Thursday, February 10, 2011

Continental Conti-Motion Tires

Continental Tires, is one of the largest tire companies in the world, and although quite well known in the US for car tires, they are less known for their bike tires.  However, I have heard that they are one of the top motorcycle tire sellers in Europe (what ever that means). 

Continental makes a variety of tires, if you would like a good review of the Road Attack tires read the review on the Canyon Chasers website.  http://www.canyonchasers.net/reviews/tires/road-attack.php


Last year, my friend (Supe) and I were going to travel to the World Superbike Race at Miller Motorsports Park over Memorial Day weekend, taking all of the back roads of course.  The the day before we were to leave, I had taken my bike into the local Kawasaki dealer because it was making a funny noise.  It turned out to be a noise caused by a faulty valve on the emissions system required in California, the system was unnecessary, as I do not live in California, and therefore dealt with appropriately.  However, I was also in need of a new rear tire and with funds running low I opted for the lowest price tire the shop had available, the Conti-Motion.

















So I purchased the tire, which was promptly mounted and away I went.  Over the next few days I put over 1,500 miles on the bike, traveling on everything from mind numbing freeways to tight and twisty mountain passes.   At a cost of only $90 dollars I was extremely impressed with the tire.  Grip was good both while up right and through the turns, it also preformed well in wet weather.  The morning of the last day was met with rain, it cleared up by the afternoon.  The tire was confidence inspiring and felt planted, even when the turns and the speeds were sufficient to eliminate my chicken strips.
Tread life was decent.  The Z1000 is neither light nor heavy at 496 lbs/dry, and I would consider my riding style middle of the road, not too aggressive, however, I do enjoy a spirited ride through the turns.  That being said, I had to replace the tire after about 6,500 miles.  All in all it was a great tire, and I will consider purchasing it again.  It is confidence inspiring, lasts as long as more expensive tires, and is generally one of the lowest cost sport-touring tires (definitely more to the sport side of the spectrum) available.
I currently ride Pirelli Angel STs, and will review them once I have put sufficient miles on to provide a proper opinion.

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