UPGRADE YOUR OPTIONS
AMERICAN V-TWIN / METRIC UPGRADES
Metzeler always wants to give their customers a wider selection of tire fitment for their
motorcycles. In 2007, Metzeler again visited the test track with the popular Metric VTwin
cruisers to verify that upgrade tires were suitable for these motorcycles. Hundred's
of hours of actual riding and testing these fitments make us unique in the motorcycle
tire industry and allow you full confidence in upgrading your bike.
STAGE UPGRADE DEFINITIONS
STAGE 1 UPGRADE:
The Metzeler Stage 1 Upgrade helps you improve the mileage, ride, handling, and looks
without modifying your bike. A true BOLT-ON upgrade for everyone!
STAGE 2 UPGRADE:
The Metzeler Stage 2 upgrade requires modification to your motorcycle's wheels,
fenders, spacers and the purchase of other small products to achieve the look and ride
desired. Metzeler offers more sizes than any other tire company, with the same famous
upgrades for ride, handling and looks, or on a different diameter wheel. These changes
may require modifications to your brake stay-arm or exhaust mounts. Clearances must
be verified by installer/consumer.
STAGE 3 UPGRADE:
The Metzeler Stage 3 upgrade always originates with a standard Harley. Modifications
begin with the swing arm; typically the purchase of a wide tire swing arm kit is necessary.
This upgrade also requires new wheels, fenders and tires, but it will give you the
maximum effect in terms of upgrading the looks of your bike. Handling and performance
remain at the high standards you have become accustomed to from other Metzeler tires.
AMERICAN V-TWIN
To find a complete listing of American V-Twin Upgrade Options please ask your dealer
for a copy of the Metzeler V-Twin Upgrade Brochure or visit
www.us.metzelermoto.com
METRIC CRUISER
The "fill your fender" appearance everyone's looking for! Improved performance: some
upgrade sizes will have increased grip due to softer compounds, but mileage could be
less than standard fitment (180/55-18, 200/50-18, 200/60-16, 210/50-17, 240/40-18,
280/35-18)
METRIC UPGRADE STAGES
STAGE 1 UPGRADE:
Larger ME880 rear tire on OEM size wheel with no modifications to the motorcycle.
STAGE 2 UPGRADE:
Larger ME880 rear tire on OEM size wheel, or a different diameter wheel, may necessitate
modifications to the motorcycle. These changes may include modifying the brake-stay
arm and/or exhaust mounts.
METZELER SPORTBIKE / SPORT TOURING OPTIONS
Metzeler knows that different riders have different priorities, even though they may ride
the same model of motorcycle. With that thought in mind, we have listed not only our
suggested fitment, but we have also added other options that allow you to choose a tire
which closely matches your riding needs.
SPORT:
More aggressive riding such as canyon roads etc..
SPORT TOURING:
Great all-weather performance with better mileage than a sport tire.
TRACK DAY:
Optimal for use during track day events.
METZELER DUAL PURPOSE OPTIONS
Metzeler knows that dual purpose riders like to use their motorcycles in various riding
environments. With that thought in mind, we have listed not only our suggested fitment,
but we've also added another option that will allow you to choose a tire which closely
matches your riding needs.
IMPORTANT FITTING INFORMATION
Correct rim width may be critical to handling and stability. A tire which is installed on a
wider than recommended rim will have a "flattened" profile, with a smaller contact patch
during braking.
Remember tire clearances are important. Changes to your frame and suspension could
alter the handling characteristic of your motorcycle and cause clearance problems.
*While every effort has been taken during the testing of these motorcycles, Metzeler
cannot guarantee that modifications will not be necessary to fit these oversized tires on
your model of motorcycle. Visit the Fitment Guide and Technical area (pages 27- 46)
for complete information on specific motorcycles.
IMPORTANT UPGRADE MEASUREMENTS
FRONT WHEEL MEASUREMENTS
1 Lateral Measurement Tire to fender clearance: Minimum .25"
2 Radial Measurement Tire to under fender clearance: Minimum .50"
REAR WHEEL MEASUREMENTS
1 Lateral Measurement Tire to fender clearance: Minimum .25"
2 Radial Measurement Tire to under fender clearance for steel-belted radials: Minimum .25" - All other tires require Minimum .50"
SWINGARM MEASUREMENTS
1 Lateral Measurement Tire to fender clearance: Minimum .25"
2 Radial Measurement Tire to under fender clearance for steel-belted radials: Minimum .25" - All other tires require Minimum .50"
3 Lateral Measurement Tire to transmission belt/shaft clearance: Minimum .25"