Front vs Rear tire differences

[jameslovesjammie]

I am looking at some "new" older tires, and I have found a 130 90 16 that is a front tire. My question is what is the difference between a front and rear tire? I am looking at this size tire for the rear, as I am having a hard time finding a 120 at a decent price (i.e. super cheap) for my rear.

Thanks for the time, I'm new.

[Mark whiz]

The biggest difference is the tread pattern. Some "older" and/or cheaper tires have a generic tread pattern that works front or back. If the tire you've found has "arrow" looking tread facing the lead end of the tire or any directional looking pattern, it would be best not to put it on the rear. Those patterns are designed for front wheel stability and would probably prove to be at least a tad "squirrely" feeling on the rear, and give less traction to the driven wheel.

[Steve]

It's not going to be "super cheap", but you will find that size tire in front AND rear patterns from Tires Unlimited. Dunlop Elite III

Unless you ride more than I do, you may never have to buy another tire for your bike. :shock: A set of these lasted 23,000 miles on my Gold Wing and were replaced with a new set of the same thing. When my wife's 850L gets new tires this winter, that's what is going on. \\/

[Philly_Chris]

Since there is an "Elite III" does that mean they are no longer making the Elite II's?

The prices for the bias belted ones don't look TOO much higher for the new ones, but I know and like the II's.

Has anyone ridden both?


Also that link mentions a Dunlop strike, which doesn't sound good...