Pirelli MT-66 vs Avon Roadrider on a 550

[Rustybottom]

My tired, cracked spitfires need replacin' so I've been reading and trying to decide what tire will suit me best. I'm largely a commuter, as my bike is my only vehicle 8 months of the year, but I occasionally tear it up in the hills. I'm not going to lie, I really like the MT-66's based largely on looks, kinda retro, fairly aggressive, and look like they'd be reasonable in the rain (I live on the we(s)t coast of BC).

I've read a lot of good reviews on the avon's, and some bad reviews of the BT45's, but not many reviews on the pirelli MT-66's. Can anyone chime in on their value as a tire? They are pretty cheap...

thanks gang.

[Richsuz]

I have used them, I am not an aggressive rider but I go everywhere with my bike. It is very comparable to the Spitfire. Last as long and feel very steady in wet and mud. Went through 7000 kms in Mex where the asphalt has a reputation for eating rubber and had at least 1/2 life on the rear tire. Not a single flat on them. $60 rear $50 front here in Guatemala. Honestly I got them because they are the ONLY option for 130/90 16 locally. But still, no complaints. I would like to change the rear wheel for a 17, for there are more options, including all the new DP tires from Michellin and Continental, but I cant find a suitable replacement for the shaft driven wheel. My bike is a GS650GLD.

Picture below shows the bike in MT90 S/T. Another tire that I like for the type of riding I do here.

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?f...count=1&ref=nf

[Nessism]

The Avon's are more sport oriented than those Pirelli's. Other than that both should work decently.

[Whitedog]

What Ed said. Have them on the wife's Shadow now and she is happy with them. Appear to be wearing real well, 4500 miles this year and show little wear. She has ridden in the rain and not complained about traction. Seem to be a good value.

[almarconi]

I've got the MT-66's on my GS750L, they are decent tires. Don't have any complaints with them, they seem to handle fine wet or dry. I am not an aggressive driver. Another good option is the Shinko Tourmaster which I have on my KZ750. Both are less expensive than the Avon's.

[Rustybottom]

Thanks for the replies. I'm going to go out and get some local prices today.