Tag Archives: Motorcycle Tyres

Industry News, Latest News, Pirelli, Tyres

Pirelli Unveils The New Diablo Supercorsa

Pirelli unveils the new Diablo Supercorsa: sport tyres par excellence from WorldSBK.

Pirelli illustrates the fourth generation of DIABLO Supercorsa tyres in detail, announced in September and now available to the general public for purchase from January, both in the SP version, designed primarily for street use, and in the SC version, available in various compounds for track use. DIABLO Supercorsa V4 (this is the full name, where V4 stands for the fourth series) is an entirely new product compared with its predecessor, the DIABLO Supercorsa V3, in terms of tread pattern, compounds, structures, and profiles. Both in the SC racing version and in the SP race replica version, DIABLO Supercorsa is the highest embodiment of Pirelli’s sporting DNA thanks to its extremely high and sporty performance or, to sum up in one word – speed.

THE PINNACLE OF PIRELLI SPORTINESS ON THE STREET IN ITS FOURTH GENERATION

From 2002, the year the first DIABLO tyre was born, the line of products which bear this name has identified Pirelli’s motorcycle sport tyres, continuing the success story which began in the ’70s, marked by exciting names such as Mandrake, Phantom, Gordon, Demon, and Dragon. With the DIABLO family, Pirelli revolutionised global street tyre paradigms, creating a proper brand, enriched year after year by technological innovations and the experience gained in the FIM World Superbike Championship, where Pirelli has been sole tyre supplier since 2004. After introducing the DIABLO Superbike tyres in 2005, slicks exclusively for track use designed for the Superbike category, in 2007, Pirelli launched the first generation of DIABLO Supercorsa SC grooved racing tyres, followed by the SP street version in 2008. DIABLO Supercorsa SC became the absolute benchmark for the Supersport and Superstock categories, both in the world and national championships and even now it is the standard for those championships that still use treaded tyres. In the same way, over the years, DIABLO Supercorsa SP has been selected as OEM equipment on the most prestigious supersport and hyper naked bikes. The second generation of DIABLO Supercorsa, presented in 2012, was then followed by the third in 2018, and now the fourth continues the path of technological excellence begun three decades ago.

ONE SOUL, TWO PRODUCTS: SC AND SP, FROM THE TRACK TO THE STREET 
When Pirelli decided to make the first DIABLO Supercorsa in 2007, they did so with a rather specific idea and goal. The idea was to make a racing tyre respecting the basic philosophy of the World Superbike Championship, namely the bond with normal production, so not a prototype tyre, but a product that can be used by both professional riders and normal motorcyclists. The goal is to take advantage of the top category in the production derived world series not only as a showcase to give the brand visibility but also as a laboratory to develop, with some of the best riders in the world and the most prestigious manufacturers, advanced technological solutions and tyres not for exclusive use by the world championship riders, but also for everyday use. And it is precisely with DIABLO Supercorsathat the motto dear to Pirelli’s heart was born, “We sell what we race, we race what we sell”, indicating how the very same tyres used by professional riders in races can be purchased by any motorcyclist. This is why, from the beginning, DIABLO Supercorsa was developed as a single project but in two forms: the SC track tyre in various compounds and its SP street version, both in standard production available for purchase on the market in order to meet not only the needs of track riders, but also sport street riding enthusiasts. Over the years, DIABLO Supercorsa SP has become the supersport tyre of choice for all high performance bike owners who want an uncompromising street riding experience, thanks to extremely high levels of grip and performance. But above all, as of today, it remains the best and most immediate example of the technological transfer from track to road of Pirelli tyres, since it shares with the ‘SC’ the tread pattern, profiles, and many materials and technologies used in terms of structure, in addition to one of the two compounds it uses (the SC3).

CONCENTRATION OF TECHNOLOGY, PERFORMANCE AND SAFETY BORN IN SUPERBIKE 
DIABLO Supercorsa, in both the SC and the SP versions, is a true concentration of technology capable of providing high performance combined with the highest safety standards thanks to the ability to interact and collaborate closely with the most modern and sophisticated riding assistance systems. It is the result of twenty years of studies, development, and testing of solutions by Pirelli in the FIM World Superbike Championship. It is a tyre that was also designed with input from former world champions and developed with the support of all the manufacturers and teams that participate in the most important competition for factory derivative bikes. DIABLO Supercorsa SC V4, where the abbreviation SC stands for “Special Compound”, is the best and fastest treaded track tyre ever made by Pirelli. Thanks to the various compounds it is available in, DIABLO Supercorsa SC V4 is intended for use by both professional and semi-professional riders, as well as by those who are simply track day enthusiasts or riders just starting out in their careers who want to improve performance without making changes to the settings on their bikes. Compared with its V3 predecessor, these are the features and relative benefits for the riders that DIABLO Supercorsa SC V4 has to offer:

