Metzeler ROADTEC 02: two tyres in one thanks to the tread that adapts to the motorcyclist’s riding style.
The new Metzeler ROADTEC 02 tyre, now available to the public, introduces a new technology that allows you to benefit from the behaviour of two different tyres in a single tyre. The Adaptive Tread Design adapts the geometry of the grooves based on the motorcyclist’s riding style, thus varying the surface in contact with the asphalt and consequently the behaviour of the tyre, from Sport-Touring to Supersport. Almost a new category of tyre, the “Super-Sport Touring”, allows a much wider range of performance depending on the riding style.
When the motorcyclist has a touring riding style, or in wet conditions, the long grooves of the tread pattern favor the evacuation of water and the correct mobility of the tread compound, helping to offer quick warm-up, comfort and grip. In other words, the qualities and behaviour typical of a Sport-Touring tyre.
However, when a sportier riding style is preferred – in dry conditions, greater load transfers and lateral thrusts cause part of the grooves to close, thus increasing the compactness and stability of the tread band. This allows you to make the most of the grip qualities of the compound, improving riding precision and modifying its behaviour, to become close to that of a supersport tyre.
The front and rear tyres have been designed with the same tread pattern to ensure the same adaptive behaviour on both axles.
The tread pattern of the new ROADTEC 02 tyre, compared to its predecessor ROADTEC 01 SE, increases the full/empty land/sea ratio, thus increasing the footprint and making it more uniform as the lean angle varies, so as to guarantee a smoother and more precise ride. Furthermore, a smaller presence of grooves leads to fewer interruptions on the tread band, to the benefit of acoustic comfort (less road noise).
The rear tyres are dual-compound to combine stability at high speeds with grip when leaning also on wet surfaces, the latter also achieved thanks to the new generation of 100% silica-based compounds, both for the front and rear, which optimise the chemical grip on wet roads.
ROADTEC 02 will make its official debut at the MBE Motor Bike Expo, scheduled from 19 to 21 January in Verona, where the new tyre will be among the protagonists of the Metzeler exhibition area set up in booth 19 of pavilion 4.
Metzeler ROADTEC 02 tyres are available in the following sizes:
For more Metzeler Tyre news check out our dedicated page Metzeler Tyres
The original equipment Tourance Next 2 tyres are designed mainly for road use while the optional fitment Karoo 4 tyres are aimed at off-road enthusiasts.
Metzeler delivers the original tyres for the new BMW R 1300 GS, recently unveiled to the public.
In the sizes 120/70 R19 front and 170/60 R17 rear, Metzeler Tourance Next 2 tyres were selected as original equipment for all versions of the R 1300 GS, besides the basic model also for the variants Trophy, Triple Black and Option 719 Tramuntana, while Metzeler Karoo 4 tyres are offered as an optional fitment upon request.
The new BMW R 1300 GS, equipped with Metzeler Tourance Next 2 and Karoo 4 tyres, has already been successfully tested both on and off road by journalists invited to the international press launch, which took place in October in Malaga (where Metzeler was a technical partner). Over the test, held in the south of the Iberian Peninsula, the presentation is underway to BMW Motorrad dealers from all over the world who, in turn, will be able to appreciate the excellent combination between the new motorcycle from BMW and Metzeler tyres.
BMW’s decision to again use Metzeler tyres as original equipment for the new R 1300 GS is confirmation of the solid and long-lasting relationship between the two brands and proof of how important the choice of tyres is to influence the behaviour of a motorcycle,
The original equipment Tourance Next 2 tyres, in B specification specifically designed for the new BMW R 1300 GS, guarantee a new level of performance in the adventure segment and have been designed for all motorcyclists who use the motorbike for long journeys or weekend excursions, alone or with a passenger, and who require peak performance combined with comfort and predictable behaviour.
Tourance Next 2 in fact offers easy handling and a sensation of control at every turn, thanks to the neutral behaviour guaranteed by the radial structure with its 0° steel belt, an immediate response to braking on wet surfaces, even at low temperatures, high and long-lasting performance throughout the tyre life cycle and comfort and safety at the highest levels with or without a passenger or luggage.
For those who want to push the boundaries of their adventure with the BMW R 1300 GS even further off-road, there are Karoo 4 tyres, available as optional equipment.
These multi-purpose tyres are able to offer exemplary off-road traction, even in the deepest mud, while delivering excellent resistance to abrasion, cuts and tears. Furthermore, they boast great handling on the road, regardless of load, and very good wet performance thanks also to the ability to interact very well with the riding aid systems.
In addition to the new R 1300 GS, Metzeler also delivers the tyres for the new F 900 GS and F 900 GS Adventure, equipped with Tourance Next 2 or Karoo 4 as optional fitment. Other BMW models that already fit Metzeler tyres are the R 1250 GS (with Karoo 3), the G 310 GS (with Tourance), the R 1250 RT (with Roadtec Z8 M/C), the R 1250 R and RS (with Roadtec 01), the R 18 Roctane (with ME 888 Marathon Ultra) and the K 1600 B, Grand America, GT and GTL (all with Roadtec 01).
For more Metzeler Tyre news check out our dedicated page Metzeler Tyres
Metzeler will be the sole Official Tyre of the most iconic motorcycle road race until 2027.
The Metzeler tyre brand has been selected by the Department for Enterprise of theIsle of Man as Official Tyre with a sponsorship contract for the TT Races for the five-year period 2023-2027.
Paul Phillips, Head of Motorsport – Isle of Man Department for Enterprise “Metzeler are a welcome addition to the line-up of official sponsoring brands for this year’s Isle of Man TT Races. Our commercial objective is to work collaboratively with our Official partners to add value to the TT experience for everyone involved in the event. Metzeler is already integrally associated with the TT and is the tyre of choice for many teams competing in the event, with a proven performance track record. We are sure that this will be a successful partnership that will grow in strength over the years to come.” Francesco Pietrangeli, Motorcycle Marketing Director Metzeler brand “The Isle of Man TT is one of the oldest and best known motorcycle races in the world and has a unique and timeless appeal. Metzeler tyres have been involved in Road Racing for some time and over the years have contributed to the successes of many riders by supporting them and making our RACETEC RR tyres available to them. We are very delighted with the agreement which represents the natural evolution of our commitment to Road Racing and it is also the best way to celebrate the 160th anniversary of the birth of our brand”.
The Tourist Trophy has been run since 1907 on the road circuit of the Snaefell Mountain Course, a 60.720 km track on the Isle of Man. Over the years it has become an iconic competition characterised by charm, tradition, glory, passion and adrenaline, values also shared by those choosing Metzeler tyres, a brand that boasts a history of over a century and a half full of motorsport successes and technology.
The Metzeler RACETEC RR tyres already used by the riders have been developed thanks to Metzeler’s experience in Road Racing competitions which, as is known, do not take place on circuits but on roads which are open to the public throughout the year and where all the situations that any motorcyclist may have to face on a daily basis can be found. And it is precisely for this reason that road racing has always been the testing and development ground for Metzeler tyres. Thanks to its participation in Road Racing activities and to the acquired know-how, Metzeler tyre range has enriched by giving life to successful tyres, not least the sporty SPORTEC M9 RR.
For more Metzeler Tyre news check out our dedicated page Metzeler Tyres
The MCE 6 Days Extreme product line for enduro competition is enriched with the addition of a new rear specification in 140/80–18 size designed for the most difficult technical sections and harshest terrain.
MCE 6 Days Extreme, Metzeler’s family of tyres designed for enduro competitions, expands with the introduction of the new Extra Soft rear specification specially developed for extreme enduro races.
The new MCE 6 Days Extreme Extra Soft rear, in 140/80–18 70M NHS size, is a specialist tyre suitable for one-day competitions and special stages. It features a tread compound designed to guarantee maximum performance in extreme conditions from both a technical and environmental point of view, therefore effective even in very low temperatures. Thanks to the high level of grip, the Extra Soft allows riders to tackle even the most difficult obstacles and to restart easily even from a standstill, in the absence of a run-up. Furthermore, the very consistent overall deformation of the carcass guarantees a good level of comfort and makes it an easy tyre to use, even for less experienced riders.
The Extra Soft specification, which visually stands out from the rest of the range due to the presence of three parallel white stripes on the tread, features a new layout of the knobs to ensure optimal performance even at high lean angles, less wear and greater resistance to fatigue. These characteristics are very important in extreme enduro competitions in which the tyre is subjected to cyclical and multidirectional deformations. The compound is also completely new, based on 100% Carbon Black and highly resilient, which means it is capable of absorbing deformation energy. It also has a very wide range of use: working even in very cold temperatures.
The Extra Soft completes the Metzeler range for enduro competitions, a discipline that has involved the German brand since the first decades of the last century. Developed together with the best riders and teams of the FIM Enduro and FIM Hard Enduro World Championships such as KTM, GAS GAS and Honda, the MCE 6 Days Extreme tyres have written pages of history in the most important enduro competitions and are chosen as original equipment by the best manufacturers for their off-road models.
Although they were designed for Enduro and Extreme Enduro World Championship riders, the MCE 6 Days Extreme tyres are also suitable for enthusiasts of the discipline who want to equip their motorcycles with high-performance tyres that make traction, versatility and resistance of the knobs their strengths.
The range of MCE 6 Days Extreme tyres includes a wide variety of specifications designed for different enduro applications and which allow riders to find the most suitable solutions for their needs. The front tyre is available in different sizes and in three versions: standard, soft and super soft. The rear is available in nine sizes divided between five different versions: standard, medium, soft, super soft and the new extra soft.
For more Metzeler Tyre news check out our dedicated page Metzeler Tyres
Metzeler presents the new Karoo 4, the knobbly tyre for adventure and maxi enduro motorcycles.
The new KAROO 4 enhances the know-how of the two-wheel focused brand to reach a new level of performance in the maxi enduro segment. Available from March 2022, it will replace the current KAROO 3.
Successor of the award-winning KAROO 3, KAROO 4 represents the latest generation of the METZELER product family: a knobbly tyre intended for the equipment of adventure and maxi enduro motorcycles, designed for on/off use.
The new KAROO 4 enhances even the most cutting edge, latest medium and large displacement enduro motorcycles that travel both on asphalt and off-road, working in tune with the most advanced rider aid systems. KAROO 4 is a highly versatile product that gives, compared to its predecessor KAROO 3, a significant improvement in off-road and on-road wet performance, even when fully loaded.
Who is KAROO 4 designed for?
METZELER KAROO 4 is the ideal choice for:
Owners of adventure motorcycles, riders who use their motorcycles for journeys 50% on-road 50% off-road, looking for experiences without limits. They seek reliability and performance in different weather conditions, stability even at full load and mileage.
Motorcyclists who want to test their skills and their bike’s capabilities, they value off-road performance in a tyre.
Owners of ‘scrambler’ style machines, who require an aggressive knobbly look without sacrificing on-road performance, with particular reference to handling and safety in the wet.
The benefits of KAROO 4
The main benefits of KAROO 4 are:
Exemplary off-road traction, thanks to the patented tread design.
Significant on-road handling even at full load, thanks to the profile featuring METZELER MRC[1] technology that improves line holding despite the ‘knobs’.
Extreme abrasion, cut and tearing resistance, thanks to the carbon black based compounds and footprint area optimisation.
Top wet performance and integration with rider aids. The combination of the technologies featured in KAROO 4 allows riders to safely manage different weather conditions and road surfaces, including in case of emergency braking.
THE TYRE IN DETAIL The tread pattern KAROO 4 features a revolutionary patented tread design, which raises the tyre’s all-round performance levels on both asphalt and on different types of off-road terrain.
As for the on–road performance, METZELER engineers worked to improve in particular the overall handling and wet behaviour, developing a knobbly pattern that allows you to safely tackle certain lean angles even in wet conditions. In the off-road field, KAROO 4 increases the performance level especially on very soft surfaces, such as sand, mud and clay.
The KAROO 4 tread pattern features these main characteristics: – Patented design DETRATEC™, composed of central spoon-shaped knobs, which are separated from the side knobs by a wavy longitudinal groove. The combination of these three elements has a dual function: at first it traps the terrain between the knobs to generate lateral thrust and secondly, it releases it thanks to self-cleaning properties.
– Multi-pitch design. The groups of knobs are repeated with an irregular cadence to mitigate the impact of the tread against the asphalt and improve rolling smoothness;
– Optimised footprint area that includes a greater number of knobs in the contact patch, compared to KAROO 3, to improve road handling and integration with electronic rider aids;
– Patented DYMATEC™ technology, a design methodology that preserve the functional geometries of the knobs and the tyre performance over time. In details, this technology features variable groove wall angles depending on their position along the tread band to maximise tread pattern solidity and wear uniformity.
The tread compound The front tyre of KAROO 4 is a single compound. The radial sizes feature a carbon black compound with extreme resistance to abrasion, a direct evolution of what was used for KAROO 3. For cross-ply sizes, the engineers of the METZELER brand developed a new compound with the aim of reaching a wider operating range and greater adhesion to surfaces.
The rear radial sizes are bi-compound:
– The central compound is 100% carbon black, with remarkable abrasion resistance;
– The shoulder compound has an 80% carbon black and 20% silica formulation, to ensure thermal stability even under stress.
The profile
KAROO 4 adopt the METZELER MRC[2] technology, which features different profiles from the central band to the shoulder area. This increases ease of handling, improves traction and stability, even under full load. In the rear sizes, with a shorter and wider contact area compared to its predecessor, the profile of the KAROO 4 helps to reduce and even out tread wear for greater mileage. The structure
KAROO 4 features lighter construction schemes than its predecessor. In particular radial sizes, thanks to the use of the zero-degree steel belt with INTERACT variable tension technology, guarantee a gradual riding response and a solid feeling of control. The range
KAROO 4 will be available in the following sizes starting from March 2022:
Front
19” 100/90-19 TL 57Q M+S
19” 110/80 R 19 TL 59Q M+S
19” 120/70 R 19 TL 60Q M+S
21” 90/90-21 TL 54Q M+S
Rear
17” 130/80 R 17 TL 65Q M+S
17” 140/80 R 17 TL 69Q M+S
17” 150/70 R 17 TL 69Q M+S
17” 170/60 R 17 TL 72Q M+S
18” 140/80 – 18 TL 70Q M+S
18” 150/70 R 18 TL 70Q M+S
Metzeler presents the new Karoo 4, the knobbly tyre for adventure and maxi enduro motorcycles.
The new KAROO 4 enhances the know-how of the two-wheel focused brand to reach a new level of performance in the maxi enduro segment. Available from March 2022, it will replace the current KAROO 3.
Successor of the award-winning KAROO 3, KAROO 4 represents the latest generation of the METZELER product family: a knobbly tyre intended for the equipment of adventure and maxi enduro motorcycles, designed for on/off use.
The new KAROO 4 enhances even the most cutting edge, latest medium and large displacement enduro motorcycles that travel both on asphalt and off-road, working in tune with the most advanced rider aid systems. KAROO 4 is a highly versatile product that gives, compared to its predecessor KAROO 3, a significant improvement in off-road and on-road wet performance, even when fully loaded.
Who is KAROO 4 designed for?
METZELER KAROO 4 is the ideal choice for:
Owners of adventure motorcycles, riders who use their motorcycles for journeys 50% on-road 50% off-road, looking for experiences without limits. They seek reliability and performance in different weather conditions, stability even at full load and mileage.
Motorcyclists who want to test their skills and their bike’s capabilities, they value off-road performance in a tyre.
Owners of ‘scrambler’ style machines, who require an aggressive knobbly look without sacrificing on-road performance, with particular reference to handling and safety in the wet.
The benefits of KAROO 4
The main benefits of KAROO 4 are:
Exemplary off-road traction, thanks to the patented tread design.
Significant on-road handling even at full load, thanks to the profile featuring METZELER MRC[1] technology that improves line holding despite the ‘knobs’.
Extreme abrasion, cut and tearing resistance, thanks to the carbon black based compounds and footprint area optimisation.
Top wet performance and integration with rider aids. The combination of the technologies featured in KAROO 4 allows riders to safely manage different weather conditions and road surfaces, including in case of emergency braking.
THE TYRE IN DETAIL The tread pattern KAROO 4 features a revolutionary patented tread design, which raises the tyre’s all-round performance levels on both asphalt and on different types of off-road terrain.
As for the on–road performance, METZELER engineers worked to improve in particular the overall handling and wet behaviour, developing a knobbly pattern that allows you to safely tackle certain lean angles even in wet conditions. In the off-road field, KAROO 4 increases the performance level especially on very soft surfaces, such as sand, mud and clay.
The KAROO 4 tread pattern features these main characteristics: – Patented design DETRATEC™, composed of central spoon-shaped knobs, which are separated from the side knobs by a wavy longitudinal groove. The combination of these three elements has a dual function: at first it traps the terrain between the knobs to generate lateral thrust and secondly, it releases it thanks to self-cleaning properties.
– Multi-pitch design. The groups of knobs are repeated with an irregular cadence to mitigate the impact of the tread against the asphalt and improve rolling smoothness;
– Optimised footprint area that includes a greater number of knobs in the contact patch, compared to KAROO 3, to improve road handling and integration with electronic rider aids;
– Patented DYMATEC™ technology, a design methodology that preserve the functional geometries of the knobs and the tyre performance over time. In details, this technology features variable groove wall angles depending on their position along the tread band to maximise tread pattern solidity and wear uniformity.
The tread compound The front tyre of KAROO 4 is a single compound. The radial sizes feature a carbon black compound with extreme resistance to abrasion, a direct evolution of what was used for KAROO 3. For cross-ply sizes, the engineers of the METZELER brand developed a new compound with the aim of reaching a wider operating range and greater adhesion to surfaces.
The rear radial sizes are bi-compound:
– The central compound is 100% carbon black, with remarkable abrasion resistance;
– The shoulder compound has an 80% carbon black and 20% silica formulation, to ensure thermal stability even under stress.
The profile
KAROO 4 adopt the METZELER MRC[2] technology, which features different profiles from the central band to the shoulder area. This increases ease of handling, improves traction and stability, even under full load. In the rear sizes, with a shorter and wider contact area compared to its predecessor, the profile of the KAROO 4 helps to reduce and even out tread wear for greater mileage. The structure
KAROO 4 features lighter construction schemes than its predecessor. In particular radial sizes, thanks to the use of the zero-degree steel belt with INTERACT variable tension technology, guarantee a gradual riding response and a solid feeling of control. The range
KAROO 4 will be available in the following sizes starting from March 2022:
Front
19” 100/90-19 TL 57Q M+S
19” 110/80 R 19 TL 59Q M+S
19” 120/70 R 19 TL 60Q M+S
21” 90/90-21 TL 54Q M+S
Rear
17” 130/80 R 17 TL 65Q M+S
17” 140/80 R 17 TL 69Q M+S
17” 150/70 R 17 TL 69Q M+S
17” 170/60 R 17 TL 72Q M+S
18” 140/80 – 18 TL 70Q M+S
18” 150/70 R 18 TL 70Q M+S
Available from January 2022, METZELER TOURANCE NEXT 2 enhances the know-how of the two-wheel focused brand to reach a new level of performance in the adventure segment.
The new KAROO 4, is a tyre designed to equip adventure and maxi enduro motorcycles, thanks to a mix of cutting-edge technologies and processes, taking riders to the boundaries of adventouring
New sizes dedicated to adventure bikes enlarge the range of supersports tyres SPORTEC M9 RR and sport touring tyres ROADTEC 01 SE
The two-wheel focused brand strengthens the METZELER range dedicated to the on/off segment with the introduction of brand new products, to offer adventure enthusiasts a bespoke tyre for any need. The new TOURANCE Next 2, fourth generation of the TOURANCE family, and KAROO 4 tyres represent the main news by METZELER for the on/off segment, both specifically developed for the latest generation of adventure and maxi enduro bikes.
Who is TOURANCE Next 2 designed for? TOURANCE Next 2 guarantees a new level of performance in the adventure segment and it was developed for riders riding their motorcycles both for long journeys and out-of-town excursions, alone or with a passenger, who are looking for top performance combined with riding comfort and durability.
Features and benefits of TOURANCE Next 2
The main benefits of TOURANCE Next 2 are:
Accurate control at any lean angle, leading to an agile and neutral behaviour of the motorcycle thanks to the radial structure with zero degrees steel belt and INTERACT technology;
Top response in wet and braking conditions. The innovative formulation of the compounds with liquid polymers and their arrangement, which uses METZELER HYPERBASE technology, make TOURANCE Next 2 the new reference tyre in terms of braking and wet performance, guaranteeing braking distances 1.5m shorter than its predecessor TOURANCE Next[1];
Immediate and lasting performance. The evolution of the legendary TOURANCE Next has been enhanced by new compounds and the METZELER DYMATEC technology applied to the tread pattern. This involves a particular design methodology to preserve the functional geometries of the grooves and consequently the tyre performance over time;
Comfort and safety even when fully loaded. The combination of tread pattern, structures and adaptive compounds make the motorcycle extremely comfortable and manageable, regardless of the presence of a passenger or luggage.
THE TYRE IN DETAIL
Tread pattern
TOURANCE Next 2 features tread pattern traits of the pi – π – which in addition to being distinctive of the METZELER brand, also has a specific functional reason.
The longitudinal grooves in the central part of the tread, which make up the upper part of the pi, are interrupted by other grooves in order to ensure greater stability of the compound and consequently a uniform wear. Likewise, these grooves improve lateral thrust for high-end off-road performance.
The patented DYMATEC technology has been applied to the tread pattern, which involves a design methodology specifically designed to preserve the functional geometries of the compound blocks and consequently tyre performance over time. Thanks to DYMATEC, Dynamic Mould Angle Technology, the position of the groove along the tread width, and consequently the different lean angle in which it is involved, determines the specific angle of its the walls, in order to better manage the dynamic stresses typical of on/off riding and ensure maximum wear uniformity.
Another important feature of the front tyre is the irregular repetition of the tread pattern(Multi-Pitch Knob Layout), a technology that places blocks of compound of different sizes in contact with the asphalt, to ensure smooth rolling and a high acoustic comfort level.
Tread Compound
On the front, METZELER introduces an innovative high-silica compound (85%) containing functionalized polymers (SBR) which enhance its wet grip characteristics and stability, allowing a reduction of the braking distance by more than 10%[2] and full stability under different load conditions.
As for the TOURANCE Next 2 rear sizes, the central strip replicates the same compound as the front, while the shoulder areas are full-silica and formulated for wet performance and grip while leaning. Some sizes feature the arrangement of the tread compounds according to the Cap&Base scheme, while others use the patented Hyperbase formula.
According to the Cap&Base scheme, the shoulder areas in soft compound, which ensure grip when cornering, are layered on a harder compound base that ensures consistency in performance and thermal balance.
With the Hyperbase scheme, both shoulder areas and the central compound strip are supported by a base formulated with a specific full-carbon-black compound, oriented towards dynamic and thermal stability.
TOURANCE Next 2 range
The new TOURANCE Next 2 will progressively be available in the following sizes starting from January 2022:
Front
19” 100/90 – 19 M/C 57V TL
19” 110/80 R 19 M/C 59V TL
19” 120/70 R 19 M/C 60V TL
19” 120/70 ZR 19 M/C 60W TL
21” 90/90 – 21 M/C 54V TL
Rear
17” 130/80 R 17 M/C 65V TL
17” 140/80 R 17 M/C 69V TL
17” 150/70 R 17 M/C 69V TL
17” 170/60 R 17 M/C 72V TL
17” 170/60 ZR 17 M/C 72W TL
18” 150/70 R 18 M/C 70V TL
KAROO 4
Successor of the award-winning KAROO 3, KAROO 4 represents the latest generation of the METZELER product family designed for on/off use, a tyre intended for the equipment of adventure and maxi enduro motorcycles that allows motorcyclists to go beyond the boundaries of adventouring.
Main features KAROO 4 features a revolutionary patented tread pattern, which raises the tyre’s all-round performance levels on both asphalt and on different types of off-road surfaces. As for the road sector, the engineers of the blue elephant brand have worked to improve in particular the overall handling and the behaviour in the wet,developing a tread pattern that allows you to safely face certain lean angles even on wet asphalt. In the off-road field, KAROO 4 increases the off-road performance level, especially on soft surfaces, such as sand, mud and clay.
The KAROO 4 range
KAROO 4 will progressively be available in the following sizes starting from March 2022:
Front
19” 100/90-19 TL 57Q M+S
19” 110/80 R 19 TL 59Q M+S
19” 120/70 R 19 TL 60Q M+S
21” 90/90-21 TL 54Q M+S
Rear
17” 130/80 R 17 TL 65Q M+S
17” 140/80 R 17 TL 69Q M+S
17” 150/70 R 17 TL 69Q M+S
17” 170/60 R 17 TL 72Q M+S
18” 140/80 – 18 TL 70Q M+S
18” 150/70 R 18 TL 70Q M+S
The complete METZELER offer for the on/off segment:
METZELER has always been a leading brand in technological innovation, performance research and meeting the most challenging quality standards. Since its inception, the brand has consistently developed products to meet the growing expectations of the most demanding riders, often anticipating main market trends and consumer needs.
From mountain passes with the SPORTEC M9 RR supersport tyre to sandy soils with KAROO Extreme, the two-wheel specialist brand is able to offer a range of seven different products to meet consumer needs with the most suitable solution.
The four new products that join the existing range are SPORTEC M9 RR, ROADTEC 01 SE, TOURANCE Next 2 and KAROO 4.
SPORTEC M9 RR and ROADTEC 01 SE bring respectively supersports and sport touring performances to the adventure motorcycle segment, while TOURANCE Next 2 and KAROO 4 redefine the performance level of the on/off segment, with particular attention to the latest generation motorcycles and interaction with electronic ride aides.
[1] Internal wet braking test on BMW R 1250 GS MY 2020, at a speed of 85km/h, ambient temperature 25°C
[2] Internal wet braking test on BMW R 1250 GS MY 2020, at a speed of 85km/h, ambient temperature 25°C
For more Metzeler Tyre news check out our dedicated page Metzeler Tyres
The blue elephant brand strengthens its commitment to Extreme Enduro competitions; it will be present at one of the most demanding international event of the discipline as a sponsor and with tyre service on location open to all participants, now able to pre-order tyres online.
METZELER announces a three-year agreement with the organizer of the RED BULL Romaniacs, considered by enthusiasts to be one of the most demanding extreme enduro race in the world, which sees the blue elephant brand to participate to the next three editions of the famous event as Official Sponsor and Tyre Supplier.
Jonny Walker in action at 2019 RED BULL Romaniacs
This sponsorship underlines the strong commitment and enthusiasm with which METZELER continues to invest in the world of extreme racing both as a showcase of international visibility for the brand and also as a development platform for its tyre portfolio. Through the agreement, the two-wheel specialist brand will be present on site during the five days of competition withproducts from the MCE 6 Days Extreme range and with tyre service available to all participants.
METZELER will also equip all the bikes ridden by the race marshals and RED BULL Romaniacs staff who need to move swiftly around the event in order to guarantee its success.
Now in its seventeenth edition, titled Vertical Madness, RED BULL Romaniacs takes place from 27th to 31st October in the town of Sibiu and its surroundings, in Romania, and represents one of the few extreme enduro events that will take place in this difficult 2020 season. Unquestionably the most challenging and difficult extreme enduro rally of all, the five days of off-road competition are in some of the most beautiful enduro trails in the world. A total of 600 kilometres of wild nature and insurmountable obstacles that will invite all participants to fight against themselves, against the fatigue and pain they will endure, in order to obtain the coveted victory.
