[zyz]

I only have about 4500 miles on my '02 V-Rod. I am very happy with the original Dunlop tires regarding handling & mileage for my driving conditions & style. I am a long way from needing new tires yet, but I see so much about the 200 Metzler on this great forum that I have to ask these questions;
-Why switch from a 180 to a 200, especially when it is necessary to alter the belt guard? (I do understand the alteration is easy & minor).
-Does the 200 fit the original wheel rim properly?
-Does the 200 Metzler cost less, or more?
-Is the width or profile difference significant enough to be worth the change?
-Is the difference more for visual appeal or for performance or both?
-Is there any difference in traction, mileage or handling?
-What about the mis-match with different rubber in back than front?
All responses will be greatly appreciated.

 

[mjw930]

Allen,

The switch is for purely cosmetic reasons.

The 200 was made by Metzeler to fit the 5.5" rim so there's no fitment problems.

The handling is compromised but ever so slightly. Mostly the effect is making the bike seem more sluggish on initial turn in.

If you switch to the 200 rear you need to switch to the Metzeler front, you should not run missmatched compounds and construction IMHO.

BTW, the Dunlop we have is really a slightly older high performance construction vs. a cruising or touring tire. It's actually a very good performance tire. I don't completely understand everyone's need to exchange it for something else but that's just my :2cents:

 

[Ketsugo]

The Metzeler is the way to go. I can't believe you still have a lot of tire left after 4500 miles! Running the 200 Metz with the stock front Dunlop causes zero negative issues (I do understand your point Mark). The bike handles just fine with the mis matched tires. The Metzeler is less expensive ($131 here http://www.motorcyclemart.com/tires/metzeler/me880.htm ) that the Dunlop. The handling is virtually identical, but as Mark said perhaps a tad slower to respond (don't even consider a 240). And yes the 200 being more than 2/3 of an inch wider does have a large impact visually.

John

 

[Steve C]

I'd also like to fit the 200 Metz but I've already bought the chrome upper and lower guards. This leaves me with a problem, as I've heard that you have to trim the lower guard.
Does anyone know the best way to trim a chrome guard without causing the chrome to flake off? I'd hate to ruin a brand new chrome guard.
:hmm:

 

[jlbait]

I think the part you trim is a black plastic part on the inside of the lower gaurd, (not chrome). I don't know for sure, I don't have a lower gaurd on mine. The 200 Metz looks cool in the rain, it shoots water up like a jet ski!

 

[Davidn]

just want to make sure which is right size that fits??


200/60 VR 16 Marathon XXL part#13075
200/50 VR 18 Marathon XXL part #13074

 

[Ketsugo]

The V-Rod real wheel is an 18.


John

 

[Davidn]

thanks John..

 

[fredfryguy]

Put 240 miles on my 250 tire today, no problem!

Hi Guys, I bought my 04 Vrod from a HD dealer that put the Eurocomponent 250 wheel kit on it. I cruised 240 miles today and they felt great! I'm lovin it! Fred

thanks John..

 

[ElrodontheV-Rod]

Are you guys running the recomended pressure in the 200.If not what and why.





Elrod on the V-Rod

 

[Ketsugo]

I run 38 lbs in mine unless I'm at the track.


John

 

[Ricky G.]

Ketsugo,
I watched the dealership mount and install tires on 2 different V-RODS today....The first bike was no problem the 200 fit without any mods.... not the case with the second bike... Had problems with belt guards... So what I have to ask of you is ...Dose every bike vary?

 

[Vinny]

Ricky,
Not one v-rod is the same.There are so many tolerances in the machening and building of the bike.

 

[Ricky G.]

Roger That... I guess that I will have no problems due to the fact that I have taken both upper and lower guards off ...

 

[Vinny]

:thumb

 

[Ketsugo]

Ketsugo,
I watched the dealership mount and install tires on 2 different V-RODS today....The first bike was no problem the 200 fit without any mods.... not the case with the second bike... Had problems with belt guards... So what I have to ask of you is ...Dose every bike vary?

Ricky,
I have heard that too. I needed NO mods to make mine fit and I really have no clearance issue with the Rizoma belt guard installed.

John

 

[zyz]

Thanks for all the opinions & info. My great tire mileage is probably due to my driving style. Lots of highway cruising & often two up so hot-rodding is minimized. I also use a lot of front brake, reducing rear drag. That Rizoma belt guard looks great, but I already have upper & lower chrome guards. I like the looks of the 200, & am attracted to the lower price. I'll probably stay with the Dunlops on the rear until I need a front tire too, then switch to Meztlers to get the look of the 200.

 

[LENELSA]

That's a nice CLEAN pic of your ride John.

So I need to ask.... I put upper & lower chrome belt guards on
a few months ago (would a 200 Metz install give me problems???)
or do I need to pay Marek a visit @ Glendale Harley???)

 

[Ketsugo]

Lenny,
you may need to trim about 1/4 of an inch off the lower belt guard where it might come in contact with the tire. It's absolutely no biggie.




John

 

[mvrod]

Fredfryguy, that 250 looks awsome!
What did the dealer instal in the front?