Wilsons Sandbox

As many KLR riders know, the Avon AM24 Gripster tires are being discontinued in the USA. This topic has been discussed at some length on the BMW GS list. Below is a letter that I e-mailed to the Avon USA tire distributer requesting the tires be made available once again. I'm also attaching his reply. Several GSer have also sent e-mails, the more recent replies from Avon seemed to indicate a reconsideration of the position. Thus I'd urge any KLR riders that like the AM24 tires to send an e-mail to Avon. The website for Avon is: http://www.coopertire.com/avon_motorcycle/frames.htm The e-mail address for the USA distributor of Avon tires is: info@... Ride Safely, Rob Tayloe Columbus, Ohio ----the letter to Avon follows------- Avon Customer Service, N. America Mr. Larry Hoppe P.O. Box 336 Edmonds Washington 98020 USA Tel: + 001 800-624-7470 Fax: + 001 425-771-4246 info@... Hello Mr. Hoppe; I own several dual-purpose motorcycles (BMW R100GS-PD, Kawasaki KLR-650, and Cagiva E-650 Elephant). My favorite tire for these bikes has been the Avon Gripster AM-24. However I understand that Avon is no longer bringing the AM-24 into the USA. I wanted to let you know that I am a disappointed customer. I think that Avon is making a mistake. Yes, I do know that you have the Distanzia AM43/44 tires available. However if I'm forced to go to a different tire, why not a Metzeler Tourance, Michelin T-66, or some other option. Frankly, I wouldhave rather stayed with what I know and liked. Please reconsider making the AM-24 Gripster available to riders in the USA. Sincerely, Rob Tayloe nukemoto@... Columbus, Ohio cc: BMW GS-riders list -------here is Avon's reply--------------- Dear Rob, Thank you for voicing your concerns with the Avon Gripster. As you know that tire has been on production for some time now. The new Distanzia as you know is its replacement. The Distanzia offers better milesage, grip and a smoother ride. It has been desinged for large dual sport bikes like the ones you ride. If you liked the Gripsters you will love the Distanzia. This is just a new and improved version. RIDE SAFE. Thanks for choosing Avon Tyres ! ! Sincerely, John Leach - Logistics Avon Customer Service 407 Howell Way Edmonds, WA 98020 1-800-624-7470 Fax 1-425-771-4246

On Thu, 23 May 2002, Robert Diaz wrote:

>Check out the big brains on Steve! This sounds like a term paper! >LOL! J/K! Sorry, I just thought that was a whole lotta big words for a >JCW/Givi post. Cheers!

Myself having exceeded four syllables from time to time, I can assert that big words and $1.25 will get you a cup of coffee and little else.