PM

I sure can't complain about the 190/50. If the 190/55 is THAT much different, it almost sounds dangerously flickable. Of course the Pilot Powers have that triangular profile, so they probably feel similar to other brand's /55 profile.

Sentor · 07-14-2009, 06:28 PM

Tom Young from Competition Motors was talking with Ed (Spaceroc) about going to a 180... He said that he'd turn in faster, and enjoy it for track conditions....

This guy seems like he knows his stuff.

Diana · 07-14-2009, 07:53 PM

I prefer the 180/55

theJrod · 07-14-2009, 08:11 PM

Originally Posted by mfrankpdx

I sure can't complain about the 190/50. If the 190/55 is THAT much different, it almost sounds dangerously flickable. Of course the Pilot Powers have that triangular profile, so they probably feel similar to other brand's /55 profile.

It's not a "you'll crash and poke your eye out" kind of difference. But it's noticable, and pretty much every bike made these days can benefit from the additional rear ride height to improve handling.

Originally Posted by Sentor

Tom Young from Competition Motors was talking with Ed (Spaceroc) about going to a 180... He said that he'd turn in faster, and enjoy it for track conditions....

This guy seems like he knows his stuff.

You fail at name dropping. Never heard of any of them.

Besides, those are the exact reasons why the 190/55 is superior to the 190/50. The 180/55 works (and it's still an improvement), but is a compromise.

Originally Posted by Diana

I prefer the 180/55

After trying all 3 different sizes?

Sentor · 07-14-2009, 08:14 PM

Tom Young is the PSSR Trackday host and the main Pirelli distributor in the area.

I run a 190/55, love it, and won't be changing anytime soon myself.

Squiddly Van Dickweed · 07-14-2009, 08:55 PM

The 190/50's look cool, but as far as performance, the 190/55 is the cats ass. Think more rubber on the pavement (read bigger contact patch when you really need it) when leaned over.

CBRinPDX · 07-14-2009, 09:23 PM

What the hell Armand? You're gonna start a war.

Armand · 07-14-2009, 10:05 PM

Originally Posted by CBRinPDX

What the hell Armand? You're gonna start a war.

You know what they say.... do what you're good at

I knew before asking that some preffer different sizes lol. I remember Diana saying she preffers 180/55. Heard some people say they preffer 180/55 even on a liter because its lighter and faster turn in. My stock was a 190/50 pilot powers, went up to 190/55 qualifiers, and debating on if I really want to try a 180/55 to compare.

From my personal experience the /50 felt a bit more comfortable on straights and little lean, the /55 felt taller and better in the turns. I don't think I lean more than I used to but on the /50 I had no chicken strips while on the /55 I still have about a quarter inch on either side lol

mfrankpdx · 07-14-2009, 10:09 PM

Originally Posted by Armand

I don't think I lean more than I used to but on the /50 I had no chicken strips while on the /55 I still have about a quarter inch on either side lol

That's cause Pilot Powers are chicken strip proof.

Never had a tire scrub off strips easier than PPs.

2 Wheel DynoWorks · 07-14-2009, 11:07 PM

Originally Posted by Armand

You know what they say.... do what you're good at

I knew before asking that some preffer different sizes lol. I remember Diana saying she preffers 180/55. Heard some people say they preffer 180/55 even on a liter because its lighter and faster turn in. My stock was a 190/50 pilot powers, went up to 190/55 qualifiers, and debating on if I really want to try a 180/55 to compare.

From my personal experience the /50 felt a bit more comfortable on straights and little lean, the /55 felt taller and better in the turns. I don't think I lean more than I used to but on the /50 I had no chicken strips while on the /55 I still have about a quarter inch on either side lol

Since you have tried the 190/50 and the 190/55, why not try the 180/55. Its not like its the last set of tires you are going to buy. I put the 180/55 on my '07 R1 and it turns in like a totally different bike. It actually caught me by suprize the first few times at slow speeds. Next time I will try the 190/55.

Fast Eddie 919 · 07-14-2009, 11:51 PM

I'm thinking about getting an R1.

fijiman · 07-15-2009, 12:10 AM

I had 190/50 on my busa and gsxr1000, but I have to say I like 190/55 much better. It also depends on your style of riding which size suits you best.

Zygoat · 07-15-2009, 10:54 PM

I sent you a PM Armand.

ddonacazx12 · 07-16-2009, 04:55 AM

Ask a question specifically about LITER BIKE tire size...

the first response is of course from someone on a 600.

( me likey... 190/55 )

TwistedTimes · 07-16-2009, 05:24 AM

as long as its a 55 series you'll be fine, 10mm is barely wider then a pencil....

theJrod · 07-16-2009, 10:43 AM

Originally Posted by ddonacazx12

Ask a question specifically about LITER BIKE tire size...

the first response is of course from someone on a 600.

