Hi Diesel,
I accept that Dunlop have fixed their problems with the Roadsmarts. My understanding of the problem, after some digging around, is that the de-lamination was restricted to front tyres made in France. I believe that all Roadsmarts IIs are now made in Japan so hence the quality of the Roadsmarts should have improved and be consistent. I also accept that Dunlop was very responsive to the public on this issue and have not heard a bad word about Dunlop about how they handled this issue. I cannot say the same about Metzeler nor Brisbane Motorcycle Tyres in Slacks Creek!!
Apart from that, I have a pet aversion to the name of Dunlop. I have bought Ford cars since the mid 90's and have always been keen to get the original Dunlop tyres off as soon as possible. I also replaced the 15" wheels on my Landcruiser at the time to get away from Dunlop tyres (Have to admit, it also looked a lot nicer with decent 16" alloy rims on it). Having been riding with a friend one day and I was right behind him when his front tyre (a Roadsmart) delaminated at high speed, hence one has to think twice! Psychological I know, but that is what the world is made of and why people develop preferences for things for seemingly illogical reasons. Terri was with me at the time and she even winced at the thought of me putting the same brand tyres on my bike.
The same applies to my feelings now about the Metzeler Z6/8. I have a set in my shed at home that have only done about 2000 km and are unlikely to ever find their way back onto my bike. Following Streak's comments about Bridgestone for Honda I am now on BT023. PR3's were my first choice at the time I needed new tyres and they were not readily available at the time according to everybodies friend, Mick, at Brendale.