  • Latest generation compounds for outstanding performance and grip
  • Racing structure for better support coming out of corners
  • Racing profiles to the advantage of rideability, line holding, and stability at high speeds
  • Tread pattern with patented Flash evolution for smoother power on leans and improved consistency of performance

In the same way, DIABLO Supercorsa SP V4, where the abbreviation SP stands for “Sport Production”, is the sportiest tyre ever for street use in the DIABLO family. Compared with the SC version, DIABLO Supercorsa SP complies with all the regulatory restrictions of the vehicles it can equip – such as, for example, the speed index requirement (W) – and it is less sensitive to temperature, as well as heating up more quickly and providing more mileage due to the compounds. This tyre is intended for riders who love sport riding not only on the track but on the road as well. This undoubtedly includes owners of supersport street bikes from which the World Superbike Championship bikes are derived, but also track day enthusiasts who want a street legal tyre so they can ride to the circuit instead of having to load the bike on a trailer and one that will also let them turn laps on the track without having to swap out tyres. DIABLO Supercorsa SP V4 ensures significant benefits for riders:

  • Dual compound on both the front and the rear for maximum grip in leans and outstanding thrust coming out of turns, but also adequate mileage.
  • Latest generation structures that work in unison with the compounds for optimum performance both on the road and on the track by simply adjusting the pressure.
  • Profiles, identical to those of the SC version which ensure a simple ride and maximum reactivity.
  • Tread pattern identical to that of the SC with the new flash pattern interrupted at the centre with a slick area for smoother thrust at any lean angle and more consistent

Both versions share the tread pattern, the profiles, the compounds in part, and some technological solutions in terms of structure.

Tread pattern

  • The interrupted FLASH design improves water displacement and the area of contact surface with the ground.
  • The slick section where the pattern is interrupted has an impact on the rigidity of the tread, reducing risks of groove deformation, and ensures better thrust at any lean angle.
  • The direction of the flash pattern on the tread follows the direction of the lateral force experienced in track riding, ensuring more even and consistent performance along with reduced warm-up time.
  • The first area of the shoulder without grooves guarantees greater contact between rubber and road surface both halfway and all the way into a lean in order to ensure greater grip on turns
  • The completely slick external area of the shoulder improves thrust at extreme angles

Profiles

  • The same racing profiles, developed in the World Superbike Championship, of the DIABLO Superbike slick tyre and the other fourth generation hypersport tyres in the Pirelli range.
  • Multi-radius profiles for abrupt direction changes, whereas the slick shoulder area provides high grip and outstanding line holding on corners.
  • The profile of the front improves handling, enticing the rider to lean into corners earlier, facilitating quick direction changes. It also provides exceptional stability thanks to the extended contact area in the leaning stage.
  • The rear follows the same pattern and similar geometry to the front in order to ensure synchronised performance of the set.
  • In the DIABLO™ SUPERCORSA SP V4, the tyre bead is designed to provide maximum performance both with tyre pressure on the road and with track use pressure (2.3 Bar front / 2.1 Bar rear with hot tyres). It is precisely the possibility of decreasing tyre pressure for track sessions that sets DIABLO SUPERCORSA SP V4 clearly apart from the other tyres in the Pirelli hypersport range.

Structure

  • The SC version shares with the DIABLO™ SUPERBIKE slick both structure and material which are able to ensure top performance and greater ease of riding with the use of specific pressures for the track.
  • Compared with its V3 predecessor, the new V4 uses new materials, such as wider section structural cords made up of a high number of textile fibres braided together to give the tyre greater rigiditycombined with better shock-absorbing capabilities.
  • In the SP version, each size has its own structure, fine-tuned for optimum performance in combination with the width of the specific profile for that size, the proportions of the compound and the arrangement of the tread pattern. Additionally, the structure of the SP is optimised for street use, so also for long distances in a straight line on motorways.