Jonny Walker in action at 2019 RED BULL Romaniacs
In these extreme competitions, the rider therefore needs to rely blindly on the performance of his bike and its components, including tyres, which must perform in an excellent way and in any condition, even the most unexpected ones. METZELER technological leadership and superiority, combined with the experience gained in competitions such as the World Enduro Super Series and the International Six Days of Enduro, were the ideal background to give life to the MCE 6 Days Extreme, the most performing and versatile of the FIM enduro tyres. It has now become the preferred choice of champions, being a product capable of providing an ideal balance of fundamental performance in the enduro competitions.
To face the challenges of the RED BULL Romaniacs, participants can count on site on the performance of METZELER MCE 6 Days Extreme. For the front, it is available in the sizes 90/90-21 54M and 90/100-21 57M, while for the rear riders can choose between the soft version, ideal for its durability and versatility on different types of terrain, and the super soft version, that ensures maximum grip even in the most technical passages, in the size 140/80-18 70M.
METZELER ROADTEC™ SCOOTER is available in a wide range of sizes, satisfying the needs of any scooter rider. Its main features include grip and versatility in every season, comfort and safety on low friction surfaces
ROADTEC™ Scooter is the new tyre developed by METZELER and intended for all types of scooters, with wheels ranging from 10 to 16 inches. ROADTEC™ Scooter boasts extreme adaptability and versatility, capable of dealing with the most diverse weather conditions and types of asphalt in urban and suburban areas.
The ROADTEC™ Scooter development project naturally takes inspiration from the award-winning ROADTEC™ 01 sport touring tyre, whose strengths, such as exceptional wet performance and high mileage, have been optimised for use on scooters.
The product range includes forty-eight sizes, which will progressively replace the current METZELER portfolio consisting of FEELFREE™, FEELFREE™ WINTEC and ME 7 TEEN™, offering instead a single product with better performance and significantly simplifying the choice for consumers. In particular, ROADTEC™ Scooter, compared to the products it will replace, guarantees a greater level of grip on both wet and low friction surfaces, the ability to operate in a wider range of temperature and superior handling.
The tread pattern of this new tyre directly derives from that of METZELER ROADTEC™ 01. The evolution of the award-winning product dedicated to the world of scooters has allowed the use of a system partially based on sipes, derived from the experience gained with FEELFREE™ WINTEC. In addition to the grip on low friction surfaces, guaranteed by the recognisable tread pattern of ROADTEC 01™, the sipes contribute to the conformability of the footprint, with the main benefits being in terms of warm-up and comfort.
Compared to its predecessors, ROADTEC™ Scooter is characterised by more rounded profiles and by a lighter and more flexible structure, increasing its footprint area and improving handling. Finally, the compounds of ROADTEC™ Scooter have a high percentage of silica for improved wet performance, and a wider range of operating temperatures.
Features and benefits ofROADTEC™ Scooter
The main benefits are:
Grip on different types of asphalt. Thanks to the high silica content in the compound that works in conjunction with the innovative tread design made up of grooves and sipes, ensuring high levels of mechanical and chemical grip in all conditions.
Versatility of use in any season. ROADTEC™ Scooter is the ideal solution for urban and extra-urban mobility, regardless of weather conditions or temperatures. The high silica content of the tread compound allows extreme versatility and flexibility of use in a wider range of temperatures and asphalt conditions.
Handling and superior comfort, thanks to the innovative rounded profiles, and a lighter and more flexible carcass, ROADTEC™ Scooter guarantees a high conformability of the footprint and comfort even on uneven surfaces for high riding pleasure.
Safety on wet surfaces and low friction surfaces. The recognisable tread pattern of the award-winning ROADTEC™ 01 is combined with the innovative use of sipes, which contributes to optimising its benefits for the scooter sector. The ROADTEC™ Scooter tread design allows efficient water evacuation in wet conditions and guarantees a high level of grip, even on low friction surfaces such as worn and imperfect urban surfaces and cobblestones.
THE TYRE IN DETAILS
The tread pattern
The tread pattern of ROADTEC™ Scooter naturally takes inspiration from the award-winning ROADTEC™ 01 tyre, bringing METZELER’s profound knowledge within the sport touring segment to the world of scooters.
The front measures ROADTEC™ Scooter have a high number of transversal grooves that mechanically adhere to the asphalt and, compared to the predecessor FEELFREE™, significantly increasing the ability to evacuate water in wet conditions. The addition of sipes to the tread pattern, derived from the experience gained with FEELFREE™ WINTEC, helps the compound to warm up, guaranteeing braking stability and an excellent level of grip from the very first corner. Finally, the repetition of the grooves is optimised to maximise acoustic comfort and interact better with ABS systems.
The ROADTEC™ Scooter rear tyre combines grooves of different sizes and depths: the long and deep directional grooves inherited from ROADTEC™ 01 are crossed here by sipes that run in the opposite direction. The former ensures an excellent level of water dispersion and better control in critical driving conditions such as panic braking or acceleration when cornering. At the same time, the specific orientation of these grooves contributes to ensuring high mileage by allowing consistent wear. The sipes instead follow an opposite orientation and have the function of maximising the evacuation of water and the level of mechanical grip.
The compound
ROADTEC™ Scooter features a compound with a high silica content that, together with the tread design, makes it able to guarantee a high level of chemical and mechanical grip. Special adhesive resins increase the capacity to adhere with the asphalt and the perceived safety level.
In addition, the patented mixing process maximises the consistency of the components dispersed in the polymer matrix, allowing the tyre to consistently offer high levels of performance.
The structure
The structure of ROADTEC™ Scooter has a more flexible carcass than that of FEELFREE™ and has been designed to allow a more conformable footprint. As a result, the level of mechanical grip increases significantly and the absorption of road irregularities such as bumps, potholes or rough asphalts drastically improves, boosting rider comfort.
The profile
The profiles of ROADTEC™ Scooter are more rounded than those of FEELFREE ™ with the consequent advantage of having a shorter and wider contact patch than that of the predecessor. The footprint of ROADTEC™ Scooter has been specifically designed to contain the compound overheating within the operating range, thus reducing the wear process, as well as to include a greater number of grooves for greater safety in the wet.
The size range
The initial ROADTEC™ Scooter range includes forty-eight sizes which will gradually replace the current METZELER FEELFREE™, FEELFREE™ WINTEC and ME 7 TEEN™ products on the market. This choice entails a significant simplification both of the range management by the retailer and of the understanding and choice of the product by the end consumer.
RACETEC™ TD SLICK is dedicated to track day fans and club racers. It combines the advantages of a slick tyre that does not require tyre warmers or elaborate bike settings with constant top performance and versatility to different riding styles.
RACETEC™ TD SLICK becomes part of the METZELER slick racing tyre range and is dedicated to motorcyclists and club racers for both competitive and training activities.
RACETEC™ TD Slick is a track tyre that is easy and immediate to use, which can be used without tyre warmers and does not require any particular set-up of the motorcycle in order to perform at its best. RACETEC™ TD Slick main features includes high performance, the consistency of performance over multiple sessions, the versatility on different asphalt types and operating temperatures, high abrasion resistance and the possibility of reversing the rear tyre between sessions (if the circuit wears a tyre more on one side).
RACETEC ™ TD Slick has been designed for motorcyclists who want the advantage of a slick product but without the need for additional racing equipment (stands / electric blankets / power generators, etc.) or the refined set-up of motorcycle and suspension that a slick racing tyre usually requires.
RACETEC™ TD Slick is therefore intended for all motorcyclists who look for slick performance, for expert riders who need a plug & play product for long practice sessions, for club racers who require an excellent value for money tyre that allows them to focus on improving lap times throughout the race weekend.
RACETEC™ TD Slick is part of the METZELER slick racing portfolio with a range that includes one front and four rear sizes which are most commonly found as original equipment on supersport bikes, to further testify the plug & play characteristics of the product.
The METZELER slick product family includes also the renowned RACETEC™ RR Slick, the tyre for top competition available in different compounds according to the type of use. The K0 and K1 compounds are dedicated to the professional use in the Superbike class of road racing activities, such as the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy, and to the same classes of the various national championships. The K2 compound is the most versatile within the RACETEC™ RR Slick range and is developed for those competitions at professional and amateur level where it is necessary to combine constant peak performance over several sessions, resulting in the best solution on particularly demanding circuits and in endurance sessions.
Features and benefits of RACETEC™ TD SLICK
The main benefits are:
A quick warm up, which allows motorcyclists to free themselves from the use of tyre warmers thanks to the polymers characterized by a lower glass transition temperature. RACETEC™ TD SLICK is suitable for use from low operating temperatures, with a consequent resistance to cold tearing
Reusable over multiple sessions. The evolution of resins resistant to high temperatures and their patented mixing process give RACETEC™ TD SLICK a uniform behaviour both on a thermal and mechanical level. This provides a high resistance to thermal decay, thus keeping the chemical-physical properties of the tyre constant lap after lap, session after session
Plug & play solution, thanks to the choice of street-legal sizes that use sharp profiles but retain the geometries of tyres approved for road use, thus not requiring complicated set-up solutions for track use. RACETEC™ TD SLICK is the result of a development aimed at combining ease of driving, plug & play performance and the METZELER road racing imprint to allow all motorcyclists to enjoy a weekend on the track;
Reversible rear tyre, thanks to the symmetrical structure that evenly distributes the dynamic stresses and allows itself to be fully exploited, even on circuits with a prevalence of turns in one direction.
