Metzeler ROADTEC 02: two tyres in one thanks to the tread that adapts to the motorcyclist’s riding style.
The new Metzeler ROADTEC 02 tyre, now available to the public, introduces a new technology that allows you to benefit from the behaviour of two different tyres in a single tyre. The Adaptive Tread Design adapts the geometry of the grooves based on the motorcyclist’s riding style, thus varying the surface in contact with the asphalt and consequently the behaviour of the tyre, from Sport-Touring to Supersport. Almost a new category of tyre, the “Super-Sport Touring”, allows a much wider range of performance depending on the riding style.
When the motorcyclist has a touring riding style, or in wet conditions, the long grooves of the tread pattern favor the evacuation of water and the correct mobility of the tread compound, helping to offer quick warm-up, comfort and grip. In other words, the qualities and behaviour typical of a Sport-Touring tyre.
However, when a sportier riding style is preferred – in dry conditions, greater load transfers and lateral thrusts cause part of the grooves to close, thus increasing the compactness and stability of the tread band. This allows you to make the most of the grip qualities of the compound, improving riding precision and modifying its behaviour, to become close to that of a supersport tyre.
The front and rear tyres have been designed with the same tread pattern to ensure the same adaptive behaviour on both axles.
The tread pattern of the new ROADTEC 02 tyre, compared to its predecessor ROADTEC 01 SE, increases the full/empty land/sea ratio, thus increasing the footprint and making it more uniform as the lean angle varies, so as to guarantee a smoother and more precise ride. Furthermore, a smaller presence of grooves leads to fewer interruptions on the tread band, to the benefit of acoustic comfort (less road noise).
The rear tyres are dual-compound to combine stability at high speeds with grip when leaning also on wet surfaces, the latter also achieved thanks to the new generation of 100% silica-based compounds, both for the front and rear, which optimise the chemical grip on wet roads.
ROADTEC 02 will make its official debut at the MBE Motor Bike Expo, scheduled from 19 to 21 January in Verona, where the new tyre will be among the protagonists of the Metzeler exhibition area set up in booth 19 of pavilion 4.
Metzeler ROADTEC 02 tyres are available in the following sizes:
For more Metzeler Tyre news check out our dedicated page Metzeler Tyres
The original equipment Tourance Next 2 tyres are designed mainly for road use while the optional fitment Karoo 4 tyres are aimed at off-road enthusiasts.
Metzeler delivers the original tyres for the new BMW R 1300 GS, recently unveiled to the public.
In the sizes 120/70 R19 front and 170/60 R17 rear, Metzeler Tourance Next 2 tyres were selected as original equipment for all versions of the R 1300 GS, besides the basic model also for the variants Trophy, Triple Black and Option 719 Tramuntana, while Metzeler Karoo 4 tyres are offered as an optional fitment upon request.
The new BMW R 1300 GS, equipped with Metzeler Tourance Next 2 and Karoo 4 tyres, has already been successfully tested both on and off road by journalists invited to the international press launch, which took place in October in Malaga (where Metzeler was a technical partner). Over the test, held in the south of the Iberian Peninsula, the presentation is underway to BMW Motorrad dealers from all over the world who, in turn, will be able to appreciate the excellent combination between the new motorcycle from BMW and Metzeler tyres.
BMW’s decision to again use Metzeler tyres as original equipment for the new R 1300 GS is confirmation of the solid and long-lasting relationship between the two brands and proof of how important the choice of tyres is to influence the behaviour of a motorcycle,
The original equipment Tourance Next 2 tyres, in B specification specifically designed for the new BMW R 1300 GS, guarantee a new level of performance in the adventure segment and have been designed for all motorcyclists who use the motorbike for long journeys or weekend excursions, alone or with a passenger, and who require peak performance combined with comfort and predictable behaviour.
Tourance Next 2 in fact offers easy handling and a sensation of control at every turn, thanks to the neutral behaviour guaranteed by the radial structure with its 0° steel belt, an immediate response to braking on wet surfaces, even at low temperatures, high and long-lasting performance throughout the tyre life cycle and comfort and safety at the highest levels with or without a passenger or luggage.
For those who want to push the boundaries of their adventure with the BMW R 1300 GS even further off-road, there are Karoo 4 tyres, available as optional equipment.
These multi-purpose tyres are able to offer exemplary off-road traction, even in the deepest mud, while delivering excellent resistance to abrasion, cuts and tears. Furthermore, they boast great handling on the road, regardless of load, and very good wet performance thanks also to the ability to interact very well with the riding aid systems.
In addition to the new R 1300 GS, Metzeler also delivers the tyres for the new F 900 GS and F 900 GS Adventure, equipped with Tourance Next 2 or Karoo 4 as optional fitment. Other BMW models that already fit Metzeler tyres are the R 1250 GS (with Karoo 3), the G 310 GS (with Tourance), the R 1250 RT (with Roadtec Z8 M/C), the R 1250 R and RS (with Roadtec 01), the R 18 Roctane (with ME 888 Marathon Ultra) and the K 1600 B, Grand America, GT and GTL (all with Roadtec 01).
For more Metzeler Tyre news check out our dedicated page Metzeler Tyres
By introducing a full new range of motorcycle tyres in 2024, available for riders from January, Michelin will accomplish a major technical evolution.
The first three new products will be unveiled at the EICMA trade show, Milan, Italy from 7 to 12 November. The new tyres equip many of the motorcycles presented and will also be on display in the Michelin space in Hall 22.
With 130 years of history in developing 2-wheel tyres -the first MICHELIN tyre ever made was designed for a bike- and more than 500 wins in the FIM World Championships, Michelin benefits from a vast and unique know-how. Slick tyres, radial tyres, asymmetrical tyres: In the last 50 years, Michelin has always been the driving force behind innovation.
Nowadays, MICHELIN motorcycle tyres are fully recognised by customers and media to deliver the best all-round performance in all riding conditions. MICHELIN is also the first trusted tyre brand by consumers in the majority of countries(5). Over the past years, the MICHELIN Power and MICHELIN Anakee ranges have been homologated by premium manufacturers such as BMW Motorrad, Triumph, KTM and Honda along with many others.
MICHELIN Power 6: the everyday tyre combining fun and sportiness
The MICHELIN Power 6 tyre is aimed at a wide spectrum of sports motorcycle users: for those who are looking for sportiness and pure riding pleasure, this new tyre will be the new MICHELIN reference.
Beyond sport performance, this new MICHELIN tyre keeps an eye on mileage for the daily riders or those who travel long distances on motorcycle trips. The grip in dry and wet conditions, but also its handling and sportiness, make this tyre a suitable answer to the demands of motorcyclists. Available in a wide range of sizes, this tyre is suitable for motorcycles over 300cc, and it has already been homologated on the new 2024 KTM 390 Duke.
MICHELIN Power GP 2: the master of racetracks is homologated for the road
Destined for the track, the MICHELIN Power GP 2 is homologated for the road. Aimed at owners of super sports bikes, this evolution of the MICHELIN Power GP tyre enters a new dimension. The new tyre delivers an even higher level of grip on wet or dry surfaces than its predecessor(2), which was already a leading tyre in this category. Thanks to its level of riding precision, it amplifies the track experience allowing the most experienced riders to push their limits on the track. Designed by the same team of engineers and using the same development tools as those used for MotoGP™ tyres, the new MICHELIN Power GP 2 benefits from the experience gained by Michelin over the course of its 500 victories in the FIM World Championship.
MICHELIN Anakee Road: “MICHELIN road performance”, with a specific trail look
The MICHELIN Anakee Road is designed to complement the Anakee range, which boasts other patterns for more aggressive off-road usage – Anakee Wild and Anakee Adventure. As trail bikes are very versatile, their range of use is just as wide. In fact, the new MICHELIN Anakee Road aims motorcyclists who prefer the road to off-road, riding their bike for long road trips as well as for everyday travel. This new tyre provides high levels of grip in dry and wet conditions(3), a long service life(4) and good stability. The bikes in this segment have become lighter over the generations but are still an imposing size and look. Michelin designed the new Anakee Road to be in harmony with the style of these bikes.
Agostino Mazzocchi, Vice President B2C Sales for Michelin Europe North region:
“Innovation is at the heart of Michelin’s strategy. We constantly invest in the evolution of our motorcycle tyre ranges in order to always be the reference in the field for both riders and OEMs. After challenging market conditions in 2023, we have a strong conviction that motorcyclists are eager to return to road and track. We have worked closely with motorcycle manufacturers to ensure that MICHELIN tyres, thanks to their performance, contribute to the riding pleasure of every rider and meet the specificities of the new motorcycle models presented at the EICMA show. As a result, we are immensely proud of the development team who have designed these three new products unveiled at the end of the year. Many new tyres for different market segments will be unveiled during 2024, all around the world: MICHELIN Power 6, Power GP 2 and Anakee Road are just the beginning of the Michelin’s technical revolution!”
The new Michelin tyres will be available for retailers to order from November 2023 and will be sold to customers from January. Press tests will be held in early 2024. All the information on the sizes, benefits and technologies integrated into the new MICHELIN tyres will be provided at this occasion.
(1) DRY: In-house comparisons of the MICHELIN Power 5 tyre and MICHELIN Power 6 tyre ranges conducted at Ladoux tracks: 05/17/2023 and 06/15/2023, tyre dimensions: 120/70 ZR 17 and 190/55 ZR 17, on a BMW S1000RR.
WET: In-house comparisons of the MICHELIN Power 5 tyre and MICHELIN Power 6 tyre ranges conducted at Ladoux on Wet track: 04/13/2023, tyre dimensions: 120/70 ZR 17 and 190/55 ZR 17, on a BMW S1000R.
(2) DRY: In-house comparisons of the MICHELIN Power GP tyre and MICHELIN Power GP 2 tyre ranges conducted at Ladoux tracks: 06/06/2023 and 06/08/2023, tyre dimensions: 120/70 ZR 17 and 190/55 ZR 17, on a BMW S1000RR.
WET: In-house comparisons of the MICHELIN Power GP tyre and MICHELIN Power GP 2 tyre ranges conducted at Ladoux on a Wet track: 04/11/2023, tyre dimensions: 120/70 ZR 17 and 190/55 ZR 17, on a BMW S1000R.
(3) In-house comparisons of the MICHELIN Anakee III tyre and MICHELIN Anakee Road tyre ranges conducted at Ladoux track: wet performance 05/17/2023, dry performance 07/21/2023, tyre dimensions: 120/70 R 19 and 170/60 R 17, on a BMW 1250 GS.
(4) Longevity independent test on open-road with MICHELIN Anakee III tyre and MICHELIN Anakee Road tyre ranges made by DEKRA Narbonne: from 11/10/2022 to 12/22/2022, tyre dimensions: 120/70 R 19 and 170/60 R 17, on a BMW 1250 GS.
(5) Source: Brand & Communication Monitoring. Study realised by Kantar in 2022 on Michelin’s request. Michelin ranked first in 10 out of 15 countries where the question was asked (Canada, China, France, Italy, Poland, Romania, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, UK). Michelin has an average rating of 4.68/5 (23,237 reviews) on its tyres.
Metzeler will be the sole Official Tyre of the most iconic motorcycle road race until 2027.
The Metzeler tyre brand has been selected by the Department for Enterprise of theIsle of Man as Official Tyre with a sponsorship contract for the TT Races for the five-year period 2023-2027.
Paul Phillips, Head of Motorsport – Isle of Man Department for Enterprise “Metzeler are a welcome addition to the line-up of official sponsoring brands for this year’s Isle of Man TT Races. Our commercial objective is to work collaboratively with our Official partners to add value to the TT experience for everyone involved in the event. Metzeler is already integrally associated with the TT and is the tyre of choice for many teams competing in the event, with a proven performance track record. We are sure that this will be a successful partnership that will grow in strength over the years to come.” Francesco Pietrangeli, Motorcycle Marketing Director Metzeler brand “The Isle of Man TT is one of the oldest and best known motorcycle races in the world and has a unique and timeless appeal. Metzeler tyres have been involved in Road Racing for some time and over the years have contributed to the successes of many riders by supporting them and making our RACETEC RR tyres available to them. We are very delighted with the agreement which represents the natural evolution of our commitment to Road Racing and it is also the best way to celebrate the 160th anniversary of the birth of our brand”.
