Please update me...current 150/80-16 tire favorites....and which to avoid.

[Pat Conlon]

Hey folks, checking in to see what the current tire favorites in the 150/80-16 size.

I will be needing them in the next 2-3 weeks for a '89 I'll be picking up from Dan McCoy (giantkiller)
(the front 17" rim, which I plan on a common 120/70-17 size)  

The last 1992 I overhauled for my buddy Paul, I used a Avon Storm 3D back tire which I really liked...however unfortunately they are out of stock in the 150/80-16 size with no eta....so I'll need something else.

I'll go the the old school Metzler lazertec bias ply if I have to...but I'd rather not. I prefer a radial.

I remember folks talking about the Pirelli Sport Demon radials...but I can't recall if they were good or bad.  

Which tires should I stay away from?

Thanks folks...    Pat

[FJmonkey]

Pat, the Pirelli Sport Demons are bias ply but reported to handle more like a radial. I have not ridden on them so no real useful input on performance.

[T Legg]

The bias ply sport Demons handle great even when they are almost bald. Unfortunately that occurs between 2,600 to 3,000 miles on my bikes.

[Troyskie]

I'm currently running the Sport Demons. They're ok and have been updated with a new compound.
I'm 77kg, 169lb, and prefer 34psi front, 38 rear for general riding. 38/38 for touring (now, lets talk oil and helmets.... )

My previous preference was the Lasertec, but the front is NLA in Oz.

Troyskie

[PaulG]

The last 1992 I overhauled for my buddy Paul, I used a Avon Storm 3D back tire which I really liked...however unfortunately they are out of stock in the 150/80-16 size with no eta....so I’ll need something else.

The Avon Storm has been replaced by the Avon Spirit.  Same tread pattern. If anyone says they have the Storm in stock they were discontinued at least 2yrs ago, so I'd be a little wary of the manufacturing date.  I have a Spirit front, and a Storm rear at the moment.  Can't see any difference between the two.

This is what they go for online "up here". (CDN $$) Lop off about 30% for USD est.

https://www.petes-superbike.com/15080zr16-avon-spirit-p-1334959.html

[Pat Conlon]

Thanks for the update Paul, good to know about the new Avon Spirit ST replacing the Storms.
Unfortunately they are out of stock here in the states....I did try to buy them from Pete's but when I went to check out I could not get a shipping quote....so it appears they don't ship tires south of the border.

I've still got a couple of weeks so hopefully Avon will ship a fresh batch of the 150/80-16's.

Thanks again Paul.

[balky1]

Metzeler Lasertec definitely my recommendation.
They last forever and, regardless of that, offer plenty of grip.

[FJnube]

It was suggested here to try Avon roadriders and I am very happy with this tire.