I've asked another forum and looked at various posts, but want to ask this specifically. If you're running Michelin Road Classics, what psi set-up have you found to work best overall (balance of handling and long-term wear)? And do you run the same front and rear or separate psi? I have a new set and want to hear your experiences. For context, I'm about 180 pounds, ride solo with no significant luggage, and I'm generally a not-too-aggressive, dry-weather rider in NC. It's a '73 R75/5 LWB.
Thanks,
Scott
really? put about 32 lbs in them and go ride, what are you expecting from a 50 year old motor cycle with mediocre brakes and not much power? If you can wear out a set of tires in 3 years you did good.
I don't understand your snarky response. It was just a simple question asking users' psi preferences. Really.
Scott
• Not clear which size you purchased, the traditional Inch size or Metric, but generally speaking, increase the pressures printed in the manual by 10-12%. Your tires may physically measure the same as the tires from the 1970's, but they are made with 2024 technology.
• Metric tires generally have lower sidewalls, making them less prone to flex, but this will change the tire's overall circumference. In turn this may affect your speedometer readings, ability to use the center stand, and final drive ratio. Check for rubbing on the inside of the drive shaft housing after mounting.
• Tire pressures are set by the weight of the bike and the tire's internal sidewall construction. I was running something like 34/35F and 30/31R.
• Tire pressures are always measured cold.... before you ride. Daily.
• If your bike has cast wheels you can even run most modern tires as tubeless, which should extend their life and easier to repair on the road.
• I bought one of THESE GAUGES and the larger, easier to read gauge dial has been a tremendous help.
Owning an old Airhead is easy.
Keeping an old Airhead running great is the true test.
I appreciate the thoughtful reply. I'm running stock sizes per my manual—F: 3.25-19, R: 4.00-18. The Road Classics have a rounder profile than the replaced tires and the rear has plenty of driveshaft clearance.
I have a similar gauge, although it's from Harbor Freight and might not be as accurate as the one you referenced. I double-check it with a separate gauge when airing up/down, so I think mine is close. Thanks!
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