The Tourist Trophy has been run since 1907 on the road circuit of the Snaefell Mountain Course, a 60.720 km track on the Isle of Man. Over the years it has become an iconic competition characterised by charm, tradition, glory, passion and adrenaline, values also shared by those choosing Metzeler tyres, a brand that boasts a history of over a century and a half full of motorsport successes and technology.
The Metzeler RACETEC RR tyres already used by the riders have been developed thanks to Metzeler’s experience in Road Racing competitions which, as is known, do not take place on circuits but on roads which are open to the public throughout the year and where all the situations that any motorcyclist may have to face on a daily basis can be found. And it is precisely for this reason that road racing has always been the testing and development ground for Metzeler tyres. Thanks to its participation in Road Racing activities and to the acquired know-how, Metzeler tyre range has enriched by giving life to successful tyres, not least the sporty SPORTEC M9 RR.
For more Metzeler Tyre news check out our dedicated page Metzeler Tyres
The Metzeler Custom Tour will kick off with MBE Motor Bike Expo in Verona at the end of January and then stop at some of the most iconic European motorcycle rallies with the aim of introducing enthusiasts to a tyre range dedicated to the custom world.
This year the Metzeler brand has organised a seven-stage tour that crosses Europe with the aim to get closer to the enthusiasts of the custom world and introducing them to the Metzeler tyre range designed for these motorcycles.
The Metzeler Custom Tour, the name of the initiative, will start from MBE Motor Bike Expo in Verona over the weekend and end with Wheels & Waves at Lido di Camaiore in October, stopping off at some of the most famous and iconic European motorcycle rallies. These also include the Harley-Davidson European 120th Anniversary celebration in Budapest, to celebrate the 120 years of the Milwaukee-based company, and European Bike Week, Europe’s largest motorcycle gathering.
The German tyre brand and two-wheels specialist will be present in all these events with a booth entirely dedicated to Cruisetec and ME 888 Marathon Ultra, tyres designed for the latest generation of cruisers. Furthermore, on the occasion of Hamburg Harley Days, Harley-Davidson European 120th Anniversary celebration and European Bike Week, in addition to offering a free tyre pressure check-up service, motorcyclists will be able to buy (and have fitted) Metzeler tyres during the rally, thanks to the service present on site. Other initiatives that Metzeler will promote in each of these motorcycle rallies will be communicated shortly.
This is the calendar of the Metzeler Custom Tour stages:
MBE Motor Bike Expo – Verona, Italy, 27-29 January
Warsaw Motorcycle Show – Warsaw, Poland, 10-12 March
Hamburg Harley Days – Hamburg, Germany, 19-21 May
Wheels & Waves – Biarritz, France, 21-25 June
HD European 120th Anniversary Celebration – Budapest, Hungary, 22-25 June
European Bike Week – Faak am See, Austria, 5-10 September
Wheels & Waves – Lido di Camaiore, Italy, TBD October
Cruisetec are a new generation of tyres, designed specifically for V-Twin motorcycles, that guarantee easy handling and cornering grip, thanks to an innovative carcass and a tread compound that ensures optimal grip. They give superior performance with uniform wear and good response to changes in direction. ME 888 Marathon Ultra tyres give enhanced riding enjoyment and high mileage. The innovative structure and tread pattern, with its transverse grooves, extend the life of the tyre and ensure excellent performance also in the wet. The Whitewall version of the ME 888 Marathon White Wall stands out for its classic style that enhances the look of cruiser and custom motorbikes.
For more Metzeler Tyre news check out our dedicated page Metzeler Tyres
The MCE 6 Days Extreme product line for enduro competition is enriched with the addition of a new rear specification in 140/80–18 size designed for the most difficult technical sections and harshest terrain.
MCE 6 Days Extreme, Metzeler’s family of tyres designed for enduro competitions, expands with the introduction of the new Extra Soft rear specification specially developed for extreme enduro races.
The new MCE 6 Days Extreme Extra Soft rear, in 140/80–18 70M NHS size, is a specialist tyre suitable for one-day competitions and special stages. It features a tread compound designed to guarantee maximum performance in extreme conditions from both a technical and environmental point of view, therefore effective even in very low temperatures. Thanks to the high level of grip, the Extra Soft allows riders to tackle even the most difficult obstacles and to restart easily even from a standstill, in the absence of a run-up. Furthermore, the very consistent overall deformation of the carcass guarantees a good level of comfort and makes it an easy tyre to use, even for less experienced riders.
The Extra Soft specification, which visually stands out from the rest of the range due to the presence of three parallel white stripes on the tread, features a new layout of the knobs to ensure optimal performance even at high lean angles, less wear and greater resistance to fatigue. These characteristics are very important in extreme enduro competitions in which the tyre is subjected to cyclical and multidirectional deformations. The compound is also completely new, based on 100% Carbon Black and highly resilient, which means it is capable of absorbing deformation energy. It also has a very wide range of use: working even in very cold temperatures.
The Extra Soft completes the Metzeler range for enduro competitions, a discipline that has involved the German brand since the first decades of the last century. Developed together with the best riders and teams of the FIM Enduro and FIM Hard Enduro World Championships such as KTM, GAS GAS and Honda, the MCE 6 Days Extreme tyres have written pages of history in the most important enduro competitions and are chosen as original equipment by the best manufacturers for their off-road models.
Although they were designed for Enduro and Extreme Enduro World Championship riders, the MCE 6 Days Extreme tyres are also suitable for enthusiasts of the discipline who want to equip their motorcycles with high-performance tyres that make traction, versatility and resistance of the knobs their strengths.
