Well Chris I was really shocked to see Chris Caliente making a "going to the Darkside" vid. The guys I ride with has gone dark side maybe 5yrs ago, and I'm the only one who still has a motorcycle tire on the rear. We rode through a lot of different conditions and types of road and I can tell you they had no problem. Even their passengers say the ride feels better and safer to move around. But when we had that talk last February as I was putting on a new motorcycle rear tire. They again mentioned how many miles they're getting on the tire, then they said 85% of the road we've been on was a flat top. And the car tire will ride better through the gravel, rain, or just everyday riding because there's more tire on the ground. That got me thinking. So now, Like you I'll be "trying" the dark side next tire change. Also waiting for your road test.
CC, my 'darkside' experience has been flawless. I used a Hankook 195-60-16 in an effort to gain circumference which almost exactly corrected my speedo error (mostly solo riding, no trailer), not a 195-55-60. Further, I balanced the tire with Dyna beads without issue. I will NEVER go back!!!
Last week, 24-08-04, I just installed a "Radar 195/65R16" car tire on my 2003 Goldwing. It was tight but got it in place without any prying tools. Looks good too. Also installed Eco beads for balancing.
First week Darkside Yamaha Warrior XV1700PC. First day I was a little scared to take sharp turns. By day 3 I am leaning hard into turns and loving it. With a greater contact patch on the straight aways you feel every crack in the road while also feeling like you are sitting on a nice soft beach ball. Weird feeling. Less vibration in the handlebars and mirrors are less buzzy. I am really liking this Darkside!
Hi Chris I really enjoy your videos. I have been riding on the darkside for nearly 20 years. I started with my 1998 Valkyrie. I was commuting about 80 miles a day and it was eating up my tires. 7 to 8 k miles and they were gone. I got on the Valkyrie website on you tube and saw an article about using a car tire when I read about 20 to 30 k I became very interested. In spite of the chagrin of my friends I went ahead and mounted a Goodyear on the rear of my Valkyrie. 30 k miles later I mounted another Goodyear 20 k miles sold the Valkyrie with the car tire still on it. I now ride an f6b which has a Falken on the rear. For me car tires ride better and handle better. I have ridden in all kinds of weather conditions, rain .snow and high winds with no problems. I'm a dark sider for life. Not to sure about double darksiding. Bill
Hi Chris, I So Enjoy watching your videos! I respect the Gold Wings (with the possible exception of the 2018 model). I do not own a GoldWing but I do own a 1998 Valkyrie STD that I Love. (I personally prefer seeing more of a motorcycle engine than the GoldWing offers). I did a lot of research on going Darkside. My father worked at Pirelli/Armstrong tire manufacturer when I was growing up. He worked there for several decades. He started off being an actual tire builder but eventually came to work in their laboratory. I heard all of the details of tires when we would eat dinner together. Motorcycle tires and car tires (especially concerning the sidewalls) are designed much differently. The sidewall on a “car” tire is NOT designed for the lean angle that a motorcycle places on it. On the other hand, I truly believe the manufactures of motorcycle tires have dragged their feet in their continuing development of their tires to the point of stagnation. I believe they realize that us motorcycle riders (admitting that we purchase far less tires than the automobiles on the road) are “stuck” with few choices in comparison. There is NO WAY they will be able to convince me they cannot make a motorcycle tire that is safe, sticks to the road just as well (if not better) and last many times longer than the overpriced options we currently have. I do not like someone else dictating what I can and cannot do so I decided to try dark siding with an open mind. I installed a Yokohama Avid Envigor on the rear of my Valkyrie. I aired it up to appx 32lbs and took it for a test ride. It honestly scared me a few times! It was way too “squirrelly” in low speed turns and also when accelerating on entrance ramps. I experimented with pressures and have found 42psi on the rear and 42 psi on my front (Avon Cobra) is just about perfect. The naysayers will say we are crazy risk takers (BTW: newsflash: riding ANY Motorcycle is taking unnecessary risks but we do it because we love to ride) but the rear tire sticks in the corners better than my front “motorcycle” tire. In doing my research that in some other countries (and maybe some states here) it is against the law to install a tire designed for a car on a motorcycle. Most?, will tell you that as long as the tire is DOT approved, it becomes a “motorcycle” tire when it is installed on a motorcycle. In fact, I could not find anywhere,on any of the tires I looked at, anything that read “for automotive use only” or anything similar. I was recently ran off the road (a two