MPG-friendly scooter and motorcycle tires?
 

The tires on my Elite 250 are beat to hell, and I'd like to replace them. I've done some looking at tires, and I'm trying to find a low rolling resistance tire. I'd rather not pay over $35/tire either. The factory size is 10-4.00, but I'd be willing to change to a different 10 inch size, since the 4.00 is getting to be a rare size.

Can anyone recommend a tire to buy? I do mostly high-speed riding, and I'd like a long-life tire. Right now, I have my eye on the Michelin S1: Michelin S1 Performance Scooter Tire - Scooter - Tires - Motorcycle Superstore

I'm also not sure what size to buy. I'm thinking either 10-3.50 or 90/90-10.

I'm probably not much help but take a stab anyway. On my motorcycle I use tires categorized as "touring" as they are usually designed to wear longer. I have no idea on rolling resistance but I'd guess they are better than sport rubber due to the lower heat generated. They also last alot longer reducing the life-cycle cost of owning the bike. It's worth a shot looking for touring tires anyway.

On the ragged edge of sanity, consider car tires like for the original Mini Cooper. They had 10" rims as well but I'm sure the width is greater than 90, it was probably a 145 or something.

Thanks for the help! I'm not sure car tires would work on a motorcycle. Remember, motorcycle tires are rounded so you can lean the bike while cornering. The tread on car tires is flat for stability, but it would be difficult to turn on a motorcycle with car tires.

I actually ended up ordering the Michelin S1 tures. They will be here on Monday (according to UPS tracking), so I'll let you know how they turn out.

Car tires do work on bikes.

In the absence of decent r.r. data, I'd say go for the smoothest, most slick-like tread available.

Pirelli Ceat from South America are the best value here in NZ

I have an Elite 250 also, first tire i put on (pirelli sl26) lasted 900 miles. now I'm running an economically priced IRC MB99 which is wearing much better.

I don't know about you but low rolling resistance tires are the last things I would want on my motorcycle. I'm sure there are factory standards, even for the LRR tires but I don't like the idea of that on a motorcycle. Cheapest tire available is usually what works for me. (Cheng Shin)

I just pump them up, like a car, and get a feel for how they handle at the new psi. makes a huge difference in rolling resistance. I also ride in a manner to avoid needing to pull a knee scraper, not going for best lap time here, but best mpg.