1982 KZ1300 rescue and rebuild

Frankly scotch, me too. This would be the first time I ever heard of it, and like I mentioned before, I've been actually told to never switch them because of the different structure. They are made different way as far as I know, therefore have different dynamic properties. I've read something about the front channeling water in a different way than the back, and therefore having different patterns, and a mention that if the rear tire goes to the front it should be reversed. But nothing concrete beyond that, so I wouldn't really quote it.

I've been looking for a phone number to Avon Canada, or wherever, and I will talk to them and confirm or dismiss, and definitely will post what I found. Unless someone else could provide a reliable information sooner.

And yes, I am still thinking it's 'crazy' and despite the assurance from the guy, I want be able to really sleep on it unless I am 100% sure.

Avon AM26 Roadrunners are one of the popular tires for KZ1300. I am sure someone could look at their bike and chip in. I will also ask around.

The front tire had the arrow with 'front' pointing front, so I am confident it's correct.



PS. Just compared to my Vmax and the direction of the pattern seems to match these Avons. Hmm...

It used to be pretty common for tires to be mounted on either front or rear with the rotation arrows showing mounting direction.

Stan, last year I had Avons fitted to my Kettle / Water Buffalo by a motorcycle tyre fitter, and he explained to me that they were marked for front & rear dual fitment options.

Bike tyres are narrow and will cut through water easily. The direction of the channels is not critical, the tyre will not aquaplane very easily. Avon is a nice allround tyre for the 1300.

Listening to all the birds it confirms that these Avon's are installed correctly and are a dual mount tires indeed. Glad to hear that all is good. Live and learn!
I'm ready to bleed the rear brake and play more with the wires.

The front forks are also ready for assembly so the front can be done soon as well. I am holding back a bit though because it's easier to play with fitting the headlight and aftermarket fork ears. I have to drill holes and do some tinkering to install the turn signals. I already have the headlight brackets assembled and installed, so the reference point is there.

Hope the cold will pass.... Coughing is not fun!