Compounds

DIABLO Supercorsa SC V4 is available in three compounds for both the front and rear:

  • SC1 – Front: maximum feeling / Rear: top performance with high temperatures and not very abrasive asphalt
  • SC2 – Front: maximum stability and consistency / Rear: consistent performance and ideal for low temperatures or extremely abrasive asphalt
  • SC3 – The race-for-fun choice for extended track sessions, but not intended for professional racing use

DIABLO Supercorsa SC V4 range

DIABLO Supercorsa SP V4 is dual compound both at the front and the rear.

Front:

  • The first DIABLO Supercorsa tyre to adopt two compounds at the front.
  • Layout with a central and base compound paired with a second compound on the tyre shoulders.
  • The base compound, which covers the entire profile of the tyre and emerges coming into contact with the asphalt at the central section, is full-silica and extremely versatile, providing thermal stability and ensures consistent performance in both cold and hot temperatures.
  • The compound of the shoulders is the same one used in the SC3 racing version, in 100% carbon black formulation, and it is capable of ensuring outstanding handling and maximum grip even at full lean.

Rear:

  • Compared with the front, this has a softer central compound and a wider side, but still maintaining the same base compound of the front in support of the two compounds in contact with the asphalt.
  • The central compound is 100% carbon black and optimised to work effectively in a broad range of temperatures because it provides grip and quick heating in various conditions. Additionally, it ensures stability at high speeds and resistance.
  • The compound used on the shoulders is the same as the one used on the front, so SC3, for maximum power coming out of corners.
  • The base compound, which is beneath the two compounds that are in contact with the asphalt, has a 100% Carbon Black formulation and was designed to work in the best possible way with the other two compounds, providing thermal stability and a better feeling for the rider.

DIABLO Supercorsa SP V4

BEST-SELLER PEDIGREE: MORE THAN 3.5 MILLION TYRES SOLD 

The Diablo Supercorsa is a success story not only on the technological side, but also in terms of sales. In fact, since its début in 2007,  more than 3.5 million DIABLO Supercorsa tyres have been sold all over the world, making this product one of the most successful motorcycle tyres in Pirelli history. A success which, with this fourth generation, Pirelli will continue to build on, equipping the most prestigious supersport and naked bikes that will be introduced to the market in 2023 and the years to come with DIABLO Supercorsa SP and, with DIABLO Supercorsa SC, offering riders and track enthusiasts a racing tyre that embodies the most cutting-edge technologies.

MISSION RACING AND SPORT RANGE REVAMPING ACCOMPLISHED

With DIABLO Supercorsa V4, Pirelli concluded the revamping process of the fourth generation of the DIABLO racing and sport range which began in 2021 with DIABLO ROSSO IV and continued in 2022 with DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa. Therefore, the Pirelli range is now made up of two DIABLO SUPERBIKE racing products – the competition slick par excellence, and DIABLO SUPERCORSA SC V4, the treaded tyre for the track – and of supersport and sport tyres primarily for street use, beginning with the new DIABLO Supercorsa SP V4, the most extreme of the street tyres also suitable for the track, as well as the DIABLO ROSSO IV CORSA, the most focused version of the DIABLO ROSSO IV. Each of these tyres are covered by patents developed by Pirelli in the World Superbike Championship and the difference between these five products lies substantially in the type of use, whether street or track, in performance on dry and wet asphalt, and in the mileage that each one is able to provide.

More details on available sizes of DIABLO SUPERCORSA SC and SP V4 are available on the Pirelli.com website at the following links:

DIABLO SUPERCORSA SC V4

DIABLO SUPERCORSA SP V4

For more Pirelli Tyre news check out our dedicated page Pirelli Tyres

or head to the official Pirelli Tyres UK website visit https://www.pirelli.com/tyres/en-gb/motorcycle/homepage

Industry News, Latest News, Metzeler, Tyres

Metzeler Presents The New Karoo 4

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​

[1] MRC (Multiple Radius Contour)

[2] MRC (Multiple Radius Contour)

For more Metzeler Tyre news check out our dedicated page Metzeler Tyres

For more information on Metzeler Tyres visit metzeler.com/en-uk/home

Industry News, Latest News, Metzeler, Tyres

Metzeler Presents The New Karoo 4

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​

[1] MRC (Multiple Radius Contour)

[2] MRC (Multiple Radius Contour)

For more Metzeler Tyre news check out our dedicated page Metzeler Tyres

For more information on Metzeler Tyres visit metzeler.com/en-uk/home

Dunlop, Industry News, Latest News, Tyres

Dunlop reveals insights into RoadSmart IV technologies

The Dunlop RoadSmart IV is the brand’s most versatile sport-touring tyre yet and features a combination of Dunlop’s innovations to create a multi-talented tyre that aims to set new standards in handling, stability, wet grip and mileage.

