ZX-7R tires

I'm looking to replace the tires on my '97 7R which I bought used with a
180-55
rear. I'd like to return to the stock 190-50 for the look of the wide rear,
but I
don't want to significantly affect the handling of the bike (which I've
gotten used
to). I've read the 190 will make the bike feel heavier and turn more
slowly. Does
anyone have experience with both tire sizes on the same bike that can
comment on
the handling differences? Thanks.

JJJ

 

I've got a '01 ZX12R... not the same bike, but similar characteristics...

I went from a stock 200/50-17 to a 190/50... (unsprung) weight difference in
the tires was just over 1 lb... difference on the bike was significant, in
terms of turning ability and "flickability"... and difference in wear isn't
much. On the advice of a number of riders with the same bike, I've got a
180/55 to put on next...

I think the 200 on my bike was more for marketing bravado... I'll never go
back to that stock size.

Never mind the "look" of a rear tire... go for function.

--
DaveInOttawa
'01 ZX12R (Blue) - "Diesel"

The world's most accurate Internet clock:
http://www.yugop.com/ver3/stuff/03/fla.html

 

I've read the 190 will make the bike feel heavier and turn more

There's a 30K ZX-7RR in my shop sporting a 190... a 190/50 works better
than a 180/55 because the 190 is a smaller diameter tire...

Comparatively speaking a smaller diameter 190/50 will always turn
quicker than a larger diameter 180/55...

The reason a 180/55 has a large following is because it gives a rider
the impression of quicker steering is due the diameters affect on rising
the back of the bike which steepens rake and decrease trail...

It's better to go with a 190/50 and adjust the swing arm down to equal
the 180/55 increase in ride height... then you have the best of both
worlds... quick steering and extra side wall rubber a 190 affords...

Larry L
94 RC45 #2
Have a wheelie NICE day...
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