Is it cool to run a 160/60/17? I know a 150/60/17 is standard, but I can't find that size in a Dunlop Qualifier. I can find the front, but not the rear. I like these tires a lot. Good handling and wear.
I've been running a 160 Pilot Power on my SM610 with no problems other than some minor chain rub when doing track days. I run about 23 lbs pressure in the rear on track which is the primary cause for the rubbing. On the street, I run 25 cold pressure and haven't had any rubbing.
I ran a Bridgestone BT 021 160/60/17 with no rub issues (about 1/4 inch clearance on each side). Just this week I ordered a Dunlop Roadsmart 160/60/17 and should be mounting it up next week or so. I am doing mostly commuting so I need a tire to last more than 2000 miles.
I've only run 160's, so I can't say what the difference of running a 150 feels like. I'd imagine running a 150 would give a quicker turn in, but tire profile also plays a big part in that.
The first Pilot Road 3 I ran on mine was a 150, the turn in was fantastic but I was literally running out of treat and riding on the sidewall and breaking loose on super twisty corners. The next PR3 (that's on it now) is a 160 and while the turn in is *slightly* slower it's not an earth shattering difference. I might have "chicken strips" on my tires now but I'm not running out of tread while grinding the peg ends down. I run 38 pounds in them on the street and 30 pounds on the kart track.
These seem REALLY high. I never run more than ~30 psi on the street, and mid 20's on a small track. Factory pressure on my Ducati is like 35 psi for street use. No way I'd run more than that on a much lighter bike.
I was running 32 in them (street) and was getting a weird feathered wear pattern on the outer 2/3 of the tires. I asked The Michelin Man about this at the BMW National Rally here in Salem last summer and after looking at my tires he said "put six more pounds in them and tighten up your rebound 2 clicks." Dave Moss agreed with that assessment later in the year. It works and feels great, so that's where I'm at.
Currently running a 160/60 Michelin Pilot "Road" 4. Needed a "dual compound" for commuting/highway use. No fit or rub issues.
