Category Archives: Tyres

Ducati, Pirelli

The new Pirelli DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP makes its debut on the Ducati Panigale V4

The new Pirelli DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP makes its debut on the Ducati Panigale V4 with innovative rear-tyre size 200/60 ZR17

Now in its third generation, developed with MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship Supersport and Superstock class riders, this race replica tyre is the highest-performance, best-designed Pirelli solution ever approved for road use.

The new Pirelli DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP is the ultimate expression of Pirelli technology, its racing soul approved for road use.

In fact, the DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP is the third generation of Pirelli’s highly popular race replica tyre featuring tread design, profile and structure that are nearly identical to those of the racing tyres which are used in those competitions that, according to regulations, require the use of grooved and not slick tyres.

The new DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP has been developed through Pirelli participation as Sole Tyre Supplier for all classes at the FIM World Superbike Championship. In particular, the DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SC tyres — the track version of the SP product available in different compounds — are used by all World Championship Supersport and Superstock classes of production-derived series and in all those national championships in which Pirelli participates as sole supplier or in open competition with other tyre manufacturers.

New Pirelli DIABLO SUPERCORSA SP

The new DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP establishes a new benchmark for the replica racing sector, paving the way for the next generation of the DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA. Indeed, thanks to its innovative features, Ducati has already chosen it for the original equipment on its new Panigale V4.

As a technical partner and exclusive tyre supplier, Pirelli worked closely with Ducati in the development of the new Panigale V4, the very first motorcycle to use the new Pirelli DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP as original equipment — 120/70 ZR17 on the front and the innovative 200/60 ZR17 on the rear. As has occurred in the past — for example with Multistrada and Diavel, but above all with the forerunner of the new DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP developed jointly with Ducati and presented in Abu Dhabi as part of the original equipment on the Ducati 1199 Panigale — the Ducati performance targets required Pirelli to make technically radical choices to achieve a highly innovative tyre. That is why the company developed the latest version of the DIABLO ™ SUPERCORSA SP in a new size: 200/60 ZR17. Already widely used on slick tyres in the FIM World Superbike Championship, this size offers a true and proper generational leap in the field of race replica tyres.

In addition, the new DIABLO ™ SUPERCORSA SP has been developed to work in perfect synergy with the most advanced electronic systems of the latest generation superbikes such as the Ducati Panigale V4.

DIABLO SUPERCORSA SP in action with Ducati Panigale V4

Key benefits for the rider

The innovative profile of the new rear tyre maximizes contact at peak leaning angles and reaps utmost benefit from the bicompound technology used, adopting the same SC2 compound used for slick racing tyres to offer the grip typical of competition-grade products while guaranteeing the robustness and versatility needed on the road. To ensure that it works in complete harmony with the rear tyre, the front tyre, too, has benefited from a new important development: all driving features related to handling — from feedback provided to the rider, to firmness of the support, all the way to the feeling of safety and ability to predict the limit grip — have been optimized in a new front tyre profile that offers a slightly higher maximum cord than the previous version. Redesigning the geometries of the semi-finished materials and strip belting scheme has set new absolute benchmarks for agility and rideability, associating them with peak racing performance. Finally, the new DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP tread design features new “flash” geometry that optimizes track performance by improving wear and reducing groove widths designed to provide adequate support for higher lateral thrusts.

In general, the new DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP is a product that makes versatility and adaptability its strengths: in particular, it does not require a sophisticated set-up of the bike and it easily adapt itself to the different configurations and temperature conditions that can be found on different tracks.

Who it is for
DIABLO ™ SUPERCORSA SP is designed for all riders, above all the owners of large engine supersport and naked models, seeking a tyre that can provide maximum performance on the road and, at the same time, be a superb product for the racetrack, second only to the performance offered by blend racing tyres. For this reason, DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP is the ideal tyre for all those who not only requiring peak sports performance on the road but who also love a spin on the track and who want to ride their bikes directly to the circuit without loading them onto a trolley and without having to change the tyres or arrange for special set up once they reach their destination.

THE NEW TYRE IN DETAIL

Profiles
As anticipated, DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP has a new racing profile. More specifically, this is the same profile Pirelli uses in its FIM World Superbike Championship DIABLO™ SUPERBIKE slick tyres, a tyre that achieves new levels of manoeuvrability and grip both on the track and on road.

undefined
The new multi-radius profile can ensure uniform distribution of the stresses over the entire contact area.

The 200/60 ZR17 rear tyre has been completely redesigned and adopts the same profile used in the slick tyres.

Compared to the 200/55 ZR17, the new profile is 9 mm wider and its overall diameter is 16 mm greater.

Much of this larger diameter is used in the tread area that, thanks to the increase of the cord, allows lean angles never reached before and a greater footprint.

All this improves manoeuvrability and ensures a wider contact area which, in turn, means increased grip, stability and trajectory precision, not only when leaning into a bend, but also when entering and exiting the bend, i.e. when the rider is still braking or has started accelerating.

