Bridgestone T31 GT or T31 non-GT

[Boston]

I'm a little late to the party.

my question is, What does the GT mean?    (Girls Tire)

When I bought the bike last December the PO gave me a new front BS 023 GT.

I just did tires and ordered the BS T31 non GT rear from RMATV.

History

The bike had Michelin non GT on the front and a BS 023GT on the rear.

Now

The bike has a BS 023 GT on the front and a BS T31 non GT on the rear.

Should I have matched ?

John

 

[BigOgre]

I haven't matched tires in years and never had any concerns from doing so.  Moreover I think you might get better set-up when not doing so.  Currently I have a T31 EVO on the front matched to a Michelin PR5 in the rear.  (Or is it a 4?  :unknw: )

As far as GT versions, I believe these give you a reinforced sidewall to compensate for the heavier tourers.  How much they're reinforced over non-GTs I don't know.  I've read many opinions on them and have tried variations for myself.  Personally I didn't see any noticeable difference in how much mileage I got out of either although I "believe" the non-GTs gave a somewhat more compliant ride.  Hard to say though as any new tire is going to feel better than an old, matching GTs or not.

 

[mcatrophy]

As BigOgre says, matching is totally unnecessary. 

"GT" (presumably "Grand Tourer") denotes a tyre built with a stronger carcass, intended for a heavier bike. Many will say this includes the FJR. Personally I prefer a non-GT, but my bike is never heavily laden, I am never two-up, and weigh about 150 pounds, with a few more for luggage when touring. Of course, my decision has nothing to do with the price premium on the GTs.