lane with no turning lane). I was attempting to turn left into my subdivision. As I was slowing down and also waiting for a break in oncoming traffic, a lady in a White Escalade was not slowing down behind me. I kept thinking she would slow down at any moment but she did not. When I realized she was going to run into/over me, I let out the clutch and goosed the throttle while going toward the deep grassy ditch to my right. At that moment I also saw a fire hydrant appx 6 feet down into the ditch directly in front of me. I knew from riding motorcycles (starting in 1974), my sudden forced acceleration combined with turning to miss the hydrant, I was going to be making a trip to the hospital or worse. To my amazement, my bike did not go down. The front tire slid a little but the rear tire kept me up. I’m thankful that the Good Lord saved me and for the much wider rear contact patch that kept me upright! It has also greatly helped me when riding on some curvy mountain roads and an unexpected rain came up. Again, the front tire did well but still slid a time or two but the rear tire stuck like glue. For those who are biased, I know I will never be able to convince you but I KNOW it saved me from serious injury and will sell my bike before going back to a “motorcycle” tire. In fact, when I see the motorcycles going down the interstate and the rear of the bike is twitching back and forth at 70+ mph, it makes me wince. One more advantage; I realize the front brake/tire provides most of your stopping power but the rear brake helps as well. On my previous bike (Yamaha V-Max) and on my current Valkyrie, I could lock up the rear tire if I stepped on the rear brake pedal hard enough. NOT ANYMORE! The contact patch is so much larger now that I defy anyone one to lock it up!😆 I’m 6’2” 225lbs linebacker body and pump iron 3X a week and I can even begin to lock up the rear wheel. Sorry Chris for the massively long post but just wanted to let you know that I support you. Hundreds of thousands of miles have been traveled on dark siding motorcycles with almost no evidence of tire related wrecks. It is not for everyone. Some do not like the way it handles (differently) and I respect that. What I do not respect is someone that disrespects you based on someone else’s opinion or something they read or was told. True, Car tires should not work well on a motorcycle...., BUT THEY DO. I personally believe they are so “overbuilt” for cars that motorcycles do not begin to test the limits of their capabilities (depending on the specific tire of course). In fact, if I’m not mistaken, even the best motorcycle tires are over their stated maximum weight capacity when installed on the rear of a GoldWing that is pulling a trailer with two average sized adults aboard, correct? If that is true, how is that safe?? God Bless You Chris and Ride Safe
Car Tires are built to carry 1200 pounds each. That is more than the weight of any motorcycle I know of. Plus with the exception of Firestone most manufacturers don't like stories circulating about their tires blowing out leaving all their tread on the highway to be a hazard to other vehicles. LOL!
I have riden double darkside for years. I ride cross country each summer. I love the twisties! Everything about riding is better darkside. My favorite is when the road is wet and you need to grab a handful of brakes. No sliding on that wet road! I seldom put my feet down at stop signs. I can go on and on about it. I must admit that i get some strange looks when I tell folks i am running a CT on the back and a back tire on the front installed backwards. LoL! P.S. A long time ago....bikes didnt have the MT as we know them today. Once upon a time they were kinda flat. Shhhh.... dont tell anyone...you are liable to start a debate. Ride safe bro!
I been running a Potenza G109 for years. People talk about shock absorbers and kits to make the ride better. A car tire makes the ride way better for less than $200. I'm going on 35,000 on this tire!
Best TH-camr I've been watching your videos for a long time. I was without a bike dreaming about being out there on the road. Would love to see videos of you and the wing out doing what they supposed to do cruise the open road thanks for all you do
Good info, my Goldwing is a 84 and I have seen a guy do his 87 Goldwing and it also fit, so I will be joining the Darkside as well, Keep up the good work Chris.
Thanks for the info that explanation was the best that was the one thing I wanted to know was the lean you showed both tire at the same angle car tire on the tread and the flat area on the tire Khalsa you up know one had said that you get my Best Review Award!
I just caught a nail in my 5 week old Bridgestone RF car tire on my 2012 GL1800. Decided to check my pressures this AM and found the rear at 12.5 psi! Its always the way with me a new tires. they find the nails! Anyway, Bridgestone says it's OK to patch their RF with a mushroom patch so Ill pull it off and see about getting it repaired. Tiny nail in it, just enough to ruin my day but not the tire. Ride safe and check those pressures weekly!
