[old_dual_rider]

I see some have mounted a Kenda Big Block on the front.



Anyone have any thoughts on how we can approach Kenda to make a Big Block for the Tail end of the Mighty T-Dub ??

 

[GapRunr]

I tried one time. I was at the annual Dealer Show in Indianapolis that is only open to the industry. I had been speaking with one of the Kenda reps about the Big Block and its use on the bigger adventure bikes likes the GS, Tenere, etc. As part of that conversation I mentioned that people had been putting a rear Big Block on the front of TW's and that they really needed to make one in a 180/80-14 for the rear. I indicated how there seemed to be a need for a more aggressive tire for that market, as there were people actually mounting ATV tires. He felt that the market share didn't warrant the effort required, and tires on smaller bikes last a lot longer so the frequency of purchase wouldn't be that high. Knobbies for big bikes are a better business decision since people with 100hp on tap wear out knobby tires quickly. A 10 or 12 hp TW often changes tires due to age, not wear.

 

[BigSwede]

A 10 or 12 hp TW often changes tires due to age, not wear.

Hmmm, that reminds me, our 1976 Honda CT-70 still has the original tires... but they work fine [shrug]. Guess that only proves your point.

 

[elime]

I tried with the West Coast Heindau dealer for a 180/80 -14. I showed him the rear tire on the TW. I told him only Bridgestone and Shinko made them. I said people were using ATV tires because they wanted something more aggressive but were difficult fitting them to the rim. I suggested a long lasting aggressive tire in the $175 to $200 range. I bet 2 minutes after I walked out he completely forgot the conversation we had.

 

[mtkd]

Since Shinko already makes a TW sized rear, think they might go for making a rear sized "golden boy".

 

[PalmStateCrawler]

You'd think that another company would make a 180x80-14 other than bridgestone. Or if they are the only ones willing to make one, why not make another?!

 

[GapRunr]

You'd think that another company would make a 180x80-14 thand bridgestone.

Well, Bridgestone makes two different models and Shinko makes one. The odd ball rear tire size of 180/80-14 is only used on the TW200 in the US, but it is used on the TW125, TW200, TW225, Suzuki Van Van 125 and Hyosung Karion 125 in other markets around the world. I'd like to see Kenda make a Big Block or Shinko make an SR244 Golden Boy in the 180/80-14. Either one of those, made specifically for the size / weight of a TW200 would be perfect.

 

[PalmStateCrawler]

Well, Bridgestone makes two different models and Shinko makes one.

I guess I needed to be more clear. Bridgestone makes the one and only dual sport while they and shinko make street tires. If ther was even one other "dual sport" tire option I would jump all over it. Still can't convince myself to do the atv tire.

 

[elime]

Still can't convince myself to do the atv tire.

Ditto.

 

[Retrofit]

ATV tire? Really? And miss all the fun?

 

[old_dual_rider]

Exactly, the stock rear works well, when the surface is firm, but even aired down when the ground gets softer, not so good. I ride in wet Indiana clay and northren Michigan sand. I run out of tire, before I run out of motor, or even run out of ME. I am not what I consider a real agressive rider.