R1100 RS tire question

[ksdcr]

I have a 2000 R1100 RS, which has the factory rear tire size, of 160/60-18. As owners of this era BMW know, it is getting difficult to find this size, in a street/ touring radial. I found that Metzler makes a Torrance rear tire, in a 170/50- 18 size.

So, does anyone know if this 170/50-18, would equate to a 160/60-18 size?

 

[20774]

From what I can read, the 170/50 tire is going to nominally be wider (170mm vs 160mm) but the profile height is going to be less. The "50" means 50% of the width. So will a wider tire fit your rear frame? And with the lower profile, what does that do to use of the center stand and side stand? Will the handling be affected?

 

[m_stock10506]

The 170/50 is a wider profile tire. I have never run one. It might be difficult to get the tire past the swing arm, or it might rub once installed. There are still several 160/60-18 tires available. I see that the Michelin PR3 is available again in the USA. It had been NLA for quite a few years. I recently installed an Avon Spirit ST 160/60 on my 1100RT. Even though it's marked as as 160/60 it "looked" wider than the Angel GT it was replacing, and I had a very tough time getting it to squeeze passed the swing arm. Installed, it has been a very nice tire, but I won't get another.

 

[ksdcr]

Yes, I forgot how tight the fit is, when trying to get it past the rear drive.
Good to hear that the Michelin PR3 is available again. I gave up looking a few years ago.

 

[pglaves]

In my opinion the best approach to this issue is to get a 17 inch rear wheel from a K1200LT or RS which fits fine with new bolts 5mm different in length.

 

[6322]

The last time I searched out replacement tires for my ‘00 R1100RS. I always keep a set on hand and order a new set as I put the last ones on. I couldn’t find anything in the states but found a set in Italy. I ordered them, expecting them to arrive in weeks or months. They were on my doorstep the following Monday! Couldn’t believe how quick they arrived. The 17” wheel thing may be a good choice.