Category Archives: Avon Tyres

Avon Tyres, Industry News, Latest News, Tyres

Avon looks ahead to the future with EICMA presence

Avon Tyres, one of the motorcycle industry’s longest-established tire brands, will make its return to a major international show in November when it exhibits at EICMA in Milan, Italy.

Looking ahead to an exciting future as part of the Goodyear family of brands, Avon will exhibit at the world’s largest motorcycle fair to discuss plans for 2024 and beyond with riders and partners from all corners of the motorcycle industry. It will also be the first occasion that both Avon and Dunlop will feature side-by-side at a major international show as two of Goodyear’s motorcycle brands. 

Avon’s selection of motorcycle products boasts an impressive range, covering hypersport to custom tires. Avon will showcase tires across this range at the show, such as Roadrider MKII, Speedmaster MKII, TrekRider and 3D SUPERSPORT.

The Avon range also includes the popular Cobra Chrome, which is designed for the power cruiser, touring, and custom motorcycle market. Cobra Chrome offers outstanding wet braking performance and stability, ensuring precise handling and excellent tire feedback.

This focus on key designs ensures the Avon brand still offers its most popular products, sitting as a strong partner offering alongside the Dunlop range.

Ben Hoge, General Manager Motorcycle Europe, Goodyear stated: “We’re looking forward to speaking to riders, dealers and partners at EICMA about the exciting plans for Avon next year and beyond. Avon’s range of motorcycle tires is a testament to its commitment to quality and innovation, and its presence alongside Dunlop at EICMA symbolises the strength of Goodyear’s motorcycle brands coming together.”

EICMA takes place between the 7th – 12th November 2023 at Fiera Milano. Visit Avon in hall 24, at stand Q68.

For more Avon Tyres news check out our dedicated page Avon Tyres UK

or head to the official Avon Tyres UK website visit www.avontyres.com

Avon Tyres, Industry News, Latest News, Tyres

Avon Tyres launches 3D SUPERSPORT hypersport tyre

Avon Tyres has launched the latest member of its motorcycle range: Avon 3D SUPERSPORT, a hypersport tyre developed on the track and road to give riders exceptional grip, handling and stability.

Designed, developed and made in the UK at the Cooper Tire European Technical Centre in Melksham, Avon 3D SUPERSPORT brings together grip and longevity to offer riders of sports bikes and superbikes a superb hypersport package.

Three key technologies make up 3D SUPERSPORT’s hypersport credentials. The tyre’s advanced pattern design generates extensive grip by enhancing its contact with the road. This is achieved by a brand-new tread pattern with an increased ‘land to sea’ ratio, meaning an increased amount of tyre footprint and smaller tread pattern compared to the predecessor.

3D SUPERSPORT’s track-developed construction optimises handling, stability and feedback for the rider by bringing a sense of the race track to the road. While the tyre is designed for riders who predominantly ride on the road, Avon Tyres’ development team has carried out extensive on-track testing to ensure that 3D SUPERSPORT delivers thrilling and reliable performance when riders do take it on a track day.

Avon Tyres’ state-of-the-art Silica Dual Compound technology ensures that riders benefit from maximum grip without compromising on longevity. The rear tyre features a more durable compound in the middle for increased mileage when riding upright and a softer compound on the edges, delivering better grip when cornering.

3D SUPERSPORT has been launched in six sizes: one front and five rear. These include two rear sizes that are brand new to Avon Tyres in the hypersport segment (180/60ZR17 and 200/55ZR17) ensuring fitments for a wide range of sports and superbikes.

Ashley Vowles, Motorcycle Tyre Development Manager, Avon Tyres says: “With 3D SUPERSPORT, we are offering riders a hypersport tyre featuring the latest technology to deliver excellent grip, handling and stability, without compromising on durability and wet weather performance. It is ideal for bikers who predominantly ride on the road, but might take part in the occasional track day. Compared to its predecessor 3D Ultra Evo, 3D SUPERSPORT’s tread pattern is brand-new, taking the tyre slightly towards the more aggressive end of the hypersport segment, in line with the demands of the latest superbikes and sports bikes.”

