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First Ride!

by  Desi Kai

Dear Everyone

as announced, please find below my test report of the new Big Wheel REBELL KT-M tires.

Test Report: REBELL KT646M and KT647M Tires for Yamaha Big Wheel Models

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Introduction

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Recently, a batch of new REBELL KT646M and KT647M tires, exact reproductions of the original Dunlop KT-M series tires, was released. These tires are designed exclusively for the classic Yamaha Big Wheel models BW350 and BW200, which were popular on the American market between 1985 and 1988, and even today, there are many enthusiasts worldwide who appreciate these unique motorcycles. This test report evaluates their performance and compares them to the original Dunlop tires which have been discontinued already many years ago. The occasionally offered NOS (New Old Stock) tires from Dunlop come at an outrageous price (one of the latest listings on eBay was $1000 for a single tire). This is certainly not for everyone, and tires that have aged over 20 years with hardened rubber pose a significant risk.

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Comparison to Original Dunlop Tires

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The new REBELL KT646M (25x8-12) and KT647M (23x11-9) tires were meticulously compared to the original Dunlop tires. The first aspect tested was the roundness of the tires with an air pressure set at 10psi. Both the roundness and the tread pattern, including the knobs and grooves, were found to be absolutely identical to the original Dunlop tires, showcasing a remarkable replication.

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Rubber Compound

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The rubber compound of the REBELL tires is medium-hard, making them versatile for both on-road and off-road use. This balance ensures good durability and performance across various terrains, without compromising the riding comfort and grip. Compared to 20-year-old NOS Dunlop tires, the REBELL tires feel neither too soft nor too hard, indicating an optimal formulation.

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On-Road Performance

The on-road testing was conducted over approximately 70 miles using my Yamaha BW350, chosen for its improved power which provides better testing conditions. The tires were put through their paces on different surfaces, including a one-hour ride on the highway at an average speed of 55 mph.

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Here are my (subjective) key observations:

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• Straight-Line Stability: The REBELL tires exhibited excellent straight-line stability, a crucial factor for highway riding.

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• Noise Levels: The high tread pattern caused noticeable noise at high speeds, which is typical for this type of cross tire.

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• Cornering Grip: The grip during cornering was commendable, although it’s clear these tires are not designed for SuperMoto performance.

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Off-Road Performance

The off-road testing included riding on forest trails, gravel paths, and rocky terrain. The REBELL tires performed admirably in these conditions:

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• Grip and Traction: The tires provided excellent grip and traction on various off-road surfaces.

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• Durability: After extensive testing, there were no visible damages to the knobs or the tire carcass, indicating robust construction.

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• Sand Performance: Due to a lack of nearby sandy areas, sand performance could not be evaluated.

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Conclusion

The REBELL KT646M and KT647M tires are a successful resurrection of the KT-M series, offering excellent performance for the Yamaha Big Wheel models BW200 and BW350. These tires are a fantastic choice for riders seeking a reliable and versatile option for both street and off-road adventures. Their identical specifications to the original Dunlop tires ensure that they maintain the classic feel and performance characteristics, making them a worthy investment for Big Wheel enthusiasts who value originality and original product characteristics of the bike as intended by the manufacturer.

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The elaborate reproduction process involved using a set of never mounted NOS Dunlop tires as the master, specifically the improved versions KT647M (23x11-9) and KT646M (25x8-12). The outcome is remarkable, with the new tires, REBELL KT646M and REBELL KT647M, feeling excellent.

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This attention to detail has resulted in a tire that both honors the legacy of the original Dunlop KT-M series and meets the demands of many Big Wheel owners who have desperately tried to find a solution for tire replacement.

Note for Retailers: We are currently seeking dealers in the USA who are interested in adding these tires to their product lineup. If you are interested in partnering with us, please get in touch to discuss opportunities by sending a PM.

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**Disclaimer:**

I have no commercial interests and am in no way affiliated with the manufacturer Jun Teng in China. My efforts are solely driven by my personal interest as a Big Wheel enthusiast, collector, and mechanic, aiming to once again ride my bikes with "original" tires. I hope this is recognized and appreciated within the community.

Jun Teng is a young businessman from China who specializes in the reproduction of small-batch tires.

 

 I reside in Berlin and unfortunately not in the US, I can only act as a dealer for Europe and the EMEA region. For European Customers in these regions please contact me at:

GT_Stargate@gmx.net

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