Front Tire cupping

[RRA]

I have almost 200k miles on sport touring bikes, I have never had a front tire that did not cup, until I inadvertently ordered an Avon AV59 viper tire for my 1997 VFR. That tire did not cup at all, I beleive that is due to the tread being more or less parallel with the direction of travel. Tires with tread perpendicular to the direction of travel seem to cup sooner and worse. It seems to be a purely mechanical effect. I have worn out 2 of these tires so far and am very pleased with them. On the viffer they lasted about 9k miles. I suspect they would not last as long on the FJR due to higher front end loading. But they are certainly worth a try.

RRA

 

[madmike2]

On the viffer they lasted about 9k miles. I suspect they would not last as long on the FJR due to higher front end loading. But they are certainly worth a try.
RRA

THAT may be the issue. Are they rated for the size of the FJR. Weight transfer alone, under severe braking, could make the tire flex in ways not seen on the Viffer. And the weight of the FJR may cause that tire to NOT grip as well during corner transitions and changes.

One assumes you will be the test-mule platform for this?

 

[RRA]

One assumes you will be the test-mule platform for this?

Absolutely, I will try it myself as soon as I wear out the stock tire.

RRA

 

[madmike2]

One assumes you will be the test-mule platform for this?

Absolutely, I will try it myself as soon as I wear out the stock tire.

RRA

Others have run sport tires on their FJRs. The stick well and performance during turn in and braking is incredible. They tend to have alimited tire life. It'll be interesting to read your report.

 

[tyronewildman]

Cupping? They are supposed to cup. As U said, "I beleive that is due to the tread being more or less parallel with the direction of travel. " Turning deforms the rubber next to the groove and causes the uneven wear. Still have the same traction & I sorta like the song they sing in a turn. Kinda goes in harmony with the water pump's song...Later,,, De

 

[lnewlf]

I have used Avon Azaro [45&46,also the new 55&56 Storm] and the fronts don't cup at all..I get about 7 K front and rear and they stick like a cat on a rug..My old FJ1200 cupped fronts like mad until I switched to the Avons and now wears the shoulders off nice and smooth. It seems to be the way the tread is designed..