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In 2024, Mitas will welcome a new member of its adventure tire family: the Mitas ENDURO TRAIL-XT. The new tire comes to the market as a rear fitment, forming a top combo with Mitas ENDURO TRAIL-XT+ front tire for perfect handling in all kinds of terrain.

In 2024, Mitas will welcome a new member of its adventure tire family: the ENDURO TRAIL-XT. The new tire comes to the market as a rear fitment, forming a top combo with Mitas ENDURO TRAIL-XT+ front tire for perfect handling in all kinds of terrain.

Gustavo Pinto Teixeira, Head of Mitas Motorcycle tires, says about the new Mitas adventure tire: “The ENDURO TRAIL-XT is designed for modern adventure riders who love to explore off-road trails but don’t want to sacrifice comfort and durability when hitting the roads.”

Thanks to its scoop-shaped block tread pattern and unique compound formulation, the ENDURO TRAIL-XT tire delivers impressive performance on muddy trails and tough gravel roads while giving a smooth ride on asphalt roads and high-speed motorways. Classified as M+S, with up to T-speed rating and bi-directional, the ENDURO TRAIL-XT tire is designed to guarantee riders top off-road performance and long-lasting durability with easy handling and excellent stability on tarmac transfer sections.

This newest Mitas tire will be released in June 2024 in two different versions: Standard – for the best all-around performance in any weather and Dakar – with its Ultra Heavy-Duty compound for maximum durability and a reinforced carcass making it virtually puncture proof.

Mitas pulls extra power into its SPORT FORCE+ RS tire line with two new sizes

Mitas announces two new sizes in its SPORT FORCE+ RS tire range, made to bring extra power to track day riders. The new rear tires in 180/60ZR17 and 200/55ZR17 are specifically designed for more powerful motorcycles bringing the SPORT FORCE+ RS range up to eight sizes available for every kind of bike.

  • Mitas SPORT FORCE+ RS tire range now available in 8 sizes 
  • The two new rear sizes are designed for more powerful motorcycles

Mitas is set to launch the latest entrant in its extensive Enduro racing tire line with the release of its Mitas TERRA FORCE-EF 2 SM front tire, designed for Enduro FIM competitions especially for Soft to Medium terrain.

  • The newest addition to the Mitas Enduro tire line-up is race ready starting May, 2024
  • With a front tire design made to compete on Soft to Medium terrain
  • Available in two different compounds and constructions for a greater grip

Mitas is set to launch the latest entrant in its extensive Enduro racing tire line with the release of its TERRA FORCE-EF 2 SM front tire, designed for Enduro FIM competitions especially for Soft to Medium terrain.

Mitas is pleased to announce the beginning of a brand-new partnership with FIM EnduroGP World Championship.

Mitas is one of leading motorcycle tire brands, with decades of experience with a long and successful history in various disciplines of off-road motorcycle racing. Thanks to the partnership with EnduroGP, Mitas’ dedication to providing enduro racers with high-quality tires has grown even stronger. The partnership demonstrates the enthusiasm and commitment Mitas has to off-road racing, creating a solid basis for further development of enduro tires.

Five New Tire Sizes for the Continental ContiRoad

• New quintet of dimensions for the displacement class up to 300 cc
• Even more choice in the fast-growing sport touring segment
• Staggered introduction in the first half of 2024

The ContiRoad sport touring tire is now also available for bikers in the displacement class up to 300 cc. The five new dimensions of the sporty all-rounder will go on sale gradually by the second quarter of 2024: as 17-inch front tires in sizes 100/80-17 and 110/70-17, and as 17-inch rear tires in three sizes: 130/70-17 and 140/70-17 and 150/60-17.

Sport Motorcycle Tire Test 2024: The Spoiled Choice

The 2024 season once again presents a challenge for motorcyclists: choosing the right sport motorcycle tire. The good news: A bad purchase is almost impossible, as the differences between the test candidates are minimal.

The Test Motorcycle: BMW S 1000 R

The BMW S 1000 R serves as a representative model for an extremely powerful motorcycle category, whose performance (except for top speed) almost rivals that of a Superbike. With cutting-edge electronic assistance systems and a comfortable riding position, it offers optimal conditions for the test riders.

Test Candidates
Results at a Glance:

METZELER M9 RR : Very Good - Conclusion: Very good compromise between sportiness and everyday use. Whether in the wet, at sporty speeds on the country road or on a time trial: the Metzeler Sportec M9 RR copes very well with all conditions.

