TechSpec Snakeskin Tank Pads

[ESquared]

I found the rubber tank pads on my Bonnevilles to be very beneficial in terms of bringing my core (such as it is) into the equation when changing positions, cornering, braking, etc., so I've been looking for TechSpec's Snakeskin set, which have been missing from most places like RevZilla.

Anyway, I've been in touch with them regarding re-stock, and they now have inventory for the RS. I told them I'd pass it along. As it turned out, I found a set at Speed Addicts, another good online source from whom I've bought a Shoei or two.

Here's the link for those who might be interested. There must be at least one other newbie like me who is considering it...

https://techspec-usa.com/bmw-r1200-1250-...grips.html

[Grumpy Goat]

Great pads. Have them on my RS.

[azqkr]

I've got them on my RS as well. I ordered another set last week which came yesterday. I placed the first set too high on the side of the tank, thus the inner area of the knees are barely catching them. Mine look just like the link, they are placed too high to be of much use though.

I'll wait till it warms past 80F to apply the second set.

[ESquared]

I've watched Grumpy's fine video about installing these pads a couple of times, and it seems like his placement is pretty close to what is shown in the photo Techspec displays in the link above, so I'm wondering about yours not working out.

[Grumpy Goat]

Just for reference, I am 5'-8" and have a 30" inseam and the inside of my knees contact the pads as fitted on my RS. So I am not sure either.

[Lee]

I would think inseam makes a difference and how you place your feet on the pegs. Balls of your feet on the pegs or arch.

[ESquared]

Even though I'm 6'5", my inseam is only about 34", so "standard" placement should work. Measure twice, cut once!

[Grumpy Goat]

I would think inseam makes a difference and how you place your feet on the pegs. Balls of your feet on the pegs or arch.

Inseam speaks to knee location unless you're a duck.

IMO, foot placement on the pegs wouldn't appreciably change knee position.

[azqkr]

I would think inseam makes a difference and how you place your feet on the pegs. Balls of your feet on the pegs or arch.

Inseam speaks to knee location unless you're a duck.

IMO, foot placement on the pegs wouldn't appreciably change knee position.

And it does indeed change knee position and is acceptable when I use the balls of my feet and "lift" the heels higher. I don't ride like that normally, I use the arches of my feet normally.

I'm not sure I want to change foot positions whenever I want to make use of them when slowing/rapidly slowing. Suppose I could get used to it, but if I move them lower on the tank, my knees will grab more of the pad/s in my normal riding position [ foot position ].

[maxredline]

I just realized I have the snake skins on my Ducati. It does look like those things are never coming off.

[ESquared]

I just realized I have the snake skins on my Ducati. It does look like those things are never coming off.

I'm not familiar with the evolution/timeline of their adhesives, but the current product is touted to be removable if necessary with some careful hair dryer use and peeling expertise (followed by some Goo Gone, I'm sure!). If your Ducati pads are older, maybe call them for some guidance if you think you want to remove them? You're right, though, they sure look PERMANENT!

[maxredline]

As the durability of the snake skin brand, out standing!
Why I would want to take them on or off, subjective.
Easy to take off, I don't think so.

[Grumpy Goat]

I believe the ease of removal is when fitting the pads. The adhesive strengthens over time with curing. Mine are stuck on the RS pretty strong and are not easy to remove, but anything is removable with sufficient effort.

[azqkr]

Update on post 9.

I have the pads 1-1.25" too high based on more observation of their product page showing the pads on the bike.

With the next set being placed just slightly lower, the inside thigh will grab them better due to more contact surface.

Will have to wait till it warms up over 80 here to replace them.

[Pyrrho]

I was just going to make a new thread asking what people recommend and/or use for tank pads. Any success or horror stories with other brands?

[ESquared]

Just "collected" (as the Brits say) my RS this morning, and I can tell just after a 50 mile jaunt that the Snakeskin install will be near the top of the To Do list. As to your question, Pyrrho, I've looked at another brand on Revzilla (can't even remember the name) for which the reviews were less than stellar. TechSpec seems to be highly rated/regarded.

[Grumpy Goat]

Just "collected" (as the Brits say) my RS this morning, and I can tell just after a 50 mile jaunt that the Snakeskin install will be near the top of the To Do list. As to your question, Pyrrho, I've looked at another brand on Revzilla (can't even remember the name) for which the reviews were less than stellar. TechSpec seems to be highly rated/regarded.

I think that they are the best, and the Snakeskin variant is what I prefer. I have the pads on the tank sides and back.

[Pyrrho]

They look nice but I'm not into the center piece. I don't grip a bike with my balls, so I'd rather have some sort of clear protector of some sort for that portion if anyone has a suggestion?

[ESquared]

They look nice but I'm not into the center piece. I don't grip a bike with my balls, so I'd rather have some sort of clear protector of some sort for that portion if anyone has a suggestion?

I'm sure someone with the Black paint will chime in, but, from the photo (360 view) on the Website, it looka likw the center panel that comes down the tank and meets the front of the seat is that solid flat black plastic.

On the Imp Blue, the stainless panel ends just about 4 inches from the seat and transitions to the black panel insert. No paint to scratch.

[Grumpy Goat]

They look nice but I'm not into the center piece. I don't grip a bike with my balls, so I'd rather have some sort of clear protector of some sort for that portion if anyone has a suggestion?

Came as a set, and to my eyes the centre piece is just as ugly as the side pieces. No one can argue about the functionality of all three though, and that is why its on my bike. The centre piece will never wear out or scuff like a clear film might. To each his own, of course.