The range of MCE 6 Days Extreme tyres includes a wide variety of specifications designed for different enduro applications and which allow riders to find the most suitable solutions for their needs. The front tyre is available in different sizes and in three versions: standard, soft and super soft. The rear is available in nine sizes divided between five different versions: standard, medium, soft, super soft and the new extra soft.
For more Metzeler Tyre news check out our dedicated page Metzeler Tyres
Metzeler presents the new Karoo 4, the knobbly tyre for adventure and maxi enduro motorcycles.
The new KAROO 4 enhances the know-how of the two-wheel focused brand to reach a new level of performance in the maxi enduro segment. Available from March 2022, it will replace the current KAROO 3.
Successor of the award-winning KAROO 3, KAROO 4 represents the latest generation of the METZELER product family: a knobbly tyre intended for the equipment of adventure and maxi enduro motorcycles, designed for on/off use.
The new KAROO 4 enhances even the most cutting edge, latest medium and large displacement enduro motorcycles that travel both on asphalt and off-road, working in tune with the most advanced rider aid systems. KAROO 4 is a highly versatile product that gives, compared to its predecessor KAROO 3, a significant improvement in off-road and on-road wet performance, even when fully loaded.
Who is KAROO 4 designed for?
METZELER KAROO 4 is the ideal choice for:
Owners of adventure motorcycles, riders who use their motorcycles for journeys 50% on-road 50% off-road, looking for experiences without limits. They seek reliability and performance in different weather conditions, stability even at full load and mileage.
Motorcyclists who want to test their skills and their bike’s capabilities, they value off-road performance in a tyre.
Owners of ‘scrambler’ style machines, who require an aggressive knobbly look without sacrificing on-road performance, with particular reference to handling and safety in the wet.
The benefits of KAROO 4
The main benefits of KAROO 4 are:
Exemplary off-road traction, thanks to the patented tread design.
Significant on-road handling even at full load, thanks to the profile featuring METZELER MRC[1] technology that improves line holding despite the ‘knobs’.
Extreme abrasion, cut and tearing resistance, thanks to the carbon black based compounds and footprint area optimisation.
Top wet performance and integration with rider aids. The combination of the technologies featured in KAROO 4 allows riders to safely manage different weather conditions and road surfaces, including in case of emergency braking.
THE TYRE IN DETAIL The tread pattern KAROO 4 features a revolutionary patented tread design, which raises the tyre’s all-round performance levels on both asphalt and on different types of off-road terrain.
As for the on–road performance, METZELER engineers worked to improve in particular the overall handling and wet behaviour, developing a knobbly pattern that allows you to safely tackle certain lean angles even in wet conditions. In the off-road field, KAROO 4 increases the performance level especially on very soft surfaces, such as sand, mud and clay.
The KAROO 4 tread pattern features these main characteristics: – Patented design DETRATEC™, composed of central spoon-shaped knobs, which are separated from the side knobs by a wavy longitudinal groove. The combination of these three elements has a dual function: at first it traps the terrain between the knobs to generate lateral thrust and secondly, it releases it thanks to self-cleaning properties.
– Multi-pitch design. The groups of knobs are repeated with an irregular cadence to mitigate the impact of the tread against the asphalt and improve rolling smoothness;
– Optimised footprint area that includes a greater number of knobs in the contact patch, compared to KAROO 3, to improve road handling and integration with electronic rider aids;
– Patented DYMATEC™ technology, a design methodology that preserve the functional geometries of the knobs and the tyre performance over time. In details, this technology features variable groove wall angles depending on their position along the tread band to maximise tread pattern solidity and wear uniformity.
The tread compound The front tyre of KAROO 4 is a single compound. The radial sizes feature a carbon black compound with extreme resistance to abrasion, a direct evolution of what was used for KAROO 3. For cross-ply sizes, the engineers of the METZELER brand developed a new compound with the aim of reaching a wider operating range and greater adhesion to surfaces.
The rear radial sizes are bi-compound:
– The central compound is 100% carbon black, with remarkable abrasion resistance;
– The shoulder compound has an 80% carbon black and 20% silica formulation, to ensure thermal stability even under stress.
The profile
KAROO 4 adopt the METZELER MRC[2] technology, which features different profiles from the central band to the shoulder area. This increases ease of handling, improves traction and stability, even under full load. In the rear sizes, with a shorter and wider contact area compared to its predecessor, the profile of the KAROO 4 helps to reduce and even out tread wear for greater mileage. The structure
KAROO 4 features lighter construction schemes than its predecessor. In particular radial sizes, thanks to the use of the zero-degree steel belt with INTERACT variable tension technology, guarantee a gradual riding response and a solid feeling of control. The range
KAROO 4 will be available in the following sizes starting from March 2022:
Front
19” 100/90-19 TL 57Q M+S
19” 110/80 R 19 TL 59Q M+S
19” 120/70 R 19 TL 60Q M+S
21” 90/90-21 TL 54Q M+S
Rear
17” 130/80 R 17 TL 65Q M+S
17” 140/80 R 17 TL 69Q M+S
17” 150/70 R 17 TL 69Q M+S
17” 170/60 R 17 TL 72Q M+S
18” 140/80 – 18 TL 70Q M+S
18” 150/70 R 18 TL 70Q M+S
Metzeler presents the new Karoo 4, the knobbly tyre for adventure and maxi enduro motorcycles.
The new KAROO 4 enhances the know-how of the two-wheel focused brand to reach a new level of performance in the maxi enduro segment. Available from March 2022, it will replace the current KAROO 3.
Successor of the award-winning KAROO 3, KAROO 4 represents the latest generation of the METZELER product family: a knobbly tyre intended for the equipment of adventure and maxi enduro motorcycles, designed for on/off use.
The new KAROO 4 enhances even the most cutting edge, latest medium and large displacement enduro motorcycles that travel both on asphalt and off-road, working in tune with the most advanced rider aid systems. KAROO 4 is a highly versatile product that gives, compared to its predecessor KAROO 3, a significant improvement in off-road and on-road wet performance, even when fully loaded.
Who is KAROO 4 designed for?
