should i replace both tires?

My front tire is rotting on the side and slowly leaking. I need to replace it.

Question #1: Is it okay to just replace front tire since back tread looks like it still has some mileage in it?

Question #2: Is there any ideas on where to purchase new tires at a good price? I figure the yamaha dealer, but I bet they are pretty expensive.

Thanks for any help!

 

you could probably get away with one tire for a while, as long as the rear tire is in good shape with no cracks in the tread or side. I purchased two bridgestone spitfires for my seca from www.bikebandit.com for about $150. saved a little bit over the dealer

 

redfire - which tire did u get and how do you like them? I need a rear tire soon - my front is fine - I wonder if the PO liked to leave rubber....

 

I just put Bridgestone Spitfire's on my bike about 1000 miles ago, replacing two very old, very worn + cracked tires. I have been very pleased with them. They are a good match for this style of bike and performance. I took the wheels off the bike myself, and took them to cycle outfitters in Indianapolis (not a dealer), and I think I paid about $80 installed for the front, and $120 installed for the rear. Prices online were of course a fair amount less, but installation fees around here are high enough that online didn't offer any savings.

 

I just put a new Dunlop on the back paid $90.00 for the tire and $25.00 for the mount. I took the tire off the back.

 

YES!! Moto Tires. Like your shoes Should be replaced in pairs
Try Chapparal Motorsports V good pricings FREE shipping Buy Bridgestone BT45's (yes! spend the Extra $5 Your Ass skin will thank you)
http://www.chaparral-racing.com/Chaparr ... B8A585C28E

 

Danilo I disagree with you on the replace them both. On my Harley I wear out 3 back tires to 1 front by what you are saying I would be throwing away a lot of good rubber and $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$ Just my $.02 worth.

 

I feel you should replace the worn tire for one that matches the rear. I think matching tires handle better. I would only replace both if you could not find similar tire to rear.

I paid approx $75USD for tire and mount. I took rims to shop.

 

Make the decision based on the condition of the tire.
If the Bike sat and the tire has aged and there are visible lines of deterioration ... don't hesitate to replace that tire!

Get good rubber under you.
That's the safest thing to do.

 

Rick is correct, if tire is old and showing signs of cracks, it doesn't matter about the tread... replace it!.

Tires are very important for motorcycles. They are the things that keep your butt off the road. Its some of the best insurance you can buy for the money.

 

IMO the tread design should match front to rear for the best performance and ride. THat being said tire condition rules over all Def get the front out of there preferably with one of the same style as the rear if the style is available. Then go on the condition of the rear as stated. The tires on my bike had tread when I got it but both had dry rot so out they went. They actually got replaced before I road it save for the test ride and off the trailer into a friends garage.

 

ive ordered tires from bikebandit.com before, they have low prices, i prefer to buy the el'cheapo cheng shin tires, very nice for the money with a retro look.

 

If I had to have one iffy tire, let it be the rear.

 

Do them both. I always take tires very seriously. If for nothing but my own confidence on the road.

Do you have the cash? Do it. You won't feel bad you did.

 

you have to listen to "grimreaper's" argument, if it was a car you would rotate, we don't have that option.

 

I'm very happy with my Avon Roadrider tires they are not all that expensive but look and perform very well. I was having issues with the front tire following cracks and the grooves in the road but these tires have made my 550 way nicer and more enjoyable to ride. Did i mention that they look nice too? =)

 

http://www.swmototires.com/

aka Southwest Moto Tires

I bought a pair of Dunlop D404's for my bike for $150. Ordered Sunday
night on my front step Tuesday.

 

i have set of brand new tires for a xj 550 maxim the tires are bridgestone battleaxe bt45

 

Not worth the consequences if an old rotten TUBELESS tire fails...I'd do them both if there is any question about the age. I have Dunlop D404's on my '81 (love 'em) and plan to fit either those or Avons on the '83 BEFORE I take it up to highway speed. (Dry-rotted Cheng-Shins came on it...) Nothing wrong with Bridgestone either, or any NEW tires for that matter...