Avon Cobra - Product Review and Initial Impressions

I mentioned recently that it was getting to be time to put some new rubber on my scoot. My front tire still had a few miles left, but the back tire was down to the wear indicators. Since I decided to change to a different style tire, It's was best to replace both as a pair.

I was initially going to put the stock H-D Dunlops back on my '07 FXSTC Softail Custom. They're not bad but I've never been overly impressed with them either. After comparing several different tires online and reading many reviews I narrowed it down to the Metzler ME880 Marathon Touring tires, and the Avon Cobras. Both are well suited to cruisers like mine. AV72 Cobra rear, and AV71 Cobra front. Both manufacturers offered the tires in MH90-21 54H and 200/55R17 78V for my bike.

Both tires received good reviews as far as durability and traction, but it seemed that many Harley riders had noticed a considerable improvement in handling when switching to the Avon Cobras from stock Dunlop tires.

The Cobras were quite a bit more expensive than the Metzler ME 880s. The 880 rear tire was about $170 to the Avon's $215. A considerable difference. If you're really looking for a good handling and long wearing tire that gives you the best value, the Metzler may be the right tire for you.

For myself, I wanted that quicker handling that some of the reviewers raved about so I decided to get the Avon Cobras. Plus, the Cobra insignia on the side of the tread, and the snakeskin sidewall is way cool!

My initial impression after putting a few hundred miles on them is that the steering responsiveness is greatly improved over the stock tires. The handling is so much different that I almost feel like I'm riding another bike! I also noticed that the ride seems to be a bit firmer than before while running at the same tire pressure. I prefer a little more cushion but it's not significant or harsh. Dry traction feels good. I haven't ridden in the rain yet, but it sounds like our upcoming ride to Myrtle Beach this weekend may be a rainy one. I'd rather if someone else would test the wet traction! In any event my bike definitely handles much better than before. Now we'll see how many miles we can get out of them! I hope you find my comments useful. Safe riding! :)