Beyond sport-touring: A tyre without boundaries
The sport-touring sector has become incredibly diverse as motorcycle genres overlap each other. Naked roadsters, crossover designs, road-focused adventure bikes, hyper-nakeds as well as traditional sport-tourers, were all in the design remit for RoadSmart IV.

Dunlop saw this broadening of the segment as an opportunity to create an all-new RoadSmart generation. It had to fit the needs of commuters, long-distance tourers and riders using their bikes for a Sunday morning blast. The design process was shaped by Dunlop’s research. Riders wanted a tyre that could deliver a perfect balance of outstanding dry performance and exceptional wet grip, neutral and stable handling and deliver consistent performance even after several thousand kilometres. From that brief, RoadSmart IV was born.

Wide range and two distinct specifications
The Dunlop RoadSmart IV has been developed to fit 17 of the top 20 selling motorcycles in Europe. From on-road users of adventure bikes such as the BMW R1250GS, crossovers like the Yamaha Tracer, roadsters such as the Yamaha MT or Kawasaki Z ranges or larger touring bikes, Dunlop’s development team focused on creating an incredibly versatile tyre.

In the most popular sizes (120/70ZR17 front; 180/55ZR17 and 190/55ZR17 rear) Dunlop has developed two distinct versions of the RoadSmart IV. The SP variant is optimised for lighter and sportier road machines, whereas the GT variant is tuned to bring greater handling prowess to larger touring bikes.

Technologies to take sport touring to the next level

RoadSmart IV features a package of Dunlop patented technologies, including innovations such as JointLess Belt and JointLess Tread that were developed in the motorsport world, where Dunlop is the most successful tyre brand in Isle of Man TT history, a multiple championship winner in the FIM Endurance World Championship and the exclusive tyre supplier to the Moto2 and Moto3 Grand Prix World Championships.

The features include:

  • Dynamic Front Formula: An intricately balanced combination of profile design, advanced materials and construction to give light and confident handling.
  • MultiTread: Proven on the racetracks, developed for the road. The rear tyre has different compounds to give the perfect balance of durability and grip.
  • Carcass Tension Control System: Different tension zones in the tyre casing optimise handling and maximise the footprint.
  • JointLess Belt: Dunlop’s latest evolution of its race-winning JLB construction gives stability and precise feedback.
  • JointLess Tread: A more precise way of positioning the tread during manufacture boosts durability and consistency.
  • HiSilica: Cold or wet journeys are less of a worry with a more flexible compound at low temperatures.
  • Rayon Ply Casing: Using Rayon improves mileage and allows a rapid warm-up.

Just Ride philosophy
Luca Davide Andreoni, Marketing Manager, Dunlop Europe: “Our research told us that road riders wanted outstanding wet grip, good mileage and confidence-inspiring handling. By bringing together a range of technologies, we’ve created a tyre that can cater for the demands of an incredibly diverse sector of riders and machines. Dunlop has a Just Ride philosophy of providing riders with unparalleled grip and protection, allowing them to have the confidence to focus on the joy of riding. By applying this mindset, we’ve created a new level of tyre in RoadSmart IV. It is a sport-touring tyre that goes well beyond the sport-touring segment.”

The top tier of a vast range
The Dunlop RoadSmart IV will sit above the test-winning RoadSmart III in Dunlop’s range. That tyre has won awards including a ‘Recommended’ rating1 by UK magazine RIDE and a top mileage result from Germany’s Motorrad Test Center2. These test results underlined Dunlop’s ‘stronger for longer’ mileage and durability focus that continues with RoadSmart IV.

With a 21-size and 24 SKU range, the RoadSmart IV brings Dunlop’s total range of RoadSmart sport-touring tyres to over 40 sizes, covering more than 700 models and 97% of the sport-touring radial tyre segment.

(1) RiDE, May 2020 test.

(2) Compared to the average performance of Michelin Pilot Road 4 GT, Bridgestone T30 Evo, Pirelli Angel GT. Tested by Motorrad Test Center in November 2015.

