Metzler M880 Front for $159.24, no free shipping but their shipping prices are competitive, I have not actually ordered from them so I don't know how quickly they ship. ME880 150/80-17 METZELER No free shipping on tires
I was totally unaware of the D404. I'd have gone there instead of the Elite 3.
The online images of the tread directional tread pattern, for a front Elite 3, is totally unlike the brochure I just received. The V notch does not attach on first contact with the channels. I will go to the D404 next. When Dunlop begins producing a D407 in a Triumph compatible front tire I going with it. Their MT Multi-Tread technology sounds mighty close to the Bridgestone DTC (Dual Tread Compound). This latter was/is a great tire but not available for the Rocket III Tourer nor Touring, that I know of.
Metzler has a grip on us like the banking cartel. Go native, buy local: Dunlop
I have 12k on my Metzler's and they are in decent shape, for now. I am going to change them this spring, has anyone put any other brand on their bike (non-car tires?)
I have an 08 RIII Touring... had the Dunlops (ugly), then the Metzeler's (only got 7000 miles on them) and I don't push hard... went with Avon Cobra's and I LOVE em. I sense the bike handling better on and off freeway ramps and curves. Good Luck!