Avon Tyres has launched the new TrekRider motorcycle tyre combining superb off-road and on-road performance.
The TrekRider is Avon’s first adventure tyre that offers a 50/50 split of on road versus off-road performance. Designed for light to medium trails, the tyre works as well in mud and gravel as it does on asphalt.
This new tyre will make choosing tyres for an adventure bike much simpler. Often when selecting the best road bike tyre, performance can be limited when riding on mud, but with a full-on dirt tyre, a bike’s roadholding can be affected. Avon’s new TrekRider has been designed to cut out any of this compromise.
The TrekRider’s pattern is all-new, with specially-designed tread blocks and channels that cut through mud, yet also stay stable on tarmac and concrete. A totally enhanced construction on the cross-ply and radial carcasses gives impressive high-speed stability for motorway work, yet retains the compliance found on a dedicated dirt bike tyre. Finally, a specially-chosen compound mix optimises grip on both wet and dry roads, while boosting traction in the dirt.
“In recent years, Avon has mainly focused on tyres with a majority of the performance being on road,” said Ashley Vowles, Avon’s motorcycle tyre design engineer. “To design a tyre that performs both on road and off, was an exciting project, and we have put in a lot of development work. The challenge is to make sure you have the handling and stability you want on tarmac – but you have to be careful that it doesn’t affect the performance off-road.”
Vowles has overseen thousands of miles of testing on a wide range of bikes, from BMW’s GS range, through the KTM Adventure series, and on smaller machinery, like Triumph’s 800 Tigers and the Yamaha XT660.
“We’ve benchmarked TrekRider against the best competitor tyres in that sector, and we’re very happy with the results,” he said. “The new TrekRider passes all our handling and stability tests with flying colours.”
The Avon TrekRider will be on display for the first time at the Intermot motorcycle show, in Cologne, Germany, on 05-09 October.
Avon’s TrekRider is available in the following sizes:
British tyre manufacturer Avon Tyres is attending one of the biggest motorcycle shows in Europe this year – the Intermot motorcycle show, in Cologne, Germany.
Taking place on 05-09 October, over 200,000 two-wheel enthusiasts from more than 100 countries will be gathering for five days, mixing with up to 1,000 manufacturers.
Avon’s dedicated motorcycle team will be located on stand A036, in Hall 6, to answer questions on the latest and most popular additions to the Avon Tyres range – including the new TrekRider, highly-acclaimed TrailRider, StreetRunner for smaller cc commuter bikes, and Avon’s newly launched motorcycle tyre inner tubes.
The Avon TrekRider will be on display for the first time, a tyre combining superb off-road and on-road performance. The TrekRider is Avon’s first adventure tyre that offers a true 50/50 split – a tyre that works as well in mud and gravel as it does on asphalt, giving fantastic performance in both areas.
Avon’s inner tubes are made to the highest standards, from the finest butyl and natural rubbers – essential for those using conventional spoked rims on modern bikes, or riding with traditional rims on classic machinery. Whether it is for a giant adventure dirt bike, or a lovingly restored vintage classic, there is an Avon inner tube to suit.
Visitors will also be able to see Avon’s 3D Ultra family of road legal race/track day and sports tyres, as well as the Cobra cruiser tyres, OE fitment on the Triumph Thunderbird LT, which will also be on display on the Avon stand.
Avon Tyres has launched an all-new range of motorcycle tyre inner tubes.
Essential for those using conventional spoked rims on modern bikes, or riding with traditional rims on classic machinery, these tubes are made to the highest standards, from the finest butyl and natural rubbers, providing a long-lasting, quality product.
Supplied in smart packaging, the Avon tube range comes in a massive variety of sizes to suit virtually all current tubed tyre fittings, including 10-, 16-, 17-, 18-, 19- and 21- inch rims.
Whether it is for a small-bore commuter, a giant adventure dirt bike, or a lovingly restored vintage classic, there is an Avon tube to suit. Tubes for motocross applications are also available with rim tapes to follow at a later date.
Doug Ross, Avon Tyres’ Head of Global Motorcycle Tyres, said, “We are pleased to be able to offer consumers this new Avon tube range. We recognise that a lot of owners, especially of classic motorcycles, will benefit from the tubes designed and manufactured to complement Avon tube type tyres such as the Speedmaster, Safety Mileage MkII and Sidecar Triple Duty.”
For further information and a full size listing, visit www.avon-tyres.co.uk or contact your local dealer
You can also keep up-to-date with Avon on Facebook and Twitter.
Avon Tyres is a British brand widely acknowledged as the master of classic race tyres. This status has been underlined once again in the Isle of Man with victories for Avon in both the Senior and Junior Classic TT races, for John McGuinness and Michael Dunlop respectively.
At this year’s Classic TT (27-29 August) Avon dominated the podium with top riders, including Dean Harrison, Maria Costello, Michael Rutter and Alan Oversby using Avon race rubber.
Avon Tyres Motorsport Manager, Steve Smith, said, “The script writers couldn’t have come up with a better story! John McGuinness wins the Senior Classic on Saturday and Michael Dunlop wins the Junior Classic on Sunday, both on Avon tyres.”
The Avon Motorsport department remains in the Isle of Man this week, as the Manx Grand Prix immediately follows on from the Classic TT. Avon Tyres has high hopes of further success with riders using the Avon Xtreme race tyres to compete in the Lightweight, Junior and Senior races.
From the Manx Grand Prix, Avon will be heading across the Irish Sea, and down south, for the Goodwood Revival meeting in Chichester, West Sussex, where the Classic TT stars will be back in action.
“The Goodwood Revival is always a fantastic event and it’s shaping up to be a real cracker this year with John McGuinness and Michael Dunlop riding on Avon race tyres,” said Steve Smith. “We also have Kevin Schwantz, Troy Corser and Maria Costello competing, as well as a host of race legends and television personalities such as Steve Plater and Steve Parrish. Virtually all of the bikes at Goodwood will be running Avons, the majority of them on our special race versions of the AM26 Roadrider.”
The Goodwood Revival takes place on 9-11 September, and is a magical step back in time, celebrating the halcyon days of racing. For further information on the world’s largest and most authentic historic racing event, visit www.goodwood.com.
In August this year a team of volunteers from Imperial College’s Racing Green Project will ride their ZEPHiR motorcycle from Land’s End to John O’ Groats aiming to set a world record for the fastest and first electric motorcycle to travel the famous route. Shod with Michelin tyres, the ZEPHiR will incorporate the world’s first water-cooled 3D printed motorcycle motor and superstructure (coated in carbon fibre) supporting the innovative textile fairing and seat.
The ZEPHiR project was set up by a team of volunteers from Imperial College’s Racing Green programme (well known for racing at the TT) and is a new start for the team, one where data collection and raising public awareness are combined with a once in a lifetime adventure.
The team are clear in their objectives, which include building a high range, road legal electric motorcycle; developing a 3D printed motor in partnership with Frazer-Nash and Renishaw; collaborating with textile postgraduates of the Royal College of Art to create a novel fairing system; raising awareness of the Imperial Racing Green programme with ZEPHiR demonstrations at public events; and finally attempting to set a world record riding from Land’s End to John O’ Groats.
