Avon storm 3D XM tyres

[AyJay]

Bridgestone 021 and 023 fronts do seem to feel very different when worn to how they feel when they're brand new, and on the Fazer 1000 Gen 1 in particular the steering is affected. When new, the bike seems to bank over quite slowly in a lovely flowing arc, but when worn, it drops on it's side in a flash.


Having said that, they are my preferred tyre. I've been through 27 sets of them on various bikes and although when worn the steering can feel odd, I still find them more confidence inspiring than anything else. Quite possibly, it's my riding style - I'm very heavy on the front brake and steer very quickly and decisively, i.e. I pin it to the ground, flick it in and get back on the throttle immediately. This seems to suit the tyre, I like the fact that it drops onto it's side quickly, so it's not an issue for me.


I've tried all sorts of other makes too, including Avon Storm 3Ds on my ZZR. The Avons were, by a country mile, the worst wet weather tyre. Zero grip. The bike would spin up on 1/4 throttle just crossing a white line on a motorway. Used to scare me witless. Mind, they are a very long lasting tyre.


I could definitely feel the difference in carcass construction going from Avon to Bridgestones though. The Avons have incredibly stiff sidewalls compared to the Bridgestones, I think, which I think makes them more consistent in feel as they wear.


I could be making all this up though!


Whatever you feel is the right tyre is the right tyre for you though. Try a few!