Rider Report Avon Storm 3d On T100 Bonni

Gear1 · Apr 21, 2022

Over the winter I installed the Avon Storm 3D tires on my 2018 T100 Bonneville. Avon do not make an OEM size tire for the front, so I installed a 110-80-18 tire on the front. It is 10mm wider than the original Pirelli bias ply tire, but the same diameter. I now have about 100 miles on the tires, and am duly impressed:

1. Virtually no "walking" over grooves and tar strips. I would suspect that the front tire radial construction is the reason for this.

2.. Less than 1/64" runout of the tread, where the Pirellis were about 1/16" runout.

3. The resonant bouncing of the Pirelli front (with perfectly balanced tires) at about 48 mph has virtually disappeared; Probably due to the minimal runout.

4. I have not reached the "lean Limit" pegs on the footrest yet, but the cornering is much more confidence-inspiring. At about 45-50 degree lean angle the Pirellis exhibited significant "squirm" which did not inspire confidence. The Avon tires simply grip and go around the corners. I intend to explore more lean, but I'm a bit cautious.

In short, I would highly recommend the Avon Storm 3D tires. Of course, it will take some time to determine the mileage life of the tires, but frankly, I am not concerned with tire life. I'm more interested in ride-ability and capability of the tires.

Hope this is helpful.

Craig

Geoff Butler · Apr 21, 2022

Hi Craig,

I fitted new Avon Roadrider MkII Tyres on my 2017 Street Cup this time last year with similar pleasing results. It seems that the factory fitted Pirelli Phantom tyres deteriorate after a few thousand miles and some say this behaviour depends on where the tyres were manufactured.

Like you, my confidence in the bike has changed dramatically as a result and I would recommend that anyone having handling issues with the standard factory fitted Pirelli tyres should consider alternatives.

All the best

Geoff