THE TYRE IN DETAILS
The compound
RACETEC™ TD SLICK features a racing compound that includes polymers with a low glass transition temperature, carbon black and high melting temperature resins. This combination has numerous advantages: first of all the ability of the tyre to get up to temperature very quickly, and even without the use of tyre warmers.
Strengthened by the experience accumulated in road racing such as the Tourist Trophy on the Isle of Man, used as a testing ground to test the versatility of its products, METZELER engineers have designed a compound capable of operating in a wide range of temperatures and asphalt conditions, in order to offer consistency in performance and resistance to cold tearing.
The exclusive patented CCM process – Compound Continuous Mixing process – maximizes the homogeneity of the components in the polymetric matrix and allows the tire to consistently offer high performances, from the first to the last lap, even if divided between several thermal cycles.
The structure
The carcass of the RACETEC™ TD SLICK rear tyre is characterised by a classic radial single-ply rayon structure, similar to that used in supersport road tyres, and represents a plug & play solution that allows riders to make the bike track ready while maintaining the standard set-up.
The zero-degree steel belts used both on the front and on the rear tyres are a patented technological solution that allows a high degree of structural flexibility and consequently a better feeling with the tyre. All this allows the motorcyclist to be more precise in the trajectory, adjusting it when already in mid-lean or delaying the braking point when entering the corner.
The profile
The rear RACETEC™ TD SLICK features a sharp profile that improves the handling of the motorcycle and at the same time increases the contact area when cornering, resulting in a considerable increase of grip. The profile of the front tyre reflects that of the rear for a balanced and harmonious behaviour of the tyre set.
The range
The RACETEC™ TD SLICK range includes the following sizes, all already available:
METZELER has always been a leading brand in technological innovation, performance research and meeting the most challenging quality standards. Since its inception, the brand has consistently developed products to meet the growing expectations of the most demanding riders.
SPORTEC™ M9 RR is the latest supersports tyre of the manufacturer and is undoubtedly among the most anticipated products of all those motorcyclists who in recent years have appreciated the characteristics of its renowned predecessor SPORTEC™ M7 RR. It is designed for owners of supersports and naked bikes with a sporty riding style, that use their bikes every day and in all weather conditions: from the urban jungle to the fast runs of the weekend excursions.
The name SPORTEC™ M9 RR consolidates the technological tradition of METZELER: SPORTEC™ identifies the supersports road tyres of the METZELER portfolio while the RR suffix – acronym for Road Racing – refers to the iconic competitions such as the Tourist Trophy Isle of Man, won in its 2019 edition on METZELER RACETEC™ RR Slick tyres. METZELER has historically used road racing as a testing ground to validate the peak performance and versatility of its products thanks to the wide range of operating conditions that can be faced during these events.
When it comes to road racing, maximum tyre performance is required across an extremely wide range of asphalt and temperature conditions. Similarly, SPORTEC™ M9 RR is designed to deliver performance also in challenging conditions on road: a wide range of asphalts and temperatures, dry or wet conditions. Hence comes the claim chosen to accompany the introduction of the tyre SPORTEC™ M9 RR: RIDE THE UNEXPECTED.
SPORTEC M9 RR & BMW S 1000 RR
Features and benefits of SPORTEC™ M9 RR
The main benefits are:
a high level of grip thanks to the use of two-compound scheme using both Full Silica at the front and rear tyre. The compounds work in combination with the central tread pattern to ensure traction and directionality in the straight. Slick shoulders provide high levels of grip and lateral thrust at maximum lean angle on a wide spectrum of asphalts;
an excellent handling achieved thanks to an innovative structure that can improve the response of the tyre, depending on the use: comfort and riding pleasure at low speed, reactivity and precision at a higher speed;
a high level of wet grip made possible by the characteristics of the Full Silica compounds and their construction scheme, which also ensure a quick warm-up even on wet and cold roads.
THE TYRE IN DETAILS
The tread compound
Both the front and rear tyre of SPORTEC™ M9 RR are equipped with Full Silica shoulder compounds derived from racing-rain technology, refined to stabilise their behaviour at high temperatures, and newly formulated Full Silica central compounds.
SPORTEC M9 RR & TRIUMPH Speed Triple RS
The rear tyre compounds are arranged using a Cap & Base scheme that consists in overlaying the two lateral bands in soft compound, which ensure grip when cornering, to a layer of harder compound that ensures constant performance and thermal balance. The latter compound also forms the central band of the tyre for about 50mm, equal to 25% of the entire section, to improve mileage performance. The silica content in the central band of the rear has increased by 24% compared to SPORTEC M7™ RR.
The front tyre uses the same compounds as the rear to guarantee a homogeneous response and a perfect pairing between the two tyres. The central compound makes up about 33% of the tread section.
Full Silica compounds are used to improve the warm-up time, the level of mechanical grip on a wide range of asphalts and the chemical grip in wet conditions, benefiting the use on roads with irregular asphalt and in any weather condition.
In addition to METZELER’s experience in materials technology, the key to this technological breakthrough also lies in the CCM, an acronym for Compound Continuous Mixing, an exclusive patented mixing processcapable of maximising the dispersion and homogeneity of the components in the polymer matrix. The resins used in combination with silica give the final formulation a stable behaviour in a wide range of temperatures, from the lower ones of the first seasonal outings to the extreme ones reached during a summer session on track.
SPORTEC M9 RR & BMW S 1000 RR
The tread pattern
The tread design recognizes the features of the Pi – π – that, besides being distinctive of the SPORTEC™ product family, also have a functional purpose.
The grooves of the Greek Pi allow a certain degree of mobility to the portion of the tread they delimit, resulting in an improvement of the warm-up time even at low temperatures. They also serve to maximise the volume of water evacuated when riding in the wet.
SPORTEC™ M9 RR inherits the RACETEC™ RR central claw grooves from the technology developed for Road Races, in which it has gained recent victories at the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy and North West 200. These details in the central band contribute to directional stability on the straight and participate in the evacuation of water in adverse weather conditions.
The tread pattern is designed for excellent water evacuation up to a 30-degree lean angle, while beyond this point the shoulder reaches void/fill ratios close to those of a Race Replica tyre. The shoulders of SPORTEC™ M9 RR are more slick than those of its predecessor, in order to improve support and lateral thrust at maximum lean anglewhere the function of water evacuation is no longer necessary.
SPORTEC M9 RR & BMW S 1000 RR
The Structure
METZELER engineers have designed for SPORTEC™ M9 RR a rayon structure that is 6% stiffer than the one of its predecessor, it is characterised by a lower density and the use of a greater quantity of rubber compound. The damping capacities of the latter improve the riding feeling, while when riding at a higher pace the benefits of this structure are high thrust values and greater responsiveness and driving precision.
The tyre range
SPORTEC™ M9 RR tyre range includes the following sizes:
The strong collaboration between the German tyre brand and the legendary U.S. motorcycle manufacturer includes extensive joint development support for this muscular and refined ‘bagger’
The collaboration between METZELER and Indian® Motorcycle has been strengthened with the German tyre brand chosen as a development partner and supplier for the latest and most powerful bagger of the U.S. motorcycle manufacturer. The METZELER CRUISETEC™ tyres were selected, after a long process of joint development between the Research & Development and Testing departments of the two brands, resulting in exclusive original equipment designation for the new 2020 Indian Challenger.
Indian Challenger & Metzeler Cruisetec CRUISETEC™ tyres, installed with the 130 / 60B19 66H front and 180 / 60R16 80H rear sizes, are equipping all versions of the new Indian Challenger, including the Dark Horse and Limited models.
METZELER has been involved with Indian® Motorcycle since the start of the project, actively participating in the development of the motorcycle by offering its contribution to refining and improving the riding experience.
All this has been possible thanks to the collaborative work between the technicians of METZELER and those of Indian® Motorcycle, who have succeeded in establishing a perfect harmony between the CRUISETEC™ tyres and the new Challenger, ultimately creating an inseparable combination. The new Challenger was developed to fit and perform at its best with CRUISETEC™ tyres.
Indian Challenger & Metzeler Cruisetec
The Indian Challenger dramatically redefines American baggers and represents the highest expression of Indian® Motorcycle technology with its die-cast aluminum frame, radially-mounted Brembo 4-piston caliper brakes, a chassis equipped with inverted front suspension, and mono shock suspension with hydraulic preload. A refined electronics package offers three riding modes and assistance systems with a 6-axis inertial platform and the most powerful engine ever produced by the U.S. company. The all-new liquid-cooled, 60-degree V-twin PowerPlus engine is 108 cubic-inches (or 1769cc) and produces122 horsepower and 128 ft-lbs. of torque.
Taming such power can be challenging, but the Indian Challenger found an excellent ally in METZELER CRUISETEC™ tyres. CRUISETEC™ was developed to take advantage of the full performance potential of power cruisers, custom, and tourers thanks to the high level of grip, even in wet conditions. As a result, CRUISETEC™ tires give the bike revolutionary handling in its segment, constant performance for the entire tyre life, and structural characteristics that provide a comfortable, stable ride. Like the Indian Challenger in its segment, CRUISETEC™also presents revolutionary solutions in the tire sector in terms of tread design, compounds, profiles, and carcass.
