Size Matters!
The definition of a wide motorcycle tire just got revised with the introduction of the 11-inch-wide Metzeler ME880.
Size freaks rejoice, because there's never been a bigger motorcycle tire than Mezeler's ginormous new
ME 880. Measuring in at a massive 280/35-18, the 11-inch-wide new bun dwarfs the German company's 240-series of rubber that now seem somehow anorexic.
Metzeler says the 880 was built in response to a request from American Iron Horse, a small-scale bike manufacturer of big V-Twin customs. It uses Metzeler's patented 0-degree steel belt construction that limits tire growth at speed and aids stability. The limited tire growth, adds Metzeler, means that custom builders can mount a fender as close as one-quarter inch from the tire's maximum-diameter specs, perfect for that low-riding look.
Despite its Anna Nicole Smith-ness size and bad-ass attitude, the new fattie is claimed to offer good motorcycle riding dynamics - much better than the square-shouldered car tires fitted to many ill-handling, fat-tired choppers.
"It's built to work like a motorcycle tire is supposed to work, not just look like it does," said Jeff Johnston, Metzeler Senior Product Specialist.
Metzeler recommends using a 10-inch wide wheel for the new 880, although going a half-inch either way will also work.
The ME880 won't be available until this summer, giving plenty of time to stretch your bike's swingarm to accommodate this monster rubber that retails for $299.95.