METZELER KAROO 4 is the ideal choice for:
Owners of adventure motorcycles, riders who use their motorcycles for journeys 50% on-road 50% off-road, looking for experiences without limits. They seek reliability and performance in different weather conditions, stability even at full load and mileage.
Motorcyclists who want to test their skills and their bike’s capabilities, they value off-road performance in a tyre.
Owners of ‘scrambler’ style machines, who require an aggressive knobbly look without sacrificing on-road performance, with particular reference to handling and safety in the wet.
The benefits of KAROO 4
The main benefits of KAROO 4 are:
Exemplary off-road traction, thanks to the patented tread design.
Significant on-road handling even at full load, thanks to the profile featuring METZELER MRC[1] technology that improves line holding despite the ‘knobs’.
Extreme abrasion, cut and tearing resistance, thanks to the carbon black based compounds and footprint area optimisation.
Top wet performance and integration with rider aids. The combination of the technologies featured in KAROO 4 allows riders to safely manage different weather conditions and road surfaces, including in case of emergency braking.
THE TYRE IN DETAIL The tread pattern KAROO 4 features a revolutionary patented tread design, which raises the tyre’s all-round performance levels on both asphalt and on different types of off-road terrain.
As for the on–road performance, METZELER engineers worked to improve in particular the overall handling and wet behaviour, developing a knobbly pattern that allows you to safely tackle certain lean angles even in wet conditions. In the off-road field, KAROO 4 increases the performance level especially on very soft surfaces, such as sand, mud and clay.
The KAROO 4 tread pattern features these main characteristics: – Patented design DETRATEC™, composed of central spoon-shaped knobs, which are separated from the side knobs by a wavy longitudinal groove. The combination of these three elements has a dual function: at first it traps the terrain between the knobs to generate lateral thrust and secondly, it releases it thanks to self-cleaning properties.
– Multi-pitch design. The groups of knobs are repeated with an irregular cadence to mitigate the impact of the tread against the asphalt and improve rolling smoothness;
– Optimised footprint area that includes a greater number of knobs in the contact patch, compared to KAROO 3, to improve road handling and integration with electronic rider aids;
– Patented DYMATEC™ technology, a design methodology that preserve the functional geometries of the knobs and the tyre performance over time. In details, this technology features variable groove wall angles depending on their position along the tread band to maximise tread pattern solidity and wear uniformity.
The tread compound The front tyre of KAROO 4 is a single compound. The radial sizes feature a carbon black compound with extreme resistance to abrasion, a direct evolution of what was used for KAROO 3. For cross-ply sizes, the engineers of the METZELER brand developed a new compound with the aim of reaching a wider operating range and greater adhesion to surfaces.
The rear radial sizes are bi-compound:
– The central compound is 100% carbon black, with remarkable abrasion resistance;
– The shoulder compound has an 80% carbon black and 20% silica formulation, to ensure thermal stability even under stress.
The profile
KAROO 4 adopt the METZELER MRC[2] technology, which features different profiles from the central band to the shoulder area. This increases ease of handling, improves traction and stability, even under full load. In the rear sizes, with a shorter and wider contact area compared to its predecessor, the profile of the KAROO 4 helps to reduce and even out tread wear for greater mileage. The structure
KAROO 4 features lighter construction schemes than its predecessor. In particular radial sizes, thanks to the use of the zero-degree steel belt with INTERACT variable tension technology, guarantee a gradual riding response and a solid feeling of control. The range
KAROO 4 will be available in the following sizes starting from March 2022:
Front
19” 100/90-19 TL 57Q M+S
19” 110/80 R 19 TL 59Q M+S
19” 120/70 R 19 TL 60Q M+S
21” 90/90-21 TL 54Q M+S
Rear
17” 130/80 R 17 TL 65Q M+S
17” 140/80 R 17 TL 69Q M+S
17” 150/70 R 17 TL 69Q M+S
17” 170/60 R 17 TL 72Q M+S
18” 140/80 – 18 TL 70Q M+S
18” 150/70 R 18 TL 70Q M+S
Available from January 2022, METZELER TOURANCE NEXT 2 enhances the know-how of the two-wheel focused brand to reach a new level of performance in the adventure segment.
The new KAROO 4, is a tyre designed to equip adventure and maxi enduro motorcycles, thanks to a mix of cutting-edge technologies and processes, taking riders to the boundaries of adventouring
New sizes dedicated to adventure bikes enlarge the range of supersports tyres SPORTEC M9 RR and sport touring tyres ROADTEC 01 SE
The two-wheel focused brand strengthens the METZELER range dedicated to the on/off segment with the introduction of brand new products, to offer adventure enthusiasts a bespoke tyre for any need. The new TOURANCE Next 2, fourth generation of the TOURANCE family, and KAROO 4 tyres represent the main news by METZELER for the on/off segment, both specifically developed for the latest generation of adventure and maxi enduro bikes.
Who is TOURANCE Next 2 designed for? TOURANCE Next 2 guarantees a new level of performance in the adventure segment and it was developed for riders riding their motorcycles both for long journeys and out-of-town excursions, alone or with a passenger, who are looking for top performance combined with riding comfort and durability.
Features and benefits of TOURANCE Next 2
The main benefits of TOURANCE Next 2 are:
Accurate control at any lean angle, leading to an agile and neutral behaviour of the motorcycle thanks to the radial structure with zero degrees steel belt and INTERACT technology;
Top response in wet and braking conditions. The innovative formulation of the compounds with liquid polymers and their arrangement, which uses METZELER HYPERBASE technology, make TOURANCE Next 2 the new reference tyre in terms of braking and wet performance, guaranteeing braking distances 1.5m shorter than its predecessor TOURANCE Next[1];
Immediate and lasting performance. The evolution of the legendary TOURANCE Next has been enhanced by new compounds and the METZELER DYMATEC technology applied to the tread pattern. This involves a particular design methodology to preserve the functional geometries of the grooves and consequently the tyre performance over time;
Comfort and safety even when fully loaded. The combination of tread pattern, structures and adaptive compounds make the motorcycle extremely comfortable and manageable, regardless of the presence of a passenger or luggage.
