Thanks Les, what was the exact size of that avon? Was it a rear tire mounted on the front? What kind of precautions do i need to take when taking it to get mounted? Thanks
-Stew
The first tire I used on my front BST was a Pirelli Diablo 150/70 ZR18, which is sold as a rear tire (also not imported to USA). The narrower front rim flexes that tire enough so that it performed admirably up front.
For almost 3 years now, I've used Michelin Pilot Power 120/70 ZR18 on the front, and I find it superior in ALL respects. There was some initial question about the 120/70 Pilot Power being too narrow for the heavy R3, but that proved not to be the case. Before taking her off the street, my R3 regularly carved up Blue Ridge mountain twisties with ease. The 120 gives quicker response and lighter handling, and I never found any situation that threatened to break it loose.
Normal tire machines can be used to mount tires on the CF rims, but if it's an older machine without rubber on the clamps, you might have them tape the claws to prevent marring the polish. Also, the lighter front rim will "flex" if the operator clamps it fast and hard. The CF won't break... but watching it flex might freak out the operator (and you).