For more Dunlop Tyre news check out our dedicated page Dunlop Tyres

or head to the official Dunlop Tyres UK website visit dunlop.eu/en_gb/motorcycle.html

Industry News, Latest News, Pirelli, Tyres

Pirelli Unveils The New Diablo Rosso IV Corsa

Pirelli presents the new DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa, the high-performance hypersport tyre that raises the bar of sport riding even higher within the DIABLO ROSSO family. The new DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa represents a fiercer version of the DIABLO ROSSO IV supersport tyre, created to satisfy the most demanding motorcyclists seeking a tyre capable of high performance, to fully utilise the potential of their bikes.

DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa was born in the year in which Pirelli celebrates its 150th anniversary and becomes an integral part of the celebrations. During 2022 a limited edition DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa pays homage to this milestone and features the Pirelli’s 150th anniversary logo on its sidewall.

DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa with Pirelli 150th anniversary logo
Formed in Milan on 28 January 1872, the company began its business with diversified rubber products, making the first tyre for bicycles in 1890. Always passionate about competition, Pirelli participated in the first motorcycle races in 1897 and today continues with the role of sole supplier to the Superbike World Championship, a collaboration that started in 2004, as well as being the most successful brand in MXGP. Today Pirelli is the only tyre company focused exclusively on the consumer world, with products and services for cars, motorcycles and bicycles.

Who is DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa designed for?
DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa is the ideal choice for:

  • Motorcyclists who love a dynamic riding style on winding roads and mountain passes, who want a tyre to match the sporty performance of their motorcycle;
  • Motorcyclists who are passionate about tuning, who look for performance upgrades and take care of the bike set-up and aesthetics. These riders seek the optimal set-up of their motorcycle according to the type of use, also through the upgrade to high-performance equipment. They also recognise the lightning-shaped tread design, here interrupted, as the iconic symbol representing DIABLO ROSSO sporty performance.

The benefits of DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa:
The main benefits of DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa are:

  • Higher grip in dry conditions, thanks to a slicker tread design that guarantees a larger footprint area alongside the use of innovative compounds that increase mechanical grip levels;
  • Enhanced hi-performance handling and precise feedback. The innovative technologies applied to the carcass make DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa able to adhere to the micro-roughness of the asphalt, ensuring precise feedback and a feeling of control;
  • Performance consistency over multiple riding sessions, made possible by the characteristics of the tread pattern, where the intended repetition of the grooves offers high resistance to stress, and, by the new arrangement of the compounds, ensures optimal thermal balance.

THE TYRE IN DETAILS
Tread Pattern
The tread design of DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa features a calculated repetition of the central grooves and a slicker shoulder area, for a void/fill ratio 25%[1] lower than DIABLO ROSSO IV.

In the central area, the group of longitudinal grooves assures directional stability and water evacuation. Their orientation follows the wear waves and enables an even wear, while their position increase the structural stability of the tyre to give performance consistency over multiple riding sessions.

In the intermediate area, linear grooves of different lengths are positioned using a scheme that balances compound flexibility and water evacuation. DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa features a large slick area on the shoulders, able to offer high levels of grip, precision and stability at maximum lean angles.

Compounds
The front tyre is divided into three areas using two different compounds:

  • The central band has a Full Silica compound that occupies around 45% of the section width and is present in the contact area used up to 25 degrees of lean angle;
  • The side areas have a softer compound, also Full Silica, thanks to the use of innovative resins that offer excellent grip and improve the front tyre feedback.

The rear tyre also has a bi-compound scheme for excellent road performance and works in harmony with the front:

  • The central Full Silica compound allows for a quick warm-up and excellent chemical grip on different surface conditions;
  • The shoulder compound is 100% Carbon Black and derives directly from the compounds of DIABLO Supercorsa SC used in racing competitions. This compound is able to offer support at full lean and traction during acceleration managing the torque generated by the latest generation superbikes.

Profiles
Pirelli exploits all the know-how acquired in the fastest production-derived motorcycle championship. The profiles of DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa are therefore race-derived and are characterised by a multi radius design that improves the tyre’s handling.

The central area has a sharper profile to facilitate immediate lean and rapid change of direction. In the lateral areas, on the other hand, the profile curvature is less accentuated in order to increase the contact area and ensure maximum traction when cornering. Front and rear tyres follow a similar profile design, thus ensuring a perfectly balanced and neutral behaviour of the set.