( me likey... 190/55 )

I don't know if you're referring to me or the FZ6 guy...
But I personally have owned 3 literbikes before my 600, and I've tried every different tire size, in most of the major brands, on the track and on the street.
You're probably right though, I ride a 600 and have no idea what I'm talking about. I'm also 40% slower than anyone who rides a literbike.

gilberjj · 07-16-2009, 10:55 AM

I've only run 50s and 55s on a 190mm wide tire. I really liked the 55 for the twisties, but I didn't like how it effected my gearing. Putting on a 55 is like taking a rear tooth. I guess that's as easy as changing my sprocket if I'm that picky, but nobody else mentioned it.

ddonacazx12 · 07-16-2009, 06:28 PM

Originally Posted by gilberjj

I've only run 50s and 55s on a 190mm wide tire. I really liked the 55 for the twisties, but I didn't like how it effected my gearing. Putting on a 55 is like taking a rear tooth. I guess that's as easy as changing my sprocket if I'm that picky, but nobody else mentioned it.

...yeah my speedo does read about 4-5mph slow @ hwy speed now. ( it was probably 3-4 fast before )

Jared, you were the second reply... not the first.

( and besides, I wasn't slaming on the info... I just thought it was ironic, in a very PNW kinda way )

curveaddict · 07-16-2009, 08:01 PM

I have been using 180/55 tires for a number of years now. They turn in very readily, a noticeable and positive difference over a 190/50(stock) on my Z1000, and cost $50 to $60 less than a 190/55. I put a lot of miles on my bikes, so cost becomes a factor for me. I have not had a problem with grip or traction on public roads. I haven't tried a 180/55 or 190/55 on the track, and haven't been on a track in quite some time, so I can't vouch for any comparisons in performance at track speeds.

james1300 · 07-16-2009, 09:11 PM

My '01 R1 came with a 180. It HAD a 190 on it when I got the bike.
For the street I went back to the 180. I cant tell any differance. Except the 180 is cheaper.
The bike was designed with a 180 in mind. If its good enough for the factory, they worked out the suspension using a 180. Then its good enough for me.


07-14-2009, 11:41 AM	#1
Armand WMRRA Qualifier Joined: Apr 2008 From: Oregon I Ride: If I only had a bike	YOUR opinion on liter bike tire size So I got to thinking that soon I'll be getting some new tires on the r1 and I'm not too sure which size I want to try lol. Bike came with 190/50s. I changed last year to 190/55 which aparently is a bit odd in some peoples eyes lol. And I've also seen a lot of people run 180/55 on liter bikes. So what is your opinion on advantages and disadvantages on tire sizes. And yes I know there's an article that explains the size difference, but I want your opinions lol __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-14-2009, 12:06 PM	#2
FZ6Rider Streetfighter Joined: Aug 2008 From: Woodburn, OR I Ride: wrecked bikes!	I dont think that 180/55 can support 1 litters a$$ that well and for that reason they came with 190. I have been told few times that bike turns better with 55 insted of a 50, all in all I think its riders preference more than anything else. If you cant my your desicion than go with the stock size. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-14-2009, 12:12 PM	#3
theJrod Moderator Joined: Feb 2006 From: Marysville, WA I Ride: Scooty Puff Sr: The Doom-Bringer!	190/55 is the absolute best size for a bike with a 6" rim. Now that you can get 190/55s in street tires, there is really no contest. The only reason why people ever put 180/55s on liter bikes was because 190/55s were only available in race compounds at the time. There are probably a dozen threads about this, so if you want more information on the benefits, just do a search. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-14-2009, 12:36 PM	#8
pv2 Streetfighter Joined: Jun 2008 From: Portland, Oregon I Ride: 03 RC51 SP-2	figure the lower profile allows for more straight line stability. The higher profile allows you more flickability and also your contact patch for deeper cornering will be bigger/ wider for a given profile. Much like the difference between a chicken eggs profile on one side vs the other, e.g., top/ bottom; be it non elastic and a bit exaggerated. Cages are a bit different, lower profile generally reduces sidewall flex and gives you more exacting control and a number of deficits and benefits. pv2 __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-14-2009, 01:31 PM	#9
late apex MotoGP Contender Joined: Jul 2005 From: moscow, id Blog Entries: 2 I Ride: one handed, looking behind me.	you also get more bump absorption out of a taller sidewall when at full lean. 190/55-17 is the only way to go. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter

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07-14-2009, 02:14 PM	#10
jprv4pilot Training Wheels Joined: May 2009 From: Portland, Oregon I Ride: 2008 Ducati 1098s, 2008 GSXR-1000	190/55-zr17 190/55-zr17 __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-14-2009, 02:43 PM	#11
Transported MotoGP Champion Joined: Dec 2006 From: Portland, Oregon Blog Entries: 1 I Ride: '99 R1, '80 Suz GS450S	I haven't tried the 190/55-17, but I switch between the 190/50-17 and 180/55-17 and don't notice much difference. The 190s look cooler, but they also cost a shitload more. I buy whichever is on sale or cheaper, which is usually the 180. Then again, I don't race or do track. But, for street, can't really tell the diff. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-14-2009, 05:38 PM	#12
mfrankpdx Moderator Joined: Jul 2007 From: Portland I Ride: '07 R1, '08 WR250X	I sure can't complain about the 190/50. If the 190/55 is THAT much different, it almost sounds dangerously flickable. Of course the Pilot Powers have that triangular profile, so they probably feel similar to other brand's /55 profile. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-14-2009, 06:28 PM	#13
Sentor Zone Head Joined: Feb 2006 From: Bend, OR I Ride: 2004 Yamaha R1	Tom Young from Competition Motors was talking with Ed (Spaceroc) about going to a 180... He said that he'd turn in faster, and enjoy it for track conditions.... This guy seems like he knows his stuff. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter Last edited by Sentor; 07-14-2009 at 07:56 PM..


07-14-2009, 07:53 PM	#14
Diana Endorsed Joined: Jun 2008 From: Aloha, Oregon I Ride: 2009 CBR1000RR Repsol, 2002 CBR954RR	I prefer the 180/55 __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-14-2009, 08:14 PM	#16
Sentor Zone Head Joined: Feb 2006 From: Bend, OR I Ride: 2004 Yamaha R1	Tom Young is the PSSR Trackday host and the main Pirelli distributor in the area. I run a 190/55, love it, and won't be changing anytime soon myself. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-14-2009, 08:55 PM	#17
Squiddly Van Dickweed Training Wheels Joined: Aug 2008 From: Oregon I Ride: Zx10r	The 190/50's look cool, but as far as performance, the 190/55 is the cats ass. Think more rubber on the pavement (read bigger contact patch when you really need it) when leaned over. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-14-2009, 09:23 PM	#18
CBRinPDX Superbiker Joined: Oct 2007 From: SE Portland I Ride: '04 Z1000 '76 KZ900	What the hell Armand? You're gonna start a war. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-14-2009, 11:51 PM	#22
Fast Eddie 919 Superbiker Joined: Jan 2009 From: Vancouver, WA I Ride: 04 Kawi ZZR 1200	I'm thinking about getting an R1. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-15-2009, 12:10 AM	#23
fijiman Zone Head Joined: Apr 2008 From: Couve, WA I Ride: 06 Busa crashed, 04gsxr1k-sold, 06R6R-sold, DRZ400SM among others. Off the wheelchair & out & about! ;-)	I had 190/50 on my busa and gsxr1000, but I have to say I like 190/55 much better. It also depends on your style of riding which size suits you best. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-15-2009, 10:54 PM	#24
Zygoat Training Wheels Joined: Jul 2005 From: Portland, OR I Ride: Piano Bike	I sent you a PM Armand. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-16-2009, 04:55 AM	#25
ddonacazx12 MotoGP Contender Joined: Jul 2007 From: Camas, Washington I Ride: 05 zx12r	Ask a question specifically about LITER BIKE tire size... the first response is *of course* from someone on a 600. ( me likey... 190/55 ) __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter Last edited by ddonacazx12; 07-16-2009 at 04:57 AM..


07-16-2009, 05:24 AM	#26
TwistedTimes HondaKilla Joined: Jan 2008 From: Hillsburrito, OR I Ride: Like a duc wrangler	as long as its a 55 series you'll be fine, 10mm is barely wider then a pencil.... __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-16-2009, 10:55 AM	#28
gilberjj Zone Head Joined: Feb 2008 From: Olympia, WA I Ride: Kawasaki zx14	I've only run 50s and 55s on a 190mm wide tire. I really liked the 55 for the twisties, but I didn't like how it effected my gearing. Putting on a 55 is like taking a rear tooth. I guess that's as easy as changing my sprocket if I'm that picky, but nobody else mentioned it. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-16-2009, 08:01 PM	#30
curveaddict WMRRA Qualifier Joined: Sep 2008 From: Vancouver, WA I Ride: ... ,2006 Kawasaki Z1000, KLX250SF 'tard, ...	I have been using 180/55 tires for a number of years now. They turn in very readily, a noticeable and positive difference over a 190/50(stock) on my Z1000, and cost $50 to $60 less than a 190/55. I put a lot of miles on my bikes, so cost becomes a factor for me. I have not had a problem with grip or traction on public roads. I haven't tried a 180/55 or 190/55 on the track, and haven't been on a track in quite some time, so I can't vouch for any comparisons in performance at track speeds. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter


07-16-2009, 09:11 PM	#31
james1300 Track School Dazed Joined: Oct 2005 From: CENTRAL I Ride: When I can	My '01 R1 came with a 180. It HAD a 190 on it when I got the bike. For the street I went back to the 180. I cant tell any differance. Except the 180 is cheaper. The bike was designed with a 180 in mind. If its good enough for the factory, they worked out the suspension using a 180. Then its good enough for me. __________________ Follow PNW Riders on Facebook and Twitter

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