I have not heard of any wrecks or casualties caused by dark siding. I did it and wish I had stuck to it. As soon as MC tire is worn, I’ll be going back to the dark side. Please don’t take any offense to this but those who are opposed to the dark side have never tried it and are basing their opinion on what the Manufacturer says. It’s like Harley Davidson saying to only use Syn 3 20/50 oil in their bike at $14 a quart verses Mobile 1 at $10.99. It’s all about the money. My brother in law and I have put 40,000 miles on two dark side tires collectively with absolutely no issue. I do appreciate the concern and if your concerned about a dark sided in your ride group, just ride in front of it. JMO
I too have mounted a khumo Ecowing es01 195/60/r16 tire on my goldwing and also mounted centramatic tire ballancers the ride is the best I have ever had on a bike and the speedo is spot on I have been riding 59 years A rear bike tire in au is about $360 the khumo cost $87 yesterday I went for a ride an came on some roadwork there was 10 km of gravel and the front tire slid all over the place but the back car tire was like is was glued to the road If I had of had a bike tire on the back I'am sure I would have fallen off
I’d like to take this opportunity to apologize to you and to your followers. I called you a name and said that I’d lost respect for you. Nothing could be further from the truth. You’re a highly respected individual and you deserve nothing but the utmost of respect and support. I was way out of line and I don’t know why. I may not see the "Safety" logic in your “Dark-siding” but you certainly don’t need the ridicule that I gave you. I wish you nothing but the best in all that you do. Fact is: I’ve always enjoyed all your work and your videos. I am sorry for being so out of line. Signed, a Clown.
Hi Chris love your video. I put the same Tire on my Goldwing it is a Bridgestone driveguard and I don't know if you mentioned it or not but that tire has a double sidewall as well as it being a run-flat. Too much snow here to try it out but I'm waiting for the warmer weather to give this tire a good workout. Keep up the good work my man.
The rear tire if the Spyder (size P205/50/15) could be dark sided. However, as was pointed out, the dealer maintains that it's a liability issue. And unless they sell it (Kenda), they're not all that enthusiastic about mounting it. Nor are that many independent Spyder shops in this area, willing to do such a tire change.
Chris...just to let you know about going Dark Side...even when you are in a peg scraping turn (left or right), you will still have more rubber on the road than you will with a motorcycle tire going in a straight line.
TPMS works just fine. The info is able, just have to be as smart as your phone, tablet, computer, and seek out the details. Reversed my TPMS sensors when I reprogrammed them, did the rear tire first, front tire last. No problems.
I have never really considered it, so probably not. I am pretty skeptical of the safety. That said, since I ride straight, flat roads in Texas, it probably would be OK for someone like me. But, if I were carving canyons, I would really think twice.
I am surprised, Chris. I remember you rejecting this novelty. Manufacturers are all against this from a safety issue. I think my life is worth more than the savings on the cost of the tires. After all you have spent a small fortune on the Goldwing already. Don’t go cheap now.
I like UR vid's. My Cuz has a 2006 Goldwing, I have a 2007 Goldwing. When ever we ride together, I always tell him on the CB. I'm Out On My Goldving!!!
Darksiding might be good for those who ride mostly in a straight line on the highway and never exceed more then 15-20 degrees of lean angle in the twisties . For those Wing riders who regularly scrapped their pegs , i think IMHO that a regular motorcycle tire is the way to go > I would be afraid to scrape my pegs when darksided .
The rear tire you took off with the six K looked like the tread indicators were at the surface of tread where you measured. In that case, as far as the manufacturer is concerned is worn out. Six thousand miles and worn out. That's pitiful that either Honda or the tire companies haven't done something about the problem. But like everything else today, the tire companies want to sell tires, and the dealers really sock it to you when you buy a new tire and have them mount it. I will be going to the darkside when I need tires. Thank you for the videos, and information
My man Chris, please be careful when cornering with this tire. The tread design is asymmetrical (left side tread pattern not the same as the right side). That means the bike could respond differently when cornering left versus right....especially on wet roads. All the best to you.
I'm still debating. I like to lean hard a lot. I had to replace that long metal piece that covers the exhaust and has the foot warmer door in it, just because I leaned too much and scrapped a hole in it. $300 that cost me. Thoughts on dark-siding with an aggressive riding style?
The tire grips good but it handles like, well terrible. Some thinner tires should work better and some folks like them a lot better. Search for "taxi tire" on a motorcycle and read some of their thoughts...
Totally shocked... your previous comments lead me to believe you would never try a car tire. Well times do change and Republicans do become democrats. Seriously for high mileage riders that ride the interstate highways it’s a good idea. Motorcycle companies won’t support it because they have to support the motorcycle tire manufacturers (its the price of business). Riding two up, pulling a trailer, or riding with heavy loads you’ll see the difference. I’ve been riding for 40yrs. This isn’t new. It’s like seeing old clothes come back into style. Keep us informed of what you think after a 500-700 mile ride. That will solidify your opinion. Bsaf Mr. Caliente
Good evening Chris....i have seduced yo the darkside...i already turn today to the darkside...i has a little afraid....but I ride around my neighborhood...and beyond and man.....what a diference in a good way....it was a little pain to put the new tire but I saw how you did it and a little help and now im riding to the dark side....in a few month i will become doble darkside. Tell me how can i I send pictures....God bless you.
