I gotta admit... the Shinkos sound intriguing.
But for $202 shipped... I can get a set of Pirelli Diablo Stradas, which I would have to think are better constructed/designed. That's only about $20 more than a pair of Shinkos. Also, I'm a heavier rider (225lbs) on a heavy bike, and I'm sure my wear rate would be higher than a 180lb rider on a B6.
I've never been a fan of Bridgestones or Dunlops since they both made the crappiest OEM 'throwaway' tires back in the day. It may be just a personal bias, but I've never heard of Bridgestones or Dunlops that both grip well AND last.
The Avon's seem to be the 'tire of choice' among Bandit owners, but I just don't feel their 'grip technology' is as good... and they're $50 more, which would pay for my mounting costs.
I thought the new Michelin Pilot Powers were the "cat's meow" until I heard about someone about my size who only got 2000 miles of normal riding on a Bandit 1200 before they were trashed. The Pilot Roads are tried-and-true... but the design is gotten a little old... and they are $40 more than the Pirellis.
So... all other things appearing to be fairly equal... I'm leaning towards the Strada's since the price is right. Also, I think they are cutting edge in design & compound. (I think the Z6 Metzeler is almost the same tire as the Strada since Pirelli & Metzeler merged, but the Stradas are $24 less.)
Still... if anyone has a tire that grips like glue (wet & dry) and lasts forever... or has had a bad experience with the Strada's... I'd like to hear about it.
And there you have my mental musings on the new tire subject.
Price comparison for those interested. (pair, including shipping)
Pirelli Diablo Stradas - $202
Metzeler Roadtec Z6 - $226
Michelin Pilot Roads - $241
Avon Azaro 45/46 - $250
Bridgestone BT014 - $226
Shinko Raven 009 - $182