Frank,
Have you worn out your OEM tire already?
I met the Michelin reps at the Hoot last year and this is the scoop from them.
Pilot Activ rear 130/70-18 mounted in reverse rotation.
If you have any questions call:
Michelin Consumer Relations Cycle Group
1-800-346-4098
If you put the Activ rear side-by-side with a front tire, you will see immediately by the tread pattern why you should mount in reverse. It has to do with construction (acceleration vs. deceleration) and water dispersal.
I gotta tell you the rest of the story though.
When I triked, I had them put on a Metzeler ME880. This was a much smoother riding, better handling tire (much stickier) than the Michelin. On our timed run on the Dragon last June, the Metz was smoking at the end, but it stuck like glue on the curves. I haven't ridden the Dragon that hard with the Michelin. Yet.
But - at 7000 miles, the Metz was low on tread and it was time to replace it. The Activ now has over 8000 miles on it and still looks like new. It does have a buzz between ~ 26-35 mph, does not ride as smooth or handle as well (it doesn't have the same secure sticky feel in hard curves), but the Metz cost me $175 and the Activ cost $140 and will last 2-3-4 times as long. So - since I don't ride the Dragon every day, and I don't cruise between 26-35 much, I'll stay with the Activ, mainly for the cost savings.