For more Avon Tyres news check out our dedicated page Avon Tyres UK

or head to the official Avon Tyres UK website visit www.avontyres.com

Avon Tyres, Industry News, Latest News, Tyres

Avon Tyres OE for Tarform Luna Racer electric motorcycle

Avon Tyres OE for Tarform Luna Racer electric motorcycle with Spirit ST.

Avon Tyres is proud to announce that it has been selected as Original Equipment (OE) by New York-based electric motorcycle manufacturer Tarform. Under the arrangement, Tarform will equip its new Luna Racer model with the Avon Spirit ST tyre.

As Avon’s hypersport touring tyre, standout features of the Spirit ST include the latest construction technology, which helps to generate ultra-high performance, handling and stability; a state-of-the-art dual tread compound, which increases wet grip and mileage; and 3D Sipes for all-round grip.

From the 19 sizes available in the Spirit ST range, the 110/80 front and 160/60 rear have been chosen for Tarform’s Luna Racer, which boasts acceleration of 0-60mph in 3.8 seconds*, a top speed of 120mph* (where permitted), a city battery range of 120 miles* and charging from 0-80% in 50 minutes*.

Tarform’s motorcycles, including the Luna Racer, are based on three key principles. A modular platform enables continuous upgradability of parts and aesthetic appearance; sensors, machine learning and connectivity provide meaningful insights to make the motorcycle experience safer; and the use of natural high-performance biomaterials is prioritised, as is working with ethical suppliers.

Tarform hand builds its motorcycles in Brooklyn, New York. Now available for pre-order, the Luna Racer has a starting price of $24,000, with global deliveries scheduled to begin by the end of 2021.

Don Argento, National Sales Manager, North America Motorcycle, Avon Tyres, said, “We are hugely excited to be working with Tarform and providing Spirit ST tyres for the Luna Racer electric motorcycle. Sustainability is a key focus for Avon Tyres and this project represents an important step in aligning ourselves with, and directly contributing to, a leading force in more environmentally friendly processes.”

Taras Kravtchouk, Founder, Tarform, said, “The Tarform Luna Racer is an homage to the Café Racer culture from the UK which inspired a new generation to get into motorcycling. Partnering with Avon Tyres was an easy decision to make, considering their century-old heritage, reliability and performance that has equipped many classic machines. We are proud to enter a new era of motorcycling and work with Avon Tyres to accelerate the transition towards sustainable mobility.”

* All performance figures quoted are as provided by Tarform and have not in any way been validated or otherwise verified by and/or on behalf of Avon Tyres.

For more Avon Tyres news check out our dedicated page Avon Tyres UK

or head to the official Avon Tyres UK website visit www.avontyres.com

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Avon Tyres, Tyres

Avon Tyres expands motorcycle range with new hypersport and track tyres

Avon Tyres has launched a trio of high performance motorcycle tyres: the road-focused 3D Ultra Evo hypersport and the track-focused 3D ULTRA XTREME SLICK and XTREME RAIN RACER.

Designed, developed and manufactured in the UK, the 3D ULTRA XTREME SLICK and XTREME RAIN RACER tyres are designed specifically for track day enthusiasts and club level competitions, offering enhanced grip and longevity, while the 3D Ultra Evo is a road-going extension of the range, replacing the 3D Ultra Sport.

Significant development work has been carried out at the Cooper Tire Europe Technical Centre in Melksham, UK; the 3D ULTRA XTREME SLICK is a brand new tyre, the 3D Ultra Evo boasts a compound upgrade, while the XTREME RAIN RACER is a proven wet-weather product from Avon Tyres’ racing division.

Dominic Clifford, Global Avon Motorcycle Manager, said, “Avon Tyres is synonymous with on track performance. By introducing the 3D Ultra Evo, 3D ULTRA XTREME SLICK and XTREME RAIN RACER, we will take our offering to the next level. We cannot wait to see these tyres on the road and on the track in 2020.”


Avon Tyres, Tyres

Avon Tyres presents new motorcycle tyre products at global dealer conference

Avon Tyres presented several new motorcycle tyres at its global dealer conference in London on November 7.

The latest addition to an extensive two-wheel range, the Avon Roadrider MKII was unveiled at The Bike Shed in Shoreditch in front of approximately 100 customers, motorcycle manufacturers and brand ambassadors. Also launched were the new road-focused 3D Ultra Evo and track-focused 3D ULTRA XTREME SLICK and XTREME RAIN RACER.