With this technical solution, the tyre achieves a new degree of grip at maximum lean angle and, since it maintains the same radius at the centre of the profile, it does so without forfeiting the manageability typical of the 200/55.

The front profile has been enhanced and is now 2 mm wider than that of the previous 120/70 ZR17. It has been perfectly balanced to work in unison with the rear tyre, thus guaranteeing excellent handling and good support in the bends.

The advantages are the same as those achieved on the rear tyre but with the added benefit that, thanks to its wider area of contact, less stress is applied on the compound.

In addition, with the new sidewall profile, management of the strain on the tyre structure is improved, imparting greater flexibility in acceleration when coming out of a bend and enhancing traction. As a result, the general feeling of safety and the degree of feedback the rider receives from the front tyre also increases.

The advantages of the solutions adopted in terms of driving features can be summarized as follows:

• Speed in the bends

• Greater sense of safety and control both on the racetrack and on the road

• Hesitation-free entry into bends so that speed can be maintained, even when leaning

• High traction enabling acceleration even before exiting the bend

Structure

The carcass for the new DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP has been derived directly from the DIABLO™ SUPERBIKE slick product. The rear tyre has a pure radial carcass, the front is also radial but with an angle of the carcass plies optimized for road use. In particular, these insights have been aimed at improving stability at high speeds and on long straight stretches such as on highways.

Compounds
Among the new solutions developed for the DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP , a key factor is undoubtedly the compounds.

Different compounds are used in the front and rear tyres, the dual compound used on the rear tyre has three different application zones. The new profile also required optimizing the thickness of the compound applied.

Undefined
The front tyre is a mono-compound, a solution that allows rapid warm-up and a steadfast grip in any situation.

The thicknesses of the compound on the tread band have been optimized in every area from the centre to the shoulders using a new high automation Pirelli process that optimizes the amount of material to be applied with utmost precision.

The rear tyre is a bicompound and for the first time ever in a tyre approved for road use, Pirelli decided to use a racing blend developed in the FIM World Superbike Championship.

Using the Enhanced Patch Technology (EPT) it proved possible to use a very soft compound on the shoulder. By using new polymers for the compound in the DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP it was possible to achieve even faster warm-up and an even better grip under all conditions while keeping consistency of performance.

The use of different compounds for the shoulders and central area is the winning solution, designed to give the DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP performance typical of a product for the racetrack plus the versatility and endurance of a product designed for the road.

In the central area, the compound is 100% Black Carbon Black, thus ensuring superb grip and good mileage, particularly on the road; the compound used on shoulders is the one used in the DIABLO™ SUPERBIKE SC2 slick tyre which offers the biker the highest grip, even at sharp leaning angles.

To recap, the solution adopted by the Pirelli Research and Development Department has made it possible to:

• use a less rigid compound on the shoulders, a compound with high hysteresis and soft enough at both low and high temperatures to provide rapid warm-up and a steadfast grip, always secure when cornering. And all this regardless of the weather conditions

• A new profile with a bigger cord and wider angle at the shoulders to provide grip at all leaning angles

• High mechanical strength materials in the centre area, materials with a high concentration of Carbon Black to ensure optimal traction and uniform wear, even under stress, as well as high mileage.

Tread pattern

When compared to its predecessor, the DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP has a new, optimized eight-step tread pattern, a pattern that repeats eight times over the entire tyre surface.

Now the full/void ratio is 4% for both the front and rear tyres, which is the minimum threshold imposed by the International Motorcycling Federation for sports activities and which Pirelli has adopted and approved for use on racing road tyres.

After years of experience at international and national Superstock and Supersport class competitions, Pirelli has succeeded in further optimizing the tread pattern by building on its own angular “flash” geometry, the typical shape of Pirelli’s supersport products. The bridges between the longitudinal grooves have new angles, designed to ensure better response to lateral forces.

New angles, together with the narrower grooves, improve stability and ensure more uniform wear, particularly in intense use.

DIABLO SUPERCORSA SP in action with Ducati Panigale V4

Sizes
Starting in January, the new DIABLO™ Supercorsa SP will be available only as spare parts in the two sizes for the Ducati Panigale V4; the line will be completed in the fall of 2018.

Ducati, Pirelli

The new Pirelli DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP makes its debut on the Ducati Panigale V4

The new Pirelli DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP makes its debut on the Ducati Panigale V4 with innovative rear-tyre size 200/60 ZR17

Now in its third generation, developed with MOTUL FIM Superbike World Championship Supersport and Superstock class riders, this race replica tyre is the highest-performance, best-designed Pirelli solution ever approved for road use.

The new Pirelli DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP is the ultimate expression of Pirelli technology, its racing soul approved for road use.

In fact, the DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP is the third generation of Pirelli’s highly popular race replica tyre featuring tread design, profile and structure that are nearly identical to those of the racing tyres which are used in those competitions that, according to regulations, require the use of grooved and not slick tyres.