Michelin Marketing Manager for the UK and Ireland, James Dimmock, said: “We’re excited to support this ground-breaking project. It’s been rewarding to work with the team in the planning stages, as we’ve been able to help with their tyre selection and advise them about the importance of tyres in terms of reducing rolling resistance and extending battery life, while ensuring good performance at speed. At Michelin, we pride ourselves on the quality and technical excellence of our tyres, and we’re delighted that this has been recognised by the Racing Green Team’s decision to choose Michelin for their pioneering ZEPHiR project.
Nathaniel Petre from Imperial’s Racing Green Team said: “2016 is going to be an exciting year for us. The world record attempt in August will be the culmination of many months of hard work. To have confidence in our tyres and the support and technical advice from the experts at Michelin means the ZEPHiR project is certainly more likely to succeed in the objectives. We couldn’t be happier to count such a world-famous marque of excellence among our supporters.”
For the latest news and updates on the ZEPHiR project find them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/IRGZEPHiR/
To mark its return to motorcycle racing’s premier series, Michelin has chosen the 2016 Grand Prix de France to take the wraps off the new MICHELIN Pilot Power 3 MotoGPTM Ltd Edition which will go on sale in Europe on 1 June.
In a world first, this exclusive tyre will feature specific sidewall branding that combines the MICHELIN Pilot Power 3 and official MotoGP logos. Production is being limited to 5,000 pairs.
The new MICHELIN Pilot Power 3 MotoGPTM Ltd Edition is available in 120/70 ZR 17 (58W) front and 180/55 ZR 17 (73W) rear sizes to fit a large selection of sports bikes.
Michelin’s MotoGP involvement provides it with an extreme laboratory to develop technological solutions that will later feed into the road tyres it makes for all motorcyclists.
Tyre giant Michelin has unveiled a series of riding experiences at iconic venues across the UK.
Customers buying a set of tyres from Michelin’s track-focussed Power range will be eligible to attend a track day hosted by legendary racer Terry Rymer for just £49.
The Michelin Power Days will include 120 minutes of track time, tyre technical workshops and track day tuition from Terry himself. Refreshments are included and riders will also receive a photo and a limited edition T-shirt and mug.
Four iconic circuits have been secured by event partner GTC Motorcycle – Knockhill, Brands Hatch, Oulton Park and Mallory Park.
James Dimmock, Marketing Manager for Michelin motorcycle tyres in the UK and Ireland, said: “The Power range has been really well received, and we know these days will allow riders to get the most out of their tyres and their time on the track. Having the likes of Terry Rymer on board will be a big pull. He will be able to offer customers some real insights and he is well aware of the role top quality tyres play in staying safe and pushing the boundaries of performance.”
GTC Motorcycle director Matt Sunderland said: “We’re really excited to be co-ordinating the Michelin Power Days. We know riders will have a fantastic time and we’re looking forward to putting on track days that will help them return some blistering lap times.”
Places are limited and they will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Eligible customers buying a set of Michelin Power SuperSport Evo, Michelin Power Cup Evo, Michelin Power Slick Evo or Michelin Power Rain in 2016 can apply for the Power Days.
Proof of purchase will be required at the point of booking.
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.
The legendary tyre from the PHANTOM™ Pirelli line has been chosen to equip the new twin-cylinder Sport Heritage bike from the tuning fork company in 120/70 R17 TL 58V front and 180/55 R17 TL 73V rear sizes
Starting from August, PHANTOM™ Sportscomp it is also available in the same sizes, with (W) speed index to respond to the trend of customization and personalization of motorcycles
Milan (Italy), 24 July 2015 – The legendary Pirelli PHANTOM™ Sportscomp was chosen by Yamaha as original equipment tyres for the XSR700, the new twin-cylinder Sport Heritage bike from the three tuning forks company, in 120/70 R17 front and 180/55 R17 rear sizes.
Chosen due to the characteristics of excellence offered by the PHANTOM™ Sportscomp that, as the new Yamaha XSR700, is a perfect mix of vintage looks and contemporary technology.
Among the strengths of this tyre we may include the easy handling and changes in direction, the stable and predictable behaviour under acceleration and braking, the high capacity of power transmission to the ground and the regular wear combined to excellent mileage.
In addition to the set 120/70 R17 TL 58V front and 180/55 R17 TL 73V rear as original equipment of the Yamaha XSR700, the Sportscomp range is available in 100/90 – 18 front and 150/70 R17 rear sizes and, starting from August, in the same sizes supplied to the Yamaha XSR700 but with (W) speed index that allows its use for customization and personalisation in the classic/vintage style of all sport and naked bikes requiring a speed index in brackets.
PHANTOM™ brand is one of the motorcycle longest and most successful range of Pirelli. Launched in the late 70s, at the time it was dedicated to the big supersport and high performance bikes. Throughout the course of the ‘80 the PHANTOM™ range played the role as standard-bearer of the Pirelli production in all motorcycle applications on the road, extending from the Supertouring segment, to the Supersport up to the “Sportscomp”.
This product was a radical innovation in the history of the Pirelli tyres for motorcycles, bringing the maximum speed limit from 230 to 240 kph and allowing performance levels truly superior compared to the technologies in use in 1985.
With the new millennium Pirelli has radically revised the PHANTOM™ Sportscomp, adding to the sporty pedigree of the Sportscomp the charm and timeless style, thereby creating a Sport Classic line within the Supersport segment.
In line with the Sport Classic philosophy, PHANTOM™ Sportscomp combines the historical tread pattern design of the PHANTOM™ line with the modern technology of the latest high performance tyres.
At a structure level PHANTOM™ Sportscomp uses a steel belt disposed at zero degrees of inclination with respect to the running direction of the tyre. Such a structural element, associated with one or more radial carcass plies of light and durable rayon, guarantees handling and grip even at high speeds. The result is high stability, uniformity in terms of contact area, and being able to optimize the contact patch at the different lean angles on the road.
To better suit the modern needs of road riding, Pirelli has adopted development philosophies which aim to obtain a more “rounded” profile for both front and rear tyres, compared to the more “flat” one of the previous generations tyres. Moreover, thanks to the combined design of the front and rear tyre profiles, PHANTOM™ Sportscomp helps corner approach, holding a line, potential for greater acceleration on corner exit and an improved precision.
As regards the tread pattern, the PHANTOM™ Sportscomp presents a wavy longitudinal groove on both front and rear tyres which promotes fast water drainage, providing confident grip in wet conditions. The tyre has a sportier image with the characteristic “semi-slick” design.
Finally, the compounds used have a high silica percentage which ensures grip in the wet and especially a fast warm up, with a confidence inspiring grip factor on cold or wet tarmac
Michelin has launched a new offer across a number of road tyres in their extensive motorcycle range. Customers can claim up to £35 back when they fit a set of new tyres (£15 for a single tyre) either by bank transfer or in the form or a fuel card.
Purchase any of the following tyres from an official dealer before 31 July 2015 to qualify: MICHELIN Power Supersport Evo, MICHELIN Pilot Power 3, MICHELIN Pilot Power 2CT, MICHELIN Pilot Road 4, MICHELIN Pilot Road 3, MICHELIN Anakee III and MICHELIN Commander II.
The award-winning MICHELIN Pilot Road 4, along with the Pilot Road 3, are both included in this fantastic offer and have won acclaim for their excellent performance across a range of road conditions.