Metzeler Cruisetec Salvatore Pennisi, METZELER Testing Department Director who followed this fascinating and challenging project from the beginning said: “The design of the new 2020 Indian Challenger, flagship model of the U.S. company, has been followed since its inception by the METZELER Testing Department which for almost two years worked closely with the Research and Development Center of Indian® Motorcycle in an exciting series of technical advances. This bike, equipped with the new CRUISETEC™ tyres – the latest product from our brand in the custom cruiser segment, is going to place itself at the top of the category, setting new performance standards. The innovations that make the Challenger a true generational turning point in its segment are in some ways thanks to METZELER, with its design and technological innovation of motorcycles and tyres that unite the offering with a riding pleasure unimaginable up to now for this type of motorcycle. The partnership between our companies has never been so strong, and I am sure it will continue also in the future”.
SPORTEC™ M9 RR, ROADTEC™ 01 SE,RACETEC™ TD Slick and ROADTEC™ Scooter are the new products to join the brand’s range in their relative segments
METZELER, always at the forefront of research and technological innovation, announces that, in 2020, it will broaden its range withfour new tyre models. SPORTEC™ M9 RR, ROADTEC™ 01 SE,RACETEC™ TD Slick and ROADTEC™ Scooter are the new products strengthening the brand’s range in their relative segments.
SPORTEC™ M9 RR is the successor of the multi-award-winning SPORTEC™ M7 RR, still considered a benchmark in the Supersport segment. ROADTEC™ 01 SE represents the evolution of ROADTEC™ 01, available in radial sizes for owners of naked, supersport and sport-touring bikes who are looking for improved handling and sportier performance. RACETEC™ TD Slick is the new slick tyre for track-day lovers and club racers. Finally, ROADTEC™ Scooter, the chosen heir of the FEELFREE™ family, is designed for urban mobility, commuting and the sport-touring use typical of the ROADTEC™product family.
SPORTEC™ M9 RR – Ride the unexpected SPORTEC™ M9 RR is without doubt the most keenly awaited release for all supersport riders who have had the chance to appreciate the already excellent experience offered by the SPORTEC™ M7 RR,with SPORTEC™ M9 RR bringing further performance improvements across the board. SPORTEC™ M9 RR, as you may guess from the name, has a strong connection to its predecessor and its roots. The name SPORTEC™ identifies the range of sports road tyres designed for day-to-day use and to guarantee a great riding experience, safety and versatility. RR stands for Road Racing and immediately brings to mind the iconic Isle of Man TT competition, won this year by champion Dean Harrison on METZELER tyres. Road racing competitions bring to mind not only performance but also the typical characteristics associated with use of road bikes, i.e. unpredictable weather and road-surface conditions. This is the concept behind the claim for the new product, “Ride the unexpected”.
SPORTEC™ M9 RR perfectly combines the typical versatility of day-to-day use with the brand’s competitive experience in road racing, building on the important legacy of the SPORTEC™ M7 RR, a tyre that boasts an impressive list of awards and recognitions. This is completed with the most recent technological advances from the German brand’s research and development activity.
One of the most pervasive innovations in motorcycle technology from introduction of the SPORTEC™ M7 RR has been the development of electronic rider-assist technology, supported by sophisticated sensors that offer riders greater security, regardless of the type of motorcycle. In this context, tyres play a fundamental role in allowing the electronics to interpret the true behaviour of the vehicle and calibrate it to offer the best riding experience and optimum performance. The biggest challenge for the METZELER Research and Development Centre was to adapt the dynamic performance of the SPORTEC™ M9 RRto a wide range of motorcycles, allowing electronic rider assistance systems to function properly.
SPORTEC™ M9 RR has been designed for motorcyclists, primarily owners of supersport and naked bikes, with a sporty driving style and who use their bikes almost every day and in all conditions, from the urban jungle to the winding weekend roads, and are looking for improved performance: riders who want a great driving experience and sporty performance even in wet conditions, primarily on the road but with the option to take their bike on the track as well. These riders need a sports tyre that provides precise and reliable feedback while they enjoy their bike’s performance.
The full SPORTEC™ M9 RRrange includes 3 front tyres sizes and 9 rear.
ROADTEC™ 01 SE – The sporty side of touring
Following the success of the multi-award-winning ROADTEC™ 01 since 2015 in the sport-touring tyre segment, METZELER has decided to introduce the new ROADTEC™ 01 SE.
The ROADTEC™ 01 SEradial range completes METZELER’s catalogue, consolidating the strengths of the ROADTEC™ 01—its exceptional performance in wet conditions and high mileage—enhancing sports characteristics in terms of the grip and agility needed by supersport, naked and sport-touring riders.
To meet sports requirements that imply high performance at sharp leaning angles, the tread design for the ROADTEC™ 01 SEbuilds on that of the ROADTEC™ 01, with evolution towards a tyre with a slicker shoulder, optimising drive with a greater surface area in contact with the asphalt.
The front models of the ROADTEC™ 01 SE inherit the latest version of the full-silica compound used for the ROADTEC™ 01 and feature the same tread pattern in the middle section, a key aspect of its exceptional grip on low-friction surfaces. The shoulders are slicker, and the relative structural refinement optimises performance through half and full lean, improving agility and steering stability.
The rear models of the ROADTEC™ 01 SE use a bi-compoundand, as for the front, feature a sportier evolution of the ROADTEC™ 01 tread pattern, aimed at offering greater drive at sharper leaning angles together with comfort and driving pleasure capable of satisfying even the most demanding riders, on long routes and winding roads. ROADTEC™ 01 and ROADTEC™ 01 SE: two products perfect for any adventurer with a sports attitude.
RACETEC™ TD Slick RACETEC™ TD Slick joins the range of METZELER™ racing slick tyres, dedicated to riders and club racers for competition and training use. RACETEC™ TD Slick is a slick tyre for the track that is quick and easy to use. It can also be used without tyre warmers and does not require any special bike set-up to offer optimal performance. The key features of the RACETEC™ TD Slick include optimal performance, uniformity of yield even after several sessions, versatility for different track surfaces and operating temperatures, high resistance to abrasion and the option to reverse the direction of rotation of the rear tyres between sessions if the circuit configuration generates more wear on one side. RACETEC™ TD Slickhas been designed for riders that want the advantages of a slick product but without the need for additional racing equipment (stands, tyre warmers, generators, etc.) or a highly tuned bike set-up and suspension, as are normally needed with slick racing tyres.
RACETEC™ TD Slick is therefore aimed at all riders who do not want to go without slick tyres on the track, at expert riders who want a plug-and-play product for long free sessions, and at club riders who need a tyre with endurance mileage and an excellent quality/price ratio that allows them to focus on improving lap times for the whole race weekend.
The new tyre will be available in four sizes at 17 inches: 120/70 front and 180/55, 190/55 and 200/55 rear.
ROADTEC™ Scooter ROADTEC™ Scooter is the new tyre developed by METZELER for all types of scooters with wheels from 10 to 16 inches. ROADTEC™ Scooter boasts extreme flexibility and versatility, meets the broadest range of weather, temperature and road-surface conditions, in urban areas and beyond.
The development of the ROADTEC™ Scooter naturally took inspiration from the ROADTEC™ 01, with optimisation of features for scooter use. The full range includes 51 sizes, and ROADTEC™ Scooter will gradually replace the current METZELER catalogue, including FEELFREE™, FEELFREE™ WINTEC and ME 7 TEEN™, with a single product offering optimum performance.
More specifically, ROADTEC™ Scooter, compared to the products it will replace,guarantees greater grip on wet and low-friction surfaces, use under a greater range of temperatures and improved handling.
The tread design of this new tyre is directly based on the ROADTEC™ 01, specifically developed to allow use of a system partially based on siping. The primary benefits of this regard warm-up and comfort, as the siping contributes to the deformability of the tread, and first-class grip on low-friction surfaces, guaranteed by the recognisable ROADTEC 01 groove pattern.
Compared to its predecessors, ROADTEC™ Scooter features a rounder profile to increase the tread contact area, and a more rigid structure to support the profile and improve handling.
Finally, the ROADTEC™ Scooter compounds feature a high percentage of silica for greater control in wet conditions and use at a greater range of temperatures. All ROADTEC™ Scooterrear radial tyres use a bi-compound.
CRUISETEC™, the new tyre for power cruisers, customs and tourers that METZELER unveiled at the end of 2018 at the German CUSTOMBIKE-SHOW, is the highlight of the exhibition area set up by the German tyre brand in booth 14i / Hall 4 at MOTOR BIKE EXPO, the motorcycle fair which opened its doors yesterday in Verona and will continue until 20 January 2019.
With the new CRUISETEC™, METZELER intends to offer motorcyclists of this sector a more performance-oriented tyre than the segment’s offer to date. CRUISETEC™ has been developed to take advantage of the full performance potential of both the latest models and the most dated bikes. Key is the high level of grip even in wet conditions, the ability to give the bike revolutionary handling in the segment, performance consistency for the tyre’s lifespan and structural characteristics giving riding pleasure, thanks to its stability and precision. CRUISETEC™ presents revolutionary solutions in the field of power cruiser, custom and tourer motorbike tyres in terms of tread design, compounds, profiles and structure.