The new DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP has been developed through Pirelli participation as Sole Tyre Supplier for all classes at the FIM World Superbike Championship. In particular, the DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SC tyres — the track version of the SP product available in different compounds — are used by all World Championship Supersport and Superstock classes of production-derived series and in all those national championships in which Pirelli participates as sole supplier or in open competition with other tyre manufacturers.

New Pirelli DIABLO SUPERCORSA SP

The new DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP establishes a new benchmark for the replica racing sector, paving the way for the next generation of the DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA. Indeed, thanks to its innovative features, Ducati has already chosen it for the original equipment on its new Panigale V4.

As a technical partner and exclusive tyre supplier, Pirelli worked closely with Ducati in the development of the new Panigale V4, the very first motorcycle to use the new Pirelli DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP as original equipment — 120/70 ZR17 on the front and the innovative 200/60 ZR17 on the rear. As has occurred in the past — for example with Multistrada and Diavel, but above all with the forerunner of the new DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP developed jointly with Ducati and presented in Abu Dhabi as part of the original equipment on the Ducati 1199 Panigale — the Ducati performance targets required Pirelli to make technically radical choices to achieve a highly innovative tyre. That is why the company developed the latest version of the DIABLO ™ SUPERCORSA SP in a new size: 200/60 ZR17. Already widely used on slick tyres in the FIM World Superbike Championship, this size offers a true and proper generational leap in the field of race replica tyres.

In addition, the new DIABLO ™ SUPERCORSA SP has been developed to work in perfect synergy with the most advanced electronic systems of the latest generation superbikes such as the Ducati Panigale V4.

DIABLO SUPERCORSA SP in action with Ducati Panigale V4

Key benefits for the rider

The innovative profile of the new rear tyre maximizes contact at peak leaning angles and reaps utmost benefit from the bicompound technology used, adopting the same SC2 compound used for slick racing tyres to offer the grip typical of competition-grade products while guaranteeing the robustness and versatility needed on the road. To ensure that it works in complete harmony with the rear tyre, the front tyre, too, has benefited from a new important development: all driving features related to handling — from feedback provided to the rider, to firmness of the support, all the way to the feeling of safety and ability to predict the limit grip — have been optimized in a new front tyre profile that offers a slightly higher maximum cord than the previous version. Redesigning the geometries of the semi-finished materials and strip belting scheme has set new absolute benchmarks for agility and rideability, associating them with peak racing performance. Finally, the new DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP tread design features new “flash” geometry that optimizes track performance by improving wear and reducing groove widths designed to provide adequate support for higher lateral thrusts.

In general, the new DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP is a product that makes versatility and adaptability its strengths: in particular, it does not require a sophisticated set-up of the bike and it easily adapt itself to the different configurations and temperature conditions that can be found on different tracks.

Who it is for
DIABLO ™ SUPERCORSA SP is designed for all riders, above all the owners of large engine supersport and naked models, seeking a tyre that can provide maximum performance on the road and, at the same time, be a superb product for the racetrack, second only to the performance offered by blend racing tyres. For this reason, DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP is the ideal tyre for all those who not only requiring peak sports performance on the road but who also love a spin on the track and who want to ride their bikes directly to the circuit without loading them onto a trolley and without having to change the tyres or arrange for special set up once they reach their destination.

THE NEW TYRE IN DETAIL

Profiles
As anticipated, DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP has a new racing profile. More specifically, this is the same profile Pirelli uses in its FIM World Superbike Championship DIABLO™ SUPERBIKE slick tyres, a tyre that achieves new levels of manoeuvrability and grip both on the track and on road.

undefined
The new multi-radius profile can ensure uniform distribution of the stresses over the entire contact area.

The 200/60 ZR17 rear tyre has been completely redesigned and adopts the same profile used in the slick tyres.

Compared to the 200/55 ZR17, the new profile is 9 mm wider and its overall diameter is 16 mm greater.

Much of this larger diameter is used in the tread area that, thanks to the increase of the cord, allows lean angles never reached before and a greater footprint.

All this improves manoeuvrability and ensures a wider contact area which, in turn, means increased grip, stability and trajectory precision, not only when leaning into a bend, but also when entering and exiting the bend, i.e. when the rider is still braking or has started accelerating.

With this technical solution, the tyre achieves a new degree of grip at maximum lean angle and, since it maintains the same radius at the centre of the profile, it does so without forfeiting the manageability typical of the 200/55.

The front profile has been enhanced and is now 2 mm wider than that of the previous 120/70 ZR17. It has been perfectly balanced to work in unison with the rear tyre, thus guaranteeing excellent handling and good support in the bends.

The advantages are the same as those achieved on the rear tyre but with the added benefit that, thanks to its wider area of contact, less stress is applied on the compound.

In addition, with the new sidewall profile, management of the strain on the tyre structure is improved, imparting greater flexibility in acceleration when coming out of a bend and enhancing traction. As a result, the general feeling of safety and the degree of feedback the rider receives from the front tyre also increases.