While the likes of the MICHELIN Anakee III have been helping motorcycle adventurers tackle their journeys around the globe with confidence, thanks to a more rigid tyre casing and innovative tread.
The new MICHELIN Power Supersport Evo offers riders the chance to experience high-quality performance on the road and the track with outstanding grip in dry and wet conditions. And with a fantastic offer of £35 back with a new set fitted, riders have even more reason to fit Michelin!
Offer ends 31 July 2015, visit your nearest Michelin dealer for terms and conditions or visit moto.michelin.co.uk to see the full Michelin motorcycle tyre range.
SCORPION ™ Trail II, the latest tyre from Pirelli, opens the path to adventure, equipping the new Ducati Multistrada 1200
As original equipment in 120/70 ZR17 front and 190/55 ZR17 rear sizes for the Multistrada 1200, Multistrada 1200 S and Multistrada 1200 S D|air, the new enduro street tyre is a synthesis of the best features offered by an off road product and those guaranteed by a sport touring tyre
SCORPION™ Trail II, the innovative enduro street tyre from Pirelli and the direct successor of SCORPION™ Trail, is the first equipment of the new Ducati Multistrada 1200.
Specifically in 120/70 ZR17 front and 190/55 ZR17 rear sizes, the latest arrival in Pirelli’s range is supplied to the Multistrada 1200, Multistrada 1200 S and Multistrada 1200 S D|air.
Since the inception of the Multistrada project in 2003 Pirelli has worked closely with Ducati offering to the company from Borgo Panigale tyres increasingly evolved to guarantee an important contribution to the benefits offered by the motorcycle in terms of performance and safety. The first version of the Ducati Multistrada in 2003 was equipped with Pirelli SCORPION™ Sync, with the new model in 2010 adopting the Pirelli SCORPION™ Trail and now, with the new Multistrada 1200, the partnership is strengthened thanks to the original equipment of the new Pirelli SCORPION™ Trail II.
The new SCORPION™ Trail II is the synthesis of the meeting of two worlds: the field of off road competition and the long distance road trip. Designed for the most demanding motorcyclists, it features key points of excellence; high mileage, consistency of performance for its entire tyre life and top notch wet behaviour.
SCORPION™ Trail II is the new Pirelli tyre specifically designed to meet the most demanding expectations of this market, with an aggressive tread pattern supported by strong technological innovation, giving good stability even at high speed, traction on dirt, handling, comfort and grip in all riding conditions.
The word SCORPION™ recalls immediately the range of Pirelli products intended for use in off-road competitions not only in the two-wheel world but also on four wheels. The products in the SCORPION™ line are present in offroad car racing competitions, in the Enduro and Cross Country Rally World Championships and in the Motocross World Championship in which the range of off-road Pirelli tyres has been the undisputed leader for over 30 years with 62 world titles. The enduro street market remains a segment where motorcyclists’ expectations are always high and where motorcycle manufacturers continue to invest in launching new uprated products every year.
Who is it aimed at?
Suitable for the latest generation adventure touring and enduro street motorcycles able to tackle even long journeys, with light off-road sections, the new SCORPION™ Trail II is a tyre with good road performance, yet capable of tackling unpaved surfaces. It is designed for motorcycles such as the Ducati Multistrada, models which are increasingly being purchased by riders strictly for use on the road but which, if necessary, may also face stretches of dirt and light off-road.
The enduro street segment
The enduro segment was born during the 80’s when motorcycles equipped with a 21″ front tyre began winning the most prestigious African rallies. Gradually these bikes reached the road in long distance raids, and thus their evolution of use reached a parallel evolution of the size of the tyres they mounted: the rear wheels became larger, while the front shrank to 19″.
The revolution in the development of the segment arrived in 2003 when Ducati introduced to the market the Multistrada, a bike made to take on winding mountain roads and for competitions such as Pikes Peak. As a privileged partner of Ducati and for the Multistrada, Pirelli created the SCORPION™ Sync, the first ‘knobbly’ looking street sport tyre in 120/70-17 and 180/55-17 sizes. Now, a decade later, Pirelli will once again be the leader of a revolution in this segment, thanks to the introduction of the SCORPION™ Trail range in the rear dual-compound 190/55-17 size that marked the dawn of a new generation of street enduro machines such as the new Ducati Multistrada 1200.
In recent years the enduro street segment has become one of the most important in the market and Pirelli decided to develop tyres with more road performance, but with an off road look, with particular attention to the handling in different road conditions.
The tread pattern
The innovative tread pattern of SCORPION™ Trail II is the result of this famous Off road line enriched with the experience gained by Pirelli with the development of ANGEL™ GT, considered the reference tyre in the Sport Touring segment. The tread pattern of SCORPION™ Trail II therefore has an aggressive look typical of an off-road tyre, behind which there are class performances combining the features of an enduro product, with those of a sport touring one.
The side grooves of the new SCORPION™ Trail II have been designed to ensure optimal drainage in case of rain, while the layout and “binary open” shape of the central ones not only contribute to the drainage of water but also ensure better traction, greater stability and more regular wear.
The compounds
Pirelli was the first company to introduce the bi-compound solution in some rear sizes of enduro street tyres with the SCORPION™ Trail. Today, the Italian tyre company is able to apply this technology to all of the rear tyres in the SCORPION™ Trail II range.
Compared to its predecessor, the new tyre has a compound developed for high mileage without compromising cornering performance, and especially developed to offer excellent wet behaviour.
The side compound was designed to optimize the balance between performance on dry and wet roads.
The profiles
The profiles of SCORPION™ Trail II are derived directly from those used for ANGEL™ GT, the winner of important sport touring tyre comparatives made by the most prestigious international magazines.
Thanks to a shorter, wider, contact patch area, the profile helps to reduce and level the wear of the tread, thus ensuring greater mileage. Still with the application of new profiles it has been possible to increase the handling which remains unchanged throughout the whole life of the product. All of these factors benefit traction and give better machine control.
The structure
Thanks to the structure developed to enable the central and lateral compounds to work optimally, the new SCORPION™ Trail II ensures high performance, even at full load or with heavier motorcycles. This provides improved wet performance than its predecessor and an incredible versatility, making it comfortable even for long trips and on winding roads and in case of adverse weather conditions.
Pirelli DIABLO™ Supercorsa SP is the original equipment for the Ducati 1299 Panigale, 1299 Panigale S and Panigale R
Pirelli DIABLO™ Supercorsa SP have proven themselves once more to be the new reference point in the racing tyre segment for street use and the first choice for the ultra high performance bikes recently introduced to the market by the most prestigious motorcycle manufacturers. In fact, the brand new Ducati 1299 Panigale, 1299 Panigale Sand Panigale R will come with these hypersport tyres as original equipment in 120/70 ZR17 on the front and 200/55 ZR17 on the rear.
DIABLO™ Supercorsa SP is a concentration of technology which draws from Pirelli’s racing experience and heritage as sole supplier of the World Superbike Championship since 2004. Continuing the philosophy of transferring sport technology to high performance street legal products. This street tyre, designed for professional riders and for bikers who have a sporting road riding style but also ride trackdays, provides racing performance typical of track-only products, allowing the user to have one ultra high performance product that can be used on the street or the track without compromises. Compared to the compound version SC which is for track use, the DIABLO™ Supercorsa SP offers a bi-compound rear tyre in order to better adapt to street use, as well as more regular wear which favours mileage.