MICHELIN POWER 6 : Very Good - Conclusion: "Cool or wet conditions don't affect the Power 6 with its good handling. It has gained in sporting potential compared to the Power 5. A real recommendation for sporty everyday riders."

PIRELLI DIABLO ROSSO IV CORSA : Very Good - Conclusion: "Very sporty tire that focuses on dryness in the Corsa version. The sportier it is driven, the better it functions. The wet performance is uncritical and can convince sporty fair-weather riders."

BRIDGESTONE S22 : Good - Conclusion: "Very sporty tire with good feedback. The good feeling for the front tire in particular speaks for the S22. Another plus of the Japanese tire is its overall performance, which is still harmonious."

Since there wasn't enough time for the big comparison test, we subjected the new Bridgestone S 23 to a follow-up test against its established predecessor and a hot skin.

BRIDGESTONE S23 : The Bridgestone S23 surpasses the S22 in terms of turn-in behavior, stability and lateral grip in the dry. Sporty country road riders will love it for that. In the wet, the S23 really comes into its own, especially when leaning. Here it clearly outperforms the S22, which is clearly demonstrated by the 3.7 seconds faster lap time. In terms of braking distance and acceleration in the wet, the S23 remains at the high level of the S22.

DUNLOP SPORTSMART MK3Good - Conclusion: "The Dunlop Sportsmart MK 3 is a very agile and sporty tire. However, the stiff construction reduces feedback in cooler conditions, which costs points especially in the wet."

Dunlop is also launching the Dunlop SportSmart MK4 as its successor this year. Probably available from November 2024.

Additional Information:

  • The test was conducted by Motorrad magazine. You can order the complete TEST as PDF
  • The test was conducted on a BMW S 1000 R.
  • The test conditions were varied, including dry, wet, and cold weather.
  • The test results are based on the subjective opinions of the test riders.

RoadSmart IV GT - Overall rating VERY GOOD in the MOTORRAD touring tire test 2024

RoadSmart IV GT receives BUYING TIP recommendation "Landstraße/Alltag"*

Test verdict "VERY GOOD" - also in the wetness score

After 2022 and 2023, the DUNLOP ROADSMART IV sport touring tire has once again achieved a very good test result. In this year's touring tire test by MOTORRAD magazine (issue 06/2024), the tested RoadSmart IV GT received the BUYING TIP recommendation "Road/Allday" (country road/everyday). Six tires were tested in sizes 120/70ZR17 and 180/55ZR17 on a BMW R 1250 RS.

The RoadSmart IV GT was the test winner in the 2022 touring tire test (issue 7/2022; tested sizes: 120/70ZR17 and 180/55ZR17). In 2023, the RoadSmart IV in the travel enduro dimensions 120/70ZR19 and 170/60ZR17 once again impressed the MOTORRAD test crew: In the "Landstraße/Alltag" category, the RoadSmart IV received the corresponding BUYING TIP award.

The MOTORRAD test crew was particularly impressed by the excellent handling on country roads: "The Dunlop's special feature is its very light-footed handling. [...] Sporty riders will be convinced by the good grip and the good feedback at a faster pace."

The RoadSmart IV was also convincing in terms of wet grip, so that the verdict was VERY GOOD here, as on country roads: "Saturated grip in the wet combined with light-footed handling result in good lap times in the wet test. The limit range is announced early, the traction is above average and makes it a well-predictable tire in bad weather."

A good grade was achieved in the third test criterion "wear": "It wears out on average, but very homogeneously front and rear. The profile wear does not harm the handling, and in direct comparison it remains ahead of the competition in this discipline even at the end of the wear test."

Here are some additional details from the test:

  • The RoadSmart IV GT was tested on a BMW R 1250 RS.
  • The test was conducted in Spain in March 2024.
  • The test conditions were dry, wet, and cold.
  • The test criteria were handling, grip, stability, wear, and comfort.

Overall, the RoadSmart IV GT performed very well in the MOTORRAD touring tire test 2024. It received the BUYING TIP recommendation "Landstraße/Alltag" and the test verdict "VERY GOOD."

If you are looking for a sport touring tire that offers excellent handling, grip, and stability in all weather conditions, the Dunlop RoadSmart IV GT is a great option.

