Looking at taking spare tyres to Almeria and both my preferred choices for the R6 (Metzeler Racetec RR/Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SC) only come in a 180/60 in the soft compound. We’ll be changing from a Diablo Corsa 180/55 and having got her confidence on those tyres, I’m concerned that there could be a noticeable difference in handling characteristics. What is the consensus ? Andy
There isn't a huge difference tbh, and I think you will like the 60 rear tyre, it's one of those circuits where you are on the sides of the tyre so much you will feel the benefit as it gives you a little more 'shoulder'. That said, if it's warm there the softs will wear pretty quick I would think, it's a really abrasive track. The bike geometry does play a part in all this though, so what some people experience will be different, mine is based on 675's. If you've slammed the R6 on it's nose for some strange reason this might make it worse but if it's pretty standard it just gives you that tiny bit more height in the rear at lean
Not me mate, my girlfriend. She's not had the bike long, just one 4 day outing and I'm concerned the steeper profile might set her back if the feeling is too noticeably different. I take your point about being on the side of the tyre so I might just bite the bullet. Both the Metzeler and Pirelli tyre books recommend the soft for feel and higher track temperature and it only has to last 2 days at most. Andy
I think she will be okay, tbh, if it were me I just wouldn't make a big deal of it unless she is super into the detail, to stop it becoming something she 'thinks' she can feel. We all do it! make a tiny change and convince ourselves we can feel huge differences.
Looked a little bit deeper into compounds, tyre temperature and how abrasive the tarmac is (as you @Phill748 pointed out) and the one tyre that seems to stand out is the Racetec RR K3. Available in my preferred 180/55 and a 200/55 which should suit my Multistrada too. It really helps to be able to talk things through and bounce ideas, something this forum delivers time and time again. Andy
we used metzeler trackday slicks at Jerez also, good value for money and you don’t need warmers, especially in Spanish temps
She may well notice tip on is different on the so, it’s quite a bit taller. But as Phil said better edge grip. Many brands also use same sizing but it’s different: eg jumping off scorpions onto PR5, even tho ‘same’ tyre site the PR were an inch higher in the seat and far steeper profile. Made the bike feel entirely different (better) The RR sound a good compromise and imho I’d avoid slicks and go cut tyres.
2 pairs of Metzeler Racetec RR K3's (not the slick) ordered for collection tomorrow. Arm and a leg bargain at £550. Andy
Also true, I remember getting some Dunlops and had been convinced there was an issue, the rim almost sat proud of the edge of the tyre and side to side the front only measured 110mm, but the contact patch to the edge was 120mm, weird! Just shows how much variation there is even in the same 'size' tyres