Alongside its product launches, Avon Tyres put together a stunning display of motorcycles, including the newly-launched Triumph Rocket 3 and the Vincent Black Lightning from the upcoming documentary ‘SpeedisExpensive’. Meanwhile, there were appearances from KTM stunt rider Rok Bagoroš and airbrush artist Nub Grafix, as seen on Discovery Channel’s Orange County Choppers. Also present was leading urban contemporary artist D*Face, who brought along two custom bikes built by his motorcycle company, Rebels Alliance, and created art live.

In addition, Avon Tyres took the opportunity to highlight the success of the company’s refined digital strategy. Powered by its heritage, but listening to an ever-changing, modern audience, Avon Tyres has shifted its focus to lifestyle and storytelling across the various motorcycle categories it covers – from retro to cruiser and touring to track.

Dominic Clifford, Global Avon Motorcycle Manager, said, “It is an exciting time for the Avon Tyres brand, with the introduction of the Roadrider MKII to defend our position in the sport touring bias market, and the 3D XTREME range to re-establish our position on the track. We look forward to delivering these tyres to customers in the near future.”


Avon Tyres, Tyres

Avon Tyres launches Roadrider MKII sport touring motorcycle tyre

Avon Tyres has launched its eagerly-anticipated Roadrider MKII sport touring motorcycle tyre, which brings several design and performance improvements over its predecessor.

Key benefits of the Avon Roadrider MKII include better grip in wet and dry conditions, reduced wear and shorter braking distances. Wet testing indicates a sizeable improvement in stopping distance compared to the Avon Roadrider.

By introducing an updated sport touring tyre, Avon Tyres is aiming to cement its position as a leading player in the market. In fact, its Roadrider tyre is factory fitted to Royal Enfield’s 350cc bikes.

Overall, the Roadrider MKII is available in 31 sizes and 37 specifications, covering H and V speed ratings and universal options. In addition to the expanded size offering, a classic tread and sidewall appearance makes the tyre suitable for bikes of all ages.

Dominic Clifford, Global Avon Motorcycle Manager, said, “The Roadrider MKII will enable us to build on the success of the Roadrider. Our design team have done a brilliant job to take the many successful elements of the Roadrider and improve them further. Given the strong benchmark, this was no mean feat.”


Avon Tyres, Triumph, Tyres

Triumph launches Rocket 3 roadster line-up on Avon’s Cobra Chrome tyre

Available in two models, the R and GT, the Rocket 3 boasts a world’s largest production motorcycle engine capacity of 2500cc, which delivers the highest torque of any production motorbike and unparalleled acceleration, while offering a beautifully smooth, responsive and incredibly refined ride.

Avon Tyres, the OE supplier to Triumph Motorcycles, contributed to the end result by developing a new Cobra Chrome tyre especially for the Rocket 3 line-up. Imposing tyre sizes of 150/80 ZR17 at the front and 240/50 ZR16 at the rear add to the roadster’s distinctive muscular presence.

Avon’s Cobra Chrome tyre features exquisite details. Consistent with its name, the edge of the tread is reminiscent of snake skin, and a raised logo in the form of a Cobra head further enhances its aesthetics. Meanwhile, the new tread pattern on the front and rear has been developed for exceptional grip and incredible mileage.

“We are proud to be the tyre of choice for such an iconic brand as Triumph Motorcycles. The Rocket 3 roadster is the pinnacle of motorcycles. To see our Avon Cobra Chrome tyre fitted on both models really is a testimony to the tyre’s performance.” Dominic Clifford, Global Avon Motorcycle Manager


Avon Tyres, London Motorcycle Show, Tyres

Avon Tyres have been selected as OE for two new limited edition motorcycles

Avon Tyres have been selected as original equipment (OE) for two new limited edition motorcycles from Associated British Motorcycles (ABM).

The Gemini Indianapolis and Naked machines were unveiled at the recent Carole Nash MCN London Motorcycle Show and feature Avon’s 3D Ultra Sport and TrailRider tyres.

Avon’s 3D Ultra Sport delivers outstanding handling characteristics making it ideal for high performance bikes, while the TrailRider features a high tech carcass construction and the latest compounds to deliver superb grip and handling.