The advantages of the solutions adopted in terms of driving features can be summarized as follows:

• Speed in the bends

• Greater sense of safety and control both on the racetrack and on the road

• Hesitation-free entry into bends so that speed can be maintained, even when leaning

• High traction enabling acceleration even before exiting the bend

Structure

The carcass for the new DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP has been derived directly from the DIABLO™ SUPERBIKE slick product. The rear tyre has a pure radial carcass, the front is also radial but with an angle of the carcass plies optimized for road use. In particular, these insights have been aimed at improving stability at high speeds and on long straight stretches such as on highways.

Compounds
Among the new solutions developed for the DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP , a key factor is undoubtedly the compounds.

Different compounds are used in the front and rear tyres, the dual compound used on the rear tyre has three different application zones. The new profile also required optimizing the thickness of the compound applied.

Undefined
The front tyre is a mono-compound, a solution that allows rapid warm-up and a steadfast grip in any situation.

The thicknesses of the compound on the tread band have been optimized in every area from the centre to the shoulders using a new high automation Pirelli process that optimizes the amount of material to be applied with utmost precision.

The rear tyre is a bicompound and for the first time ever in a tyre approved for road use, Pirelli decided to use a racing blend developed in the FIM World Superbike Championship.

Using the Enhanced Patch Technology (EPT) it proved possible to use a very soft compound on the shoulder. By using new polymers for the compound in the DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP it was possible to achieve even faster warm-up and an even better grip under all conditions while keeping consistency of performance.

The use of different compounds for the shoulders and central area is the winning solution, designed to give the DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP performance typical of a product for the racetrack plus the versatility and endurance of a product designed for the road.

In the central area, the compound is 100% Black Carbon Black, thus ensuring superb grip and good mileage, particularly on the road; the compound used on shoulders is the one used in the DIABLO™ SUPERBIKE SC2 slick tyre which offers the biker the highest grip, even at sharp leaning angles.

To recap, the solution adopted by the Pirelli Research and Development Department has made it possible to:

• use a less rigid compound on the shoulders, a compound with high hysteresis and soft enough at both low and high temperatures to provide rapid warm-up and a steadfast grip, always secure when cornering. And all this regardless of the weather conditions

• A new profile with a bigger cord and wider angle at the shoulders to provide grip at all leaning angles

• High mechanical strength materials in the centre area, materials with a high concentration of Carbon Black to ensure optimal traction and uniform wear, even under stress, as well as high mileage.

Tread pattern

When compared to its predecessor, the DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP has a new, optimized eight-step tread pattern, a pattern that repeats eight times over the entire tyre surface.

Now the full/void ratio is 4% for both the front and rear tyres, which is the minimum threshold imposed by the International Motorcycling Federation for sports activities and which Pirelli has adopted and approved for use on racing road tyres.

After years of experience at international and national Superstock and Supersport class competitions, Pirelli has succeeded in further optimizing the tread pattern by building on its own angular “flash” geometry, the typical shape of Pirelli’s supersport products. The bridges between the longitudinal grooves have new angles, designed to ensure better response to lateral forces.

New angles, together with the narrower grooves, improve stability and ensure more uniform wear, particularly in intense use.

DIABLO SUPERCORSA SP in action with Ducati Panigale V4

Sizes
Starting in January, the new DIABLO™ Supercorsa SP will be available only as spare parts in the two sizes for the Ducati Panigale V4; the line will be completed in the fall of 2018.

MV Agusta, Pirelli

New partnership agreement between Pirelli and MV Agusta

New partnership agreement between Pirelli and MV Agusta: to celebrate it, a limited edition version of the Brutale 800 RR with Pirelli Design

After decades of collaboration, the brand with the long”P” was selected by the company from Schiranna as sole tyre supplier and, to celebrate this agreement, a dedicated version of the Brutale 800 RR was designed in a limited production that can be enhanced with exclusive coloured tyres

The “ Brutale 800 RR PIRELLI ” was created by MV Agusta along with Pirelli Design, the Bicocca laboratory specialised in conceiving design projects in collaboration with partners par excellence and it will be on display in the MV Agusta stand at EICMA.

Pirelli and MV Agusta are pleased to announce that they have reached a new partnership agreement based on which Pirelli has been officially selected as Sole Tyre Supplier for all the motorcycles manufactured by the company from Schiranna. This means that all the models currently in production, as well as those that MV Agusta will sell in the future, will mount Pirelli tyres as standard equipment.

A vocation for excellence, strong roots in Italy and a sport and industrial heritage: MV Agusta and Pirelli have many characteristics in common. This agreement seals and makes official what has been a profitable and reciprocal collaboration for decades between these two Italian giants, popular all over the world and bound by common core values such as design and the “Made in Italy” brand, combined with a spirit of sports and maximum innovation that is acknowledged by all gearheads.

The increasingly close collaboration between the two companies merits celebration. And so, a limited production edition of a highly successful model was born – the Brutale 800 RR – customised by the Castiglioni Research Centre in collaboration with Pirelli Design, the Bicocca laboratory specialised in conceiving design projects with partners par excellence.

