I might be the first to admit that on the accessories page noted that the Metzeler 880's sacrifices traction over high mileage. I would have to disagree, if it is given that these are the mileage king then let it be but to say these have less traction than the BT020 is highly mistaken. I just installed a new set of these and did a 540-mile ride through Sonora and Ebbetts Pass just southwest of Lake Tahoe. And as an avid racetrack rider with a sportbike I can assure you I would know when traction is limited and these did not. Infact, if these were high mileage tires then it would be considered a very hard compound tire irregardless of the sidewall structure. Also when tires are new and have been heated up the chemicals in the tire will essentially blend in together to create the adhesion properties for tires to work better. Anyhow on this "spirited" ride through the scenic valleys and mountain ranges I have yet to feel the front or rear tire give any indication that it was loosing its traction. I was so impressed with it I pushed the bike (since the k1200lt acts like a sportbike) to a 7/10th pace keeping up with other riders with an Aprillia RSV-R, Honda VFR750, and Suzuki SV650. Funny thing was that my only limitation was an angular deficiency. I may be the only one to admit this but I love the k1200lt and I love to push the bike to its limit being in 4th gear at 5K rpm on a 35 mph turn.
Overall I just wanted to share my experiences on the 880's and debunk the myth. Thanks
Overall I just wanted to share my experiences on the 880's and debunk the myth. Thanks