'66 Atlas build questions about tires

[Grumpy1]

I recently picked up a '66 Atlas basket case, and am working to get it back together with improvements.

Tires seem to be an issue. I ride fairly aggressive on the street, and plan to do track days with the machine. Sadly, my go to Avon Super Venoms are no more. The problem seems to be compounded by the inability to find tires in a size and compound that will work for the way I ride.

Now, after having read everything and watched all of Jim Schmidt stuff I am thinking of swapping both front and rear rim out for 18" which would provide a better selection of tires. He did this on his track bike for tire selection reasons. I am facing basically the same problem.

Lacing and truing the rims isn't an issue. I am more curious as to how much handling will be affected by the swap.

 

[Schwany]

My P11 has 18 inch wheels at both ends. But and this is a big but, I do not use Norton forks, or shocks. That said I did notice a difference initially going to 18's from a 19 front 18 rear, but was accustomed to it on the second ride with the new wheels and tires.

Usually Avon Road Riders are suggested. I don't use them, but they apparently work.

 

[Northern Norton Nut]

Grumpy1; A lot of us in the same boat I see. After two days of web- surfing and comparison shopping I landed on the J&P Cycles webpage: Dunlop K81/TT100 in 4.10x19, $170.67 each and free shipping. Mark

 

[Grumpy1]

I consulted with Jim Schmidt at jsmotorsport.com, and he suggested the Shinko 712s (I think I have that model right, it is in email and will verify).
I have always shyed away from Shinko tires, and typically run Avons. Avons don't seem to be available anymore, along with several other brands I have run on vintage iron.

 

[gpzkat]

100x yes. Shinko 712s are high-quality tires, and the price is right. They used to be Yokohama. I was going to recommend them, but wasn't sure if your sizes were available. I have used them on many bikes and have never had a single issue with quality or performance. I just put another set on my 2nd (free!) '83 GS1100E, which is ready for the blue bodywork that I'm nearly done painting. I ran Avons on my GS1100E Mr. Turbo, and they were fine, but cost a lot more, and I didn't notice any difference vs the 712s. I guess the price drives people away, people think they are cheaply made - they are not. I remember 'Cheng Shin' had a stigma but lots of people ran them. Shinkos are the best bang for the buck out there by far.

I mount and balance my own, being frustrated with nicked-up rims, and rip-off prices from the local shops. I have recently converted to the zip tie method. Works great, even on a big ADV rear tire for a Ducati it was much easier for removal and installation.

I have Dunlop K70s on my N15, they look and work 'OK' even in dirt but they don't have much grip.

 

[jan nelder]

I consulted with Jim Schmidt at jsmotorsport.com, and he suggested the Shinko 712s (I think I have that model right, it is in email and will verify).
I have always shyed away from Shinko tires, and typically run Avons. Avons don't seem to be available anymore, along with several other brands I have run on vintage iron.

in the UK: can get 18 inch rear, but havent found 19 yet.