Mitas is set to launch its new Speedway tyre, designed specifically for intense speedway racing, just in time for 2024 heats. The tyre was developed and tested in conjunction with professional racers in Europe, Australia and the USA and meets the highest regulation standards set by the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM).

  • The newest Mitas SPEEDWAY tire will hit speedway tracks in March 
  • Designed to deliver incredible lap times and better grip at top heat speeds
  • SPEEDWAY designed according to FIM regulations and available in TT and TL versions

Mitas is set to launch its new SPEEDWAY tire, designed specifically for intense speedway racing, just in time for 2024 heats. The tire was developed and tested in conjunction with professional racers in Europe, Australia and the USA and meets the highest regulation standards set by the International Motorcycling Federation (FIM).

Six tires were tested on a BMW R 1250 RS in the tire size 120/70 ZR17 and 180/55 ZR17 to prove their qualities. Five of the tires had already been extensively tested in the 2022 Touring Tire Test, but without the wear test together with the newcomer METZELER ROADTEC 02.

Handling on Land Roads and Everyday Use

Three brands with equal points prove how close the touring tires can be even after 2000 kilometers of test distance. Dunlop and Michelin retain their agile, handy character from the start, while Pirelli retains its stability when cornering quickly. The new Metzeler can't quite make it to the top and places itself in the midfield with Continental. The Bridgestone suffers badly from its wear, degrades heavily and therefore only gets a "good".

Wet Performance

Although this is not about absolute lap times, it reflects the level of the four best tires. Only 1.2 seconds separate the tires in the individual evaluation, and in the sum of all points, they are only separated by one point. Continental is also good, but with slight weaknesses in grip and steering precision. Due to its high wear, the Bridgestone no longer gives the rider a good feeling.

Wear Performance

Let's start with the most striking tire. The Bridgestone T 32 unfortunately stands out negatively from the test field, as it is already waving the white flag on the front wheel and shouting "I'm done". The Metzeler has also lost some feathers, but very evenly front and rear and without any major negative influences on the riding behavior. Continental does the same. Great, after 2000 kilometers there are still fun tires: the tires from Dunlop, Michelin and Pirelli.

For the complete test, get the Motorrad at the kiosk or online today.

 

 

 

8.66 million motorcycle tires / scooter tires were sold in the tire replacement market across Europe in 2023.
This corresponds to a decrease of 11.2% compared to the previous year.

In the last quarter it fell again significantly with 24.4%, after 20.2 in Q3 - 9.6 Q2 and 2.4 Q1

Risk of accident with Dunlop Roadsmart III

In a notification published by the European Commission, Goodyear has recalled 477 potentially defective Dunlop motorcycle tyres.
The 2024 season begins for Dunlop with a tire recall: the tread on the Sportmax Roadsmart III sports touring tire can detach, which can lead to loss of control and a fall.

The wording from the manufacturer Goodyear:

"Goodyear-Dunlop has initiated a voluntary recall for the Dunlop Sportmax Roadsmart III motorcycle tire in size 120/70ZR17 M/C (58W) with production weeks 34, 35, 36, 46 and 47 of 2023. The affected tires can be used over identify the following tire identification numbers (TIN): 1DK8B 6F1M 3423, 1DK8B 6F1M 3523, 1DK8B 6F1M 3623, 1DK8B 6F1M 4623 and 1DK8B 6F1M 4723."

The Challenge of Optimal Tire Pressure

The manufacturer's recommended tire pressure doesn't always guarantee optimal tire temperature. Measurements on winding country roads have shown temperatures of around 45 degrees Celsius at the front and 55 degrees Celsius at the rear tire - too low for a tire pressure of around 2.0 bar.

"The grip of a tire is like the sole of a shoe. On smooth ice, even the best shoe offers little grip. The same applies to a cold tire on a wet road. Only at the right temperature can the tire develop its full grip and carry us safely through traffic. If it gets too hot, however, it can 'melt' and lose its grip."

Factors affecting tire grip:

  • Tire profile: The tread pattern of a tire also affects grip, especially on wet or snowy roads.
  • Tire pressure: Too low or too high tire pressure can negatively affect grip and shorten tire life.
  • Riding style: The rider's riding style also plays a role. Sudden steering movements or hard acceleration and braking can reduce grip.
  • Optimal operating temperature: The optimal operating temperature of a motorcycle tire is a crucial factor for its performance and safety. This specific temperature range, in which the rubber compound achieves its maximum elasticity and grip, varies depending on the tire construction and intended use. While sports tires often require higher temperatures to reach their full potential, touring tires are generally ready for use at lower temperatures.