Structure
With DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa Pirelli uses a racing-derived structure with zero-degree steel belt, which manages to adapt perfectly to different levels of stress without compromising comfort and work optimally with the most advanced electronic control systems.The stiff cord technology features structural cords that are more rigid and at the same time distributed with less density (-20%) compared to a standard sport tyre[2]. This scheme leaves more room for the rubber compound, which improves riding feeling and precision thanks to its damping properties, thus transmitting to the rider, a safety feeling and control of the motorcycle.

The range

The DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa range includes the following sizes.

Front
110/70 ZR 17 M/C 54W TL                                        07/2022
120/70 ZR 17 M/C (58W) TL                                      01/2022

Rear
150/60 ZR 17 M/C 66W TL                                        07/2022
180/55 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL                                      01/2022
180/60 ZR 17 M/C (75W) TL                                      03/2022
190/50 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL                                      06/2022
190/55 ZR 17 M/C (75W) TL                                      01/2022
200/55 ZR 17 M/C (78W) TL                                      04/2022
200/60 ZR 17 M/C (80W) TL                                      04/2022

[1] Rear size 190/55 ZR 17 of DIABLO ROSSO IV CORSA and DIABLO ROSSO IV compared

[2] cords distributed with 20% with less density compared to DIABLO ROSSO III tyre

For more Pirelli Tyre news check out our dedicated page Pirelli Tyres

or head to the official Pirelli Tyres UK website visit https://www.pirelli.com/tyres/en-gb/motorcycle/homepage

Avon Tyres, Industry News, Latest News, Tyres

Avon Tyres launches 3D SUPERSPORT hypersport tyre

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dunlop, Industry News, Latest News, Tyres

Hypersport performance for all: Dunlop launches Qualifier CORE

Dunlop has launched the latest member in its hypersport tyre family, Qualifier CORE, to deliver superb but affordable performance for riders of a wide range of entry-level and mid-range sports bikes.

Featuring the latest Dunlop technology, Qualifier CORE delivers Dunlop’s renowned hypersport abilities at an affordable price, combining performance with value for riders of entry-level and mid-range nakeds, mid-size roadsters and sports bikes, sport touring models, and previous-generation sports bikes.

Key Dunlop technologies in Qualifier CORE include Dynamic Front Formula, Carcass Tension Control System and Jointless Belt to ensure excellent handling and stability, while innovations such as its silica-enhanced compound improve grip on wet surfaces and in lower temperatures.

The familiar tread pattern is inspired by the first generation of Dunlop Sportmax SportSmart, and it works with the key technologies to give balanced tread stiffness, an optimised footprint and even wear. Its revised groove angles and positioning also deliver much improved wet weather performance compared to Qualifier CORE’s predecessor, Qualifier II. Through Dunlop’s Heat Control Technology, different cap (outer) and base (lower) compounds are combined to ensure predictable performance as the tyre wears throughout its life, thus delivering the rider further value.

Qualifier CORE sits within Dunlop’s hypersport family, which also includes the premium SportSmart TT and SportSmart Mk3 tyres. Both feature a number of innovations to supply impressive performance for riders of mid-range and premium sports bikes.

Qualifier CORE was initially released in three popular sizes in January 2022: 120/70ZR17 (front), 160/60ZR17 (rear) and 180/55ZR17 (rear). In Q4 2022, a further front size (120/60ZR17) and three new rear sizes (190/50ZR17, 190/55ZR17 and 200/50ZR17) will be released.

Luca Davide Andreoni, Marketing Manager, Dunlop Europe: “Just like the other members of Dunlop’s family of hypersport tyres, Qualifier CORE gives dynamic handling and excellent feedback so riders can extract the exhilarating performance of their bike, whether it’s a naked, a sports bike, a sports tourer or a roadster. We have developed Qualifier CORE with the philosophy of ‘affordable performance’, to distill the properties of our class-leading hypersport tyres SportSmart TT and SportSmart Mk3 into an affordable package that offers a great solution for bikers on a budget.”

