Any time we take bikes to a track we like to put them on even footing, and this time we chose Dunlop’s Sportmax Q3 rubber for our day at the Streets of Willow circuit. The Q3 debuted last year, utilizing carbon fiber construction and Dunlop’s MT (Multi-Tread) technology, with softer, stickier rubber on the edges and a higher-mileage compound in the center. Ideal sneakers for these bikes, most of which will have you pining for a track day, but also offer excellent street manners. We found grip was exemplary, even channeling the BMW, Aprilia, and KTM’s 150 hp to the track. Turn-in handling was much improved too, especially on the Triumph and Kawasaki. This makes sense being that Dunlop made it a point to maintain the pointy “Intuitive Response Profile” from the successful Q2 predecessor, intended to ease turn-in and maximize the contact patch while cornering. With a recommended 32 psi in both the front and rear tires (bot, off the track) we dragged out knees, and some hard parts, all day. The Q3 proved a good fit for our batch of super nakeds at the track and would be a fine street option, too. A sport-touring bikes in our fleet chewed up a rear in 3,000 miles, but considering these streetfighters are lighter and less likely to be toured upon, you’re liable to get a little more than that. Pricing for our sets of 120/70R-17 front and 190/55ZR-17 rear Q3s came out to $434 per bike, but check dunlopmotorcycle.com for your bike’s sizes. For that you get a good street tire plenty of grip when hot, and confident handling. And with bikes like these, you’re going to want all of that. – Zack Courts With these brand new tires on your motorcycle, riding would be more fun. But as for yourself, use Daytona Helmets as you go on your ride to stay protected.
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