Designed and engineered by ABM sister company, renowned engine and chassis specialists T3 Performance, these stunning machines feature the best in British engineering and components to achieve two unique styles. The Gemini Naked takes the Café Race theme but with superbike levels of power and handling. The Indianapolis shares the components of the Naked but has its own style, inspired by the fearless US flat trackers.

Tailor-made to the bespoke requirements of each individual customer, the machines are a limited edition. ABM aims to bridge the gap between custom bike builders and mainstream manufacturers, giving genuine individuality with technical back-up and aftermarket service.

Doug Ross, Global Head of Motorcycle Sales at Avon Tyres, said, “We are extremely proud to be chosen as the OE tyre fitment for these two eye-catching high performance machines. Avon’s 3D Ultra Sport and TrailRider tyres perfectly complement the power and performance of the Gemini Twins.”

Tony Scott, founder of ABM said, “The Gemini Twins suit our entry into the marketplace perfectly. They are British, they are inspired and they are edgy, creating a buying opportunity for those looking for something very special. We are delighted to supply these British bikes with Avon tyres, which have been manufactured in Britain for over 100 years.”


Avon Tyres, London Motorcycle Show, Shows, Tyres

Avon Tyres to exhibit at the MCN London Motorcycle Show

Avon Tyres will be showcasing its range of motorcycle tyres at this year’s Carole Nash MCN London Motorcycle Show.

Running from 15 to 17 February, 2019 at the Excel London, the stand will feature Avon’s range of motorcycle tyres, special guest appearances and bike exhibits.

Visitors to the stand will get to meet former MotoGP racer and Avon Tyres ambassador Steve Parrish, who will be at the event on Friday doing a series of talks and Q&A sessions throughout the day. There will also be an appearance from contemporary street artist D*Face.

A number of bikes will be on display, including a Triumph Bobber Black with a D*Face customised tank fitted with Avon’s Cobra tyres as original equipment and the new CCM Bobber fitted with Avon’s Cobra Chrome tyres as original equipment. The new KTM 790S will also feature; launched in November 2018 this latest KTM is fitted with Avon’s TrailRider tyre as original equipment.

Avon’s acclaimed range of motorcycle tyres stretches from the track-inspired 3D Ultra Xtreme through the hypersport touring Spirit ST tyre and Cobra Chrome for custom and cruiser applications. Other ranges include the Roadrider for classic and vintage bikes and the TrailRider and TrekRider for adventure sport use.

Visit Avon Tyres at the MCN London Motorcycle show on stand R530..


Avon Tyres, Tyres

Avon Tyres OE for much-anticipated KTM 790 ADVENTURE

British motorcycle brand Avon Tyres is the original equipment (OE) fitment for the KTM 790 ADVENTURE launched at EICMA 2018 (6-11 November), in Milan.

As a lightweight, high performance bike that is equally happy on the street as it is off-road, the KTM 790 ADVENTURE has spoked wheels in true off-road sizes. With a 21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear, these come fitted with Avon TrailRider tyres – a dual sport option.

Avon has been developing motorcycle tyres for more than a century, and its TrailRider adventure sport touring tyre provides extra mileage, stability and grip in all weather conditions on all surfaces.

The TrailRider features the latest in carcass construction technology along with Avon’s tri-compound tread, which provides a softer compound on the tread edge, for more grip; a harder centre compound for mileage, and a low-hysteresis bonding compound under the surface tread.

By utilising the most compact engine in the segment, the LC8c delivering 95hp, the overall packaging of the all-new KTM 790 ADVENTURE offers both machine and rider many advantages, with the main benefits in the ergonomics and handling.

Doug Ross, Global Head of Motorcycle Sales at Avon Tyres, said, “We are extremely proud to be OE for the newly unveiled KTM 790 ADVENTURE, with the TrailRider being one of our most popular flagship motorcycle tyres. The TrailRider has been designed to deliver reassuring grip and handling – and features Avon’s acclaimed 3D sipes to fine-tune tread flex, improve warm-up times, and stabilise the tread blocks under load. The Avon-shod KTM 790 ADVENTURE is on display throughout the EICMA show.”


