etzeler isn’t standing still, not when it’s introducing two brand-new series of tires for two of the hottest market segments in the industry. For 2004 Metzeler’s Roadtec Z6 picks up where the fabled MEZ4 left off, giving sport-tourers that perfect blend of performance and mileage. For the V-twin cruiser crowd there’s now a whitewall choice—the original ME880 wide whites or the brand-new Narrow-Stripe Whites (see accompanying story), tires destined to become cruiser classics.

The Roadtec Z6 was developed to perfectly match the requirements of the bikes they’ll be used on.

First those Roadtec Z6s, tires as different—and as advanced—as the MEZ4 was at its introduction. Metzeler’s poured all of its technology into this one, taking into consideration all the advancements made by sport-touring bikes, too, with their improved suspensions, power and capacities. The Roadtec Z6 was developed to perfectly match the requirements of the bikes they’ll be used on. These tires even come in two different carcass constructions in the most popular rear size (180/55-17), the standard construction optimized for bikes with a Gross Vehicle Rated Weight (GVRW) under 935 pounds, and a B-spec multi-ply construction for bikes with a GVRW over 935 pounds. That’s how carefully Metzeler matched these tires to their application.
The Z6s were specifically developed to offer distinct improvements in dry grip, wet performance, have a light, neutral feel, ride comfortably, and of course to last—and do all of this on the newest sport-touring machines. In compounding alone the Z6s benefit from a new Metzeler extrusion process allowing use of the latest generation high-performance polymers, carbon black and silica. This Fine Carbon Matrix (FCM) significantly improves the grip and handling overall, wet or dry. In fact, Metzeler’s testing showed that the Z6’s new FCM compound delivered up to a 20 percent dry-grip improvement over the Z4.

New front and rear tread patterns enhance water drainage, too, with improved land/sea ratios that are designed to work together for enhanced water drainage. The result is 30 percent better wet handling and grip than the MEZ4, better feedback in the wet and more confidence in wet cornering. Metzeler’s new Contour Modeling Technology (CMT) was employed in the development of the tire’s profile. The result a confidence-inspiring “feel” in all riding conditions, straight-up/straight ahead or leaned-over and cornering. The Z6 sidewalls were specifically tuned for sport-touring bikes, too, providing a new level of bump absorption and tire compliance on rough or pitted surfaces, plus a higher level of self-damping for more comfort for both the rider and the passenger.
The Roadtec also features the latest generation of Metzeler’s patented zero-degree steel-belted radial construction. The result is a stable contact patch that minimizes tire deformation at speed—especially in loaded conditions, providing exceptional high-speed stability, excellent balance in transitions and linear, predictable handling.
This is quite a tire, and it’s available in a full range of sizes for all modern-era bikes. Suggested retail prices range from $146.95 to $154.30 for the fronts; $181.23 to $227.58 for rears.

Check it all out the amazing Roadtec Z6s at the Indy Show, Booth #1716. If you won’t be at Indy, be sure to call your Parts rep to find out more.

ou’ll want to take a look at Metzeler’s new Narrow-Stripe Whitewalls. Cruiser guys are going to love this option. Hot on the heels of those super-popular ME880 wide whitewalls, Metzeler’s trimmed down the accent this year, offering a Narrow-Stripe whitewall in a couple of the most popular sizes, a 130/90-16 and a 140/90-16.

Metzeler’s new Narrow-Stripe Whitewalls are now available for the ME880 sizes 130/90-16 and 140/90-16.

Add these two new Narrow-Stripe Whites to the half-dozen ME880 wide whites already available and you’ll have it all, a whitewall for every application. And these tires aren’t just about looks. Along with their classic retro styling the whitewall Metzelers—wide or Narrow-Stripe—have all the ME880 Metzeler “upgrades” expected, in ride, performance, comfort, handling and long-life durability. They’re performers.