Tire size other than stock

[wile e]

I tried searching, but didn't find the answer. A friend accidentally bought a 120/60ZR 17 Metzeler Z6 front tire. Will this work on a 2002 R1150R? The manual says 120/70zr 17 but it doesnt state if other sizes will fit the rim. And I can't seem to locate it on the net. How will the riding be affected if it does fit?

Thanks.

[Arbee]

That was the size tyre i fitted to my Yamaha YZF-R6 track oriented supersport racebike, the tyre was
hard to live with, and the racing fraternity agreed thats why higher profiles 70's are now used
with upside down forks, it will work BUT... it will feel harder and more solid but more responsive
not sure thats what you are looking for on BMW.

[wile e]

Ok, forgive my tire ignorance. So the lower profile 60 will be more stable, and responsive but not as cushy as the 70? Is that a bad thing? I wouldn't mind sacrificing a little of the softness for more stability in the corners. I am understanding correctly?

[Arbee]

BMW's R's & R6's are completely different bikes for different purposes with gross weight figures
accordingly, but considering most people rarely use tyres to their limits or the tyres limit
it can be done i guess, initially it will feel like the tyre will let go on a hard corner but it wont
it wont flex as much but bumps & potholes will be felt more, give it a go if you dont like it
take it off.

[Ves]

The tire will be flatter... more spread out on the rim than intended... so I think the bike would not steer as quickly and you'll reach the edge of the tire sooner... the fact that the tire will be lower should compensate some of the slow steering... I'd get the right tire... it could handle like crap and then what?