Avon Tyres, Tyres

Russia victorious in Avon-sponsored AMD World Championship

Cafe Racer class won by Italian outfit FMW Motorcycles with its Avon-shod ‘Hurakan’

British tyre manufacturer Avon Tyres is the official sponsor of the Freestyle class in the AMD World Championship of Custom Bike Building, with Russian customiser Zillers Garage taking this year’s coveted title.

The 13th AMD World Championship event was held at ‘INTERMOT Customized’ as part of the INTERMOT show (3-7 October) in Cologne, Germany – with 98 bikes, 85 competitors and 30 countries competing from as far afield as the United States, Japan, Taiwan, South Korea, Indonesia and India.

Zillers Garage won with ‘Insomnia,’ a Yamaha SR 400 based masterpiece, and rising star Dmitry Golubchikov was crowned the Avon World Champion of Custom Bike Building, becoming the first winner of the AMD World Championship from Eastern Europe.

The Avon-sponsored Freestyle class at the AMD World Championship is internationally recognised as being the premier showcase for advanced custom motorcycle design and engineering.
Flying the flag for Italy, the Cafe Racer class was won by FMW Motorcycles with ‘Hurakan,’ an S&S Superstock Avon-shod 1968 Shovelhead.

At the 2018 INTERMOT show Avon Tyres also launched its new Cobra Chrome cruising tourer tyre range, with improved longevity and more fitment options than ever.

The Cobra Chrome is available now and replaces the well-established Cobra range.


 

Avon Tyres, Tyres

Avon Tyres launches new Cobra Chrome tyre range

British tyre manufacturer Avon Tyres has launched its new Cobra Chrome cruising tourer tyre range, now with improved longevity and more fitment options than ever.

It is a replacement for the popular Cobra range which has a well-established reputation in the custom and cruiser segments.

With an advanced construction design, the Cobra Chrome delivers improved stability and durability in all conditions for precise feel and tyre feedback. Avon’s latest pattern produces over a 5 percent larger footprint to maximise grip and uses the latest compound technology to improve tread life by 10 percent compared with its predecessor. The use of enhanced compounds means that the Cobra Chrome offers excellent wet braking and handling properties.

With rears up to 23 inches in diameter and widths of up 330mm, the new range comes in a wide variety of specifications and sizes to cover cruisers, tourers and custom bikes. The white sidewall option Cobra Chrome is the ultimate statement of individuality, and with 14 options available, more riders will be able to enjoy the look of Cobra Chrome whitewall tyres. All variants feature a stylish Cobra-themed design with a snakeskin appearance and embossed Cobra head logo on the tread edge for enhanced aesthetics.

Global Head of Motorcycle Sales, Doug Ross, said, “Established in 1885, Avon is renowned for producing top quality motorcycle tyres in the UK developed with the rider in mind. Our popular Avon Venom and Avon Cobra tyres have a well established reputation in the custom and cruiser segments. The next chapter in our long and rich brand history is the introduction of the Avon Cobra Chrome; the tyre of choice for the cruiser rider in search of safety, the joy of riding and individuality.”

Available from 2 October, the new Cobra Chrome will be launched at the 2018 INTERMOT show in Cologne, Germany.


 

Avon Tyres, Tyres

Meet Grand Prix legend Steve Parrish with Avon Tyres

Avon Tyres is offering fans the opportunity to meet motorcycle Grand Prix legend Steve Parrish at this year’s Castle Combe Grand National.

Taking place over 1 and 2 September, the non-stop, action-packed racing event will celebrate 30 years of British Superbikes with a ‘Year of the Legends’ evening. Listen to stories and tales from two of the biggest legends on the racing scene, Freddie Spencer and Steve Parrish, from 8 -10 p.m. on Saturday night.

The event will also feature 20 competitive motorcycle races each day including the 125/250GP ACU National Championship, the Two-Stroke GP Series, British F2 Sidecars, and much, much more. Fans will also be able to watch the Avon-sponsored Parade Lap, featuring over 50 bikes from the late 1940s to the present day.

The NG Road Racing Club will also be racing 14 different classes of motorcycles, with timed qualifying on Saturday followed by a championship race. Another two championship races on Sunday means over 8 hours of on-track action each day.

