Dunlop 208's

[2005B12S]

Finally got around to mounting the Dunlop 208ZR's on the B12. They were bought in the Winter as a closeout. They are now scrubbed in with 200 miles on them.

The profile is very similar to the stock Michelin's (very round), therefore steering is basically unchanged. Grip is another story. They inspire much more confidence than the stock rubber and the rear does not wiggle coming out of second gear full throttle corners like the stock rear did.

Overall pretty pleased. I expect rear lifespan to be 2500 miles with the front good for maybe 4000.

As a sidenote, I just mounted Pilot Powers on the Ducati 900SS, they are by far the best street tires I have ever ridden- bar none. Grip is outstanding, lean angle ability is amazing. They are more V shaped than any other street tire I have ridden, making side to side transitions effortless. I wish I had bought a set also for the B12. They will be the next tire choice when the 208's are worn out. They should really quicken up the B12 steering making the bike feel as though it weighs 100 lbs less. Lifespan should be similar to the 208's.

Ride On, Ed.

2005 GSF1200SZ
1992 900SS
1983 GS750ED

[PaulVS]

The reason I'll never buy Dunlops or Bridgestones is that they don't ever make tires that have both good grip AND longevity.

Metzeler, Pirelli, Shinko, and Michelin make tires that do both.

[2005B12S]

Regardless of brand, grip and lifespan are two seperate entities and the result of tire compound. I will sacrafice lifespan for grip as I do not commute or ride more than 3000-4000 miles a year on any of my bikes. For me traction comes first.

I am sure the Dunlop 205 or 220 would provide more lifespan, but at the sacrafice of traction. That loss of traction might not make a difference to some individuals, for others it matters.

I do not see how brand name is as relavent as tire compound.

Michelin Pilot Power tires are supreme in the street handling/ traction department. Are they for highway commuters? probably not.

For the best street traction, look at what the Supersport racers are using. Dunlop 208GP and Michelin Pilot Race have been dominant for several years. Thats proof enough for me.



Ride On, Ed.
2005 GSF1200SZ
1992 900SS
1983 GS750ED

[PaulVS]

For me it's about a 65/35 ratio of importance - grip/longevity.

I also only drive about 4k a year - so I want a tire that will grip wet or dry and hopefully last over a year.  Problem for me is I never hear of the grippy Dunlop/Bridgestone stuff lasting for more than around 3-4k.  Seems like most people who get them say something like "good grip, not great - didn't last long enough - will try something else next time."

Pirelli Stradas or Metzeler Roadtecs probably rival the 208's grip - for mere mortals like me anyway - but will last twice as long.  I could probably get 2 full years on one of them.

And as you noted - the Pilot Powers have better grip than the 208's and will probably last at least as long.  My Shinko 005's will probably grip 90% as good as the 208s - and last twice as long from what I've heard from other owners... and they were $150 a pair including shipping.

Tread design and compounds are not all created equal.  I believe the european tire mfrs lead the way in both categories.

To each his own, however.   Just my $.02