Best tire for VFR 1200?

I need a set of tires for my VFR, and would like to know what everybody is using. I've used Dunlops on a lot of my other bikes, but I'm not happy with the mileage I get from them. Any help is appreciated, Dave.

 

Welcome Dave! I won't beat you up for not using the search function since you're new here. but a quick search in the box up top right would quickly tell you that the Michelin Pilot Road 3 is the overwhelming choice and no one who's fitted them has uttered a bad word about them yet, including myself. Yes, they are a bit pricey, but based on the mileage claims from those who've burned through a set or three, the difference is easily offset by longevity. I just shit-canned my stock BT-021s in favor of the PR3s and the difference is dramatic. I'm sure you'd find the same.
Cheers!

 

Pandora's tire box is once again open for business.

 

My favorite local dealer has a mix set of tire on closeout - Pirelli Dablo Rosso Corsa front and Mezteler Sportec M5 Interact rear - so I figure I'll give them a try on the VFR1200. I knew I wasn't gonna get much tire life out of them, especially the front, and I was right. The soft compound shoulders on the front tire have worn visibly more than the center strip, which has medium compound. I'll probably get 3k miles out if it total, before I need to have it swapped out. The rear M5 has done quite well, wearing more evenly, so far and 5k miles is probably not out of the question. Can't say I don't love the sticky gumshoes and the extraordinary grip and confidence they provide. Still, the big Viffer definitely need ST tires that can handle the bike's weight. Pure sportbike tires will wear quick. Something like the M5 F&R is about as sporty a tire I would slap on the VFR1200.

I have a great local source for tires, plus I change and balance my own tires, so I can afford to have some fun experimenting. Otherwise, I would definitely go with PR3.

 

I thought about mixing tire brands once. My local John Deere dealer suggested it. He had some really good buys out on his back 40.

 

I still prefer the pr2's over the 3's. Plus they are less expensive.

 

Now that the frost has been out of the roads for a couple of weeks and been able to play a bit I'm really happy with the PR3's. Also, feeling way more confident cornering in the wet.

 

Thanks for all of the replies, I ordered a set of PR3's today.

 

Hated the PR3's. Front tire scallopped really bad after about 1500 miles. Got so bad I ended up getting a new tire on the way to Vermont.

 

I just had a set of Pirelli Angel / Demons mounted yesterday.
So far I like them but haven't had the opportunity yet to go scrub them in.
Lots of rain down here in south Louisiana!

 

i'm one my second set of PR 3's first set lasted 9561 mi on front and 11,594 mi on rear !!!!! handles great, wore perfectly, no cupping, great in the rain.... next set will be PR3 too

 

Thanks for the info, ishark. With some of the other replies, I was afraid I'd made a $500 mistake. I can only hope mine last that long, Dave.

 

$500..?? online price is around $330 / pair

 

my stock Bridgestones lasted 5645 mi

 

What kinda can is that you got there? Interesting looking tip on that.
[/threadjack]

 

The $500 was installed. My VFR came with Dunlop Sportmax installed, I only got 4600mi. out of them.

 

Next time take the wheels off and take the tires and wheel to your local shop.this will save you around hundred clams

 

i like the license plate frame !!

 

Howdy Dave! The can is a Leo Vince EVO II / Titanium. Sounds good...
It's a loud one, but I am certainly ok with letting the cagers know lmy presence.