You will actually have more tread on the ground with the car tire leaned over when you add the weight of the bike, the tire spreads out much further than just leaning the tire over. There are a couple of videos on the tube that show this while riding...
No, but it very well might? I was speaking to how Chris was demonstrating how the tread stayed on the ground when the tire was leaned over, because the tire deflects with weight, that tread contact spreads out.
True it wasn't but it has for many thousands of miles for lots of people. Personally I don't care for the way the bike handles, there are a lot of issues when running a car tire.
I think you will notice a resistance to lean when riding in corners due to the lack of the convex shape that allows you to easily transition from center to edge. The flickability of the Wing has a lot to do with the tires and their size and profile, I wouldn't be able to sacrifice that for another 10k miles out of tire. Most people don't even ride enough to justify worrying about mileage on a tire, it would begin to dry rot before it was bald in a lot of cases.
Chris, that's why I got love for ya bro. Put the money where your mouth is! waiting for results considering switching on my next tire purchase. Hey, if it keeps more rubber on the ground, less expensive and last longer. so, where is the negative?
I believe most of the negativity on the riding side of the story is cornering my friend........ it's all about cornering! There's absolutely no denying that a car tire driven in a straight line is flat out (no pun intended) better then a motorcycle tire in every aspect. Then you come up with my biggest issue........... motorcycle insurance. "Road Glide" enlightens the insurance issues very well.
What is it with these riders??? Suddenly, we are all engineers???? We can't just ride peacefully with what is recommended? If Honda's engineers specifically go by 2 -3 types of tires for the GW, we have to respect that. I don't care how many years of riding anyone has. If the doctor says that you need specific kind of shoes for hiking, you don't go and buy sandals. Worse then that, God forbid, you are involved in an accident, lawyers love guys with unwritten modifications. It is such a party time for them and guess who will lose? Happy and safe riding in the dark side.
I'm surprised that a Dunlop Motorcycle Design Engineer, hasn't got a hold of you and slapped you upside the Head! The first thing you said " I'm putting a car tire on my motorcycle " Is so wrong on many levels. A car tire is not designed for lean angles, that a motorcycle encounters whenever it's ridden. Yes, you will lean the bike. Second, grip. That motorcycle tire will control better than any car tire. Comparing tread depth, what??? No comparing to motorcycle tires. Compounds and tread depth are totally different. In fact, the latest Dunlop has designed more mileage to the center of the tread. Third, price. Saving money over safety? I'll take safety over a car tire any day! I got an uneasy feeling, in my stomach when saw this. I said to myself, why?
I yet to see anyone end up with a F’d up day with a dark side proven to be the cause. Not saying it can’t happen though. Plus Cruz’s is a flipper any way he changes his mind every ten seconds.
Well Chris I was really shocked to see Chris Caliente making a "going to the Darkside" vid. The guys I ride with has gone dark side maybe 5yrs ago, and I'm the only one who still has a motorcycle tire on the rear. We rode through a lot of different conditions and types of road and I can tell you they had no problem. Even their passengers say the ride feels better and safer to move around. But when we had that talk last February as I was putting on a new motorcycle rear tire. They again mentioned how many miles they're getting on the tire, then they said 85% of the road we've been on was a flat top. And the car tire will ride better through the gravel, rain, or just everyday riding because there's more tire on the ground. That got me thinking. So now, Like you I'll be "trying" the dark side next tire change. Also waiting for your road test.
CC, my 'darkside' experience has been flawless. I used a Hankook 195-60-16 in an effort to gain circumference which almost exactly corrected my speedo error (mostly solo riding, no trailer), not a 195-55-60. Further, I balanced the tire with Dyna beads without issue. I will NEVER go back!!!
Last week, 24-08-04, I just installed a "Radar 195/65R16" car tire on my 2003 Goldwing. It was tight but got it in place without any prying tools. Looks good too. Also installed Eco beads for balancing.
First week Darkside Yamaha Warrior XV1700PC. First day I was a little scared to take sharp turns. By day 3 I am leaning hard into turns and loving it. With a greater contact patch on the straight aways you feel every crack in the road while also feeling like you are sitting on a nice soft beach ball. Weird feeling. Less vibration in the handlebars and mirrors are less buzzy. I am really liking this Darkside!
Hi Chris I really enjoy your videos. I have been riding on the darkside for nearly 20 years. I started with my 1998 Valkyrie. I was commuting about 80 miles a day and it was eating up my tires. 7 to 8 k miles and they were gone. I got on the Valkyrie website on you tube and saw an article about using a car tire when I read about 20 to 30 k I became very interested. In spite of the chagrin of my friends I went ahead and mounted a Goodyear on the rear of my Valkyrie. 30 k miles later I mounted another Goodyear 20 k miles sold the Valkyrie with the car tire still on it. I now ride an f6b which has a Falken on the rear. For me car tires ride better and handle better. I have ridden in all kinds of weather conditions, rain .snow and high winds with no problems. I'm a dark sider for life. Not to sure about double darksiding. Bill
Hi Chris,
I So Enjoy watching your videos!
I respect the Gold Wings (with the possible exception of the 2018 model). I do not own a GoldWing but I do own a 1998 Valkyrie STD that I Love. (I personally prefer seeing more of a motorcycle engine than the GoldWing offers).
I did a lot of research on going Darkside. My father worked at Pirelli/Armstrong tire manufacturer when I was growing up. He worked there for several decades. He started off being an actual tire builder but eventually came to work in their laboratory. I heard all of the details of tires when we would eat dinner together.
Motorcycle tires and car tires (especially concerning the sidewalls) are designed much differently. The sidewall on a “car” tire is NOT designed for the lean angle that a motorcycle places on it.
On the other hand, I truly believe the manufactures of motorcycle tires have dragged their feet in their continuing development of their tires to the point of stagnation. I believe they realize that us motorcycle riders (admitting that we purchase far less tires than the automobiles on the road) are “stuck” with few choices in comparison. There is NO WAY they will be able to convince me they cannot make a motorcycle tire that is safe, sticks to the road just as well (if not better) and last many times longer than the overpriced options we currently have.
I do not like someone else dictating what I can and cannot do so I decided to try dark siding with an open mind. I installed a Yokohama Avid Envigor on the rear of my Valkyrie. I aired it up to appx 32lbs and took it for a test ride. It honestly scared me a few times! It was way too “squirrelly” in low speed turns and also when accelerating on entrance ramps. I experimented with pressures and have found 42psi on the rear and 42 psi on my front (Avon Cobra) is just about perfect.
The naysayers will say we are crazy risk takers (BTW: newsflash: riding ANY Motorcycle is taking unnecessary risks but we do it because we love to ride) but the rear tire sticks in the corners better than my front “motorcycle” tire.
In doing my research that in some other countries (and maybe some states here) it is against the law to install a tire designed for a car on a motorcycle. Most?, will tell you that as long as the tire is DOT approved, it becomes a “motorcycle” tire when it is installed on a motorcycle. In fact, I could not find anywhere,on any of the tires I looked at, anything that read “for automotive use only” or anything similar.
I was recently ran off the road (a two lane with no turning lane). I was attempting to turn left into my subdivision. As I was slowing down and also waiting for a break in oncoming traffic, a lady in a White Escalade was not slowing down behind me. I kept thinking she would slow down at any moment but she did not. When I realized she was going to run into/over me, I let out the clutch and goosed the throttle while going toward the deep grassy ditch to my right. At that moment I also saw a fire hydrant appx 6 feet down into the ditch directly in front of me. I knew from riding motorcycles (starting in 1974), my sudden forced acceleration combined with turning to miss the hydrant, I was going to be making a trip to the hospital or worse. To my amazement, my bike did not go down. The front tire slid a little but the rear tire kept me up. I’m thankful that the Good Lord saved me and for the much wider rear contact patch that kept me upright!
It has also greatly helped me when riding on some curvy mountain roads and an unexpected rain came up. Again, the front tire did well but still slid a time or two but the rear tire stuck like glue. For those who are biased, I know I will never be able to convince you but I KNOW it saved me from serious injury and will sell my bike before going back to a “motorcycle” tire. In fact, when I see the motorcycles going down the interstate and the rear of the bike is twitching back and forth at 70+ mph, it makes me wince.
One more advantage; I realize the front brake/tire provides most of your stopping power but the rear brake helps as well. On my previous bike (Yamaha V-Max) and on my current Valkyrie, I could lock up the rear tire if I stepped on the rear brake pedal hard enough. NOT ANYMORE! The contact patch is so much larger now that I defy anyone one to lock it up!😆 I’m 6’2” 225lbs linebacker body and pump iron 3X a week and I can even begin to lock up the rear wheel.
Sorry Chris for the massively long post but just wanted to let you know that I support you. Hundreds of thousands of miles have been traveled on dark siding motorcycles with almost no evidence of tire related wrecks. It is not for everyone. Some do not like the way it handles (differently) and I respect that. What I do not respect is someone that disrespects you based on someone else’s opinion or something they read or was told.
True, Car tires should not work well on a motorcycle...., BUT THEY DO.
I personally believe they are so “overbuilt” for cars that motorcycles do not begin to test the limits of their capabilities (depending on the specific tire of course). In fact, if I’m not mistaken, even the best motorcycle tires are over their stated maximum weight capacity when installed on the rear of a GoldWing that is pulling a trailer with two average sized adults aboard, correct? If that is true, how is that safe??
God Bless You Chris and Ride Safe
Car Tires are built to carry 1200 pounds each. That is more than the weight of any motorcycle I know of. Plus with the exception of Firestone most manufacturers don't like stories circulating about their tires blowing out leaving all their tread on the highway to be a hazard to other vehicles. LOL!
Very impressed with this gentleman . Does his research and knows what’s he’s talking* about .
Thanks from Canada .
I have riden double darkside for years. I ride cross country each summer. I love the twisties! Everything about riding is better darkside. My favorite is when the road is wet and you need to grab a handful of brakes. No sliding on that wet road! I seldom put my feet down at stop signs. I can go on and on about it. I must admit that i get some strange looks when I tell folks i am running a CT on the back and a back tire on the front installed backwards. LoL!
P.S. A long time ago....bikes didnt have the MT as we know them today. Once upon a time they were kinda flat. Shhhh.... dont tell anyone...you are liable to start a debate. Ride safe bro!
Obviously you’re out of warranty too.
Stephen Smith you are correct.
Bayou Biker why put the back tire backwards on the front. why do you change the directional integrity?
I glad to see you’re open minded enough to try dark siding I think you’ll love it.
I been running a Potenza G109 for years.
People talk about shock absorbers and kits to make the ride better.
A car tire makes the ride way better for less than $200.
I'm going on 35,000 on this tire!
Best TH-camr I've been watching your videos for a long time. I was without a bike dreaming about being out there on the road. Would love to see videos of you and the wing out doing what they supposed to do cruise the open road thanks for all you do
Good info, my Goldwing is a 84 and I have seen a guy do his 87 Goldwing and it also fit, so I will be joining the Darkside as well, Keep up the good work Chris.
Thanks for the info that explanation was the best that was the one thing I wanted to know was the lean you showed both tire at the same angle car tire on the tread and the flat area on the tire Khalsa you up know one had said that you get my Best Review Award!
“ A man with an experience is never at the mercy of a man with a theory.” 😎
Huh? What? Theory is that gravity will hold a man on earth; experience is that, that man will fall on his ass every time. Confusious.
I just caught a nail in my 5 week old Bridgestone RF car tire on my 2012 GL1800. Decided to check my pressures this AM and found the rear at 12.5 psi! Its always the way with me a new tires. they find the nails! Anyway, Bridgestone says it's OK to patch their RF with a mushroom patch so Ill pull it off and see about getting it repaired. Tiny nail in it, just enough to ruin my day but not the tire. Ride safe and check those pressures weekly!
I have not heard of any wrecks or casualties caused by dark siding. I did it and wish I had stuck to it. As soon as MC tire is worn, I’ll be going back to the dark side.
Please don’t take any offense to this but those who are opposed to the dark side have never tried it and are basing their opinion on what the Manufacturer says.
It’s like Harley Davidson saying to only use Syn 3 20/50 oil in their bike at $14 a quart verses Mobile 1 at $10.99. It’s all about the money.
My brother in law and I have put 40,000 miles on two dark side tires collectively with absolutely no issue.
I do appreciate the concern and if your concerned about a dark sided in your ride group, just ride in front of it.
JMO
Yes. There are reasons for following manufacturer specs.
dude . that is one clean bike . wow good job
very comprehensive ... real world thinking, thank you Chris
2016 gold wing my year-mine is a trike-nice video
I too have mounted a khumo Ecowing es01 195/60/r16 tire on my goldwing and also mounted centramatic tire ballancers the ride is the best I have ever had on a bike and the speedo is spot on I have been riding 59 years A rear bike tire in au is about $360 the khumo cost $87 yesterday I went for a ride an came on some roadwork there was 10 km of gravel and the front tire slid all over the place but the back car tire was like is was glued to the road If I had of had a bike tire on the back I'am sure I would have fallen off
I’d like to take this opportunity to apologize to you and to your followers. I called you a name and said that I’d lost respect for you. Nothing could be further from the truth. You’re a highly respected individual and you deserve nothing but the utmost of respect and support. I was way out of line and I don’t know why. I may not see the "Safety" logic in your “Dark-siding” but you certainly don’t need the ridicule that I gave you. I wish you nothing but the best in all that you do. Fact is: I’ve always enjoyed all your work and your videos. I am sorry for being so out of line. Signed, a Clown.
I have no clue what you said to this gentleman but your willingness to do an open apology says a lot about your character. Respect.