In short, a tyre able to get the best out of yesterday’s and today’s motorcycles, giving the tagline “Performance Perfected” which accompanies the product.
Benefits for the rider
• Performance-cruising pleasure
Performance-oriented profiles with higher curvature than tyres in the same segment offer a new level of handling and line taking and holding.
The new tread pattern, innovative compound recipes and the bi-compound rear guarantee immediate response and higher grip, giving confidence, even in wet conditions.
The bi-compound rear layout – which adapts technologies from the sport-touring world to the requirements of higher torque, weight and segment durability – ensures grip without sacrificing the durability of standard tyres.
• Performance consistency
The combination of a solid tread pattern with constant-curvature contours and dual-compound layout ensures performance consistency thanks to even wear and tyre contour conservation.
• Smooth and effortless riding
The conformability of the profiles, thanks to the reduced thickness of the carcass, improves the precision and line holding, to give a neutral, effortless steering and comfortable feel, whilst riding leisurely, plus precision when pushing harder.
• Enhanced confidence and safety
Thanks to compounds with high Silica percentage coupled with conformable carcass, CRUISETEC™ delivers the best wet behaviour in this segment, and is capable of effectively working with all generations of electronic rider aids.
The German brand expands its tyre portfolio for V-Twins with a new tyre providing consistent performance, upgrading the handling of older and current machines and offering stability and excellent grip, even in wet conditions.
Bad Salzuflen (Germany), 30 November 2018 – During the CUSTOMBIKE-SHOW fair that opened its doors today in Bad Salzuflen, Germany, METZELER has unveiled the new CRUISETEC™, the Custom Touring tyre designed to optimise the performance of modern and past V-Twins and intended for motorcyclists who want to get the most out of their motorcycles in terms of handling and grip.
With the new CRUISETEC™, METZELER extends its successful V-Twin range towards performance-oriented use. This tyre upgrades the handling of current and older motorcycles, featuring remarkable grip even in wet conditions, ground-breaking performance consistency and innovative stability features. CRUISETEC™ features ground-breaking specifications for tread pattern, compound recipe, and carcass specifications in the production of tyres for V-Twin motorcycles.
METZELERhas developed CRUISETEC™ to respond to the needs of motorcyclists who increasingly look for emotional, carefree riding and live their riding passion on V-Twin machines they can customise with performance in mind. CRUISETEC™ has been designed to couple with the latest generation of Cruisers and Tourers, machines that the relevant manufacturers in the segment are equipping with high-rated performance parts and the latest electronic rider aids. With the METZELER CRUISETEC™ tyre these motorcycles can express their full potential for agility, increased lean angles, improved stability, comfort, shorter stopping distance and faster cornering. Thanks to a ground-breaking combination of technological features – including industry leading innovations – experience d V-Twin riders and newer riders alike can enjoy a perfected riding performance, confidently confirming Metzeler’s product tagline “Performance Perfected”.
The main benefits of the new CRUISETEC™ for the rider are:
• Enjoy performance-cruising which meansgreat handling, line taking and line holding, Immediate response at all stages also in wet conditions and enhanced cornering grip and safety
• Performance consistency which means handling is preserved throughout the entire tyre lifespan thanks to the combination of a solid tread pattern with its constant-curvature contours and dual-compound layout which preserves the tyre profile thanks to wear evenness
• Smooth and effortless riding thanks to maximised line holding when entering and maintaining lean angles and comfort
• Enhanced confidence and safety, also in the wet,which derives from the effective interaction of the tyre with electronic rider aids
METZELER CRUISETEC™, is designed to respond to the need of V-Twin performance-riding, and complements the METZELER portfolio for V-Twins, which now consists of:
CRUISETEC™, perfecting the performance of yesterday’s and today’s V-Twins;
ME 888 Marathon™ ULTRA featuring an incredibly wide range which includes whitewalls, orange-wall and extra-wide sizes;
ME77 Perfect, a vintage tread pattern developed to upgrade the ride of old-school customisations.
The new CRUISETEC™ tyre will be available starting from January 2019 in the following sizes:
The award winning METZELER Sport Touring tyre range, with excellent grip in wet and dry, durability and stability is now further extended with additional X-ply sizes to meet greater market demands.
The METZELER brand extends its range of the well-known Sport Touring tyre, ROADTEC™ 01 , with existing radial fitments now complemented by brand new X-ply sizes. Available from March 2018 onwards, the new range extension will provide may more fitments for the highly successful and award-winning tyre.
Highly appreciated since its early 2016 introduction, with victories in the comparative tests of some of the most prestigious international motorcycle magazines, METZELER’s new ROADTEC™ 01 X-ply sizes will provide fitments for older motorcycles as well as the new, smaller capacity motorcycles making a strong return to the market.
Compared to the radial version, ROADTEC™ 01 X-ply features the use of different structures and compounds. In this way METZELER applied the best solution for each and every application to meet the highest target performance for both radial and X-ply.
ROADTEC™ 01 has been developed with absolute versatility in mind, enabling excellent wet performance, mileage and stability for pure road use. From short trips with a sports riding style to adventurers or urban commuters, the range now meets the demands of sport-tourers, tourers, nakeds, enduro-street and supersport motorcycles from 150 cc upwards.
While the ROADTEC™ 01 radial carcass has a 0° steel belt with INTERACT™ technology, the X-ply carcass features increased rigidity, especially in the sidewall area. Front and rear X-Ply compounds feature a different approach compared to radial tyres with their rotation generating more heat. A unique carbon-black based compound with approximately 30% silica capitalises on the heat generated by structural flex to reach its optimal operating temperature to deliver good grip in the dry. Special plastifying resins, enhancing compound mobility and adhesive properties, are combined with Silica to ensure that the ROADTEC™ 01 also delivers incomparable grip in the wet. The relatively stiffer structures of the X-ply, coupled with chemical components and tread adhesives, therefore provide a very high level of grip, both in dry and wet conditions.
In addition to the radial and new X-ply sizes and underlining METZELER’s focus on range extension, the HWM -“Heavy Weight Motorcycles”- version is also available. Designed for heavy motorcycles, such as big cruisers and tourers, the HWM version guarantees greater stability, improving the experience when riding over irregularities in the road surface or during sudden handlebar movements.
For more information on ROADTEC™ 01 and the new X-ply sizes that are available from March 2018 onwards, visit www.metzeler.com.
The METZELER brand unveils the new KAROO™ Street, enabling road tyre performance from an off-road style ‘knobbly’ tread pattern
A new METZELER enduro tyre extends the KAROO™ range towards a dedicated road use, combining excellent agility and grip, even in wet conditions, with reliable off-road traction
METZELER now extends its highly successful KAROO™ range towards pure road use with the new KAROO™ Street . Delivering excellent road performance, even in wet conditions, the new enduro tyre remains aggressively styled, with its knobbly tread pattern continuing to provide off-road capability.
Owners of adventure, ‘enduro street’ and dual purpose motorcycles are increasingly looking for sport touring performance when used on asphalt, but without sacrificing off-road capabilities. While responding to this market request, however, the METZELER KAROO™ Street maintains an off-road look, in character with these type of motorcycles, while delivering excellent road performance on both dry and wet asphalt.
The METZELER KAROO™ Street tyre has been developed for the latest generation of adventure, big enduro and dual purpose motorcycles, capable of taking dirt roads in their stride. With the KAROO™ Street tyre these motorcycles will now be further enhanced to tackle distant road journeys, where good mileage, stability and comfort are fundamental throughout the life-cycle of the tyre.
New METZELER KAROO Street
Designed for all levels of cross-country riding, the METZELER brand’s KAROO™product family now offers a range that spans from the desert all the way to street. The new KAROO™ Street will be available from March 2018 onwards.
KAROO™ Street, a unique combination of off-road look with on-road agility
KAROO™ 3, dedicated to off-road raids and adventure journeys
KAROO™ Extreme, a product developed to compete in the professional Rally races
Main features:
On-road agility: KAROO™ Street tyre provides excellent handling and grip in comparison to its knobbly tyre competition, due to the sport touring derived profiles that deliver a typical on-road dynamic behaviour.
Wet grip and wet handling: Enhanced safety with reliable grip in wet conditions, generated by the high silica compounds which promote chemical grip on wet asphalt.
Off-road traction: The KAROO™ Street’s layout of blocks and variable spacing between the knobs, provides excellent dirt road traction especially in long-distance clay and hard-packed trails.
High-speed stability: Large sized blocks and their coupling to a stiff carcass, provides perfect stability at high speeds on road, even when fully loaded with luggage and passenger.
High mileage: KAROO™ Streettyre offers high effective mileage, the result of introducing abrasion-resistant compounds.
METZELER VILLAGE, the campsite welcoming motorcyclists into the heart of the Isle of Man TT, opens 2018 registrations.
At the Douglas National Sports Centre, for the sixth consecutive year, the tyre brand sets up its multi-purpose facility that allows TT enthusiasts to stay in the heart of the action of this exclusive road racing event.
METZELER will be a competitor at the 2018 Isle of Man TT, scheduled from 26 May to 8 June, not only on track with its supported riders but also as a reference point for racing enthusiasts that every year flock to this small British island, to witness the exciting races of this spectacular and legendary event.
