Having changed from worn PR4GTs (7300 miles) for new PR5s, I thought I’d report my completely anecdotal, totally unscientific comparison between the two.
Firstly, the rear PR4GT was down to the limits when changed, but the front probably had another 1000 miles left in it. I prefer to change my tyres as a pair as my time is worth more than the remaining tread on the front thus I don’t want a second trip to the fitters. It also means I can chop and change tyre manufacturers and models without worrying about possible incompatibilities.
The tyres were fitted using the ride in, ride out service at FWR in south London (highly recommended) and cost £255 for the pair. FWR recommended the PR5 over either the PR4, the PR4GT or the Pirelli Angel GT.
All of my riding on the new tyres has been solo and without luggage. It’s involved a couple of 150 mile round trip commutes, a 270 mile round trip to Birmingham and a couple of blasts down my local favourite lanes.
The PR5s definitely have a lighter feel and are quicker steering. They’re very similar in feel to the Road Tec 01’s.
Wet weather grip is excellent. (But so were the PR4GTs). There has been no feeling of lack of grip at any speed on any wet road I’ve ridden. Although, I’m a bit of a “big girls blouse†when it comes to wet weather riding so I don’t push tyres too hard.
There is no suggestion of white lining in any way, even crossing and re-crossing some very raised, wet, solid white lines at oblique angles.
They give complete confidence in the dry to the point of allowing some pretty serious angles of lean and accepting some substantial doses of throttle while cranked over. This was also true of the PR4GTs and the Road Tec 01s, both allowing removal of the chicken strips, and I’ve no doubt that, given the right road, the chicken strips would go on the PR5s. However, the feel of the PR5s is slightly better.
All in all, very good so far. Assuming they last more than 7000 miles and don’t start reacting to white lines until well-worn then these will be my new favourite tyres. Recommended!