DIABLO™ Supercorsa SP has a profile on the rear which, compared to the 190/55 version, is 2mm wider and has a 4mm larger diameter, for greater support during braking, give better feedback and hold a more precise line. The rear tyre has been designed and developed to increase the contact area and have more grip while leaning through a corner. The harmony of the front and rear profiles therefore ensures greater handling and agility.
The rear 200/55 size of the DIABLO™ Supercorsa SP implements a bi-compound solution in order to permit both increased mileage and more grip while leaning. EPT (Enhanced Patch Technology) has also made it possible to use 23% more soft compound in the shoulder area (compared to the previous Diablo Supercorsa SP version). This accounts for the 33% of new pattern extension on each side, guaranteeing better grip in mid to full lean. Finally, new polymers used for the SP compound helps achieve an earlier warm-up and improved grip in all conditions.
The performance of the compounds is further enhanced by an aggressive single element tread pattern, which revolves six times on the tyre surface. The result is that the “naked” area of the slick shoulders is 24% wider compared to the previous Diablo Supercorsa, increasing contact area and grip. The long longitudinal grooves, expanding from the central area to the shoulder, improve wear regularity especially under severe usage and helps water drainage.
The solutions adopted for the compound (soft compound area 23% larger) and the tread (greater extension of the slick area on the shoulders) guarantee a significant increase in grip and traction, allowing the motorcycle to maintain a higher speed whilst leaning. This made it necessary to use a structure, derived directly from the ones used in competition and be able to provide greater resistance to deformation. This is why the DIABLO™ Supercorsa SP rear tyre has a carcass made from an innovative high module fibre, patented by Pirelli and developed in WSBK, with a considerably lower deformation ratio than the fibre normally used in street tyres. The result is a carcass which is more rigid, both at the centre and in the shoulder area. This provides greater resistance to the stress created by aggressive cornering or when accelerating early out of a turn with the bike still in a leaning position.
The DIABLO™ Supercorsa SP lets you personalise your tyre with special rubber labels that can be applied to the front and rear sidewalls. Each rider can create a completely customized label on the Pirelli web site and have them delivered directly to their door.
More information regarding Pirelli’s entire range of racing and road tyres can be found at www.pirelli.co.uk/moto
Designed for intensive urban use and to be subjected to the most demanding of impacts and stresses, the MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre offers three significant advances in comparison with its predecessor and rivals, namely unprecedented robustness to substantially reduce punctures, enhanced safety and longer life. It is intended for small motorcycles of up to 150cc and big-wheeled scooters.
Whether it is used by a city-dweller commuting to and from work, a motorcycle taxi rider or a delivery rider dealing with big-city traffic jams, the MICHELIN CITY Pro is perfectly adapted to the needs of its users. Its overall package is the product of a convergence of innovations and optimisation work:
MICHELIN’s technologies yield a more robust tyre that is 20 per cent more puncture-resistant than rival products.
Its specifically developed compound ensures a 10 percent longer lifespan than that of its competitors.
Finally, its new tread pattern delivers enhanced grip on dry, wet and slippery surfaces.
The salient features of the new MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre can be summed up as greater strength and safety over a longer distance, an achievement which embodies the MICHELIN Total Performance plan to push out the envelope in all the areas that affect tyre performance simultaneously and uncomprisingly.
The MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre is the second new addition to Michelin’s motorcycle range in 2014 after the MICHELIN Pilot Road 4, and is available in 21 sizes for wheels of between 14 and 18 inches and speed ratings ranging from ‘P’ (up to 150kph) to ‘S’ (up to 180kph).
MISSION
Users’ demands
When a means of transport serves also as a work tool, it naturally needs to be strong and reliable whatever the circumstances, and tyres obviously play an essential role when it comes to maximising mobility. Michelin made this parameter a key priority throughout the development of the new MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre.
Its designers paid careful attention to ensuring they understood the needs of its users who daily ride to and from work on difficult roads and need a blend of strength and durability, with the accent still very much on safety.
This was no mean challenge when you reflect that this tyre must be capable of meeting user needs in all kinds of weather. Taking into account this variety of challenges, Michelin had to deploy all its expertise to create the MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre, a solution featuring a raft of cutting-edge technologies.
Users
The MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre was designed to meet the needs of frequent riders (up to six or seven days per week and covering between 150 and 200 kilometres per day) who may be travelling alone, with a passenger or with a load and in demanding traffic situations (traffic jams, frequent stopping-and-starting, wet and slippery roads or uneven surfaces) and who expect safety, long tyre life and no time lost due to punctures.
The launch of this new tyre, which meets the needs of customers in Southeast Asia, is ideally suited to the working environments of its different markets. Indeed, it provides an effective solution to the sort of damage that can be caused by sharp objects such as nails and glass debris, as well as by deteriorating asphalt, potholes, and unexpected changes in grip, including drain covers, painted road markings and gravel.
The MICHELIN City Pro tyre is THE tyre solution for greater safety, enhanced robustness and consistently dependable performance for motorcyclists.
EXPLAINED
The technologies employed to ensure greater puncture-resistance whilst at the same time offering safety and long tyre life
Unprecedented robustness
MICHELIN Overlap Technology (MOT) incorporates built-in protection in the form of three reinforced plies underneath the tread which is itself characterised by the thickness of the rubber used. This technology yields unprecedented results, since the MICHELIN CITY Protyre improves puncture-resistance by 20 percent compared to its best-performing rival*. This result was confirmed by an in-house test conducted by Michelin during a 444,000km-long run in real-world conditions with 48 motorcycles: only one puncture for every 100,000km covered**.
Machine used for the standard perforation energy test. This test provides proof that it is necessary to expend 20 percent more energy to puncture a MICHELIN City Pro tyre than is required to puncture its best-performing competitor
* Braking Energy tests carried out by TÜV Rheinland Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. between March 3 and March 9, 2014, comparing the MICHELIN City Pro (80/90-17 50S) with the IRC Eagle Grip NR73 (80/90-17 44S) and DUNLOP TT900 and D104J (80/90-17 44P). Individual results may vary depending upon motorcycle type and operating conditions.
** In-house tests carried out by Michelin in normal conditions of use in Bangkok between November 14, 2013, and March 26, 2014, with 48 motorcycles. Individual results may vary depending upon the motorcycle and operating conditions.
Improved air-tightness thanks to the tyre’s internal rubber which protects the inner tube and helps to minimise the risk of loss of air pressure as a result of abrasion.
Longer tyre life
The new compound especially developed for the MICHELIN City Pro tyre marks an improvement over that of the former MICHELIN M35. Tyre life is10 percent longer compared with the MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre’s best-performing rival*. Once again, this was confirmed by the results of an in-house test carried out by Michelin in Bangkok between November 14, 2013, and March 26, 2014. Over the 440,000km covered by 48 motorcycles, the average durability of the front tyre was 30,000km, and that of the rear tyre 20,000km.