For more Dunlop Tyre news check out our dedicated page Dunlop Tyres

or head to the official Dunlop Tyres UK website visit dunlop.eu/en_gb/motorcycle.html

Industry News, Latest News, Metzeler, Tyres

Tourance Next 2 And Karoo 4 Complete Metzeler On/off Tyre Range

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

For more information on Metzeler Tyres visit metzeler.com/en-uk/home

Industry News, Latest News, Pirelli, Tyres

Pirelli Announces The Arrival of DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa

Pirelli Announces The Arrival Of Diablo Rosso Iv Corsa, The Tyre Offering Sporty Emotions

DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa is the fiercer version of DIABLO ROSSO IV supersport tyre, dedicated to the most demanding motorcyclists in terms of dynamic riding on the road and on the track

Pirelli announces the arrival of the new DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa, the high-performance hypersport tyre that raises the bar of sport riding even higher within the DIABLO ROSSO family. The new DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa represents a fiercer version of the DIABLO ROSSO IV supersport tyre, and was created to satisfy the most demanding motorcyclists seeking a tyre capable of a sporty performance, in order to best express the potential of their supersport, naked or hypernaked bikes.

Who is DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa designed for?

DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa is the ideal choice for:

  • Motorcyclists who love a dynamic riding style on winding roads and mountain passes, who want a tyre that can best express the sporty performance of their motorcycle;
  • Motorcyclists who are passionate about tuning, who look for performance upgrades and take care of the bike set-up. These riders seek the optimal set-up of their motorcycle according to the type of use, also through the upgrade to high-performance equipment.

The benefits of DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa:

The main benefits of DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa are:

  • Higher grip in dry conditions, thanks to a slicker tread design that guarantees a larger footprint area alongside the use of innovative compounds that increase mechanical grip levels;
  • Enhanced hard handling and precise feedback. The innovative technologies applied to the carcass make DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa able to adhere to the micro-roughness of the asphalt, ensuring precise feedback and a feeling of control;
  • Performance consistency over multiple riding sessions, made possible by the characteristics of the tread pattern that comes in the shape of broken lightning. The tyre offers high resistance to stress, and, by the new arrangement of the compounds, ensures optimal thermal balance.

Product positioning within the Pirelli range
Just as the riders of the FIM Superbike World Championship make a choice on which DIABLO Superbike tyre to use in a race, depending on the conditions and set-up, everyday motorcyclists have the possibility to choose which sporty tyre version to use to best enhance the characteristics of their bike.

DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa is positioned within the range of Pirelli’s high performance road tyres as the fiercer version of the DIABLO ROSSO IV.

DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa is a product offering balanced behaviour between sporty performance on track and excellent road performance. The tyre offers top grip at maximum lean angles, with a little compromise in terms of wet behaviour and mileage.

The origins of DIABLO, DIABLO ROSSO brands and name Corsa
DIABLO represents Pirelli’s excellence in the world of high-performance tyres designed for two-wheeled vehicles. Since its introduction in 2002, the DIABLO product family has rapidly evolved to include a broad portfolio of tyres dedicated to other market segments, from professional racing to the supersports road arena.The DIABLO brand brings with it more than two decades of experience, technology and victories in the most prestigious national and international two-wheeled competitions.

Within the DIABLO range, the DIABLO ROSSO products are dedicated to road machines of a sport leaning. The name DIABLO ROSSO was born with the intention of honouring the distinctive racing red colour of the Italian national motorsport team.

Since the introduction of the first version in 2010, the suffix Corsa represents the highest expression of a tyre range homologated for road use and offering undisputed sporty performance.

The range

The DIABLO ROSSO IV Corsa range includes the following sizes, available from January 2022.

Front

110/70 ZR 17 M/C 54W TL                                      07/2022

120/70 ZR 17 M/C (58W) TL                                    01/2022

Rear

150/60 ZR 17 M/C 66W TL                                      07/2022

180/55 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL                                    01/2022

180/60 ZR 17 M/C (75W) TL                                    04/2022

190/50 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL                                    06/2022

190/55 ZR 17 M/C (75W) TL                                    01/2022

200/55 ZR 17 M/C (78W) TL                                    05/2022

200/60 ZR 17 M/C (80W) TL                                    05/2022

For more Pirelli Tyre news check out our dedicated page Pirelli Tyres

or head to the official Pirelli Tyres UK website visit https://www.pirelli.com/tyres/en-gb/motorcycle/homepage

Industry News, Latest News, Tyres

Even stronger for longer: Dunlop launches new RoadSmart IV

Dunlop has revealed details of its new-for-2022 RoadSmart IV, its most versatile sport-touring tyre yet.

The RoadSmart IV uses a mix of Dunlop’s innovative technologies to create a multi-talented tyre. Dunlop’s goal is to set new standards in handling, stability, wet grip and mileage across the wide spectrum of motorcycles and rider styles in the sport-touring sector.