Hi Chris love your video. I put the same Tire on my Goldwing it is a Bridgestone driveguard and I don't know if you mentioned it or not but that tire has a double sidewall as well as it being a run-flat. Too much snow here to try it out but I'm waiting for the warmer weather to give this tire a good workout. Keep up the good work my man.
My Riken Raptor has a Nylon reinforced sidewall and bead. Never can have too many redundancies.
The rear tire if the Spyder (size P205/50/15) could be dark sided. However, as was pointed out, the dealer maintains that it's a liability issue. And unless they sell it (Kenda), they're not all that enthusiastic about mounting it. Nor are that many independent Spyder shops in this area, willing to do such a tire change.
Brother Chris, I can't wait to see the video ehen you test drive the bike to see how it feels ehen you drive it.
That is something I have been thinking on for several years. Be interesting to hear your report.
looking forward to the results of your road test
I just replaced my E4 and they gave me 16,800 miles good to the last drop
Chris where do live? I just got a wing and learning about the dark side and want to do mine. Can you help?
Chris...just to let you know about going Dark Side...even when you are in a peg scraping turn (left or right), you will still have more rubber on the road than you will with a motorcycle tire going in a straight line.
Dark siding decline the bike altitude ? Lowering it height ?
I am anxious to know how the car tire treats TPMS. The Goldwing world breathlessly awaits your verdict!
I think you have to disable the TPMS since car tires run on way less air pressure. Or is my logic wrong?
TPMS works just fine. The info is able, just have to be as smart as your phone, tablet, computer, and seek out the details. Reversed my TPMS sensors when I reprogrammed them, did the rear tire first, front tire last. No problems.
Cruiseman this question is for you. In your honest opinion would you put a car tire on a Goldwing?
I have never really considered it, so probably not. I am pretty skeptical of the safety. That said, since I ride straight, flat roads in Texas, it probably would be OK for someone like me. But, if I were carving canyons, I would really think twice.
I am surprised, Chris. I remember you rejecting this novelty. Manufacturers are all against this from a safety issue. I think my life is worth more than the savings on the cost of the tires. After all you have spent a small fortune on the Goldwing already. Don’t go cheap now.
I like UR vid's. My Cuz has a 2006 Goldwing, I have a 2007 Goldwing. When ever we ride together, I always tell him on the CB. I'm Out On My Goldving!!!
Chris have you noticed the roar with the new car tire like the motorcycle tire does when worn when leaning ?
Darksiding might be good for those who ride mostly in a straight line on the highway and never exceed more then 15-20 degrees of lean angle in the twisties . For those Wing riders who regularly scrapped their pegs , i think IMHO that a regular motorcycle tire is the way to go > I would be afraid to scrape my pegs when darksided .
Could you please tell me what front Tire you run with your Darkside attire
Chris . What size tire did you put on the front . Did you buy wider tire ? Thanks . Peter
Waiting to see the road test. If this saves money and more time riding I'm down with it. Best of luck!
Hi chris
did you use the same psi as the motorcycle tire or increased when you used the car tire
Well I Am Wondering If The Speedometer Needs Re-calibrated With The Car Tire Or Are The Tires Close To The Same Height
Thank you for clarifying: 7mm vs 10mm.
thanks
The rear tire you took off with the six K looked like the tread indicators were at the surface of tread where you measured. In that case, as far as the manufacturer is concerned is worn out. Six thousand miles and worn out. That's pitiful that either Honda or the tire companies haven't done something about the problem. But like everything else today, the tire companies want to sell tires, and the dealers really sock it to you when you buy a new tire and have them mount it. I will be going to the darkside when I need tires. Thank you for the videos, and information
Chris, are you still running darkside? what are your thoughts now?
Have u noticed any difference in mpg with CT? Great videos!
What size tire did you use big dog? I want to try the install.
Thank you
Do you know of anyone in Houston Tx, that would mount Darkside tires
what air pressure you running in that tire?
My man Chris, please be careful when cornering with this tire. The tread design is asymmetrical (left side tread pattern not the same as the right side). That means the bike could respond differently when cornering left versus right....especially on wet roads. All the best to you.
My tire is almost square and I turn just fine. Riken Raptor A/S.
let us know how close you speed ometer is with 195/55 tire thanks
I would be curious to see if your old tire that is not mounted and Inflated would still stay flat on the ground and not want to tip over.
Yep, it stayed upright when it was air up off the bike, I didn't think to show it, but good point.
I'm still debating. I like to lean hard a lot. I had to replace that long metal piece that covers the exhaust and has the foot warmer door in it, just because I leaned too much and scrapped a hole in it. $300 that cost me. Thoughts on dark-siding with an aggressive riding style?