Tickets are available on the gate and are priced from £15 for Saturday tickets to £35 for weekend tickets.

For more information, please visit – http://bikesatcombe.com/race-meeting/

Avon Tyres, Triumph, Tyres

Resurgence of British motorcycle brands drives business for Avon Tyres

Avon Motorcycle Tyres is capitalising on the recent surge of interest in British bike brands, adding OE fitment contracts to its roster and responding to increased demand for premium whitewall tyres.

Despite the motorcycle market hitting a plateau and remaining largely static in the last 12 months, Avon has managed to substantially increase its OE fitment business over the last five years.

A spate of factory fitments to Triumph Motorcycles’ retro-styled modern classic range – including the Bonneville Bobber, Bobber Black models and Thunderbird LT – as well as OE fits on models from Royal Enfield and CCM have driven new business for the Melksham-based tyre brand.

Already the only tyre maker building motorcycle products in the UK today, Avon is also now capitalising on the desire for retro bike style, with classic whitewall products seeing an upsurge in popularity as manufacturers and custom bike builders seek to give their machines the right aesthetics.

Doug Ross, Avon Tyres’ Head of Global Motorcycle Tyre Sales, said: “We now produce more premium whitewall tyres than ever before and that’s testament to the strength of the modern classic market.

“While the motorbike market is largely flat at the moment, we are maintaining our position and, in some areas like OEM relationships, increasing our impact.

“British motorcycle brands have huge cult followings, which provides us with a valuable outlet.”

Avon’s RoadRider rubber is now factory fit for all of Royal Enfield’s 350cc bikes and the new Himalayan model also sits on Avon rubber, while the Cobra tyre is OE fit on the new ‘Spitfire’ Bobber, recently launched at the Goodwood Festival of Speed by Bolton-based manufacturer, CCM.


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Avon Tyres, Tyres

Avon Tyres expands acclaimed Cobra cruiser tyre range

British-based Avon Tyres has extended its Cobra motorcycle tyre range, introducing four new sizes to suit the latest Harley-Davidson Big Twin model updates. There are two new front fitments, 130/60 B19 and 130/60 B21, suitable for the Street Glide and CVO Breakout models, among others. On the rear, riders can now choose the Cobra in 160/70 B17 and 180/55 B18 sizes.

Avon has a long history of producing motorcycle tyres in custom and cruiser fitments. Its Cobra range combines the super-tough construction necessary for heavy-duty custom loads, with sports tyre technology for improved handling and performance. Avon’s Cobra tyre is renowned for its outstanding mileage and long life.

Featuring the distinctive Cobra tread pattern, the new fitments also sport the unique Cobra ‘snakeskin’ effect sidewall logo.

Products from the Avon motorcycle range will be on display on the Bike Tyrestore stand (B110) at the Motorcycle Trade Expo (14-16 January), taking place at Stoneleigh Park Exhibition Centre, Warwickshire.


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Avon Tyres, Triumph

Two new Triumph bikes launched on Avon tyres

Avon Tyres’ acclaimed Cobra tyres have been selected as the original equipment (OE) fitment tyres for two stylish new bikes launched by Triumph Motorcycles.

The British manufacturer unveiled the two new motorcycles, the Triumph Speedmaster and Triumph Bobber Black, at an event last Tuesday. A bespoke version of Avon’s Cobra product was specially designed and selected as the OE fit for the original Bobber when it was launched last October. The Bonneville Speedmaster is sure to be a big success in the US market among others – and both it and the new Bobber Black are both shod with MT90B16 & 150/80R16 Cobra front and rear tyres straight from the Triumph production line.

The Bobber Black has even more attitude, and blacked out styling, and by working closely with Avon’s in-house development team, both firms were able to come up with the perfect riding solution – an all-new Cobra tyre, with special carcass construction and materials to suit the Bobber’s unique set-up. Doug Ross, Avon’s Head of Global Motorcycle Tyre Sales, said, “The Bobber Black and the Cobra tyre have been a great example of two British brands working well together and sharing success over the last year. We are delighted that we can now expand on the relationship we enjoy with Triumph. “These two beautiful new bikes give their riders a real sense of style. With the Cobra tread pattern, they also deliver excellent high speed manoeuvrability with class leading stability.”

