What Am I Looking For?

Forgive me, but I simply don't get 'tyres'. Am I beyond help?

2002 Speed Triple 955. Right hand drive. cool
I am a sedate all weather rider/commuter.

I don't think I am a good enough rider to be able to tell the difference between tyres A, B or C. And....even if I could tell a difference I'm sure I'd need to try A....then compare to B. And then to C. Then B with C. And then with A again...honing it down until I notice a difference.

And all that surely isn't practical!

So...what am I left with?

How do i go about getting or choosing tyres?

I have only owned two 'big' bikes before and each time I never had them long enough to need to get tyres...until now for the T3 I kinda feel I should, whilst I'm flush.

Currently I have a pair of Pilot Road 3s...the front is getting a bit of a central ridge. I'm not sure how old they are (I have had the bike 2½ years) so happy to change them so I know what's what...and the Misuse has given me the green light.

But what am I 'looking' for? People talk a lot about tyres, but how can you even tell if you can't compare one set with another set directly?

Any advice, as ever, gratefully received!

 

This is all useful, thank you!

I understand that for every 2 riders there will be at least three different opinions

How do you know if pair A give you better or more confidence than set C?

I guess I just find it hard to compare. Perhaps it's an experience thing...

Budget is 2-250ish I guess....

What is the situation if you want a knobbly look?

 

This has all been very useful, thank you all and wishbone, great couple of links.

Based purely on reviews of others I am narrowing it down to

Michelin (Pilot) Road 5
and
Metzeler Roadtec 01

Both seem a within budget, decent, safe, reliable, long lasting, modern tyre that will suit my commutery, weekend ride out, within the speed limit riding style...

For what it's worth, the current tyres (Pilot road 3s) are now 5 years old.