*Comparison tests carried out by Dekra in June, 2013 with the MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre vs. IRC Maxing NR58, Dunlop D104 and MICHELIN M35. Rear tyres: 70/90-17 (MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre / Dunlop D104) and 2.50-17 (IRC Maxing NR58 / MICHELIN M35 tyre).
Enhanced safety
The MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre features an optimised contact patch for even more efficient performance. Its innovative tread pattern ensures even better grip compared to its predecessor, the MICHELIN M35 tyre.
Thanks to its central groove, barley ear pattern and a sea-to-land that which varies according to the motorcycle’s angle of lean (from 30 percent for the central part of the tread to up to 35 percent on the shoulders), the MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre is capable of expelling water more effectively than before. Its tread pattern thereby provides improved grip on dry, wet and slippery roads.
During in-house tests carried out by Michelin, this translated, on a wet surface, to a higher angle of lean* and a 1.3-second faster lap time** for the MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre in comparison with its best-performing competitor
*In-house test carried out in March 2014, comparing the MICHELIN City Pro to the IRC MAXING NR58, DUNLOP TT100 and DUNLOP D104. Sizes: 70/90-17 and 80/90-17 (MICHELIN City Pro and DUNLOP D104), and 2.25-17 and 2.50-17 (IRC MAXING NR58 and DUNLOP TT100).
The results may vary according to the motorbike and running conditions.
**In-house test carried out in March 2013, comparing the MICHELIN City Pro tyre to the IRC MAXING NR58, DUNLOP D104 and MICHELIN M35. Sizes: 60/90-17 and 70/90-17 (MICHELIN City Pro), 60/100-17 and 70/90-17 (Dunlop D104) and 2.25-17 & 2.50-17 (IRC MAXING NR58 / MICHELIN M35).
The results may vary according to the motorbike and running conditions.
MICHELIN CITY Pro: A comprehensive range
From its first year on sale, the MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre will be available in 21 sizes for wheels of between 14 and 18 inches, and with speed ratings ranging from ‘P’ (up to 150kph) to ‘S’ (up to 180kph).
This carefully-targeted range is intended for small-engined two-wheeled vehicles of up to 150cc. It is suitable for a wide spectrum of models, from the Honda Vision 110 to the Yamaha Spark Nano, Piaggio Liberty 50cc, Sym Symphony 125, Honda SH 125i, Yamaha Xenter 125, Honda CG 150 Fan 1 Titan and Honda Wave/Dream.
This catalogue of sizes means that, in the very first year, the MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre will be able to cover 75 per cent of motorbikes on the road in its target countries.
Michelin Total Performance
The new MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre is characterised by enhanced robustness in addition to improved safety in all conditions… and for longer.
More than simply increasing its all-round performance, the objective was to make gains in different areas of performance that are commonly believed to be irreconcilable, namely resistance to punctures, grip on dry, wet or slippery surfaces and durability.
In order to blend all of these qualities in the same tyre, it was necessary to call upon pioneering technologies, extensive testing capacity and advanced production techniques.
The MICHELIN CITY Pro tyre is the concrete embodiment of the MICHELIN Total Performance strategy, which consistently and collectively improves all performance aspects of the tyres, however distinct each one’s function may be.
This challenge was made possible by Michelin’s in-depth knowledge and expertise allied to an investment of more than €640 million for Research & Development purposes.
By way of illustration, purely for tyres intended for two-wheeled vehicles, Michelin’s developers produce 450 prototypes and dedicate 12,000 hours to calculation work every year.
DEFINING
MICHELIN CITY Pro in 10 key figures
1 MICHELIN City Pro, the most puncture-resistant tyre in its class
1 The number of punctures per 100,000km*
3 The number of protective crown plies
10 Additional durability (expressed as a percentage) compared with rival tyres
20 Additional resistance to punctures (expressed as a percentage) compared with rival tyres
21 The number of sizes available
48 The number of motorcycle taxis used during the test in Bangkok
20,000 The average number of kilometres covered by the rear tyre
30,000 The average number of kilometres covered by the front tyre
440,000 The number of kilometres covered by participants in the course of the test conducted by Michelin in Bangkok
RACETEC™ RR, the new Racing Supersport tyre from METZELER, presented in a world première at EICMA
Available in K1, K2 and K3 compounds this tyre can boast among its strengths grip in all conditions, precision, stability and consistent performance
Milan (Italy), November 5, 2014 – METZELER today unveiled the new Racing Supersport RACETEC™ RR during an international press conference held on their stand at EICMA, the World’s Motorcycling Fair, which takes place annually in Milan, and this year celebrates its centenary.
RACETEC™ RR, the successor of RACETEC INTERACT™, is the new METZELER tyre available in K1, K2 and K3 compounds and is characterised by high grip in all conditions, with precision, excellent stability and consistent performance.
The origins: the Road Racing world
RACETEC™ RR is the evolution of RACETEC INTERACT™, produced in line with the development of new bikes, and comes directly from the experience of METZELER in Road Racing competition in which the brand of the elephant has been participating with good results for many years. In 2014, riders supported by METZELER stood on the podium 39 times with 16 wins in the major road races. With substantial efforts in these activities, METZELER was able to completely renew its sporty range of tyres and, during 2013, developed and launched SPORTEC™ M7 RR and now, exactly one year later, has completed this renovation project with the new Racing Supersport RACETEC™ RR.
In particular, RACETEC™ RR has been designed and tested in major competitions such as the North West 200, Metzeler Ulster Grand Prix, Southern 100 and especially the Isle of Man TT, where it won the Supersport class by equipping the Triumph Daytona of Gary Johnson. These races do not take place on track, but on roads that are open to the public throughout the year and in which you can find all the situations that each rider encounters in everyday riding. For this reason these events were chosen by METZELER as a test and development ground.
The origins of RACETEC™ RR are clear from its name: RACETEC™ identifies the METZELER range of products dedicated to sport while RR, defined as Road Racing, testifies to the context in which this project was born.
Who is RACETEC™ RR aimed at?
RACETEC™ RR is dedicated to racers of all levels plus trackday riders who use the circuit for their hobby.
In the K3 compound option specifically, the RACETEC™ RR is designed for all owners of supersport and naked bikes who enjoy a sporty riding style and who want the ultimate grip even on the road, looking for excitement and a high performance level.
The features and the benefits of the new RACETEC™ RR
RACETEC™ RR includes the technologies, materials, advanced processes and know-how achieved by METZELER tyres in recent years, bringing a new level of performance. RACETEC™ RR offers new profiles, structural materials, compounds and tread pattern.
Road Racing is one of the most difficult and challenging competitions due to the combination of factors such as the long race distances, , high average speeds, elevation and temperature changes along with the variety of road surfaces. RACETEC™ RR is designed to meet all these different situations which may be encountered in one race, providing unmatched mileage and consistency, combined with a great versatility.
The main benefits of RACETEC™ RR are:
Grip in all conditions, both on road and on track thanks to the versatility of the compounds
Precision and stability, useful features both in during ‘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
In particular, the rear tyre of RACETEC™ RR is bi-compound and is able to offer 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 allows these tyres to be used on roads open to the public and not just on circuit.
Road Racing events are usually high mileage, up to 240 km in total, on average more than twice the distance taking place on circuits. For this reason, the duration and the ability to preserve the integrity and performance of the tyre proves to be a key factor for victory. RACETEC™ RR is the winner in this area due to the characteristics of the compounds and tread design.