MOTORRAD magazine recommends for spirited road use on sports bikes up to about 215 kilograms fully fueled: 2.3 bar front and 2.3 to 2.5 bar rear. However, for long motorway journeys, the manufacturer's specifications should always be adhered to, as this can otherwise increase wear and tear and possibly lead to blisters on the tread rubber.

If the high tire temperature (about 55 degrees Celsius at the front and 70 to 80 degrees Celsius at the rear) and thus the pressure increase is not reached with racing tires, the tires may feel unwieldy and with poor steering precision when using the tire pressure set for the race track. Only pure racing tires with a stiff carcass construction are designed for a pressure of 1.8 to 2.0 bar, while road tires are designed for 2.3 to 2.9 bar due to the higher load capacity required.

To have the right tire temperature from the start of the race, which is a prerequisite for perfect grip and thus optimal lap times, all racers use tire warmers. In addition, preheated tires wear out considerably slower and more evenly. The magazine PS tested the tire warmers of the most common manufacturers in issue 5/2004.

Summary

The text discusses the importance of optimal tire temperature for motorcycle safety and performance. It explores various factors that influence tire grip, including tire pressure, profile, and riding style. The text also highlights the differences in optimal temperature between different types of tires, such as sports tires and touring tires. Additionally, it emphasizes the role of tire warmers in achieving optimal tire temperature for racing.

Dunlop Motorcycle Tires is thrilled to present the most versatile off-road race tire it has ever created – the Dunlop Geomax AT82, the latest member to the Geomax family. Boasting champion-proven Progressive Cornering Block Technology (PCBT), a complete top-to-bottom redesign, and a bi-directional rear tread pattern, you can conquer any terrain with the AT82.

Dunlop revamped the construction, prioritizing improved overall handling, impact absorption, and dampening those harsh vibrations that often transfer to the rider. The new pattern offers sturdier braking performance and boosted predictability while accelerating.

Not stopping there, Dunlop crafted an all-new Bi-Directional rear pattern that amplifies the tire's performance across a wider range of conditions, cementing its status as Dunlop's most versatile off-road tire to date. The Bi-Directional center knob is finely tuned to excel on both soft and hard terrains, simply by adjusting its mounting direction.

Broc Glover, Senior Manager, Off-road Motorcycle, stated, "Creating a tire to replace the legendary AT81 was a challenging task. Designing a tire to perform consistently across a diverse range of terrains and obstacles is no easy feat. Thanks to decades of experience, insights from world-class off-road racers, and the meticulous work of our Huntsville test riders, we know the AT82 has raised the bar!"

Key Features and Benefits of the Dunlop Geomax AT82:

  • New front tread pattern design enhances grip and predictability under load.
  • New Progressive Cornering Block Technology (PCBT) design in both front and rear tires lessens knob deformation for superior handling and performance.
  • Improved damping and bump absorption due to the new profile and construction.
  • New bi-directional rear tread pattern optimized for both soft and hard terrains, simply by altering the mounting direction.
  • New rear pattern boosts drive grip and consistency while cornering.
  • Updated pattern and knob design foster enhanced durability.
  • New 90/100-21 front size and 120/90-19 rear size.

Continental is proud to announce that the new BMW M 1000 XR will come equipped with ContiRaceAttack 2 Street hypersport tire. This is the first time that Continental and BMW Motorrad have partnered to equip a M model motorcycle, and it offers performance riders around the world the opportunity to benefit from the expertise of two leading premium manufacturers.

The ContiRaceAttack 2 Street is designed for high-speed riding and aggressive cornering. It features a new compound that provides maximum grip on both wet and dry surfaces, as well as a new tread pattern that helps to improve stability and handling.

The tire is also designed to be lightweight and responsive, making it ideal for riders who want to get the most out of their M 1000 XR.

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Continental introduces new ContiAttack SM 2 supermoto tire

Continental announced the launch of the new ContiAttack SM 2 supermoto tire. The successor to the popular ContiAttack SM, the new tire has been redesigned and improved in all areas.