Avon Tyres

Classic time for Avon Tyres at the Isle of Man Festival of Motorcycling

Avon Tyres heads back across the Irish Sea, to the Isle of Man, for the late-summer leg of the Island’s motorcycling celebrations – the Festival of Motorcycling.

There are two major parts to the Festival – the Classic TT races and the Manx Grand Prix, both of which will see Avon playing an important role.

Avon Tyres has an incredible history at Mona’s Isle, including setting the first 100mph lap with Bob McIntyre on a four-cylinder Gilera in 1957. Avon’s wide range of classic race tyres means the British manufacturer is likely to be once again claiming the top step of the podium a number of times over the festival fortnight

Avon’s AM26 and AM22 Roadrider classic racing rubber will be fitted to the majority of the competitors’ bikes in the 350 and 500 Classic races. Meanwhile, the new Avon Storm Endurance race tyres, which took victory at the Spa Classic Legends Endurance race earlier this summer, are available to riders in the Manx Grand Prix.

The Spa Classic 4 Hour race, held at the end of June, is year-on-year a highlight of the classic racing season, with teams entering from across Europe. Avon supplied its Storm Endurance race tyres to several teams, including Neate Racing’s Steven and John Neate and Bob Collins, and the Team Classic Suzuki outfit, with riders Guy Martin and Pete Boast. Neate Racing won the Spa Classic, with the Suzuki Katana finishing in seventh.

Avon’s motorcycle motorsport manager, Steve Smith, said, “We’re expecting all the star riders to be using Avon tyres for the 350 and 500cc races at the festival this weekend, so we’re hoping for a clean sweep of the podium in the Junior and Senior Classic TT races.

“At the Manx GP, we’re aiming for a third consecutive win in the Supertwin race after victories from Rob Hodson in 2015 and his brother, Jamie, last year, who will be sorely missed.

“It is with great sadness that we learnt of the loss of Jamie Hodson. It was a pleasure to work with him during the 2016 season that culminated in his superb win at the Manx GP in the Supertwin race. Jamie was a true gentleman and also a very talented rider.”

As well as the racing, there are a number of classic bike highlights away from the competition this weekend, with parade laps from Michael Dunlop on the Bob McIntyre replica Gilera and Steve Plater on the Team Obsolete six-cylinder 250cc Honda. Both of these legendary machines will be running on Avon tyres.

The Isle of Man Festival of Motorcycling runs from 19 August – 01 September, with the full schedule available at http://www.iomfom.com.

For further information on Avon Tyres, visit www.avon-tyres.co.uk.

You can also keep up-to-date with Avon on Facebook.

Avon Tyres

Avon Tyres TrailRider fitment launched for Honda’s Africa Twin

Melksham-based Avon Tyres has released a new TrailRider fitment aimed at Honda’s new Africa Twin. The acclaimed TrailRider adventure touring tyre is now available in 150/70 R18 rear size, which also fits the recently introduced KTM 1090 Adventure. 

Honda’s original XRV750 Africa Twin was one of the most evocative bikes of the 1980s and ‘90s, with Honda bringing the legendary name back to life with the latest CRF1000 version. With genuine off-road abilities and fabulous road performance, plus an optional dual-clutch transmission (DCT) automatic gearbox, the new Africa Twin has been a popular addition for Honda.

The TrailRider tyre, designed with a 90/10 split in terms of on/off-road performance, offers excellent on-road performance, balanced with solid off-road manners and is an excellent choice for the adventure tourist who spends most of their time on asphalt, but needs the ability to venture onto dirt trails and gravel tracks.

The TrailRider design includes Avon’s trademark ‘3D Sipe’ technology, which uses interlocking 3D ‘teeth’ inside narrow tread slits, to improve warmup and wet-weather performance, without affecting stability. In addition, a new tread compound uses a super-rich silica mix, for superb wet grip, while giving excellent mileage and wear characteristics.

Finally, the rear tyre features a multi-compound tread that uses a harder compound in the centre of the tyre for better wear, and softer compounds on the edge for tenacious cornering grip.

The new Africa Twin TrailRider is available in dealers now.

For further information on Avon Tyres, visit www.avon-tyres.co.uk.

You can also keep up-to-date with Avon on Facebook and Twitter.

