GSXR Rear Wheel Mod riders - Are you running a 180/55/17?

[ZOA NOM]

My previous bike with the GSXR rear wheel used a 180/60/17, and I'm not seeing that size in most of the popular tires. Is anyone running the shorter tire? What are your thoughts?

[aviationfred]

I have had the GSX-R rear wheel mod on 3 of my FJ's. I have always used the 180/55/17 size tires. That is the more common size. Almost every hypersport, sport or sport-touring tire comes in thks size.

All I have to compare it against is the OEM 150/80/16 size tires. The 180/55/17 tires give me much more confidence in the bike while cornering.

Fred

[ZOA NOM]

Thanks Fred, I figured that was the case. The difference is pretty small. I've got all the parts waiting, and I plan to pull the trigger and do the front and rear after the WCR. I just couldn't pull it all together in time.

[Motofun]

I went from a 190/50 and a 200/60 to a 180/60 on my track bike.  The improvement in cornering was immediate.  I might have lost a little traction on acceleration but corner entry was much better.  Pirelli's on a GSXR 750.  For a street bike like the FJ I wouldn't recommend anything over a 180 and 55 or 60 shouldn't make a big difference.  Of course check clearances first.  Dunlop Q3 180/55/17's on my GSXR rear rim with stock FJ swing arm clear my chain by 1/4" ('85 FJ1100).

[ZOA NOM]

I went from a 190/50 and a 200/60 to a 180/60 on my track bike.  The improvement in cornering was immediate.  I might have lost a little traction on acceleration but corner entry was much better.  Pirelli's on a GSXR 750.  For a street bike like the FJ I wouldn't recommend anything over a 180 and 55 or 60 shouldn't make a big difference.  Of course check clearances first.  Dunlop Q3 180/55/17's on my GSXR rear rim with stock FJ swing arm clear my chain by 1/4" ('85 FJ1100).

Great info, thanks. I'm looking at the Pirelli Angel GT's in 180/55, since I commute on the bike. I like the balance of grip and longevity. I've gotta fab up some bones as the last piece before I tear into it.