Just installed a new set of Bridgestone Spitfire S11 on the k75. They fit great and feel great on the road.
Checked the Haynes manual after I had finished the job just to make sure I had done everything right as this is
my first BMW bike and read several times that I should NOT install any tire other than BMW approved tires!
First off, where do I find this list? Second, is this just a snobery thing or are there tires that should not be mounted on these bikes?
I have taken the bike out for a 2 mile loop and all feels fine.
Thanks,
Chris

The last list I have see was 10 years old. The age of our bikes is such that many of the tyres recommended are no longer available.

My belief is that tyres have moved along technically and most tyres these days are probably superior than what was available 10-20years ago. So, almost any GOOD brand tyre that fits the rim size and the purpose will be fine.

Years ago you had to go to a tyre "specialist", often a 16yo on his first job, who would look up the tables and match the rim size to the tyre or look up BMW recommendations and sell you a set. These days, I look up sports/ touring tyres, choose a brand, ask the forum for their collective experience and go with that enjoy your new tyres. Internet is great

Hi Chris, it is a bit like BMW approved oil, or brake fluid or grease etc etc.
Essentially the tyres available now are nothing like what was available when the bike was new so from my point of view if they are the recommended size and speed rating they should be fine.

Having said that other members run bigger than specified (or smaller in one case) and radials when the rims are not strictly designed for them so the choice is yours. The only problem being tyres last a lot longer than they used to so if you don't like them you have to wait a while before trying something new.

Been running Bridgestone Spits on my K100 for years. Never had a handling issue. Tires wear well too.

phil_mars wrote:Hi Chris, it is a bit like BMW approved oil, or brake fluid or grease etc etc.
Essentially the tyres available now are nothing like what was available when the bike was new so from my point of view if they are the recommended size and speed rating they should be fine.

Having said that other members run bigger than specified (or smaller in one case) and radials when the rims are not strictly designed for them so the choice is yours. The only problem being tyres last a lot longer than they used to so if you don't like them you have to wait a while before trying something new.

Yeah what he said !
I reckon it comes down to what you like, can afford and feel confident in.
I'm using BT45's and happy with them
I know a couple of guys use Avon Roadriders on their K75's and like em a lot.