06 1200 low sportster tires and handling improvements?

[jwmayo357]

So I have a 06 sportster and im wanting to replace the tires. I think they r the fact ory dunlops that came on it mainly bcus it only has 7800 miles .the previous owner loved to do burnouts on the bike and thats why I need a new set. After getting on the interstate and feeling how the bike was reacting to the tn roads with tires it has. I dont know if ill be going back to the same ones..im looking for a smoother ride . Where I dont feel every little bump in the road it felt like I was on a crotch rocket .im also looking for great handling in the rain. I cant stand the rain and try not to drive it in at all but if I get caught somewhere it sucks and I feel like im going to get a ticket for going to slow. I know I should just hammer down and quit being such a newbie but im just not comfortable yet and im trying to get there. Thanks for the help also any suggestions on what else I may need to look at that effects the ride quality would be greatly appreciated!

[04 SE Deuce]

Avon Cobra's come in the stock sizes for your bike,  although they are slightly less diameter than the stock D401's.  The Cobra is a grippy nice handling/steering tire,  likely will return a little less mileage versus the stock Dunlops. 


I'm not sure of the differences between a low and a standard height sportster but I would raise it up to std. height to get more available suspension travel and lean angle.  You can probably find standard height sportster take-off/used parts fairly cheap...next step would be some decent aftermarket shocks and a fork upgrade like Race Tech spring/emulator kit.   Rick

[WideWildGlide]

just seen where you said TN road what part of TN you from?

[Panzer]

You paid for your drivers license, go as slow as you want, with 4ways on.
Better to go slow, then not getting there at all.
Know your limits.

[PC_Hater]

Use Bridgestone Battlax BT 45 or Avon tyres to solve the problem of riding in the rain.
Fit longer rear shocks to help with the ride quality and the handling.
Ideally fit standard length forks too but that might get a bit expensive. 
Longer rear shocks with the short front forks is safe but will affect how the bike feels.You will have to try it and see if you like it.

[98FXD]

 I put Dunlop Elite 3's on my wife's Sportster. Worked well in the rain. Now have Dunlop American Elites on it and expect to work as well in the rain. Does ride hard with stock short shocks.
98Fxd

[04 SE Deuce]

   American Elites have a $40 rebate if purchased by July 31st,  from you discount vender of choice. 

Multi tread compound with grippier sides and harder center.  Should last a little longer than your stock tires and have better handling and side grip.  Another good choice.   Rick

[jwmayo357]

I'm from cheatham county right outside nashville 440 is a scary road to be learning to ride on but I think ill eventually become more comfortable.. been hearing a lot of good things about the avon tires probably gonna go with them

[Buffalo]

I've been running Avon Road Rider tires for the last 3 yrs on my 01Dyna (same sizes as Sportsters) Good grip, on wet or dry, last longer and are smoother. The punishing ride is the result of very limited shock travel, even 1" longer would help a lot! fwiw Buffalo

[chopper]

Any tires, and I mean ANY TIRES, will be a big improvement over your stock Dunlops.

[WideWildGlide]

I'm from cheatham county right outside nashville 440 is a scary road to be learning to ride on but I think ill eventually become more comfortable.. been hearing a lot of good things about the avon tires probably gonna go with them

ok man im from Jackson,TN been try to make it up to nashvile to goto the drag strips up there

[R6Chris]

Michelin Commander 2's or Pirelli Night Dragons.