Rear tire size

[SRTie4k]

I'm in need of new tires, and am curious whether it's worth the added expense (~$14) of getting a 190/50 rear rather than getting another 180/55. I'm planning on getting a set of PR4's, as I do a lot more sporty touring than aggressive riding. I understand that the 180/55 will tip in faster, but I'm curious whether the additional contact patch of a 190/50 will add extra life to the tire, and if it's worth the small added cost. This is on my TL1000S. I believe its a 6" wheel.

Thoughts?

[TheIglu]

I don't think the 190 will add any noticeable tire life.

[SVRACER01]

removing one of the spark plugs may help though

[SRTie4k]

So save the money for taller handlebars.

[TheIglu]

Yeah. I wouldn't bother with it.

I've run both on my Rex and it just makes it turn a little bit slower. That's all.

[RandyO]

extra life

go to the darkside

[ZX-12R]

My 12R has a 6" wheel and I've run all flavors of 180, 190, and 200. There was no appreciable mileage difference between sizes but the best overall handling came from 190/55's which is what I've been using since they came out. The 200 made the bike feel heavy and the 180 made the bike feel like it was falling into corners instead of rolling smoothly into them. The 190 split the difference for me and made the bike feel great.

[SRTie4k]

I've never run a 190/55. Pretty familiar with 190/50, which is kind of slow and lumbering, and a 180/55 which, as you said, practically falls into a corner, which is a bit unnerving at times. Maybe I'll give 190/55 a try.

[SRTie4k]

go to the darkside

Too extreme. I don't ride 30,000 miles a year. I'll be lucky to do 1/10th that this year. I'd just like to squeeze as much life out of a ST tire as possible, and minimize flattening.

[ZX-12R]

I've never run a 190/55. Pretty familiar with 190/50, which is kind of slow and lumbering...

I ran 190/50's before the 190/55's existed and never had a problem with them either. I just like the feel of the 55's better.

[AEG]

Take a look at this: The Five-Percent Difference | Sport Rider
It might help you to make a decision.

[Aprilia Pilot]

My input would be the 190 if you have a 6" rim and the 180 if it's a 5.5