For the 99th edition of the Isle of Man TT, the METZELER VILLAGE will once again be set up at the Douglas National Sports Centre to offer the opportunity for guests to fully experience the Tourist Trophy. Situated next to the Quarterbridge corner which allows direct access to the ‘closed roads’ the strategic location of the Village allows easy access to the Paddock and Grandstand, plus the famous Douglas Promenade, which offers plenty of entertainment, illuminating every edition of the Isle of Man TT.
Registrations for the METZELER VILLAGEare already open and you can book your stay between May 31 and June 9, when the action really heats up in the main races. METZELER has kept prices unchanged for 2018, starting from £22 per night/person based on the type of accommodation chosen.
The METZELER VILLAGE offers high quality tented accommodation, which are available in two different configurations to each host 1-3 people, washing/shower facilities, 24h secure motorcycle parking, free Wi-Fi in the whole area, free phone charging service and a chill-out zone with satellite TV, sofas and hammocks to let fans relax.
For all motorcyclists who are riding with tyres produced by the brand signified by the Blue Elephant, the breakfast at the METZELERVILLAGE is free, while for other users it is available at a discounted price.
The METZELER team is also working to provide supplementary services that will make the experience of motorcyclists staying at METZELER VILLAGE even more unique.
Individual and group bookings can be made through the online booking system available at the link www.metzelervillage.com.
METZELER expands the RACETEC™ RR range with new 18-inch sizes in K1 compound designed for Classic Racing
Introduced with an impressive debut race victory at Bol d’Or Classic at the weekend, the new tyre is now available for Classic racing in 110/80 ZR 18 M/C TL (58W) front and 150/65ZR 18 M/C TL (69W) and 160/60 ZR 18 M/C TL (70W) rear.
METZELER RACETEC™ RR, the ultimate sporting expression of the German brand and a street legal tyre developed for, and successful in road racing, now expands its range with new 18-inch sizes in K1 compound designed for classic racing.
In the new sizes, METZELER RACETEC™ RR made its successful debut at the Bol d’Or Classic race fitted to the Kawasaki GPZ1100 ridden to victory by Marcel Kellenberger and Stefan Merkens of Bolliger Classic Endurance team.
In the new 18-inch sizes of 110/80 ZR 18 M/C TL (58W) front and 150/65 ZR 18 M/C TL (69W) and 160/60 ZR 18 M/C TL (70W) rear, the METZELER RACETEC™ RR is now available for professional riders, enthusiasts of classic road racing and track events. They are complemented by 17-inch sizes, which are already used in classic competitions, intended for riders of high performance motorcycles from the 1960s, 70s, 80s and early 90s.
The three new sizes are available in a specific K1 compound, the softest among those of the METZELER RACETEC™ RR, to ensure maximum performance on road and track, and further developed to ensure versatility and adaptability to the specifications of old machines.
In classic races, riders might compete on motorcycles that no longer perform like modern ones, but METZELER realize that these powerful, rigid, heavy and valuable motorcycles still require tyres with modern performance.
Classic races take place both on road circuits – such as the Isle of Man, where each year in August the Manx Grand Prix Senior Classic race is held with old superbikes from the 90s – and on race circuits, such as the prestigious Bol d’Or Classic.
In most countries, a motorcycle must be at least 25 years old to be considered vintage, while the category for classic motorcycles is usually intended for machines produced before 1972 and for post-classic, built between 1973 and 1985.
With the RACETEC™ RR now in the new 18-inch, in addition to the existing 17-inch sizes, METZELER approaches classic racing focusing on high performance post-classic motorcycles. This approach provides riders with first-class dry performance, and greater control over their valuable, ageing but still powerful motorcycles.
The benefits offered by all the sizes of the RACETEC™ RR are:
• Grip in all conditions, both on road and track, thanks to the versatility of the compounds and the structure of the tread pattern, which guarantees a consistent distribution of temperature from the central band to the shoulders even after long straights.
• Precision, directionality and stability at high speed, useful features both in the initial phase of a lean as well as on the straight due to the ability of the tyre to absorb the roughness of the asphalt.
• Performance consistency throughout the life of the tyre.
For classic superbikes, the RACETEC™ RR effectively tames the aggressiveness of these old machines by using the dampening features of the carcass and the tread band configuration.
The RACETEC™ RRrearis bi-compound, offering excellent grip in cornering together with great stability at high speeds. Unlike its predecessor, all the sizes and compounds of RACETEC™ RR have the speed index W in brackets,which enables these tyres to be used on public roads and not just on circuits.
RACETEC™ identifies the METZELER range of products dedicated to sport, while RR, defined as Road Racing, underlines the context in which this project was born. The RACETEC™ RR comes directly from the experience of METZELER in Road Racing competition in which the brand has been highly successful for many years.
RACETEC™ RR has been designed and tested in major events, such as the North West 200, Ulster Grand Prix, Southern 100 and especially the Isle of Man TT. These races take place on closed public roads and so very close to normal road riding situations. For this reason, METZELER chose these events as an effective test and development ground.
With substantial efforts in these activities, METZELER has been able to completely renew its sports range of tyres. SPORTEC™ M7 RR was developed and launched followed by the new Racing Supersport RACETEC™ RR thatnow expands its tyre range with the latest 18-inch sizes to further meet the needs of the classic racing
The new mid-capacity naked from the Austrian brand will be marketed with METZELER SPORTEC™ M7 RR supersport tyres (in 120/70 ZR 17 front and 160/60 ZR 17 rear sizes)
SPORTEC™ M7 RR, the supersport tyre from METZELER created to ensure the highest levels of handling and safety, even in the most difficult road situations, is chosen by KTM as the original equipment tyre for the new 690 Duke.
The new mid-capacity naked from the Austrian brand will be on sale with METZELER SPORTEC™ M7 RR tyres in 120/70 ZR 17 M/C (58W) TL (M) front and 160/60 ZR 17 M/C (69W ) TL rear sizes.
SPORTEC™ M7 RR comes from the road racing experience of the brand of German origins and its main strengths are its sporty handling, excellent behaviour in the wet and high mileage.
SPORTEC™ M7 RR is the latest evolution of the SPORTEC™ range, in line with the development of new motorcycles.
As for the naming of the new product, with SPORTEC™ METZELER identifies the range of products dedicated to sporty use on the road, M7 is the natural numerical progression of the predecessors products SPORTEC™ M1, SPORTEC™ M3 and SPORTEC™ M5 INTERACT™ . The RR, defined as Road Racing, distinguishes the context from which this project was born. SPORTEC™ M7 RR is the most sporty tyre of the METZELER product range. Developed for road use, it originates from ‘road racing’ competition where you can find all of the extreme situations that every biker might encounter daily, and it is for this reason they were chosen by METZELER as a testing and development ground.
The roads that bikers ride are not always perfect and their surface is not smooth and uniform as on a track; often there are hidden pitfalls, mixed surfaces, holes and unevenness in the road surface as well as wet, slippery and in some cases even dirty patches.
A tyre must be able to adapt to these difficult conditions and for this reason METZELER decided to develop SPORTEC™ M7 RR based on the data acquired over the years in road racing which reproduces, on an extreme level, all the situations that a rider may encounter everyday on the road. SPORTEC™ M7 RR was born this way, as a tyre for road use with a sporty soul able to offer an excellent behaviour in situations of wet and slippery tarmac, thanks to the rapid warm-up which even occurs in low temperatures, and to the versatility of use in a wide range of operating temperatures.
A tyre you can rely on in sudden and unexpected situations which can really make a difference in terms of enjoyment and safety while riding.
With the clear objective of maintaining sport performance even on wet and dirty roads, the tread pattern layout of the grooves was designed to ensure grip on dry tarmac and at the same time offer water drainage and excellent cornering stability.
The longitudinal grooves are interrupted by elements of the compound that improve the stability of the tread, the regularity of wear and increase grip during acceleration. These elements also contribute to keeping the grooves open when the tyre is in contact with the road to drain water.
In the lateral grooves, the depth decreases gradually toward the shoulder area to increase the compactness and lateral thrust when cornering at maximum lean angles in the dry; their width, on the contrary, increases toward the shoulder area to ensure an effective drainage of the water even in a tight bend.
ktm-3-mail.jpegA brand-new range of compounds with a high content of silica has been developed for the SPORTEC™ M7 RR which is able to offer sporty performance both at high temperatures as well as on wet roads with lower temperatures. The key to this technological breakthrough resides in the exclusive and patented mixing process that is able to provide compounds of the highest quality, maximizing the dispersion of all components in the polymer matrix in a consistent way.
The front tyre is a mono compound with 100% silica. The rear is dual compound: the shoulder has 100% silica which provides chemical grip on both dry and wet surfaces, supported by a harder compound in the substrate that guarantees the highest levels of stability and cornering precision. This same compound is also present in the middle of the tread and provides high mileage.
The profiles of SPORTEC™ M7 RR are characterized by the composition of different radii, designed to encourage an immediate descent into lean and an increase of the contact patch while cornering.
To support the work of the profiles, to allow the compound to have traction on the surface and to keep the grooves open in the footprint area, an appropriate structure has been developed. The radial carcass is composed of a special version in rayon; this structure is much more rigid and able to maintain its shape under conditions of greater stress and deformation from load.
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