Normal or GT tyre recommended?

[CT_Ron]

I hate having to start a topic about tyres. So I'm quickly asking; does the Crosstourer require, or benefits from a GT tyre? 

Or perhaps a better question; what sets the border between choosing a normal or GT tyre. Is it weight?. I'm running standard Continental ContiTrailAttack 3 atm which are now really at the end of their lifespan.

[Younger06]

I reckon the VFR is heavy enough to warrant a "GT" version of a tyre (generally for heavier touring bikes....RT, K1600, FJR....etc etc) stiffer construction to cope with the extra weight.

I am running the same tyre as you and I can't imagine getting an improvement from using anything else.  I would like to try the new Pirelli Angel GT II but they are not done in our size.

[CT_Ron]

Hmm, I'm not sure if this is my tyre. I had good grip in Norway, 2 up with too much luggage, but now it's lacking comfort and grip. It behaves very nervously  in corners. I have done just 5-6K and it's near it's end. It's flat in the center and has a build up ridge on the edges. Cornering roundabouts is a living hell atm. I'm guessing the weight of Norway took a toll on the rear.

The TKC70 has been the best one I ever ridden, but no GT version available (also bias ply) and short lifespan. It was on a 225kg NC700X. I'm not sure if that tyre likes the VFR's weight. When I changed to the Pilot 5, I noticed the TKC were grippier. The Pilot has good grip in the wet though, but so did the TKC (even did some mild snow). I tested the pilot 5 by braking hard in a big submerged puddle at 50kmph, and they worked great.

But this was all on 17" wheels, on a much lighter bike. I'm doubting between the TKC70, Pilot 5 GT, new Bridgestone T32 GT (never had bridgestone)
Or maybe the Conti RoadAttack 3 GT.

I'm just curious how a GT tyre affects handling on our Crosstourer. Depending on Corona, I have a shot at doing a solo trip to the North Cape this year, a 6K total ride, which I'm guessing the TKC70 and 70 ROCKS won't even make. I plan on some fire roads too, but the grunt of it is tarmac...

Yep, keeping this topic quick and short... 

[Younger06]

See if you can get your hands on Dunlop Trailsmart "MAX"
Discontinued recently but I reckon there will still be stock.
I really liked them on my R1200GSA

A bike with the weight and performance is going to "scallop" the blocks on any tyre...........you must carry good corner speed and maybe trail brake in??

[CT_Ron]

I'm still uncertain about the MAX part. If I understand it correctly, a "GT" or MAX etc tyre has stiffer walls. But doesnt that affect comfort?

[Younger06]

No, the "MAX" just meant it was the newer version.......better/improved over the original Trailsmart.

Great allround tyre.

[CT_Ron]

Kicked out Michelin and imported your Dunlop Trail Smart max to my compare list next to the ContiTrailAttack3, Bridgestone T31/T32 and TKC70.

Damn Michelin don't even have our size available...

[Younger06]

The T30 and T31 are pure road touring tyres?

If so, also look at Dunlop Roadsmart III

but if there is any possibility you will be off tarmac on your trip, I wouldn't use pure road tyres.