Riding on the Dark Side

The "Dark Side" is a semi controversial topic among bikers. It is when a rear motorcycle tire is replaced with a car tire. The most common reasons for doing this are cost and durability. A good motorcycle tire is about $180 and on a bigger cruiser it might only last 8,000 miles. A car tire cost $75 and can last 35,000 or more. In May 2009, prior to taking a 6,000 mile trip back east, and after doing a lot of research on the topic, I decided I would give it a try. I purchased a Dunlop SP5000 car tire, which was the most common tire for my motorcycle, and I had it mounted. I have since ridden 16,000 miles on the tire, through all imaginable type roads, and I love it. I have zero regrets and don't plan on leaving the Dark Side anytime soon.

Here are just a few links to information about the Dark Side

http://darkside.nwff.info/
http://www.valkyrieriders.com/shoptalk/CarTire/home.htm
http://forums.delphiforums.com/DarkSiding/start
http://lifeisaroad.com/stories/2004/10/27/theDarkSide.html
http://www.tomfranken.com/Darkside/Default.htm

If you have any sincere question about the topic, I'd be more than happy to answer them.

UPDATE: 3/26/11- 30,000 miles later I finally wore my first car tire! I still love it and don't see a reason to go back! I just purchased my second Dunlop SP 5000.

I've had several people asking me about slow speed handling. Here's a video I made showing that it's not a problem.

UPDATE: 7/28/14 - My second Dunlop SP 5000 is gone. Lasted about 26,000 miles. I replaced it with a Bridgestone Turanza 195 55r16 because the Dunlop have almost doubled in price. I've had it on the bike now for 5500 miles and it's performing equally as well.

Jared M. Gant