Mileage: 9,811
Summary:
- Installed new Michelin Anakee III front tire
- Changed Oil and Filter (BMW filter, 3 quarts Mobil 1 Racing 4T 10W-40)
- Cleaned and lubricated chain
- Checked chain tension: 30mm — no adjustment required
The front tire was well into the wear bars when I bought the bike. When I went out for my first ride on that tire I discovered that the bike would tend to dive into corners — a problem that went away with the new tire.
The PO had already replaced the rear tire with a Michelin Anakee III. I don’t know how many miles are on that tire, but it looks new.
There seems to be a lot of conflicting information about these tires. Some swear by them, others refer to them as Panikee 3’s. Many say they are loud at freeways speeds, not surprising given that the tread pattern crosses the middle of the tire, while others don’t notice them. Some call them a 90/10 tire while others refer to them as 70/30.
Having recently changed four tires on two bikes, a job I detest, I got lazy and had the local BMW dealer mount and balance this one.
I took the bike for a short ride to top off the fuel tank, warm the bike up for an oil change, and check the new tire. The bike handles much better. I didn’t get above 60 MPH, but at that speed and below I couldn’t say that the tires were noisy.
While the engine was still warm I changed the oil and installed a new filter.
The chain needed a good cleaning. Using a toothbrush and kerosene I spent quite a bit of time getting all of the dirt and built-up wax off of the chain. The chain now looks brand new and doesn’t look to be worn except for two outer and adjacent links that have a bit of corrosion on the outer plates. I also checked the chain tension, with 30mm of play it was at the tight end of the 30-40mm spec, so no adjustment was necessary.