White tires like those offered by companies like Shinko aren’t the first thing that comes to mind when considering new tires for my 2011 Harley-Davidson Blackline. Normally, I look for a black set that balances the line between cheap and reliable, but the white walls drew me in like a tractor beam, so I thought I’d give them a try.
Much of the ride I take is around the country roads of western Minnesota, and these new tires require a test that only our fair state can provide. Cold winters and hot summers are tough on our roads, creating many potholes and potholes for riders to avoid.
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When Shinko The White Wall SR777 tires have arrived, as this is my first time using white walls, I was shocked to discover that the white is actually a vibrant blue. It turns out that the “blue” is a thin layer of soapy material that helps protect the white walls during shipping. My suite was installed by Motoprimo Sports Racingand they cleaned the tires before installation.
The installation came just in time for the three-day, 1,000-mile trip through central Minnesota, from Minneapolis to International Falls. Conditions include rain and fog, temperatures between 50-85 degrees, and even some gravel farm roads. The tires provide a comfortable ride and give much-needed confidence that I didn’t know I was missing out. Cornering feels smooth – as does turning, especially when avoiding road obstacles and the occasional moose. The tires handle tough roads well, reducing the worst bumps and warping asphalt. Wet roads don’t negatively affect grip, although I didn’t feel the need to push that threshold too much.
When new, the white on the tires was very bright and it stayed that way throughout my ride, which is surprising considering the dust and debris that accumulates on them. While the tires need a bit more maintenance to keep them clean, it’s well worth it if you want your bike to stand out from the usual crowd.
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Shinko tires are designed in Japan, manufactured in Korea and distributed by Western Power Sports. Shinko manufactures a wide range of tires for street, off-road, dual sport and scooter applications. The SR777 cruiser tire is available in White Wall and Black Wall versions in a variety of sizes starting at $96.95 for the front tire and $156.95 for the rear tire.
They have aramid belts and are also available in Heavy Duty versions with reinforced carcasses. For riders who want a stylish, sturdy and comfortable tire, they are a good choice.