THE TYRE IN DETAIL
Tread pattern
TOURANCE Next 2 features tread pattern traits of the pi – π – which in addition to being distinctive of the METZELER brand, also has a specific functional reason.
The longitudinal grooves in the central part of the tread, which make up the upper part of the pi, are interrupted by other grooves in order to ensure greater stability of the compound and consequently a uniform wear. Likewise, these grooves improve lateral thrust for high-end off-road performance.
The patented DYMATEC technology has been applied to the tread pattern, which involves a design methodology specifically designed to preserve the functional geometries of the compound blocks and consequently tyre performance over time. Thanks to DYMATEC, Dynamic Mould Angle Technology, the position of the groove along the tread width, and consequently the different lean angle in which it is involved, determines the specific angle of its the walls, in order to better manage the dynamic stresses typical of on/off riding and ensure maximum wear uniformity.
Another important feature of the front tyre is the irregular repetition of the tread pattern(Multi-Pitch Knob Layout), a technology that places blocks of compound of different sizes in contact with the asphalt, to ensure smooth rolling and a high acoustic comfort level.
Tread Compound
On the front, METZELER introduces an innovative high-silica compound (85%) containing functionalized polymers (SBR) which enhance its wet grip characteristics and stability, allowing a reduction of the braking distance by more than 10%[2] and full stability under different load conditions.
As for the TOURANCE Next 2 rear sizes, the central strip replicates the same compound as the front, while the shoulder areas are full-silica and formulated for wet performance and grip while leaning. Some sizes feature the arrangement of the tread compounds according to the Cap&Base scheme, while others use the patented Hyperbase formula.
According to the Cap&Base scheme, the shoulder areas in soft compound, which ensure grip when cornering, are layered on a harder compound base that ensures consistency in performance and thermal balance.
With the Hyperbase scheme, both shoulder areas and the central compound strip are supported by a base formulated with a specific full-carbon-black compound, oriented towards dynamic and thermal stability.
TOURANCE Next 2 range
The new TOURANCE Next 2 will progressively be available in the following sizes starting from January 2022:
Front
19” 100/90 – 19 M/C 57V TL
19” 110/80 R 19 M/C 59V TL
19” 120/70 R 19 M/C 60V TL
19” 120/70 ZR 19 M/C 60W TL
21” 90/90 – 21 M/C 54V TL
Rear
17” 130/80 R 17 M/C 65V TL
17” 140/80 R 17 M/C 69V TL
17” 150/70 R 17 M/C 69V TL
17” 170/60 R 17 M/C 72V TL
17” 170/60 ZR 17 M/C 72W TL
18” 150/70 R 18 M/C 70V TL
KAROO 4
Successor of the award-winning KAROO 3, KAROO 4 represents the latest generation of the METZELER product family designed for on/off use, a tyre intended for the equipment of adventure and maxi enduro motorcycles that allows motorcyclists to go beyond the boundaries of adventouring.
Main features KAROO 4 features a revolutionary patented tread pattern, which raises the tyre’s all-round performance levels on both asphalt and on different types of off-road surfaces. As for the road sector, the engineers of the blue elephant brand have worked to improve in particular the overall handling and the behaviour in the wet,developing a tread pattern that allows you to safely face certain lean angles even on wet asphalt. In the off-road field, KAROO 4 increases the off-road performance level, especially on soft surfaces, such as sand, mud and clay.
The KAROO 4 range
KAROO 4 will progressively be available in the following sizes starting from March 2022:
Front
19” 100/90-19 TL 57Q M+S
19” 110/80 R 19 TL 59Q M+S
19” 120/70 R 19 TL 60Q M+S
21” 90/90-21 TL 54Q M+S
Rear
17” 130/80 R 17 TL 65Q M+S
17” 140/80 R 17 TL 69Q M+S
17” 150/70 R 17 TL 69Q M+S
17” 170/60 R 17 TL 72Q M+S
18” 140/80 – 18 TL 70Q M+S
18” 150/70 R 18 TL 70Q M+S
The complete METZELER offer for the on/off segment:
METZELER has always been a leading brand in technological innovation, performance research and meeting the most challenging quality standards. Since its inception, the brand has consistently developed products to meet the growing expectations of the most demanding riders, often anticipating main market trends and consumer needs.
From mountain passes with the SPORTEC M9 RR supersport tyre to sandy soils with KAROO Extreme, the two-wheel specialist brand is able to offer a range of seven different products to meet consumer needs with the most suitable solution.
The four new products that join the existing range are SPORTEC M9 RR, ROADTEC 01 SE, TOURANCE Next 2 and KAROO 4.
SPORTEC M9 RR and ROADTEC 01 SE bring respectively supersports and sport touring performances to the adventure motorcycle segment, while TOURANCE Next 2 and KAROO 4 redefine the performance level of the on/off segment, with particular attention to the latest generation motorcycles and interaction with electronic ride aides.
[1] Internal wet braking test on BMW R 1250 GS MY 2020, at a speed of 85km/h, ambient temperature 25°C
[2] Internal wet braking test on BMW R 1250 GS MY 2020, at a speed of 85km/h, ambient temperature 25°C
For more Metzeler Tyre news check out our dedicated page Metzeler Tyres
RACETEC™ TD SLICK is dedicated to track day fans and club racers. It combines the advantages of a slick tyre that does not require tyre warmers or elaborate bike settings with constant top performance and versatility to different riding styles.
RACETEC™ TD SLICK becomes part of the METZELER slick racing tyre range and is dedicated to motorcyclists and club racers for both competitive and training activities.
RACETEC™ TD Slick is a track tyre that is easy and immediate to use, which can be used without tyre warmers and does not require any particular set-up of the motorcycle in order to perform at its best. RACETEC™ TD Slick main features includes high performance, the consistency of performance over multiple sessions, the versatility on different asphalt types and operating temperatures, high abrasion resistance and the possibility of reversing the rear tyre between sessions (if the circuit wears a tyre more on one side).
