Tire Shopping

[aggieengineer]

The Dunlop Roadsmart IIIs on the bike are about halfway through their useful life, and I'm shopping for a replacement set while Dunlop has the $40 rebate. I've been happy with these tires, but was thinking about giving the Q3+ a try. I've heard the Q3 complimented on many occasions. I'm willing to give up mileage for better grip and handling. Despite conventional wisdom, it's not always hot here in Texas, and I ride year-round. I do have some concern that the Q3+ might require warming to a level that just won't occur in winter, before it performs any better than the Roadsmart. Wet performance is not that much of a concern for me. Comments on experience with the Q3 or Q3+ will be appreciated. 

[RandyShields]

Even though the Sportmax Q3 and Q3+ are typically considered sportbike tires, I had the opportunity to mount one on the back of my K1600 during my Westward Ho ride.  Take a look at day 9 and 10 from the ride report.  I ran it for over 2000 miles until replacing it in Idaho with a Road Pilot 4. 

 

During that time, I had heat, rain, snow and slippery roads.  I was very impressed with the grip of the Dunlops; they held the road firmly at all times, despite the relatively lack of tread cuts in the tires.  I can't speak to their longevity but, think that, as a softer compound, you would not get the mileage out of them as a traditional sport touring or touring bike tire.

 

Randy

 

 

[rglassma]

I'd stick with the roadsmart III.  I too am pleased.

[MBrockman5]

My bike came with the Michelin Road 5's and they have been great so far. But I'll be following this post for future references.