The tread pattern is decidedly different than any original tire put on the SOHC Hondas. That being said, I wonder what the differences are in handling/braking/cornering. Would the more modern looking tread create a better handling bike?
How about wet road handling?
Just wondering
Modern tires tend to have a more rounded profile, which I have found helps with turning as the bike can more easily lean over.
I have used 2 inexpensive tires, the 712's and the Kenda K657 Challenders, on my 550's and my GL1000. I used Avon Roadriders on my FJ1200 and Royal Enfield. My current 750F has Metzeler Sportek Klassik's on it.
The 657 and 712's were both good wearing tires, but I never felt completely secure when pushing the pace on the 712's. The 657's seems a bit better in the curves. The RoadRiders were a revelation on the lightweight Enfield 500 compared to the old school style replica tires that came on it. They were overwhelmed by the weight and power of the FJ.
The Metzelers have been amazing on the 750F. I took it on a 1200 mile trip from Chicago to South Carolina last summer that included a ton of curvy forest and mountain roads, including the Dragon, and it was never anything but stable and predictable. They cost 2x what the 712's sell for, but were worth the money.