new Conti Motions installed

[JimbosToys]

Just installed a new set (stock sizes - 120/70-17 and 160/60-17) to replace cupped front/squared off rear Avon Distanzias. MUCH better and more confidence on the road. But after ~200 miles they seem a little bit 'harsh'. I think the dealer might have set the cold air pressure too high - what pressure do you guys use?
Side bar - discovered the throttle lock that is set by the bar end today - nice feature!
Thanks, Jim

 

[Grey1one]

36 front

42 rear

 

[StratTuner]

36 front

42 rear

that's the Honda prescribed tire pressures. I note that the Contientals say 42 on both front and rear. I go with the Honda recommendation.

 

[Fuzzy]

that's the Honda prescribed tire pressures. I note that the Contientals say 42 on both front and rear. I go with the Honda recommendation.

Pressure on sidewall is max tire is designed for, not the optimum for a given MC.


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[670cc]

The Contis are stiff tires. The sidewalls are thick. It is notable when they are off the rim when comparing to, say, a Michelin PR4.

I would never trust any hired tire installer to have set the correct pressure. Plus, checking tire pressure is something a rider should be doing often.

I run the same pressures as Honda specs for the OEM tires (per the label on the bike), and the Contis seem to work well.

 

[draco_1967]

I would never trust any tire installer to have set the correct pressure. Plus, checking tire pressure is something a rider should be doing often.

Agreed. I took my NC to the dealer for state inspections (they were offering a free inspection deal) and when I got the bike back, both tires were over inflate, and the chain was adjusted too tight.

And the Continentals are quite stiff. The zip tie trick almost didn't work.

 

[SergeantChuck]

Side bar - discovered the throttle lock that is set by the bar end today - nice feature!

Did you buy your bike used? You say that like it came with the bike from the factory. Did Honda add something to a newer version of the NC that us 2012 owners did not get?


BTW, I was at the dealer the other day. They had a set of Contis and a set of PR4s side by side in the rack. I did the ole thumb nail press into the rubber and the Contis are all around a much stiffer tire. One of these days I will try them but I'm stuck in the "go with what you know" rut.

 

[JimbosToys]

Chuck - 2012 bike was used. Maybe they were aftermarket. Pretty clever, but don't use in tight traffic! Great way to stretch/flex my sight hand/elbow.
Checked tires - they were 38/40. Reset with good gage to 36/42. Still feel all the road joints/imperfections, guess the old soft Distanzias were more compliant.
Not too happy with the shop (see my alignment story).