Statistics, 1987 BMW K100RS mated to a Vetter Terraplane. The rear and front tires were replaced when I restored the bike. The mileage was approx. 50000. After installing the Terraplane and dialing it in, the mileage is approx. 53000. The sidecar tire shows almost no wear and the front tire is in excellent condition, however the rear tire is showing accelerated wear in the center tread. I am running the recommended pressure of 43 psi in the rear. I am looking at replacing the rear tire rather soon , imho. What am I doing wrong and is there a better tire , for longevity for the rear on this bike/sidecar combination? Your input would be very helpful. The rig handles very well, I would prefer not to mess with the sidecar position. Thanks, Craig
In general, sidecars cause rear tire life to be about 1/2 of what it is with out the sidecar. The reason for this is the sidecar needs to have wheel lead, wheel lead causes the rear tire to have to scuff around corners. If wheel lead is reduced, tire wear is better however you loose stability. No free lunch, it is what it is. When possible, and as far as I know not an option on your bike we like to run an automotive tire on the rear as it lasts a lot longer.
Jay G
DMC sidecars
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