Tyre Advice

I'm using Mitas E-08. They are just fine in the wet and offroad.
After 4K of stiff (autobahn) riding and lots of mountaincorners there's still a lot of thread left.
No need to change them for the next trip.

 

I had Dunlop 404's that were on the bike when I bought it and they were fine. I replaced them with Shinko's and so far I really like them. However, at my age I'm not an aggressive rider and hardly ever see 70 mph even on the interstate. These will probably dry rot before I wear out the tread.

 

I'm using Shinko 721 on both of my Secas good price and decent performance.

 

They do. A world removed from the Cheng Shin rubbish they used to make. Maxxis is the marketing brand for the range they brought in years ago, in an effort to make people forget the trash tyres. I've worn out a fair few Maxxis on the GS.
Worst tyre I ever had the misfortune to ride in the wet was an original Cheng Shit. Even in the dry it was twitchy.

 

I prefer Dunlop D404’s.
Shinko’s are ok in dry roads and conservative riding, but I find them less grippy when wet, and a tad squirrelly for evasive maneuvering

 

You mean 712? I've got a Shinko 777 on the front and have a Shinko 230 ready to go on the rear.

 

Yes you are right

 

For more modern tire, in your size I would look at Continental Classic (Vintage) Attack, These are modern Radial tires for vintage bikes.
I checked and they make your stated sized 90/90/18" and 110/90/18" rear. These would be my choice if I needed these sizes. They also make
the classic radials in 100/90/18" frt. and 120/90/18" rear. in the US front is $155.50 and Rr is $155.26 prices are for the smaller sizes.
Cheers, 50gary

 

Plus the D404 looks boss when you white letter them with a Sharpie...IMHO.

 

Beautiful 550!!

 

I have ordered a set of the new Michelin Road Classics for my XJ900 just worn out a set of BT-46,s which were good but always liked Michelin,s

https://www.michelin.com/en/press-releases/new-michelin-road-classic-motorcycles-range/