Hi. 2004 999 Biposto. I have Michelin Pilot Power 3 on the front with lots of tread but have to replace the Pilot Power 3 180/55 that is on the rear. I am considering the Power 5 as it is a later generation tyre and looks like an improvement. Is it ok to mix Power 3 and Power 5? Would you do that and change front to Power 5 when it is worn? Would you stick to both wheels having Power 3? (probably not many left for sale)
The tyre should bear a date code on the side wall, based on week number and year, both 2 digit. The Pilot 3 is now an old tyre by any standards and would not be advisable to mix with a newer model of tyre. All the major brands offer a tyre suitable for your 999, many having moved on a long way from the Pilot 3, not least Michelin themselves. My only advice would be to buy something that suits your needs and be prepared to buy new again before the tread is worn, time is a great tyre killer. Andy
I’m told that that is a popular combination for the gixxer thiu riders. My MV had a mich road 5 on the rear and a Mich Cup on the front.
The Power 3 on the front is 10 years old at the end of 2025. So I will change before then. I always imagined tyres would get hard and brittle with age but I have an old Matchless running on tyres that are probably over 50 years old. They still feel quite soft and are only subject to gentle riding.
