We believe that the AVON AM23 130/650-18 is the best rear tre for 250cc/350cc two strokes (like Yamaha TZ250/350), and also big twins using 18" wheels (Commando, Triton and Early Ducati's). The "Cantilever" design allows for wider tires to be fitted to a narrower rim than a standard 130 section tire. TThere is quite a bit of confusion over the difference between the AVON AM23 (130/170-18) tire and the AVON AM23 130/650 'cantilever' version. The basic AVON AM23 (130/170-18) tire is IDENTICAL to the AVON AM23 130/650-18 as the "cantilever" tire is also a 70% aspect tire) and the rolling diameter of the 130/70 & 130/650 are identical. The difference is entirely down to very slightly different bead infillers put in the moulds at the Melksham factory. Use the 130/70 tire for rim widths of 2.75" - 3.75"and use the 130/650 "cantilever" version for rim widths of 2.15" to 2.75".The AVON AM23 is available in two compounds to suit any condition with either a Soft or Medium compound. Deep cutting allows for good block movement to reduce the amount of time to get the tire up to its optimum temperature and also to cut through water. Should it be raining, this is a great tire for all weather conditions. Our AVON AM23 "Cantilever" tire also comes in a Soft A24 or Medium A308 compound.
Soft - A24 compound (12029). The AM23 Cantilever tire is ideal for almost any condition or temperature. There is a great deal of feel that can be achieved with this tire as it slides very controllably. It is also great in wet conditions due to its deep tread pattern.
Medium - A308 compound (14593). This tire is suitable only in very high temperatures, or when tire warmers can be used. We would also recommend this tire is only ever fitted to machines with a lot of torque and a lot of weight. The medium compound is a lot harder to get temperature into, but once up to temperature is a great tyre, long life, lots of feel and good feedback.