Cheers musky, didn't get the 'holding your idiot off the ground' bit though - is this a typo??
I use eye and string technique. Had it double checked once and it was spot on - didn't want to get too fussy. I've looked into the AM26s and, whilst they look and handle well, just seem a bit out of character for the bike. Don't get me wrong, I'm prepared to accept that if you go for cheaper, more traditional, tyres then the handling could be compromised a little, and I'd make adjustments for that.
Since getting back on the road, I want to try different combos to see what the best set up is. I definitely wouldn't go for Chen Shins on the back again as I think it's an awful tyre (the one on front is excellent though). Mitas have been ok, but would probably go for something else next time just to try it out. I reckon when I've found the best set up, I'll stick with what works.
Now to sort that front wheel issue.