RACETEC ™ TD Slick has been designed for motorcyclists who want the advantage of a slick product but without the need for additional racing equipment (stands / electric blankets / power generators, etc.) or the refined set-up of motorcycle and suspension that a slick racing tyre usually requires.
RACETEC™ TD Slick is therefore intended for all motorcyclists who look for slick performance, for expert riders who need a plug & play product for long practice sessions, for club racers who require an excellent value for money tyre that allows them to focus on improving lap times throughout the race weekend.
RACETEC™ TD Slick is part of the METZELER slick racing portfolio with a range that includes one front and four rear sizes which are most commonly found as original equipment on supersport bikes, to further testify the plug & play characteristics of the product.
The METZELER slick product family includes also the renowned RACETEC™ RR Slick, the tyre for top competition available in different compounds according to the type of use. The K0 and K1 compounds are dedicated to the professional use in the Superbike class of road racing activities, such as the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy, and to the same classes of the various national championships. The K2 compound is the most versatile within the RACETEC™ RR Slick range and is developed for those competitions at professional and amateur level where it is necessary to combine constant peak performance over several sessions, resulting in the best solution on particularly demanding circuits and in endurance sessions.
Features and benefits of RACETEC™ TD SLICK
The main benefits are:
A quick warm up, which allows motorcyclists to free themselves from the use of tyre warmers thanks to the polymers characterized by a lower glass transition temperature. RACETEC™ TD SLICK is suitable for use from low operating temperatures, with a consequent resistance to cold tearing
Reusable over multiple sessions. The evolution of resins resistant to high temperatures and their patented mixing process give RACETEC™ TD SLICK a uniform behaviour both on a thermal and mechanical level. This provides a high resistance to thermal decay, thus keeping the chemical-physical properties of the tyre constant lap after lap, session after session
Plug & play solution, thanks to the choice of street-legal sizes that use sharp profiles but retain the geometries of tyres approved for road use, thus not requiring complicated set-up solutions for track use. RACETEC™ TD SLICK is the result of a development aimed at combining ease of driving, plug & play performance and the METZELER road racing imprint to allow all motorcyclists to enjoy a weekend on the track;
Reversible rear tyre, thanks to the symmetrical structure that evenly distributes the dynamic stresses and allows itself to be fully exploited, even on circuits with a prevalence of turns in one direction.
THE TYRE IN DETAILS
The compound
RACETEC™ TD SLICK features a racing compound that includes polymers with a low glass transition temperature, carbon black and high melting temperature resins. This combination has numerous advantages: first of all the ability of the tyre to get up to temperature very quickly, and even without the use of tyre warmers.
Strengthened by the experience accumulated in road racing such as the Tourist Trophy on the Isle of Man, used as a testing ground to test the versatility of its products, METZELER engineers have designed a compound capable of operating in a wide range of temperatures and asphalt conditions, in order to offer consistency in performance and resistance to cold tearing.
The exclusive patented CCM process – Compound Continuous Mixing process – maximizes the homogeneity of the components in the polymetric matrix and allows the tire to consistently offer high performances, from the first to the last lap, even if divided between several thermal cycles.
The structure
The carcass of the RACETEC™ TD SLICK rear tyre is characterised by a classic radial single-ply rayon structure, similar to that used in supersport road tyres, and represents a plug & play solution that allows riders to make the bike track ready while maintaining the standard set-up.
The zero-degree steel belts used both on the front and on the rear tyres are a patented technological solution that allows a high degree of structural flexibility and consequently a better feeling with the tyre. All this allows the motorcyclist to be more precise in the trajectory, adjusting it when already in mid-lean or delaying the braking point when entering the corner.
The profile
The rear RACETEC™ TD SLICK features a sharp profile that improves the handling of the motorcycle and at the same time increases the contact area when cornering, resulting in a considerable increase of grip. The profile of the front tyre reflects that of the rear for a balanced and harmonious behaviour of the tyre set.
The range
The RACETEC™ TD SLICK range includes the following sizes, all already available:
METZELER has always been a leading brand in technological innovation, performance research and meeting the most challenging quality standards. Since its inception, the brand has consistently developed products to meet the growing expectations of the most demanding riders.
SPORTEC™ M9 RR is the latest supersports tyre of the manufacturer and is undoubtedly among the most anticipated products of all those motorcyclists who in recent years have appreciated the characteristics of its renowned predecessor SPORTEC™ M7 RR. It is designed for owners of supersports and naked bikes with a sporty riding style, that use their bikes every day and in all weather conditions: from the urban jungle to the fast runs of the weekend excursions.
The name SPORTEC™ M9 RR consolidates the technological tradition of METZELER: SPORTEC™ identifies the supersports road tyres of the METZELER portfolio while the RR suffix – acronym for Road Racing – refers to the iconic competitions such as the Tourist Trophy Isle of Man, won in its 2019 edition on METZELER RACETEC™ RR Slick tyres. METZELER has historically used road racing as a testing ground to validate the peak performance and versatility of its products thanks to the wide range of operating conditions that can be faced during these events.
When it comes to road racing, maximum tyre performance is required across an extremely wide range of asphalt and temperature conditions. Similarly, SPORTEC™ M9 RR is designed to deliver performance also in challenging conditions on road: a wide range of asphalts and temperatures, dry or wet conditions. Hence comes the claim chosen to accompany the introduction of the tyre SPORTEC™ M9 RR: RIDE THE UNEXPECTED.
SPORTEC M9 RR & BMW S 1000 RR
Features and benefits of SPORTEC™ M9 RR
The main benefits are:
a high level of grip thanks to the use of two-compound scheme using both Full Silica at the front and rear tyre. The compounds work in combination with the central tread pattern to ensure traction and directionality in the straight. Slick shoulders provide high levels of grip and lateral thrust at maximum lean angle on a wide spectrum of asphalts;
an excellent handling achieved thanks to an innovative structure that can improve the response of the tyre, depending on the use: comfort and riding pleasure at low speed, reactivity and precision at a higher speed;
a high level of wet grip made possible by the characteristics of the Full Silica compounds and their construction scheme, which also ensure a quick warm-up even on wet and cold roads.
