I have ridden on tires that were great for the first stage of their tread-life only to become a handling nightmare later because of strange wear patterns. The Pirelli Angel ST tires undergo an evil transformation as they wear, but it has nothing to do with handling.
In their sport-touring Angel line, Pirelli has incorporated a visual gimmick. The tires have an angel image molded into the tread-pattern. After about 600 miles, that angel wears off leaving the image of a demon. I guess this is what happens when you give the art department too much influence.
Okay, so I’m not a fan of gimmicks, but I am a fan of good sport-touring tires. The Angel ST is a very good tire. I found my pair to grip very well in the corners and give consistent warning when they were at their limit. I would place them slightly on the sport side of the sport-touring spectrum, which is exactly what I prefer.
The Angels wear well, although I hesitate to publish mileage estimates. Bikes and riding styles vary so monumentally that such estimates are virtually worthless. That being said, you will certainly double the mileage of a pure sport tires with these Pirellis.
There are sizes to fit virtually all modern sport and sport-touring bikes. A pair of Angels retail for $525-$560, but substantial saving can be had online.
Pirelli Angel Tires are available to buy online at compacc.com
