Suspension upgrade question


Good examples, but remember frame geometry also plays a part in this.
Read Tony Foal's book for the best data on frame design.
I found the OEM front aspect ratio to be too tall & too fat. It was way too heavy handling.
 
I found the OEM front aspect ratio to be too tall & too fat. It was way too heavy handling.
It is also important to look at OPTIMAL RIM size. Very early on I did find a size chart on USA Metzler that put the optimal size for the 150/80 as a 3.75". But 3.5 "acceptable". This means the tyre is a pinched fit and as such reacts differently - will tend to run better upright and feel very lazy in bends. I measured the tyre fitted and it was actually 143mm wide and the aspect ratio came out at 90%. I had quite long talks with several tyre places about it and all confirmed this is a common error (usually fitting extra wide tyres)

I currently use a 150/70 - this rolls beautifully. Same as a 140/75 - not spec'd really for a 3.5 rim but holds its form better - it is 150 wide. Maybe tougher as it is a rear tyre.

 
Very interesting, Amigo!
What tire is the 150/70R17?
Smaller sidewall would produce less flex and be more stable in the twisties . . . IF it was not a pig to countersteer.
 
Very interesting, Amigo!
What tire is the 150/70R17?
Smaller sidewall would produce less flex and be more stable in the twisties . . . IF it was not a pig to countersteer.
I'll look at model later when i get home - but just as nimble as the Azarro was.
 
Got to ask, what is the difference between a front and a rear tire?
 
Got to ask, what is the difference between a front and a rear tire?
Can be a fair number of things depending on make - Though front/rear universal tyres do exist.

Rears are made to withstand higher forces generally - You can mount a rear on the front but you need to reverse its' rotation.

You should not (imo) attempt to mount a front on the rear. EVER.