THE TYRE IN DETAILS
The tread compound
Both the front and rear tyre of SPORTEC™ M9 RR are equipped with Full Silica shoulder compounds derived from racing-rain technology, refined to stabilise their behaviour at high temperatures, and newly formulated Full Silica central compounds.
SPORTEC M9 RR & TRIUMPH Speed Triple RS
The rear tyre compounds are arranged using a Cap & Base scheme that consists in overlaying the two lateral bands in soft compound, which ensure grip when cornering, to a layer of harder compound that ensures constant performance and thermal balance. The latter compound also forms the central band of the tyre for about 50mm, equal to 25% of the entire section, to improve mileage performance. The silica content in the central band of the rear has increased by 24% compared to SPORTEC M7™ RR.
The front tyre uses the same compounds as the rear to guarantee a homogeneous response and a perfect pairing between the two tyres. The central compound makes up about 33% of the tread section.
Full Silica compounds are used to improve the warm-up time, the level of mechanical grip on a wide range of asphalts and the chemical grip in wet conditions, benefiting the use on roads with irregular asphalt and in any weather condition.
In addition to METZELER’s experience in materials technology, the key to this technological breakthrough also lies in the CCM, an acronym for Compound Continuous Mixing, an exclusive patented mixing processcapable of maximising the dispersion and homogeneity of the components in the polymer matrix. The resins used in combination with silica give the final formulation a stable behaviour in a wide range of temperatures, from the lower ones of the first seasonal outings to the extreme ones reached during a summer session on track.
SPORTEC M9 RR & BMW S 1000 RR
The tread pattern
The tread design recognizes the features of the Pi – π – that, besides being distinctive of the SPORTEC™ product family, also have a functional purpose.
The grooves of the Greek Pi allow a certain degree of mobility to the portion of the tread they delimit, resulting in an improvement of the warm-up time even at low temperatures. They also serve to maximise the volume of water evacuated when riding in the wet.
SPORTEC™ M9 RR inherits the RACETEC™ RR central claw grooves from the technology developed for Road Races, in which it has gained recent victories at the Isle of Man Tourist Trophy and North West 200. These details in the central band contribute to directional stability on the straight and participate in the evacuation of water in adverse weather conditions.
The tread pattern is designed for excellent water evacuation up to a 30-degree lean angle, while beyond this point the shoulder reaches void/fill ratios close to those of a Race Replica tyre. The shoulders of SPORTEC™ M9 RR are more slick than those of its predecessor, in order to improve support and lateral thrust at maximum lean anglewhere the function of water evacuation is no longer necessary.
SPORTEC M9 RR & BMW S 1000 RR
The Structure
METZELER engineers have designed for SPORTEC™ M9 RR a rayon structure that is 6% stiffer than the one of its predecessor, it is characterised by a lower density and the use of a greater quantity of rubber compound. The damping capacities of the latter improve the riding feeling, while when riding at a higher pace the benefits of this structure are high thrust values and greater responsiveness and driving precision.
The tyre range
SPORTEC™ M9 RR tyre range includes the following sizes:
The German brand expands its tyre portfolio for V-Twins with a new tyre providing consistent performance, upgrading the handling of older and current machines and offering stability and excellent grip, even in wet conditions.
Bad Salzuflen (Germany), 30 November 2018 – During the CUSTOMBIKE-SHOW fair that opened its doors today in Bad Salzuflen, Germany, METZELER has unveiled the new CRUISETEC™, the Custom Touring tyre designed to optimise the performance of modern and past V-Twins and intended for motorcyclists who want to get the most out of their motorcycles in terms of handling and grip.
With the new CRUISETEC™, METZELER extends its successful V-Twin range towards performance-oriented use. This tyre upgrades the handling of current and older motorcycles, featuring remarkable grip even in wet conditions, ground-breaking performance consistency and innovative stability features. CRUISETEC™ features ground-breaking specifications for tread pattern, compound recipe, and carcass specifications in the production of tyres for V-Twin motorcycles.
METZELERhas developed CRUISETEC™ to respond to the needs of motorcyclists who increasingly look for emotional, carefree riding and live their riding passion on V-Twin machines they can customise with performance in mind. CRUISETEC™ has been designed to couple with the latest generation of Cruisers and Tourers, machines that the relevant manufacturers in the segment are equipping with high-rated performance parts and the latest electronic rider aids. With the METZELER CRUISETEC™ tyre these motorcycles can express their full potential for agility, increased lean angles, improved stability, comfort, shorter stopping distance and faster cornering. Thanks to a ground-breaking combination of technological features – including industry leading innovations – experience d V-Twin riders and newer riders alike can enjoy a perfected riding performance, confidently confirming Metzeler’s product tagline “Performance Perfected”.
The main benefits of the new CRUISETEC™ for the rider are:
• Enjoy performance-cruising which meansgreat handling, line taking and line holding, Immediate response at all stages also in wet conditions and enhanced cornering grip and safety
• Performance consistency which means handling is preserved throughout the entire tyre lifespan thanks to the combination of a solid tread pattern with its constant-curvature contours and dual-compound layout which preserves the tyre profile thanks to wear evenness
• Smooth and effortless riding thanks to maximised line holding when entering and maintaining lean angles and comfort
• Enhanced confidence and safety, also in the wet,which derives from the effective interaction of the tyre with electronic rider aids
METZELER CRUISETEC™, is designed to respond to the need of V-Twin performance-riding, and complements the METZELER portfolio for V-Twins, which now consists of:
CRUISETEC™, perfecting the performance of yesterday’s and today’s V-Twins;
ME 888 Marathon™ ULTRA featuring an incredibly wide range which includes whitewalls, orange-wall and extra-wide sizes;
ME77 Perfect, a vintage tread pattern developed to upgrade the ride of old-school customisations.
The new CRUISETEC™ tyre will be available starting from January 2019 in the following sizes:
Motorcycle Industry News and Images mainly from UK
The Distinguished Gentleman's RideWe are entering the 2024 The Distinguished Gentleman's Ride please donate
