Quick question on tires

Greetings all,

A year back I had a new tire put on the rear of my sporty, at the dealership. They put on the H-D dunlops. They did not have the fronts in stock at the time, and that one looked OK yet. This spring I had the front replaced, at a local indy shop. The guy there said if I had one type of tire on the back, I had to go with the same on the front.

This does not seem make much sense to me as to why. I know he was not saying this to make more money, as I was interested in a better tire that cost more. Do any of you more experienced riders know anything about this, as to why, or whether the guy is just mis-informed?

Thanks,
Panth

Tread compounds may differ from manufacturer to manufacturer.(jmo)I would at least stay with the same brand between the two tires on your bike.
I used to run a Metzler 880 in the rear of my Dyna & Metzler M-33 Lazer in front which was a great combination for me.Latter put on an 880 in front & found it sucked(21" rim).
I have metzler 880's on the front & rear on my FLHT which I think are great.
Tire choices are personal preference I believe & as long as you choose a brand with some integrity you should be safe.
Hope this helps,00 wildglide

The indy shop told you right. When you mix tires on a bike the compounds don't match and the way the sidewalls react to loads are different. You will not get like reactions from the tires especially in corners. Keep your tires the same brand and style and you will get a blalanced reaction from them. By all means, put the best tire you can afford on your bike. Just remember, the softer the compound, the quicker they wear out and if you do not keep them inflated to spec they will wear out prematurly.

Thanks for the feedback. This is what makes this forum so good, a great bunch of people willing to share their knowledge.

I wanted to go with a softer (better traction, faster wear) tire on the bike as I love to hit some of the curvy roads in my area and let the bike play! I know the tread life would not be as good, but the fun factor would be better. Sportsters are great at curves, they lay into them so sweet! Straight long stretches are not so good with the sporty as the vibration starts to build above 65, but the curves, great!

Thanks again!
Panth

don't have to. but it could cause U to wreck.... so wise thing is stay with the same..