The compounds
All the compound specifications used in the RACETEC™ RR are characterised by a high abrasion resistance due to the equal dispersion of ingredients, obtained by a patented mixing process.
To face with the changing conditions that may be encountered during the same race, METZELER has greatly expanded the versatility of the compounds.
If for example the K2 version of RACETEC INTERACT™ was intended to be used with difficult road conditions and low temperatures, now the new K2 compound of the RACETEC™ RR offers high performance even at increased temperatures and on more smooth asphalt. Similarly, the K1 compound of RACETEC™ RR can now also be used in conditions of lower temperatures and with a more aggressive road surface.
To achieve this goal, work was focused mainly on the formulas of the compounds, balancing polymers, resins and reinforcing fillers to generate different properties.
RACETEC™ RR is available in K1, K2 and K3 compounds. Motorcyclists can easily distinguish one compound from the other thanks to the labels on the side and the coloured stripes on the tread.
K1 – SOFT in soft compound. It has a label on the side with K1 written in blue and a blue stripe on the tread
K2 – MEDIUM in a compound of medium hardness. It has a label on the side with K2 written in green and a green stripe on the tread
K3 – HARD is the harder compound. It is distinguished by a label on the side with K3 written in yellow and a yellow stripe on the tread
With regards to the rear solutions, the criteria for application is based on the severity of the asphalt, on the external temperatures and on the duration of the performance required.
For example, hot asphalt loses some of its natural mechanical grip becoming smoother and more slippery. In these conditions a soft compound (such as K1) is necessary, as it can penetrate the asphalt surface as much as possible.
Cold tarmac, on the other hand, tends to be more aggressive and rougher, offering more mechanical grip which, while on the one hand is an advantage, on the other hand can cause the tyre to rip and tear, which therefore needs a compound with more mechanical resistance (such as K2).
For the front solutions the criteria for which to use is based not only on outdoor temperature and track layout (many bends or long straights, etc.) but also on the rider’s aggressiveness/riding style which affects the front tyre.
In general, with regards to weather conditions, when the track temperature increases, the compound tends to lose its compactness and rigidity. This behaviour can cause movement problems in the ‘leaning’ stage. A more rigid compound such as K2 can reduce this effect.
Conversely, when the track is cold, the compound tends to become more rigid and this leads to a penalisation in regard to grip and stability while braking. In these conditions it is better to use a soft compound such as K1.
The K3 compound is dedicated to non-competitive use and can be used at any temperature, in any condition or abrasiveness of the asphalt, and is able to offer a significantly greater mileage.
Another distinctive feature of Road Racing is the presence of very long straights, where the bikes keep speeds above 300 kph for a long time. This situation typically generates a warming of the central section of the tyre that is in contact with the ground and a cooling on the sides. As a result, when entering the curve after a straight, the side may not be in the correct operating temperature and then be able to ensure the necessary grip. RACETEC™ RR uses a bi-compound rear solution with a “Cap and Base” structure in which the centre compound supports the lateral compound positioning in the substrate of the tread. While generating less heat, this centre compound is able to distribute it in the substrate and then heating the compound present on the sides.
With this solution, the longer the straight, the more time the central compound will be in contact, consequently warming the side sections, reaching and maintaining the operating temperature and ensuring perfect grip when dropping into the turn.
The tread pattern
The layout of the central longitudinal grooves is designed to have a compact tread in the central section to optimise straight line stability.
The position of the transverse grooves provides cornering grip in all road conditions while minimising the effects of wear.
The structure and the profiles
Stability is a key factor in road races. High speed straights trigger vibration through the bike which can affect performance.
The innovative carcass material used in the structure of the RACETEC™ RR elevates its lateral stiffness to minimize these problems.
In the case of a road circuit, its peculiarities represented by manholes, repair patches and jumps etc, can also create a sudden loss of adhesion.
The profiles of the crown and sides have been designed to absorb roughness and, at the same time, dampen the deformation of the impact without generating vibration.
The supersport tyre from the Italian brand does the double equipping the latest models presented by the Schiranna company, in 120/70 ZR17 front and 180/55 ZR17 and 200/50 ZR17 rear sizes
Confirming itself as the best choice for high-performance and the most exclusive motorcycles recently launched on the market, the DIABLO ROSSO™II continues its domination.
In fact the supersport tyre of the Pirelli range has been chosen by MV Agusta to equip the new Brutale 800 RR (120/70 ZR17 front and 180/55 ZR17 rear sizes) and the Brutale Dragster 800 RR (120/70 ZR17 front and 200/50 ZR17 rear).
In particular, the 200/50 ZR17 rear equipping the new Brutale Dragster 800 RR has been specially developed by Pirelli for this MV Agusta model.
DIABLO™ is the family of high performance motorcycle tyres from Pirelli. The DIABLO™ trademark was born in 2002, making its first entry into the supersport segment and then extending the range up to the present in many other market sectors. DIABLO™ can therefore boast over 10 years of history, experience, technology and victories both on track and in comparative tests produced by the leading motorcycle magazines.
DIABLO ROSSO™II is the supersport tyre for road use of the Rosso Generation. As a result of technologies developed by Pirelli in over ten years of participation in the FIM Superbike World Championship, DIABLO ROSSO™II brings to new horizons the sporty attributes of the Rosso Generation for road use. Developed for naked and supersport motorcycles that require high performance and crucially, riding safety in all conditions, from winding country roads to city traffic, on dry as well as wet surfaces.
DIABLO ROSSO™II adopts some of the cutting edge technologies from Pirelli:
• The EPT (Enhanced Patch Technology), a technology developed by Pirelli in the Superbike World Championship, it optimizes the contact patch for improved adhesion of the tyre to the asphalt, giving excellent grip
• The ICS (Ideal Contour Shaping), is the technology that enhances the grip and the power delivery of modern motorcycles perfectly shaping the profile of the tyre for unprecedented results in terms of stability and safety while leaning
• FGD (Functional Groove Design) contributes to improve the wear regularity and to further increase the contact surface with an improved sea/land ratio that increases the agility of riding and the transmission of the power to the ground.
The structure of DIABLO ROSSO™II has been designed to maximize the contact area at any angle and at all speeds, to support the tread and to gain sporty grip combined with excellent stability. All this was achieved with the EPT technology that ensures a more uniform distribution of stress and pressure over the entire contact area.
The profiles designed with the ICS technology, provide support in lean and confidence while exiting corners at full throttle.
Structure and profiles have been designed to allow the front and the rear tyres to work in sync with a balanced behaviour.
The 0° steel belt under the tread optimizes the shape and elasticity of the tyre thus ensuring the rider progressive feedback through the corner, a homogeneous behaviour and optimal ‘bump’ absorption. With the support of the compounds, the zero-degree steel belt ensures maximum braking stability.
Regarding the compounds, DIABLO ROSSO™II applies the Bi-Compound concept to the rear tyre optimizing mileage and grip. In the central area there are polymers that improve the hysteresis to provide a faster warm-up and high traction in straight acceleration.
On the external zone, the slick area contains a High Dispersion Carbon Black compound that provides an excellent grip at full lean and with any riding style.