Key features of the ContiAttack SM 2 include:

  • Increased tread depth for improved wear and tear
  • High stability and damping for extreme braking, acceleration, and supermoto maneuvers
  • Highly precise handling and performance thanks to Continental's sportiest carcass, inspired by Continental's racing slicks
  • Maximum grip and safety in high lean angles thanks to Continental's GripLimitFeedback technology
  • Shorter warm-up times for immediate confidence from the start, combined with strong grip on wet surfaces thanks to Continental's revolutionary BlackChili compound

The ContiAttack SM 2 will be available in two front and thre rear tire sizes in the first quarter of 2024.

Improved wear and tear

The ContiAttack SM 2 features increased tread depth compared to its predecessor. This provides improved wear and tear, especially on wet surfaces.

High stability and damping

The ContiAttack SM 2 features a new carcass design that provides high stability and damping. This makes it more comfortable to ride and helps to improve handling in extreme conditions.

Highly precise handling and performance

The ContiAttack SM 2 features Continental's sportiest carcass, inspired by Continental's racing slicks. This provides highly precise handling and performance, even at high speeds.

Maximum grip and safety in high lean angles

The ContiAttack SM 2 features Continental's GripLimitFeedback technology. This technology provides feedback to the rider as they approach the limit of grip, helping to improve safety in high lean angles.

Shorter warm-up times and strong grip on wet surfaces

The ContiAttack SM 2 features Continental's revolutionary BlackChili compound. This compound provides shorter warm-up times and strong grip on wet surfaces.

Overall, the ContiAttack SM 2 is a significant improvement over its predecessor. It offers a combination of improved performance, handling, and safety that makes it a great choice for supermoto riders.

The Custombike Show will take place in Bad Salzuflen from December 1st to 3rd, 2023


For the 17th time in total. The Avon brand will also have a stand again - two-wheeler fans will find it in Hall 20 (stand no. B07).

The most popular Avon profile in the scene is the AVON COBRA CHROME, which is available in over 70 dimensions for choppers, cruisers and touring bikes - the most impressive is certainly the size 330/30R17, which will also be on display at the trade fair stand. Other products on display will include the 3D Supersport hypersport tire, the AVON SPIRIT ST sports touring tire and the AVON ROADRIDER MKII diagonal touring tire.

In addition, Avon will be holding a trade fair competition this year in which a total of 5 sets of motorcycle tires will be raffled off - so there are many good reasons to pay a visit to the Avon stand.

The original equipment METZELER TOURANCE NEXT 2 tyres are designed mainly for road use while the optional fitment METZELER 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 rearMetzeler 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.

Michelin Unveils Three New Motorcycle Tires for Hypersport and Adventure Touring Segments at EICMA 2023 -

Michelin is showcasing three new motorcycle tires at EICMA 2023, designed to deliver more performance and grip on both the road and the racetrack. The new MICHELIN Power 6, MICHELIN Power GP 2, and MICHELIN Anakee Road tires will be available in stores from January 2024.

MICHELIN Power 6: Sportiness for every day

The MICHELIN Power 6 is a new hypersport tire that offers sporty performance and enormous grip on dry and wet roads, as well as high mileage for frequent riders. It also features agile handling and is available in many sizes, making it suitable for motorcycles from 300 cubic centimeters. The MICHELIN Power 6 has already been homologated for the new 2024 KTM 390 Duke.

MICHELIN Power GP 2: From the racetrack to the road

The MICHELIN Power GP 2 is a new racetrack tire that has been homologated for road use. Thanks to Michelin's years of expertise from MotoGP™, the MICHELIN Power GP 2 offers more grip on wet and dry roads than its predecessor, while still delivering high driving precision and optimal handling. This allows experienced riders to push themselves to their limits on the racetrack while still enjoying a safe and sporty driving experience on the road.

MICHELIN Anakee Road: Street performance in a "Trail-Look"

The MICHELIN Anakee Road is a new adventure touring tire that offers plenty of grip on various road surfaces, regardless of whether it is dry or wet. It also features high mileage and driving stability, making it a reliable choice for longer journeys. Developed specifically for large and heavy adventure touring motorcycles, the MICHELIN Anakee Road also features a "Trail-Look" design that is visually aligned with this segment.

MICHELIN Anakee Road: Street performance in a "Trail-Look"

The MICHELIN Anakee Road is a new adventure touring tire that offers plenty of grip on various road surfaces, regardless of whether it is dry or wet. It also features high mileage and driving stability, making it a reliable choice for longer journeys. Developed specifically for large and heavy adventure touring motorcycles, the MICHELIN Anakee Road also features a "Trail-Look" design that is visually aligned with this segment.