Well, the Bulgesicle looks to be due for new rubber. There’s a wealth of choices in tires to install out there even if you don’t consider installing a car tie (which many do install on their bikes). I don’t think I’m quite ready for that step, yet…

Many riders sing the praises of the Bridgestones on the GL1800 and others like the Dunlops. The Bridgestones that came on the Zipsicle were awful, in my opinion. The grip was lousy at the best of times and terrible when the roads were wet. And, surprisingly enough, the roads often are wet here in the Pacific Northwest. I was never so happy as when I finally wore the B ridgestones out and was able to put a good set of Metzlers on the bike. I also went from a 180/60/16 on the back of the bike to a slightly larger 180/70/16. This gave a slightly laqrger contact patch as well as a bit higher load rating. These tire handle superbly on the VSTAR 1300.

Surprisingly, the rear tire on the stock GL1800  Goldwing is the same size as the stock tire on the VSTAR 1300 – 180/60/16 (and, also surprisingly, so is the load capacity of both bikes the same). I think I will also replace this tire with the bigger sized 180/70/16 on the Goldwing, too. I’m sure it will improve the already superb handling of the bike and, like the Zipsicle, will give a slightly better load capacity as well. I’ve pretty much chosen the Avon Cobra series of tires to try on the Bulgesicle. Hopefully, the mileage will be acceptable and I’m sure the handling will be excellent – even when wet.

I think I will pay to have this set switched out but, I also think that, by the time the next tires are due, I’ll buy the equipment to change the tires myself. Should be able to save a few bucks  and maybe it’ll even be fun. Sort of…. Like visiting the dentist, I suppose… Ahhhh, well. That’s why they invented Jack Daniels!

Ride safe,

Zippo and Jax