Both compounds warm up quickly and reach the optimal temperature of use in a very short time, letting the rider feel confidence and grip from the very beginning. Finally, the compound of the front tyre provides regular wear combined with stability.
The tread pattern design of the DIABLO ROSSO™II uses the FGD technology: the grooves are positioned exactly where needed, leaving the slick area on the shoulders and at the centre to ensure high mileage and grip at lean.
DIABLO ROSSO™II is exclusively personalisable thanks to special adhesive labels that can be created on the Pirelli website and applied on both sides of the front and rear tyres. Each tyre creates an identity with which each rider may tell his story and his passion for two wheels.
Specially designed for the latest generation adventure touring and enduro street motorcycles, SCORPION ™ Trail II offers the best features offered by an off road product and those guaranteed by a sport touring tyre
SCORPION™ Trail II is the new ‘enduro street’ tyre from Pirelli, a direct successor of SCORPION™ Trail.
The new SCORPION™ Trail II is the synthesis of the meeting of two worlds: the field of off road competition and the road trip. Designed for the most demanding motorcyclists, it features key points of excellence; high mileage, consistency of performance for it’s entire tyre life and top notch wet behaviour.
SCORPION™ Trail II is the new Pirelli tyre specifically designed to meet the most demanding expectations of this market, with an aggressive tread pattern supported by strong technological innovations, giving good stability even at high speed, traction on dirt, handling, comfort and grip in all riding conditions.
The word SCORPION™ recalls immediately the range of Pirelli products intended for use in off-road competitions not only in the two-wheel world but also on four wheels. The products in the SCORPION™ line are present in offroad car racing competitions, in the Enduro and Cross Country Rally World Championships and in the Motocross World Championship in which the range of off-road Pirelli tyres has been the undisputed leader for over 30 years with 62 world titles gained. The enduro street market remains a segment where motorcyclists’ expectations are always high and where motorcycle manufacturers continue to invest in launching new uprated products every year.
Who is it aimed at?
Suitable for the lastest generation adventure touring and enduro street motorycles able to tackle even long journeys and excursions, with light off-road sections, the new SCORPION™ Trail II is a tyre with good road performance, yet capable of tackling unpaved surfaces. It is designed for motorcycles such as the Ducati Multistrada, Aprilia Caponord, BMW R 1200 GS, Triumph Tiger, KTM 1190 Adventure, Honda Crosstourer, Yamaha XT1200Z Super Ténéré, Kawasaki Versys and Suzuki V-Strom, models which are increasingly being purchased by riders strictly for use on the road but which, if necessary, may also face stretches of dirt and light off-road.
The enduro street segment
The enduro segment was born during the 80’s when BMW with its GS models began winning the most prestigious African rallies with motorcycles equipped with a 21″ front tyre. Gradually these bikes reached the road in long distance raids, and thus the evolution of use reached a parallel evolution of the size of the tyres they mounted: the rear wheels became larger, while the front shrank to 19″.
The revolution in the development of the segment arrived in 2000 when Ducati introduced in the market the new Multistrada, a bike made to take on winding mountain roads and for competitions such as Pikes Peak. As a privileged partner of Ducati and for the Multistrada, Pirelli created the SCORPION™ Sync, the first ‘knobbly’ looking street sport tyre in 120/70-17 and 180/55-17 sizes. Now, a decade later, Pirelli will once again be the leader of a revolution in this segment, thanks to the introduction of the SCORPION™ Trail range in the rear dual-compound 190/55-17 size that marked the dawn of a new generation of street enduro machines such as the new Ducati Multistrada 1200.
In recent years the enduro street segment has become one of the most important in the PTW market and Pirelli decided to develop tyres with more road performance, but with an off road look, with particular attention to the handling in different road conditions.
The tread pattern
The innovative tread pattern of SCORPION™ Trail II is the result of this famous Off road line enriched with the experience gained by Pirelli with the development of ANGEL™ GT, considered the reference tyre in the Sport Touring segment. The tread pattern of SCORPION™ Trail II therefore has an aggressive look typical of an off-road tyre, behind which there are class performances combining the features of an enduro product with those of a sport touring one.
The side grooves of the new SCORPION™ Trail II have been designed to ensure optimal drainage in case of rain, while the layout and “binary open” shape of the central ones not only contribute to the drainage of water but also ensure better traction, greater stability and more regular wear.
The compounds
Pirelli was the first company to introduce the bi-compound solution in some rear sizes of enduro street tyres with the SCORPION™ Trail. Today, the Italian tyre company is able to apply this technology to all of the rear tyres in the SCORPION™ Trail II range.
Compared to its predecessor, the new tyre has a wider central section which retains a compound developed for high mileage without compromising cornering performance, and especially developed to offer excellent wet behaviour.
The side compound was designed to optimize the balance between performance on dry and wet roads.
The profiles
The profiles of SCORPION™ Trail II are derived directly from those used for ANGEL™ GT, the winner of important sport touring tyre comparatives made by the most prestigious international magazines.
Thanks to a shorter, wider, contact patch area, the profile helps to reduce and level the wear of the tread, thus ensuring greater mileage. Still with the application of new profiles it has been possible to increase the handling which remains unchanged throughout the whole life of the product.
All of these factors benefit traction and give better machine control.
The structure
Thanks to the structure developed to enable the central and lateral compounds work optimally, the new SCORPION™ Trail II ensures high performance, even at full load or with heavier motorcycles. This provides improved wet performance than its predecessor and an incredible versatility, making it comfortable even for long trips and on winding roads and in case of adverse weather conditions.
The personalization
The new SCORPION™ Trail II has a dedicated area on the side to apply a custom label with a wide range of customization options to choose from in terms of fonts, colours, banners, logos and tracks. For more information: www.pirelli.com/personalise
THE METZELER VILLAGE WELCOMES BIKERS TO THE ISLE OF MAN TT FOR QUALITY CAMPING AND TO MEET TT RACING HEROES
Enhanced options for popular camping experience gives guests more facilities, plus a special METZELER TT racers evening
The well established METZELER Village offers much more for 2015, as guests can book all the essentials they need to add to an already high end experience, plus a special ‘TT Heroes’ night where Metzeler stars of the paddock make the short journey into the Village!
Located in the National Sports Centre at the outside of Quarterbridge corner, the Village is perfect for spectating, is near the race paddock/grandstand and just a few minutes walk from busy Douglas Promenade.
Competitively priced with a substantial discount for motorcyclists who arrive riding on Metzeler tyres, the facility boasts quality pre-pitched tents with airbeds and a lantern, excellent washing/shower facilities, secure motorcycle parking, a Wi-fi area, comfortable Chill-out zone with satellite TV and a phone charging service. Breakfasts and use of the pool/spa are all discounted for guests.
Understanding motorcyclists needs, METZELER has made it even easier to pre-plan with a new booking system which allows visitors to select any number of nights and pre-book discounted breakfasts, packed lunches and flasks for whilst out spectating, bus passes, sleeping bags, pillows and other essential requirements for TT week.
New for 2015 is a TT Heroes’ night as star METZELER riders will join the Village residents for an informal evening of racing chat and fun.
