[Zephyr 1100] A Masterpiece Tire That Makes Heavy Bikes Carve Like Magic? Switching to Dunlop “Q5A”

I never imagined the legendary Zephyr 1100 would see such a price surge.
I couldn’t have predicted the Zephyr 400 would transform this much either.

The Zephyr 550 continues to fly under the radar.
As we enter March, the outside temperature is finally feeling like spring.
How’s everyone handling the year-end inspection rush?
Since moving to Chiba, I’ve been able to trim down my workload considerably, so I’m feeling pretty relieved.

So that’s how I’m going to work on the Zephyr 1100.

This time, we had a request to replace the tires with Dunlop Q5A.

With an 18-inch front and 17-inch rear, choosing tires that work well together is incredibly difficult.
In the end, it came down to process of elimination, and we settled on the Dunlop Q5A (*´ω｀*)

Lately, I really feel the impact of inflation most when it comes to tire prices.
Those days of replacing both tires for around 40,000 yen seem to be gone for good.

Tire covers enhance work safety

By wrapping the tire with a cover before removing the wheel,
the chances of damaging the wheel are significantly reduced.

Both the owner and I don’t want to be shocked by any mishaps.
I always say that if a scratch appears after taking all these precautions, I can apologize with confidence.

This tire lifter is absolutely brilliant

I actually use the lifter in reverse from the standard method, and it’s definitely easier this way.
With this lifter, removing and installing the axle shaft becomes incredibly smooth.

Sure, using one foot to quickly pump it might be faster, but the work flows so much better.
To put it another way, you can work in a way you wouldn’t be embarrassed to show others —that’s the difference.

Lately, Hojozu 51504is readily available on Amazon, which is super convenient.
If you want smooth work, having one of these on hand is incredibly useful.

15 Years Old? The BT016PRO is Rock Hard

The tire tread is still plenty deep, but it’s a tire from 15 years ago.
The rubber had hardened more than I expected.
Since the wheels are magnesium, I was extra careful to avoid any damage, and thankfully we got them off without a scratch.

Lately, It’s Become My Go-To Shine Product! Hyper Resin

Lately I’ve been using nothing but this Hyper Resin.
The shine and durability are absolutely incredible.

It looks small at first glance, but for personal use, it lasts a surprisingly long time.
The amount you use per application is also minimal.

You want to keep the inside of the wheel clean too, right?
I use it on helmets, cars, and bikes too (*´ω｀*)

Wheel Balancing Complete

Fresh tires really do make the bike look tighter, don’t they? (*´ω｀*)
I’ll keep working on the maintenance.