I have an 06 Ninja ZX6R in dire need of new tires, and im looking into getting a set of sport touring tires since I dont usually go to the track. The ZX6R‘s tire dimensions are Front Tire Size: 120/65-ZR17Rear Tire Size: 180/55-ZR17. However, I cant seem to find any package deals with a 120/65-ZR17 Front tire, they are all 120/60 or 120/70. Will either of those sizes work? Cause I would really like to get a set of Pirelli Angels, but they are only in 120/70. thanks for the help in advance.
Michelin and Bridgestone both sell older models in the 65 size. If you want the latest rubber, you'll have to compromise. Keep in mind that the 60 will lower your front end, sharpening the steering and reducing stability. The 70 will do the opposite. Your best bet is to find a decent forum for '06 6R owners and ask the regulars what they prefer. Different tire models actually have different radii (despite all being 17), so some may work better than others. Only knowledgeable owners of your particular bike will know for sure. *EDIT* Easygoing is right in his comments below that unless you're a particularly aggressive rider, you won't notice much difference by going up a size, but I have known bikes to develop a nasty headshake with some very minor geometry changes, especially on bikes as sharp as the ZX6R. It's going down a size that's more likely to cause that than going up, so you'd probably be fine. Also, the second number in a tire size denoting sidewall height is NOT a measurement in millimeters, but rather a percentage of the width. So a 120/60 is 60% of 120 (72mm) as sidewall height, and a 120/70 would be 70% (84 mm). Not a big difference, but good to know as the ride height difference would be 6 mm, not 2.5.
They will both work, the 60 series tires are lower profile off the rim. I just wanted to add that instead of the Pirelli Angels, you should take a peek at the Michelin Pilot Road series tires. I just had some on my bike and those tires are amazing for life span. I eat up tires like the Pilot Power CT2's in about 5-7000 miles usually, and the Pilot Roads I just had were going on 9k and I picked up a nail and had to change them out. The front was still in great condition, and the rear (without the nail) was still at around 50-60%, very long lasting tires and I would recommend them.
70 is the height of the tyre wall so 5 mm extra is only 2.5mm bigger on the radius you wouldn't even notice it.