METZELER UK Manager Jim Worland, “The Metzeler Village enters its third year in 2015 and being motorcyclists ourselves we understand many TT visitors need a quality, convenient and affordable solution in a key location. Each year we tweak and refine the concept, not just making their stay more comfortable, but also making it easier to move around the island to enjoy the racing and nightlife. To cap it all, during TT2015 we will have an exclusive evening event just for our guests to meet top Metzeler TT riders at the Village, making their stay extra special.”
To find out more about the full range of tyres and activities from METZELER visit www.metzeler.co.uk and Facebook page (feel free to send in your news and views) at www.facebook.com/metzeleruk
At the International Motorcycle, Scooter and E-Bike Fair – held on October 1-5, 2014 in Cologne, Germany – the world’s largest tyre manufacturer will be presenting a full range of products, including three brand new additions to Bridgestone’s motorcycle family.
A tyre for every rider
Bridgestone will be presenting the full extent of its motorcycle ranges showcasing the variety of riding styles it caters to.
The test-winning(1) Battlax Hypersport S20 EVO will be presented, whose extended rear tyre wear life and improving handling and cornering grip at high camber angles makes it one of the top products on the market. The Battlax Racing V02 will also be shown on the booth. This tyre gives superbike riders faster lap times and longer tyre life thanks to Bridgestone’s latest MotoGP construction and compound technology. Also presented will be the Battlax BT45 touring bias, the low rolling resistance Battlax SC Ecopia for radial scooters, the Exedra Max for custom and the Battlecross X30 for motocross bikes.
New products
INTERMOT will also be the occasion for Bridgestone to showcase three brand new products. Indeed, on the stand you will be able to discover the latest additions to the Battlax range in the touring, racing and adventure segments. Make sure you don’t miss out on them!
Exceptional bikes
The booth will not only put the focus on tyres. Two exceptional bikes will also be displayed.
Proving that green doesn’t mean slow, the Saroléa SP7 electric superbike will be put forward on the Bridgestone booth. The agile electric machine shifts from 0 to 100 kph in 2.8 seconds, on its way to 250 kph at full throttle. To harness this power, Battlax V02 racing slicks were fitted to the bike and a technical partnership was struck up. The Saroléa superbike participated in the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy (IOM TT) in the electric race coming in 4th – a great feat considering it was the first time this bike was ridden to such an event!
The legendary Suzuki GSX-R Special edition will also be presented on the booth fitted with Battlax S20 EVO tyres).
Become a Bridgestone rider
Coming over to Bridgestone’s booth could also give you a chance to be selected as a test rider for Bridgestone and win a VR46 hoody!
So come on over to our booth (Hall 7.1, stand E030 F031), discover our range and enjoy the show
The new trademark draws a line of continuity with the past, but emphasises the value of freedom typical of the brand: as stated in the new slogan, METZELER is “SHARING INDEPENDENCE™”
Munich (Germany), July 17, 2014 – The METZELER brand, also known as “The two wheels specialist”, which has always been specialised in the production of tyres for motorcycles and mopeds, renews its positioning to make the role of the brand emotionally more immersive for the world of true bikers.
Since its foundation at the end of the nineteenth century, the METZELER brand combines its expertise and commitment to developing cutting-edge tyres that allow the riders to live true and fulfilling experiences. The machines are the only interest and objective of the brand that has accompanied generations of riders all over the world.
The strength of METZELER has always been to be an integral part of the bikers community sharing the distinctive values and codes of conduct: individualism within a community, whilst respecting the freedom of unwritten rules.
In fact, the freedom and the spirit of independence that unites bikers are the key values underpinning the new positioning of METZELER: motorcycle riding embodies spirit of independence and shared values within a group, hence also the new slogan “SHARING INDEPENDENCE™”.
The new brand positioning underlines METZELER’s point of strength; that it is not simply the choice of a ‘bike owner’ but the natural choice of true biking enthusiasts. METZELER caters to the community of bikers who are looking for high performance and reliable tyres capable of providing a fulfilling riding experience in any condition or situation.
The logo has been revised in line with the new positioning. As in the past, the logo consists of a word mark, METZELER, and a figurative mark, the elephant that since 1905 is the symbol of METZELER and represents an element of uniqueness, strength and reliability perfectly in line with the brand values. The new logo gets rid of the blue rectangle background that framed it, now welcoming the new slogan and seeing a modified blue of the existing Pantone, now of a darker shade to enhance more elegance.
The logo, however, is only the visible part of the work done in the last year that has affected all aspects of the brand of Germanic origins.
Leveraging on its technological innovation, also the range of METZELER tyres has been heavily renovated in the last few months in all segments with particular attention to the performance in wet conditions: ROADTEC™ Z8 Interact in sport-touring, TOURANCE™ Next for enduro street, KAROO™ 3 in enduro on/off, ME888 MARATHON™ Ultra dedicated to the world of custom and SPORTEC™ M7 RR for supersport are some of the latest products launched on the market. Many of these tyres have often have been winners of the comparative tests carried out by the most prestigious international motorcycle magazines, as evidence of their superior qualities.
METZELER has always been a pioneer and extremely active on the web: the corporate website has been completely redesigned, and now is innovative and integrates the activities of the brand into social media helping user interaction. .Also important is the development and presence in the social world where METZELER can boast an established presence on the major social networks: on Facebook, with a page appreciated by more than 260,000 users, on Twitter with more than 2,700 followers, as well as on Instagram and Youtube.
The natural vocation of the brand METZELER to continually renew and give itself a challenge results as well in the major commitment in Competition: in addition to the Enduro World Championship which METZELER has dominated unrivalled for almost 10 years, since last year the brand has returned as well to invest considerably in road racing and rally activities, with participation in the most important road races such as the Tourist Trophy, the Ulster Grand Prix, the North West 200 and the Macau Motorcycle Grand Prix plus, along with the Honda HRC team, to the legendary Dakar.
Test the new METZELER SPORTEC™ M7 RR tyres to enter this exciting competition
Buyers of the all new METZELER SPORTEC™ M7 RR tyres can now evaluate them as a METZELER TEST RIDER and win an all expenses trip to the famous EICMA Motorcycle Show in Milan, with the real METZELER test team!
The ‘Buy and Win’ competition gives riders a chance to share their experiences of these superb new tyres, which offer outstanding handling on even the worst surfaces and in all conditions, perfect for UK roads. The tyres have been developed through International road racing activities in the Isle of Man, North West 200 and the ‘World’s Fastest Road Race’; the METZELER backed Ulster GP. Impressing many journalists in road tests, the M7 RR has also been judged ‘best Supersport tyre’ by the respected Motorrad magazine.
The lucky winner, plus a guest, will be given an exclusive invitation (including all travel expenses), as a METZELER guest of honour for EICMA 2014 (6th to 9th of November). As well as witnessing all the new motorcycle launches at the Show, METZELER will host a special Test Rider Workshop with members of the METZELER testing staff.
To qualify, riders need to buy a set of SPORTEC™ M7 RR tyres before September 15, retaining proof of purchase (receipt or invoice) and register via the website or Facebook® app to the METZELER TEST RIDER contest. Entrants have to insert a photo of the receipt as proof of the purchase of the product and leave a brief evaluation.
To find out more about the full range of tyres and activities from METZELER visit www.metzeler.co.uk and Facebook page (feel free to send in your news and views) at www.facebook.com/metzeleruk
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