BMW R1200RT/R1250RT Forum

As far as I'm aware, the only two tyres "officially" recommended by BMW Motorrad for the LC R1200RT are Metzeler Z8 or Michelin Pilot Road 4GT.
(Has anyone purchased a new LC RT supplied with any other tyres fitted from the factory.)
BMW dealers should be able to supply a list for each model, I've got one for my TC RT.
https://www.bmw-motorrad.com/content/da ... 913863.pdf

Other tyre manufacturers may supply their tyres to be tested using a variety of bikes, one of which may be an R1200RT. The driving force is likely to be the tyre manufacturer, not the bike manufacturer. The aim is probably to demonstrate that their tyres work well on a popular bike in the hope that it will generate sales. It may not necessarily be an endorsement by the bike manufacturer.

If the tyre manufacturer recommends a tyre for a specific model of bike, I think it's safe to assume that the tyre is "suitable".  It is then a matter of personal experience and preference as to whether it is as good as (or better than) a tyre recommended by the bike manufacturer.  This is, after all, what most people do when buying car tyres - not many people are concerned about what tyre the car manufacturer recommends.
As for "insurance" or "warranty" concerns, I'm sure the tyre manufacturer's assurance that the tyre is suitable for the machine would be good enough. 


So, I would be happy to fit RoadSmart IIIs as recommended for my post-2014 bike by Dunlop - but not the SP version since Dunlop make them for "sportier" (lighter ?) bikes.

Perhaps tyres should be considered in the same vein as other replacement parts. That is, "genuine parts, or parts of equivalent specification must be used" to maintain the T&C's of the warranty.
Providing the tyre speed & load ratings etc. are the same, then why not use them. Some tyre manufacturers do specify a specific version of a particular tyre for "heavier touring bikes" e.g. the RT.

I fancied trying the Battlax T31s. A friend found taht they didn't "square" off like the PR4s did.
As for warranty, no  problems as they are supllied and fitted by my local BMW dealer.

Having used the Roadsmarts on two of my R1200's I was a bit disappointed when the original version was said to be unavailable. (I believe that Dunlop are now up to version three). Then very recently I noticed that there where some available on ebay. Manufacture dates are good being mid 2019. I had a pair delivered for a total cost of £129.

Our Gee wrote:Having used the Roadsmarts on two of my R1200's I was a bit disappointed when the original version was said to be unavailable. Then very recently I noticed that there where some available on ebay. I had a pair delivered for a total cost of £129.

Still available from M&P for £130, https://www.mandp.co.uk/products/120-70 ... 900-570907

Excellent price for premium tyres. I had the front tyre fitted to my “front” loose wheel at a local Dealer for £10.

Just ordered a pair from BikespeedUK, https://www.bikespeeduk.com/

Advertised on ebay at £129, without asking they discounted them to £120 inc. free P&P, should be with me tomorrow.

NBT will fit them for £15 each to a loose wheel, that's £150 all in, happy days.

This will be my sixth pair, whilst they are available, I have no desire to change to a different tyre.

David. wrote:Should be with me tomorrow.

and they were, 24 hours after placing the order.

Their Z8’s are £200, must be such a popular tyre so no need to discount.

https://www.bikespeeduk.com/index.php?act=viewCat&catId=130

If you're feeling flush, Roadsmarts can be purchased for over £200 inc. P&P, https://www.ebay.co.uk/p/8034597423?iid ... gKoZvD_BwE

David. wrote: If you're feeling flush, Roadsmarts can be purchased for over £200 inc. P&P, https://www.ebay.co.uk/p/8034597423?iid=283658811741&chn=ps&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=710-134428-41853-0&mkcid=2&itemid=283658811741&targetid=908661247816&device=c&mktype=pla&googleloc=9046803&poi=&campaignid=10199631013&mkgroupid=105678538687&rlsatarget=pla-908661247816&abcId=1145987&merchantid=191373141&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIhJ7lpYqE6wIV0oBQBh1O-A8zEAkYECABEgKoZvD_BwE

Will stick with Z8’s. Prefer Metzlers. Had Dunlop in the past

My current fifth pair of Roadsmarts have now done 5,000 miles. They are still legal, if possible, will run them locally for around another 500 miles.

After 5000 miles I would consider I had my money's worth out of them and would prefer the safety of new tyres.

New tyres aren't safe until they are scrubbed in.