The result of this synergy is the “Brutale 800 RR PIRELLI”, as this version of the naked from Varese is called, with truly exclusive equipment and components, manufactured in very limited production run.

The technical base is made up of the Brutale 800 RR, the sport naked that sets the bar in the segment, thanks primarily to the performance of the compact, three-cylinder, in-line engine. The chassis architecture, built around the original, mixed-structure frame made up of a steel tube trellis and aluminium alloy lateral plates, is also essential to achieving the right riding feel and the dynamic exuberance that the Brutale 800 RR has provided since it was first launched.

The customisation of this model in a limited edition focused mainly on the components and colour schemes. For example, the saddle was custom created for the “Brutale 800 RR PIRELLI” and it stands out with its stitching that is coloured to match each of the two available colour schemes. The headlight unit bracket is painted black, as is the rear subframe. The airbox output grilles are also painted and the wheel rims also boast new features: to reduce weight and increase handling, the engineers decided to mount components derived from the F4, which are characterised by their racing design, very essential and elegant. The rear rim also has a wider channel, now 6 inches, to hold the new tyre size which is specific for this version of the Brutale 800 RR.

Obviously, the tyres also play a role of primary importance. Compared to the standard model that comes standard with DIABLO™ ROSSO III tyres, the Brutale 800 RR PIRELLI mounts DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP tyres in the 120/70 ZR17 front size and 200/55 ZR17 on the 6” rear rim made specifically for this model. A rather spectacular option that can be chosen when you order your Brutale 800 RR PIRELLI is the limited edition tyre with coloured walls.

The colour schemes conceived by specialists from the Castiglioni Research Centre and Pirelli Design are intended to enhance the lines of the Brutale 800 RR and to highlight the exclusive partnership with Pirelli. The first proposal has a matt black base with glossy red painted inserts. The Pirelli logo is also done in red on the sides of the fuel tank. The DIABLO™ logo also appears to identify the range of high performance Pirelli tyres and it is placed on the fuel tank near the cap and the tank guard itself. The second colour scheme is on a grey base with Blue inserts.

The (optional) coloured tyres will respectively have a red or blue band, depending on which colour version they are mounted on.

Pirelli has already collaborated with MV Agusta in the past on customising a Brutale 800, as in the case of the “Diablo Brutale”, but always as a single, non commercialised unit.
The “Brutale 800 RR PIRELLI” , on the other hand, is the the first MV Agusta model customised by Pirelli that will go into production and be sold in a limited edition, thanks to a separate license agreement between Pirelli and MV Agusta.

The “Brutale 800 RR PIRELLI” can be admired by all motorcycle enthusiasts at the EICMA show, scheduled from 9 through 12 November 2017 at Rho Fiera (Milan) in the MV Agusta exhibit area, Pavilion 22, Stand I48.

Michelin

Michelin confirmed as MotoGP tyre supplier until 2023

Dorna Sports is delighted to announce a contract extension with Michelin that will see the French marque continue as the sole, official tyre supplier to MotoGP™ until at least 2023. The five-year agreement, covering the 2019 to 2023 seasons, is announced at the Michelin® Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix at Phillip Island, Victoria, as the countdown continues to the grand finale of another stunning season of racing action.

Michelin, based in Clermont-Ferrand in France, joined MotoGP™ as sole supplier in 2016. Since then, the premier class has enjoyed two of the most spectacular seasons in the 69-year history of motorcycle Grand Prix racing – something both parties are delighted to extend for a further five years. As part of the agreement, the Michelin brand will also continue to be featured trackside at each event – and will be the title sponsor of a Grand Prix. The Michelin® Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix in 2017 makes the perfect stage from which to announce this contract as MotoGP™ prepares to take on the fabled Phillip Island Grand Prix circuit in another classic encounter.

Pascal Couasnon, Director of Michelin Motorsport: “After two seasons that have seen tyre performance and strategy make a real contribution to the show delivered by motorcycle racing’s premier series, DORNA Sports has decided to extend its collaboration with Michelin as technical partner and exclusive tyre supplier to MotoGP™ for five more years. We are naturally delighted to have earned the confidence of Carmelo Ezpeleta and his team. Michelin intends to use its continuing association with DORNA Sports to continue developing ever-safer and more competitive racing tyres, as well as innovations that will go on to benefit our road tyres. Michelin is also delighted to continue working with the teams and riders who gave us such a warm welcome back after our absence from the championship and also to be able to build on the sense of pride felt by our staff following our successful return to MotoGP.”

Carmelo Ezpeleta, CEO Dorna Sports: “I am delighted that MotoGP and Michelin will continue their collaboration for a further five years. MotoGP has only continued to grow, excite and thrill fans since Michelin came on board as sole tyre supplier in 2016, and we are proud that our partnership will once again form the foundations of a further five years of stunning racing. This is fantastic news for the Championship, teams and riders as we look to the future.”

Michelin

Michelin Gives Back to Blood Bikers

Michelin has announced a rebate to all National Association of Blood Bikes (NABB) members when they purchase a set of Michelin tyres from participating dealers.

In recognition of the vital work NABB members provide for the community, the leading tyre manufacturer is awarding a £30 (€35 in the Republic of Ireland) rebate on Michelin Pilot Road 4, Pilot Road 4 GT, Pilot Road 4 Trail and Anakee 3 tyres fitted to a liveried motorcycle by an approved dealer.

This offer is available until the end of the year, and is a mark of Michelin’s pride in the services provided by NABB members throughout the UK and Ireland.

Since its inception as an umbrella organisation in 2008, NABB has successfully promoted and been actively involved in the growth of numerous independent Blood Bike groups across the UK and the Republic of Ireland.

With 2,700 volunteers nationwide, the service completed more than 56,000 vital runs in 2016.  These requests were to transport anything from whole blood (red cells), platelets, plasma, serum, surgical instruments to patient’s notes, X-rays, human donor milk and MRI scans. Requests range from urgent (Priority 2), through to emergency (Priority 1) life-threatening scenarios. Although these groups have saved a significant amount of money for hospitals providing their services free of charge, they are primarily acknowledged by their client hospitals as providing a professional and high-quality service.

To find out how to donate or volunteer visit www.bloodbikes.org.uk

For more information on the Michelin range visit moto.michelin.co.uk

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.”

Metzeler

METZELER VILLAGE Welcoming motorcyclists into the heart of the TT

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 METZELER VILLAGE 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

METZELER expands the RACETEC RR range with new 18-inch sizes for Classic Racing

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

Michelin

Michelin Introduces New Tyres for Select 2018 Harley-Davidson Softail Motorcycles

Michelin introduces Scorcher® tyres to equip the 2018 Harley-Davidson Fat Boy®, Low Rider® and Breakout® motorcycles which were revealed in mid-August. 

For select 2018 Softail motorcycles, two new Michelin-Harley-Davidson co-branded Scorcher tyres are available as original equipment. The MICHELIN Scorcher® 31 features traditional cruiser styling cues while the MICHELIN Scorcher® 11 provides a sportier look. The compounds selected for the treads of the new MICHELIN Scorcher® 11 and the new MICHELIN Scorcher® 31 deliver superior grip in cold, wet and damp conditions, as well as longer service life. The Scorcher® “11” and Scorcher® “31” are factory-installed on many models, and can be installed as a replacement tyre on other specified models.

Michelin worked with Harley-Davidson® for two years to develop these new tyres. Using advanced modeling, engineers from both companies were able to work virtually across global research centers to co-design the tyres and fine-tune them to exact specifications. The focused efforts, rigorous quality standards and collaboration resulted in tyres that are perfectly matched to deliver the performance needs of the motorcycles.

The exclusive look and performance of these new Harley-Davidson® motorcycles has led to the availability of exclusive sizes. For example, in a landmark first in the cruiser motorcycle market, the new Fat Boy® combines a 160/60R18 front MICHELIN Scorcher® 11 with a 240/40R18 rear for a bold, distinctive stance, plus exceptional riding pleasure and a great feel.

Meanwhile, in addition to providing riders with a lightweight feel, the lighter weight and enhanced high-speed stability made possible by the use of Aramid fibre* – another feature of Michelin’s hypersport tyres – helps to maintain the tyres’ profile and ensure consistent performance at high speeds

Front (130/60B21) and rear (240/40R18) MICHELIN Scorcher® 11s are the original equipment on Breakout® models, while the Low Rider® models are originally equipped with MICHELIN Scorcher® 31s front (110/90B19) and rear (180/70B16).

These new MICHELIN Scorcher® tyres will be available across Harley-Davidson’s extensive network, as well as from specialist dealers.

(*) Except 110/90B19

Available sizes

About Michelin

Michelin, the leading tyre company, is dedicated to enhancing its clients’ mobility, sustainably; designing and distributing the most suitable tyres, services and solutions for its clients’ needs; providing digital services, maps and guides to help enrich trips and travels and make them unique experiences; and developing high-technology materials that serve the mobility industry. Headquartered in Clermont-Ferrand, France, Michelin is present in 171 countries, has 111,700 employees and operates 68 production facilities in 17 countries which together produced 187 million tyres in 2016. (www.michelin.com).

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.

Dunlop, Goodwood, Shows and Events

Dunlops Star In Bike Line-Up At 2017 Festival Of Speed

The high-pitched throttle of motorbikes accelerating up the famous hill climb will thrill enthusiasts flocking to this year’s Festival of Speed, presented by Mastercard. The star- studded line-up of bikes and drivers will satisfy all those followers of GP, superbike and TT events.

Special displays include a tribute to the Dunlop motorcycling dynasty- perhaps the most legendary name in two-wheel history.

Forty years since ‘Yer Maun’ Joey Dunlop took his first Isle of Man TT victory, the Festival will not only celebrate Joey, but also his brother Robert and nephews Michael and William. With a grand total of 41 TT wins and 37 North West 200s between the quartet, the Dunlops can lay claim to be THE first family of road racing.

Joey’s final TT-winning bike will no doubt be one of the highlight machines, with Honda bringing the iconic Vimto SP1 from their collection hall in Japan specifically for this year’s FOS. Meanwhile, the National Motorcycle Museum will have a fantastic display of Rotary JPS Nortons, including the bike that Robert took to a trio of wins at the North West 200.

Michael and William will bring the story full circle, with Michael bringing his Superstock Suzuki GSX1000R and William bringing both his Superbike Yamaha R1-M and Supersport Yamaha R6, all fresh from this year’s TT Races.

Also lighting up the Hillclimb direct from the Manx roads include Bruce Anstey aboard the Padgett’s Honda Superbike, James Hillier on his JG Speedfit Kawasaki ZX-10R, Gary Johnson aboard a Triumph Daytona 675 and Dan Kneen, who will be riding a selection of Joey Dunlop machinery in the Dunlop Dynasty Class.

The stars will be coming up the hill thick and fast as Britain’s first ever winner of the Dakar Rally, Sam Sunderland, makes his FOS debut aboard his KTM Dakar machine, while motorcycle legend Giacomo Agostini will be back in action on an MVAgusta.

Maria Costello will also bring her brand new JG Speedfit Kawasaki LCR F2 sidecar with her passenger Kirsty Hauxwell. The duo became the first ever all-female pairing in the British Sidecar Championship earlier this year.

Honda will also be out in force, celebrating 25 years of the Fireblade, which will see current Honda BTCC stars Matt Neal and Gordon Shedden take the current British Superbike Honda CBR1000RR up the hill, alongside Jenny Tinmouth on her #DareToBeDifferent-liveried sister machine.

There will be plenty for two-wheel fans to feast their eyes upon, including a selection of Brooklands bikes on-show to tie in with the 110th anniversary of the Surrey circuit; mighty Formula 750 steeds; BMW’s brand new 212bhp HP4 RACE

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.

Avon Tyres

Avon Tyres launches new Spirit ST hypersport touring motorcycle tyre

Avon Tyres has launched the latest of its acclaimed sport-touring tyres, the all-new Avon Spirit ST.

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, on a wide range of popular sport-touring bikes. 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.

Avon has responded to the needs of its customers to deliver a new sport-touring tyre that can build on the features and benefits of the existing Avon Storm 3D X-M, including a cutting edge compound, tread and carcass design, along with outstanding wet and dry performance.

For the development of the Spirit ST, Avon’s motorcycle research and development department based in Melksham began with an all-new carcass construction design that gives ultra-high-performance handling and stability.

Avon then wrapped it in a highly-loaded silica compound, using the very latest polymer technology, while adding a multi-compound tread on the rear. This gives more life in the centre of the tyre for extensive motorway miles. Meanwhile, the edges of the tyre are made with a softer compound, for extreme grip in cornering. A new computer-aided tread design that maximises water-clearing was designed especially for the Spirit ST, which also features improved wear characteristics.

The Spirit ST’s distinctive tread pattern – which echoes the layout of a racing wet tyre – incorporates extensive water-clearing grooves, meaning the Spirit ST moves more water than ever before whilst maintaining its operating temperature over a wide range of conditions.

Avon’s pioneering ‘3D Sipe’ technology also features as part of the new Spirit ST design. These small tread cuts have interlocking ‘teeth’ formed inside the grooves, to lock the tread blocks together under load. This lets the tread warm up fast, while eliminating the vague ‘squirming’ feel that can manifest itself on older, more traditional tread patterns.

Ashley Vowles, Avon’s motorcycle tyre design engineer, said, “Our target was to design a sport touring tyre with exceptional wet and dry grip, and superb handling and stability characteristics, while maintaining the mileage performance for which Avon Tyres has been renowned. We have carried out various tests on many different bike models using a number of test riders and the results have been outstanding. We are very excited about the new Spirit ST range and are looking forward to its release.”

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

Avon Tyres, Triumph, Tyres

Avon Tyres increases Cobra tyre Production for Triumph Bonneville Bobber

Avon Tyres has ramped up production of its acclaimed Cobra motorcycle tyre in response to the successful launch of the new Triumph Bonneville Bobber.

The Cobra product is the OE fit rubber on which every Bobber rolls off the production line, with the bespoke front and rear tyres specially designed for this premium custom bike.

The new twin-cylinder machine appeared at the end of last year to massive critical acclaim from journalists, industry influencers and the great British riding public.

High demand for the Bobber since its launch means that Avon’s Melksham-based factory has expanded production for the Cobra tyres, investing in additional manufacturing capacity to satisfy increased demand for the bike.

The Bobber’s radical chassis and styling meant that 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.

Speaking about the production increase, Doug Ross, Avon Tyres’ Head of Global Motorcycle Tyre Sales, said: “This project has been a fantastic success for both Triumph and Avon. It’s also a real win for British manufacturing, showcasing the best of British at the highest level.”

