Tire Set-Point Inflation Question

[Scorpion56]

I just had a set of Michelin Power Pure SC tires put on my 650GT to replace the original Metzeler Feelfree. The BMW service write-up shows them being inflated to 36 (front)/42 (rear) PSI. The manual calls for 35/36 PSI unless riding two-up, when the rear should be set to 42 PSI. The new tires are the same size (120/70 R15, 160/60 R15) of course, as the original equipment. The RDC and old fashioned tire gauge confirm that the tires are indeed 36/42 PSi.

Given the same dimensions of the new tires to the old, is there any reason that the new ones shouldn't be set to the pressure that the manual recommends (35/36)??? My guess is that BMW erroneously looked at the two-up pressure guidelines and set the tire pressures accordingly. I'm sort of embarrassed asking this question, but hey, that's why I enjoy this forum. Several of you know this answer cold. Thanks.

 

[wsteele]

It won't hurt to run at the higher pressures

 

[Colin J Monteith]

I ride solo all the time and the BMW service Manager said they (as in BMW) recommend running at 35 front 37 rear to greatly improve tire wear.

 

[exavid]

I like 'em firm and the suspension set for full load. Makes for more fun in the curves. Also means the wife can get on the back and I don't have to readjust anything.

 

[davidh]

My dealer always over-inflates too. I usually do a few PSI over the spec but not as high as they go.

 

[JaimeC]

http://www.bmw-scooters.com/forum/c.../593-how-hard-should-they-tires.html#post4298

 

[Colin J Monteith]

To the newest BMW scoot owners - don't trust the the TPM as they are far from accurate. My rear tire on TPM shows 33 but my compressor and digital guage both show 37. after inflating use you own guage and use TPM only to see if there is a sudden drop. Front is also 33 by TPM but 35 by guage. Of the 3 dealerships I have been in here they all warn you not to use TPM without checking with trusted guage and they say that about the entire range of bikes.

 

[SteveADV]

The manual addresses the difference in TPM vs gauge reading. It makes for some exciting reading.