A Good Tire Choice
|
In an article from the BEC (Berkeley Enthusiast Club) newsletter dated September 2002 about the availability of tires for Berkeley’s, the following page shows my findings. I looked into many types and sizes of modern tires, and have come up with what I feel is a good replacement, although not of the original size. Because I drive my Berkeley's my concern was one of overall performance, reliability and availability.
The tires I did not choose were the 145R80/12 radial automobile tire, due to clearance problems with the front suspension components and a 5.20 x 12 Carlisle trailer tire due to having a 6 ply construction (a hard ride) and a greater slip angle while cornering.
The tire I did choose is a Mastercraft brand 145R12 (not to be confused with the 145R80-12). Following are some comparative photographs and comments as to why.
|
|
|
On the left is an original Michelin 5.20 x 12. On the right is the Mastercraft 145R12. Both are already mounted (you must use a tube with the new 145R12). |
Here you can see that the Mastercraft is a bit smaller in diameter approximately 1 inch in height |
|
|
| |