Which Tire Pressure to use

[KingBiscuit]

Hello all,

 

I just installed a new set of Dunlop Road Smarts. So, far, they handle really well. Just did a 300 mile day in the twisties of SE Ohio and they performed much better, IMO, then the Metzlers did when they were new.

 

Anyway, to my question. I currently have the tires inflated to the "1 up" setting listed in the BMW owners manual. However, I was just looking at the Dunlop web site, and the first paragraph in the "inflation" section refers you to their application guide for tire pressure, before telling you to look at your owners guide.

 

The pressure suggested by Dunlop for an 04 R1150RT is 36 front, 42 rear. This is a "loaded" pressure.

 

Should I go by the Dunlop guide or the BMW owner's manual? The manual doesn't list specific brand of tires so I thought I'd ask the gurus on this board.

 

Thanks for the assistance,

Dan

[Mr. Frank]

I would tend to go with the tire manufacturer. It's a new tire and BMW recommendations must cover all situations. I run 38F 42R.

[ShovelStrokeEd]

I run 42/42 on mine but, I don't ride a BMW anymore. I have gotten exceptional mileage out of my tires. I have not noticed any deterioration in either comfort or handling and I have just turned 10K miles on these tires. No cupping in the front and only minimal squaring in the rear.

[tallman]

Manufacturer.

40/42 here

[Bob Palin]

38/40 for solo here, 40/42 lasts longer but I find it too harsh.

[ShovelStrokeEd]

Bob,

If you go with the Roadsmarts, you won't find them harsh at all, even at 42/42. Besides their other virtues, they are one comfy tire.

[Bob Bernstein]

I recently mounted a set of Roadsmarts on 07 RT and as with most new set of tires, they seem great! I tried 39/42 and found my hands going numb from the increased vibration at 75 mph. Dropped front to 36# and am back to smoooth again!