The tire grips good but it handles like, well terrible. Some thinner tires should work better and some folks like them a lot better.
Search for "taxi tire" on a motorcycle and read some of their thoughts...
chris as you said we do listen to what you say. when did the g407 (time stamp 1:28) come out?
acerider2005 G704
Totally shocked... your previous comments lead me to believe you would never try a car tire. Well times do change and Republicans do become democrats. Seriously for high mileage riders that ride the interstate highways it’s a good idea. Motorcycle companies won’t support it because they have to support the motorcycle tire manufacturers (its the price of business). Riding two up, pulling a trailer, or riding with heavy loads you’ll see the difference. I’ve been riding for 40yrs. This isn’t new. It’s like seeing old clothes come back into style. Keep us informed of what you think after a 500-700 mile ride. That will solidify your opinion. Bsaf Mr. Caliente
I know I have been away from You tube for awhile but, I cant believe what I am seeing here. What possessed you to go dark side Chris?
Good evening Chris....i have seduced yo the darkside...i already turn today to the darkside...i has a little afraid....but I ride around my neighborhood...and beyond and man.....what a diference in a good way....it was a little pain to put the new tire but I saw how you did it and a little help and now im riding to the dark side....in a few month i will become doble darkside. Tell me how can i I send pictures....God bless you.
Sorry Chris.....Wing Stuff is SO expensive . I use it to find the part i want, then i go directly to the makers web site
You will actually have more tread on the ground with the car tire leaned over when you add the weight of the bike, the tire spreads out much further than just leaning the tire over.
There are a couple of videos on the tube that show this while riding...
No, but it very well might? I was speaking to how Chris was demonstrating how the tread stayed on the ground when the tire was leaned over, because the tire deflects with weight, that tread contact spreads out.
True it wasn't but it has for many thousands of miles for lots of people.
Personally I don't care for the way the bike handles, there are a lot of issues when running a car tire.
I think you will notice a resistance to lean when riding in corners due to the lack of the convex shape that allows you to easily transition from center to edge. The flickability of the Wing has a lot to do with the tires and their size and profile, I wouldn't be able to sacrifice that for another 10k miles out of tire. Most people don't even ride enough to justify worrying about mileage on a tire, it would begin to dry rot before it was bald in a lot of cases.
Chris, that's why I got love for ya bro. Put the money where your mouth is! waiting for results considering switching on my next tire purchase. Hey, if it keeps more rubber on the ground, less expensive and last longer. so, where is the negative?
I believe most of the negativity on the riding side of the story is cornering my friend........ it's all about cornering! There's absolutely no denying that a car tire driven in a straight line is flat out (no pun intended) better then a motorcycle tire in every aspect. Then you come up with my biggest issue........... motorcycle insurance. "Road Glide" enlightens the insurance issues very well.
What is it with these riders??? Suddenly, we are all engineers???? We can't just ride peacefully with what is recommended? If Honda's engineers specifically go by 2 -3 types of tires for the GW, we have to respect that. I don't care how many years of riding anyone has. If the doctor says that you need specific kind of shoes for hiking, you don't go and buy sandals. Worse then that, God forbid, you are involved in an accident, lawyers love guys with unwritten modifications. It is such a party time for them and guess who will lose? Happy and safe riding in the dark side.
Chris are you still taking folks emails?
I ain't heard back from you.
I'm surprised that a Dunlop Motorcycle Design Engineer, hasn't got a hold of you and slapped you upside the Head!
The first thing you said " I'm putting a car tire on my motorcycle " Is so wrong on many levels. A car tire is not designed for lean angles, that a motorcycle encounters whenever it's ridden. Yes, you will lean the bike.
Second, grip. That motorcycle tire will control better than any car tire. Comparing tread depth, what??? No comparing to motorcycle tires. Compounds and tread depth are totally different. In fact, the latest Dunlop has designed more mileage to the center of the tread.
Third, price. Saving money over safety? I'll take safety over a car tire any day!
I got an uneasy feeling, in my stomach when saw this. I said to myself, why?
Phredman really pretty simple dark side is not for everybody Chris Etc heavy Goldwings way to go we all are being ripped off by MC tire dealers
Love it probably another Rider put Snow miles on motorcycle
❤️👍
What tire pressure do you run on the car tire?
Quoting from Cycle Cruza I hope you are not setting yourself up to have a real F up day going on the dark side. Ride safe. 🤦♂️
I yet to see anyone end up with a F’d up day with a dark side proven to be the cause. Not saying it can’t happen though. Plus Cruz’s is a flipper any way he changes his mind every ten seconds.
Thats make really no sense please buy a car than you can buy car tires