Anyone try Avon Cobra AV71/72's?

[Guest]

I've accepted that I have to replace the tires on my 1100GK before any lengthy trips. I am interested in getting tires that handle well, wet or dry. Given the "touring" sizes (110/90-19 & 130/90-16) on the GK, I'm a little limited on selections. I've narrowed it down to either the Avon Cobras or Metzler Lasertecs, & am leaning to the Avon.
Anyone have any experience/guidance, one way or the other. Metzler Marathons are too heavy touring for me. Although, I did use the on the Venture I had &, there, they served me quite well. The cobras look like they'd do pretty good & have some longevity to them.
What are the opinions out there?

[bwringer]

In general, Avon makes great tires, so you should be very happy with these. Lots of us are very happy with the Avon RoadRiders, and I've used a couple of other models of Avon tires (sorry, tyres) on other bikes.

I haven't seen the "Cobra" before -- is it a new line of tires?

The Metzelers in vintage sizes are badly outdated. The Lasertecs are known to wear quickly and poorly (they turn nasty as they wear), and the Marathons last longer with a rock-hard compound -- scary in the wet.

[LarryJ]

Thanks, Your perceptions on the Metzlers are right in line with mine. & I have seen that quite a few have been real happy with the RoadRiders. The last Avons that I used were K81's I had put on a brand new GT380 in '74. So, it's been a while since I bought a set of them.

[RedBaron]

I just put avon roadriders on my GK last night. Haven't got to ride on them yet and probably won't get to tomorrow. Stinking rain and I've had a spring run on ATV repair (usually happens in the fall here).

[LarryJ]

I "just" realized that MT90-16's are equivilent to the 130/90-16 rears. Therefore, that opens up another group of tires for my consideration, like the Michelin Commander II's!, etc.

[LarryJ]

FINALLY got to take a "post maintenance" ride on my bike. So far, I LOVE the cobras! The rounded profile makes the bike feel much more lighter &, the tires being about an inch taller than the crappy Kendas that tbe bike came with, will cut down 70mph cruising rpm's a little. I still have to work out the right pressure balance for them, but that will come. So far, so good!