First, welcome aboard from SE Idaho!!! As to darkside on the front, there are several tires used and recommended quite often, but the BT-45 is probably the most popular. As to its performance, I can't say personally as I run a Bridgestone 709 on the front with a Pirelli P1 RF on the rear. There are a great number of others that run the BT-45, who will be along soon to tout their positive attributes and guide you down the path to DDS. Ride safe and keep the shiny side up. :grin2: