ducatipaso.org

So I've re-read all I can find here at the "org" about using a 150/80/16
on the rear wheel and there isn't a lot on the subject. I did find this though.

On Mar 25, 2009 - JWilliam states in the "best solution for the Michelin problem" thread.

"The 150/80 is meant for a narrower rim so it spreads out by
about 10mm, which is ideal because that makes it a 160"

Anyone have any actual experience using this tire size?
If so, how does it fit in regards to width AS WELL AS height.
Did you have to space the chain and sprockets.
What about height clearance with the 750 swingarm?

Thanks all - Fredskidoo

to summarize it, just`s just not a size to use.
There`s a reason why it`s only recommended for smaller rims. Check every manufacturer`s homepage.
Using an inner tube to make it fit on the rim makes even less sense for me personally.
Furthermore the tire is so high that most guys who use that size either cut out and modified/rewelded the middle section of the swingarm or cut off the ends and lengthened it.
Some feedbacks I read from 750S riders where not very good. Some said the tire behaves odd in curves (depending how low you lean into them).
The space to chain and sprocket shouldn`t be an issue.
Afterall, you have to decide for yourself.
My guess is that the statement that it`s the "best solution" has the background that nothing else was tried. ie 180/60

You are right that the swingarm must be modded. I would not be happy to fit a 180/60 rear when there is talk of the sprockets having to be out of line (sorry if I don't know too much about this). The 150/80 is a taller tyre than the Michelin but boy does it grip. I can go as low and fast as modern Ducati's and that suits me just fine. If you had a choice then I recommend the 150/80 but in the end it is up to you. I think the 180/60 would be easier and cheaper and the 150/80 longer to get done depending on your local frame builders.

...of the sprockets having to be out of line

they should never be out of line. The general necessity with a 180/60 is the clearance to the chain so you should spacer front and rear sprocket a bit (still keeping them in line). At the same time this shift outwards should be as little as possible but as big as necessary. Meaning that next to the goal of chain/tire clearance you want to keep stress on the drive shaft, its seal etc as small as possible. (I`d personally compromise and shift the rear wheel by 2-3mm max. to the right. You won`t be able to feel that and the chain doesn´t have to move that much out)

J. if the shiny part of you tire`s tread is the unused part you´re riding "close to the edge".
I read comments of a 750S owner who said the 150/80 would become quite large on the 5" rim giving it a flatter shape. This and using the tire to the edge was something he didn`t like. Of course opinions are always subjective, so this might be an issue only kneedraggers have and "normal" riders don`t.

I've just acquired a 750 Paso with (you guessed it) a rear tyre close to the limit. I've read various posts about the 180/60-16 tyre but not about a 170/70-16 tyre. This size seems to be available from Dunlop and others and I wondered if anyone had tried fitting one?

GT-UK

won`t fit. That size is about as high as a 150/80