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

 

Michelin

Michelin Power Days Return for 2017

Following the success of Michelin track days with Terry Rymer Racing in 2016, the team are back and offering you the chance to ride 5 legendary UK circuits at an unbeatable price of just £49 when you purchase a set of Michelin Power Cup Evo, Michelin Power Slick Evo, Michelin Power Rain or the NEW Power RS in 2017 from participating dealers.

Riders are invited to attend a track day hosted by racing hero and twice World Endurance Champion, Terry Rymer. Special guests are also due to attend with the likes of Steve Parrish, Chris Walker and Gary Mason on track at last year’s events. The day will include 120 minutes of track time along with tyre technical workshops and track day tuition from Terry himself. Refreshments are included and riders will also take home a photo and limited edition t-shirt and mug.

Michelin Power Days 2017 will begin on 26th June heading back to the ever popular Brands Hatch GP circuit and on to the historic Cadwell Park on the 17th July followed by demanding Oulton Park on 26th July and back by popular demand Knockhill Circuit in Scotland on 18th August. New for this year, Michelin Power Days will also visit Bishopscourt Circuit in Northern Ireland on 22nd August.

Following the success of Michelin’s return to MotoGP, the French tyre-giant’s sports tyre expertise has been proven at the top level, resulting in the launch of the new Power RS hypersport tyre. Developed using the new ACT+ technology in casing design, coupled with new race bred compounds derived directly from Moto GP, this tyre optimises steering force and feedback. Whether on the road, or on the occasional track day, the Power RS is extremely agile, with exceptional directional stability and impeccable handling in cornering. In recent BMW Motorad tests, the Power RS set the benchmark against all its nearest rivals.

Places are subject to availability and are certain to sell out quickly. To find your nearest participating Michelin Power Days dealer and book your place visit www.powerdays.co.uk

Avon Tyres

Avon Tyres at the Motorcycle Trade Expo show in Spirit

–  Sneak preview of British company’s all-new sport touring tyre at Stoneleigh trade show

The official launch of Avon’s new Spirit ST sport-touring tyre is planned for late spring but the bike industry will get a first look at the brand-new design this week. The Melksham-based manufacturer will have early production tyres on show on the Direct Distribution and Bradbury Bros stands at the Motorcycle Trade Expo, at Stoneleigh, from 15-17 January.

The Spirit ST is the successor to Avon’s acclaimed Storm range and has been designed to provide excellent levels of wet grip, together with superb handling on a wide range of popular sport-touring bikes.

Featuring a radical new tread pattern, the Spirit ST uses the very latest high-silica synthetic rubber compounds for improved mileage.

See the new Spirit ST tyres on the Avon distributors’ stands at the Motorcycle Trade Expo, at Stoneleigh Exhibition Centre. Direct Distribution is on stand A16, and Bradbury Bros are at stand B20.

To find out more about the Motorcycle Trade Expo, go to www.motorcycle-expo.com.

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, Triumph

Avon Cobra tyre selected as OE fitment for New Triumph Bonneville Bobber

Avon Tyres announced today that British motorcycle manufacturer Triumph has selected the Avon Cobra tyre as the original equipment fitment for the newly launched Triumph Bonneville Bobber.

Avon’s 100/90-19 57V Cobra, which exists within the current motorcycle tyre range, has been further developed to improve performance and is the front tyre of choice on Triumph’s latest bike.

For the rear, Avon has developed a Cobra tyre with modified and dual construction especially for Triumph’s Bonneville Bobber, to give ultimate performance and stability. The Cobra 150/80 R16 71V is a new size and has been added to Avon’s extensive range, available immediately.

This is the second Triumph motorcycle that Avon has provided an OE fitment for, the Bonneville Bobber follows the Thunderbird LT which is fitted with an Avon radial whitewall version of the acclaimed Cobra tyre. Avon was the first top tier tyre company to produce such a radial white wall.

Ashley Vowles, Avon’s motorcycle tyre design engineer, said, “Avon has developed a fantastic relationship with Triumph, and we are delighted to announce this latest OE deal with such a like-minded British manufacturer.”

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

Michelin

Michelin Introduces The Sport Motorcycle Road Tyre

Market’s New Benchmark: The Michelin Power RS

To mark this important launch, the MICHELIN Power RS sport road tyre will be unveiled at the MICHELIN® Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix. This new range delivers exceptional performance and will be available from 1 January 2017.

When it comes to dry-weather grip, agility, stability and peerless handling performance, the MICHELIN Power RS stands out as the sport motorcycle road tyre market’s new benchmark* and accordingly targets the most discerning riders.

The tyre’s high level of performance in all these areas is due to the combination of Michelin’s longstanding expertise, its experience of top-flight racing and the diverse nature of its innovations.

The combination of new rubber compounds, some of which are derived from racing, and a new casing design has resulted in incomparable grip on dry roads and a unique experience for the rider.

The innovative rear tyre features a patented construction which benefits from MICHELIN ACT+ technology for impeccable straight-line and cornering stability.

The tyre will be available in 13 different sizes (four front and nine rear) covering a broad spectrum of motorcycles, from 300cc bikes to large capacity Supersport machines.