Avon Tyres

Avon’s Spirit ST hypersport touring motorcycle tyre

Avon Tyres launched the latest of its acclaimed sport-touring tyres, the all-new Avon Spirit ST, in Portimao earlier this month

In attendance and testing the tyre was Avon’s newly appointed Brand Ambassador, Steve Parrish. The motorcycle racer turned television commentator has raced on Avon tyres throughout his classic racing career.

Speaking at the launch, Parrish said, “I’m a very patriotic person, and the tyres are made down in Melksham. It’s a close-knit group of people who are very much passionate about what they do. They make a product that’s a world-wide product, it’s as good as anything else out there. It’s lovely to see a small community, a small group of people, working so hard and coming up with such a great product.”

The Spirit ST is the successor to Avon’s Storm 3D range and has been designed to provide excellent levels of wet grip, together with ultra-high performance handling. Featuring a radical new tread pattern, the Spirit ST uses the very latest high-silica synthetic rubber compounds for improved mileage.

Avon’s engineers have enhanced the performance of their flagship sport-touring tyre, so much so that the new Spirit ST is designated as a hypersport touring tyre – offering supreme stability and grip in all riding conditions.

The new Spirit ST takes Avon’s sporting road tyre offering to a new level, and is available at Avon dealers now in a wide range of sizes:

Spirit ST front
110/70 ZR 17 (54W)
100/90 ZR 18 (56W)
110/80 ZR 18 (58W)
110/80 R 19 59V
120/60 ZR 17 (55W)
120/70 ZR 17 (58W)
120/70 ZR 18 (59W)
120/70 ZR 19 (60W)

Spirit ST rear
150/70 ZR 17 (69W)
150/80 ZR 16 (71W)
160/60 ZR 17 (69W)
160/60 ZR 18 (70W)
160/70 ZR 17 (73W)
170/60 ZR 17 (72W)
180/55 ZR 17 (73W)
190/50 ZR 17 (73W)
190/55 ZR 17 (75W)
200/50 ZR 17 (75W)
200/55 ZR 17 (78W)

For further information on Avon Tyres, visit www.avon-tyres.co.uk.

You can also keep up-to-date with Avon on Facebook and Twitter. #SpiritST

Avon Tyres

Avon Tyres Celebrates Diamond Anniversary of First 100 mph TT lap

At this year’s Isle of Man TT, 27 May – 9 June, Avon’s motorsport team will be marking the 60th anniversary of the first ever 100 mph lap of the TT, set on Avon tyres.

The record-breaking lap was ridden by legendary Scottish rider, Bob McIntyre, on a four-cylinder Gilera, running Avon’s Speedmaster GP race tyres. McIntyre set off in the 1957 Senior 500cc race and managed a 99.99 mph lap from a standing start, with a full fuel load, before breaking the 100 mph milestone on his second lap reaching 101.03 mph.

Visitors to the 2017 Isle of Man TT can see a replica of the 100 mph lap Gilera, complete with accurate, period Speedmaster and GP racing tyres fitted.

Away from the 60th anniversary celebrations, the Isle of Man’s Mountain Course will once again ring to the sound of full-bore superbikes and sidecars over the amazing two-week festival of road-racing.

Avon will be offering a full support service to its solo and sidecar riders. The three-wheeled classes in particular look to be on a knife edge, with no less than seven top rider/passenger teams in possible contention for a win. The 2016 Race 1 winner, John Holden, is running his Silicone Engineering outfit with a new passenger, Lee Cain. Conrad Harrison and Andy Winkle, five times World Champion Tim Reeves with rookie passenger Mark Wilkes, and Peter Founds/Jevan Walmsley are amongst the top teams to look out for in the sidecar races.

Last year’s sidecar Race 2 winners, and current lap record holders, Ben and Tom Birchall will be the favourites for victory again this year. However, Manxmen Dave Molyneux and Dan Sayle will be trying everything to add to their considerable tally of TT victories.

On the solo front, flamboyant French rider Timothee Monot will be racing on Avon’s Xtreme racing rubber in the Supertwin, Supersport 600 and TT Zero classes.

For further information on Avon Tyres, visit www.avon-tyres.co.uk.

You can also keep up-to-date with Avon on Facebook and Twitter.