new tires for 2002 VFR ABS

Need some advice please. Can we use Metzeler M5 on the bike? They look delicious, but pix show the circumference of front and rear differ substantially and yet the numbers are in accord with what they specify in the manual. Does ABS mean front and rear must be equal? This thread is here on the forums but has not been categorically answered as far as I can see.

Thanks---

Sidesaddle

 

yes you can run the M-5's
I run the M-3's and love them.
ABS is anti lock brakes.
just use the correct size tires, you will find the size on the sidewall of the tires now on your bike.

 

Just for sure look on the frame there should be a sticker with proper size for the tires or better yet check your owner manual just to be safe.

 

Front tyre dimensions: 120/70-ZR17
Rear tyre dimensions: 180/55-ZR17

 

I run the M-5's and you will love them. You are WAY over thinking the ABS thing.

 

do you have ABS on that lovely RWB?

Mr. Toecutter:
Is that a fair question? I mean only if you are running the Metzelers on an ABS machine I will have no reservations about putting them on mine. None.

Sidesaddle

 

The ABS ECM is counting the A/C current frequency coming from the sensors and looking for sudden changes in the frequency to indicate wheel lock when the brakes are applied. A very simple explantion but tire size does not factor into the operation of the abs. I could give a million examples but like I said, over thought just a wee bit.

 

the ring gear for the ABS is mounted on the rims so as long as the tires are Front tyre dimensions: 120/70-ZR17
Rear tyre dimensions: 180/55-ZR17
you will be all set....

the front tire will always be a differnt size and profile then the rear, this is how they turn the bike.

hope that settles it for you.

 

My thanks for responses.

Thank you for answering the question gentlemen. This brain cell of mine tends to run pretty warm sometimes. Mark Twain said, "I have had many catastrophes in my life, the majority of which have never happened."

ps. Bike purchased Nov. and yet to be ridden, weather precludes it for now.

Sidesaddle

 

It's interesting that you refer to your riding experience as being somewhat out dated but that you are looking at a tire that is described by the manufacturer as a "supersport" product. Metzler does recommend a size and a couple of choices for "sport touring" for the VFR specifically but certainly you should be the one who makes the choice of tire which best suits your riding style, experience, taste and needs. From your "op" I would suggest you investigate your options further with particular attention to the bike and your needs. Not the I am suggesting you shouldn't purchase the tire which turns your crank. The M5 is great looking.

 

Consideration given.

Yes you have a very good point about sport-touring compounds as I am not about to drag knees and execute wheelies. In fact, oncoming flies unsettle me. Am trying to figure tires via web as there are no dealers within three hours. This VFR forum is tremendous for benefiting from others' experience. Will check Metzeler touring types and post final determination should it interest any of you.

Thanks Countryman,

Sidesaddle

UPDATE: 29/01 sport touring tyres ordered online MOTOSPORT $ 392.00 CAD

Metzeler Road Tec Z6 Interact (with a name like that the mighty roadside trees shall bow)

 

I also love M3's, a lot of stick, and a lot of lean angle. I can't wait to try the M5's. Those tires do look good, but it sounds like they're far more tire than you need. If you want something that looks good, handles well, but doesn't do double duty as a track tire, then try the now discounted Michelin pilot road 2ct's, or 3ct's if you don't care about saving money.