Smart Tire

[mehaffydr]

Title says it all.

 

[bramfrank]

They're bankrupt.

One bike-specific alternative is TireGard

 

[JR'SFJR]

Smartire is not available for motorcycles anymore, just cars, trucks...... Replacement parts are available through VulcanTire.com Had mine for 3 yrs and works great.

 

[RaYzerman19]

Actually, no sensors are available any more from Vulcan. So, basically this system is obsolete. I had one, loved it, tried to find a way to replace batteries, can't be done. Tried a Kisan, not the greatest. Doran is your next best bet IMHO.

 

[TriggerT]

First, I assume the Mehaffydr knew that the Smart Tire is no longer available, which is why he posted here looking for a used system. I also assume he has read the article in the latest issue of the Iron Butt magazine which reviewed several of the TPMS available, but I will mention it anyway. I am thinking about a system as well, but it is not high on my list for now.

 

[mehaffydr]

First, I assume the Mehaffydr knew that the Smart Tire is no longer available, which is why he posted here looking for a used system. I also assume he has read the article in the latest issue of the Iron Butt magazine which reviewed several of the TPMS available, but I will mention it anyway. I am thinking about a system as well, but it is not high on my list for now.

Thats it exactlly I am running the IBR2011 and just thought it might save a headache. I have been looking at the other manufacturers but the smarttire always comes up on top so I thought I would check here first, right now I still have time.

 

[cota95]

First, I assume the Mehaffydr knew that the Smart Tire is no longer available, which is why he posted here looking for a used system. I also assume he has read the article in the latest issue of the Iron Butt magazine which reviewed several of the TPMS available, but I will mention it anyway. I am thinking about a system as well, but it is not high on my list for now.

Thats it exactlly I am running the IBR2011 and just thought it might save a headache. I have been looking at the other manufacturers but the smarttire always comes up on top so I thought I would check here first, right now I still have time.

I had the Smart Tire on my 06(sold) and the Doran on my 07. Both worked equally well and both have saved me from running on a flat. Doran is far easier to install (screw on). The piece of mind is worth the cost IMO.

 

[TriggerT]

Can you use the Doran if you have 90 degree valve stems on? The sensors look pretty large.

 

[mehaffydr]

Can you use the Doran if you have 90 degree valve stems on? The sensors look pretty large.

Good question I have the 90 deg angled stems also. I am going to do a little more research on that.

 

[NightShine]

They're bankrupt.

No, it's way worse than that; another case of corporate "wisdom" withdrawing innovative technology from markets which gave rise to it.

SmarTire was purchased by Bendix a few years back, who immediately withdrew it from the motorcycle and later the automobile markets due to liability issues. They now focus solely on commercial applications.

 

[RaYzerman19]

Can you use the Doran if you have 90 degree valve stems on? The sensors look pretty large.

Good question I have the 90 deg angled stems also. I am going to do a little more research on that.

I asked them last year about using them on Ariete aluminum 90 degree stems and they said OK. The sensors only weigh 0.6 oz. HOWEVER..... I have a new kit here, and I can tell you that you MUST put the front sensor (Gen II at least) inside the tire, using their 90 degree stems that come with the kit. Reason? Will crash the brake calipers and break the sensor first turn of the wheel. You can use a 90 degree externally on the rear if you want, but I recommend pointing it to the left side.

The Doran stems have loctite if you mount the sensor inside the tire. If you go external, just thread on like a valve cap. They provide a locking system that have 3 tiny set screws, but that's a pain when you have to add air.... I'm not worried about them falling off or anybody stealing them, so would not use the locks.

 

[karstenp]

I have the Doran system and like it. Last year I ran with the sensors installed inside the wheel which in my opininon is the ideal location. Having the sensor inside the wheel provides protection, makes adding air a breeze, and avoids any problems associated with an air leak at the sensor.

Only problem is that on two separate occasions the internal sensor was broken when trying to pry the tire over the sensor during installation and removal. In each case the mechanic (different mechanics each time) knew the sensor was inside the wheel. In one case, I was standing right beside him when he broke the sensor trying to remove the tire. Replacement sensors are $25.00 each. This year I will be installing the sensors on the outside of the wheel! <_<

 

[RaYzerman19]

Replacement sensors are $25.00 each. This year I will be installing the sensors on the outside of the wheel! <_<

Where do you find sensors at $25? Also, you can't install the sensors outside unless you use the straight valve stem at least on the front wheel (this makes it hard to put air in), or the sensor will hit the brake caliper. You can use a 90 degree one on the back.

This also reminds me why I change my own tires...

 

[JR'SFJR]

I just contacted Vulcan and they only have the Smartire sensor wheel straps left for sale. Thought they had more available.

 

[cota95]

I have the Doran system and like it. Last year I ran with the sensors installed inside the wheel which in my opininon is the ideal location. Having the sensor inside the wheel provides protection, makes adding air a breeze, and avoids any problems associated with an air leak at the sensor.

Only problem is that on two separate occasions the internal sensor was broken when trying to pry the tire over the sensor during installation and removal. In each case the mechanic (different mechanics each time) knew the sensor was inside the wheel. In one case, I was standing right beside him when he broke the sensor trying to remove the tire. Replacement sensors are $25.00 each. This year I will be installing the sensors on the outside of the wheel! <_<

I've changed my own tires and had no problem not hitting the sensors. I always worried about hitting the strap when I had the smartire but had numerous changes without damage

 

[karstenp]

Replacement sensors are $25.00 each. This year I will be installing the sensors on the outside of the wheel! <_<

Where do you find sensors at $25? Also, you can't install the sensors outside unless you use the straight valve stem at least on the front wheel (this makes it hard to put air in), or the sensor will hit the brake caliper. You can use a 90 degree one on the back.

This also reminds me why I change my own tires...

$25.00 directly from Doran (copy of email from Doran below....) Last time I called they indicated the price was going to be raised to $27.00. I may have to consider installing my own tires real soon.....

----- Original Message -----

From: Lee Demis

To: pkarsten@XXXXX

Cc: Dana Prall

Sent: Tuesday, June 15, 2010 9:03 PM

Subject: Re: Replacement Sensors - Shipment to Ontario, Canada

Hello Perry,

Yes, Doran will ship via USPS to Canada. Please contact Dana Prall at (866) 816-7233 to process the order for replacement sensors. Replacement sensors are $25 (US) each.

Best Regards,

Lee Demis

Doran Manufacturing

 

[RaYzerman19]

Replacement sensors are $25.00 each. This year I will be installing the sensors on the outside of the wheel! <_<

Where do you find sensors at $25? Also, you can't install the sensors outside unless you use the straight valve stem at least on the front wheel (this makes it hard to put air in), or the sensor will hit the brake caliper. You can use a 90 degree one on the back.

This also reminds me why I change my own tires...

$25.00 directly from Doran (copy of email from Doran below....) Last time I called they indicated the price was going to be raised to $27.00. I may have to consider installing my own tires real soon.....

----- Original Message -----

From: Lee Demis

To: pkarsten@XXXXX

Cc: Dana Prall

Sent: Tuesday, June 15, 2010 9:03 PM

Subject: Re: Replacement Sensors - Shipment to Ontario, Canada

Hello Perry,

Yes, Doran will ship via USPS to Canada. Please contact Dana Prall at (866) 816-7233 to process the order for replacement sensors. Replacement sensors are $25 (US) each.

Best Regards,

Lee Demis

Doran Manufacturing

Thank you, sir!! Doran's website says $49.99, so now I know just to phone my order in......

Good to meet you at the bike show today!!