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Message started by Rylee on 03/28/15 at 19:26:06

Title: Vintage tire options?
Post by Rylee on 03/28/15 at 19:26:06

I've been looking for a vintage/classic tire option for the bobber build and haven't had much luck. Currently running Shinko 777 150/90 rear and 100/90 front. The picture below is the route I'd like to go but most I've found are tube type and a 15" rear seems nearly impossible to find. If I have to pay Coker prices so be it but if that is in fact the only option I have I want the best. Any links or suggestions would be appreciated.

Title: Re: Vintage tire options?
Post by WD on 03/28/15 at 22:41:40

Ordered one of those for the front of the 1500 Drifter, since it was listed as a front tire where I found it. It is actually an either end (non-directional) replica of a 1940s Firestone. If you ride in the wet, stay away from zig zag tread. If you ride across bridges with metal grate decking, avoid zig zag tread AND straight rib tread (Avon "Skid Master" or similar).

Period correct 15 inch tires are very hard to find, most of them were Carlisle or similar Firestone clones. Shinko is alright, if you could find VS800 Intruder spec Dunlop Qualifiers you'd be better served (sand off the outline white letters, dye the sidewall black).

Try running a 90/90-19 and a 130/90-15. The rear is easy (Kenda) the fronts almost impossible to find. And you'll only find the rear in modern tread at that.

Worth the time and money to have your hubs relaced into 21 and 16 inch hoops. Hundreds of retro choices in 80/90-21, 90/90-21 and 130/90-16.

Title: Re: Vintage tire options?
Post by Rylee on 03/29/15 at 00:57:45

Thanks for the reply @WD that pretty much sums up what I've seen. Since my current 777 are only about 3k in I'm just gonna do a painted whitewall for now and once I actually need tires I'll most likely just do the whitewall version of the same tire. I had Avons on the triumph and loved them but it was a. 16/21 wheel combo and tubed type so it was easy to find classic tires.
I found a pinstriper to finish off my tins so I can complete the look. That and I guy in Florida who hand tools and dyes leather so I'm gonna get my rising sun seat made finally. Should come together once it's all done