Beyond sport-touring: A tyre without boundaries
The sport-touring sector has become incredibly diverse as motorcycle genres overlap each other. Naked roadsters, crossover designs, road-focused adventure bikes, hyper-nakeds as well as traditional sport-tourers, were all in the design remit for RoadSmart IV.

Dunlop saw this broadening of the segment as an opportunity to create an all-new RoadSmart generation. It had to fit the needs of commuters, long-distance tourers and riders using their bikes for a Sunday morning blast. The design process was shaped by Dunlop’s research. Riders wanted a tyre that could deliver a perfect balance of outstanding dry performance and exceptional wet grip, neutral and stable handling and deliver consistent performance even after several thousand kilometres. From that brief, RoadSmart IV was born.

Wide range and two distinct specifications
The Dunlop RoadSmart IV has been developed to fit 17 of the top 20 selling motorcycles in Europe. From on-road users of adventure bikes such as the BMW R1250GS, crossovers like the Yamaha Tracer, roadsters such as the Yamaha MT or Kawasaki Z ranges or larger touring bikes, Dunlop’s development team focused on creating an incredibly versatile tyre.

In the most popular sizes (120/70ZR17 front; 180/55ZR17 and 190/55ZR17 rear) Dunlop has developed two distinct versions of the RoadSmart IV. The SP variant is optimised for lighter and sportier road machines, whereas the GT variant is tuned to bring greater handling prowess to larger touring bikes.

Technologies to take sport touring to the next level

All variants of the RoadSmart IV feature a package of Dunlop patented technologies, with the innovative compound incorporating four all-new grip resins and the JointLess Tread application for the key sizes headlining a host of technologies and features.

Just Ride philosophy
Luca Davide Andreoni, Marketing Manager, Dunlop Europe: “Our research told us that road riders wanted outstanding wet grip, good mileage and confidence-inspiring handling. By bringing together a range of technologies, we’ve created a tyre that can cater for the demands of an incredibly diverse sector of riders and machines. Dunlop has a Just Ride philosophy of providing riders with unparalleled grip and protection, allowing them to have the confidence to focus on the joy of riding. By applying this mindset, we’ve created a new level of tyre in RoadSmart IV. It is a sport-touring tyre that goes well beyond the sport-touring segment.”

The top tier of a vast range
The Dunlop RoadSmart IV will sit above the test-winning RoadSmart III in Dunlop’s range. That tyre has won awards including a ‘Recommended’ rating* by UK magazine RIDE and a top mileage result** from Germany’s Motorrad Test Center. These test results underlined Dunlop’s ‘stronger for longer’ mileage and durability focus that continues with RoadSmart IV.

With a 21-size and 24 SKU range, the RoadSmart IV brings Dunlop’s total range of RoadSmart sport-touring tyres to over 40 sizes, covering more than 700 models and 97% of the sport-touring radial tyre segment.


*RiDE, May 2020 test.
**Compared to the average performance of Michelin Pilot Road 4 GT, Bridgestone T30 Evo, Pirelli Angel GT. Tested by Motorrad Test Center in November 2015.

For more Dunlop Tyre news check out our dedicated page Dunlop Tyres

or head to the official Dunlop Tyres UK website visit dunlop.eu/en_gb/motorcycle.html

Avon Tyres, Triumph

Two new Triumph bikes launched on Avon tyres

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

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

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

Avon Tyres

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Avon Tyres

Avon Tyres TrailRider fitment launched for Honda’s Africa Twin

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

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

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

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

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

The new Africa Twin TrailRider is available in dealers now.

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

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

Avon Tyres

Avon’s Spirit ST hypersport touring motorcycle tyre

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Avon Tyres

Avon Tyres Celebrates Diamond Anniversary of First 100 mph TT lap

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Avon Tyres

Avon Tyres launches new Spirit ST hypersport touring motorcycle tyre

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Avon Tyres, Shows and Events

Avon Tyres showcasing full motorcycle tyre range at Intermot 2016

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.

For further information, visit www.intermot-cologne.com / www.avon-tyres.co.uk.

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

Avon Tyres

Avon Tyres introduces new motorcycle inner tube range

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

Avon Tyres celebrates Classic TT victories ahead of Goodwood Revival

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.

For more information on Avon Tyres, visit www.coopertire.co.uk or www.avon-tyres.co.uk.

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

Bridgestone

Bridgestone introduces new tyres at INTERMOT

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