Changing just one tyre - does it matter?

[BigTed]

I've seen a few articles that suggest both front and rear tyres should be changed at the same time. Given I'm a tigh-fisted w**ker, I don't like to throw away the approximate 5,000km still remaining on my rear tyre.

Also, it seems many buy matching front and rear (eg. both Bridgies, or both Pirelli, etc.)... does this really matter?

I don't think any of this holds true. The fact that the tyres at each end of the bike perform totally different functions, have totally different profiles, each wearing at different rates, and the darksiders are placing car tyres on the rear - all would suggest it's a myth.

What are you thoughts? Do you strive to get the front and rear matching perfectly? Does it make a difference?

 

[Biggles]

Mine have always worn out at nearly the same time, so I haven't had the issue.
However it seems there's no problem with changing just one.  Also lots of riders have had different brands/models at each end without any problems.  The only comment I've seen recommended against having radial bias one end and crossply the other, but I don't think there are many crossply tyres among the ones we use anyway.

Replacing two at the same time is obviously a time saver and convenient.  It can also put you in a stronger position to haggle a better price.

[Brock]

I have replaced mine separately, i have found that you usually get 2 rears per front (or is that the other way around???) The ST seems to wear fairly closely together. There is no harm in replacing one but.

[Diesel]

Replacing one is fine Rob.       

[saaz]

Replacing one is ok. I prefer to have the better tyre on the front, but these days most tyres are pretty good.  On the ST11 I used to wear the front out first, then once the front suspension was improved both front and rear wore together mostly.

I come from a time in the past where 5000kms was an amazing distance to get from tyres that were ok, and 2000kms was great from sticky rubber.  Now we get great tyres that can  deliver both distance and grip (and brakes that work in the wet!)  The 2 for 1 rule Brock mentioned was quite true in the older days, for 2 rears to one back.

[ruSTyEB]

Haven't had the bike long enough to change the front, but had to do the rear due to a puncture. 

When purchased: FRONT METZELER LAZERTEC  REAR: MICHELIN MACADAM 50  (I'll plug the hole one day as it's a near new tyre)

Rode great!

NOW:  FRONT METZELER LAZERTEC (almost ready for re-tyre-ment)  REAR: BRIDGESTONE BT023

Still rides great.


My in-experience with the bike means I'm sure I'll one day have an epiphany on tyres for my riding style, but for now haven't noticed much difference.

[Biggles]

The 2 for 1 rule Brock mentioned was quite true in the older days, for 2 rears to one back.

This long holiday has stuffed your brain, John!   

[saaz]

Ok, you get the prize for picking up the deliberate mistake..

The 2 for 1 rule Brock mentioned was quite true in the older days, for 2 rears to one back.

This long holiday has stuffed your brain, John!   

[Biggles]

The 2 for 1 rule Brock mentioned was quite true in the older days, for 2 rears to one back.

This long holiday has stuffed your brain, John!   

Ok, you get the prize for picking up the deliberate mistake..

Yep- I do that too- call my mistakes deliberate.
There are still a few folk who believe me.       ::)