our all-new tires highlight Michelin’s line-up for 2007, with the introduction of innovative products for motocross, high-performance streetbikes, original-equipment replacement and the ever-expanding scooter market.
     The new Starcross HP4 is the hardpack tire for extreme “blue-groove” conditions, and expands the championship-winning range of Michelin Starcross tires. Starcross HP4 tires feature innovative wave-form knob patterns designed to maximize cornering traction on hardpack. These massive, closely spaced knobs maximize tread contact with the ground, for exceptional grip on blue-groove tracks. Starcross HP4 knobs are 1mm shorter than on other Starcross tires, for added rigidity and better grip on hard tracks.
     The wide 90/100-21 front HP4 tire (as opposed to the typical 80/100-21 size) provides a larger contact patch that enhances predictability in blue groove conditions. The taller, wider front casing also provides greater air volume for soaking up hard landings and big jumps.
     Starcross HP4 tires will be available through Parts Unlimited in spring 2007. The 90/100-21 Starcross HP4 front carries a suggested retail of $93, while the 110/90-19 rear is priced at a suggested $111.
     Road racing fans have been hearing about dual-compound tires for years, ever since Michelin introduced the first dual-compound slicks in 500cc Grand Prix in 1994. But until recently, this technology has been reserved strictly for racers, who enjoyed the added grip that multiple rubber compounds can provide. Now Michelin Pilot Power 2CT tires have changed all that.
     An extension of the already-successful Pilot Power line of ultrahigh-performance tires, Pilot Power 2CT tires add a second rubber compound on the outer edges of the tread that’s 20 percent softer than the center tread. As racers already know, this softer rubber promotes higher cornering grip at full lean–an important benefit for sportbike owners who use their bikes for track days.
With two-compound technology (or ‘2CT’ in Michelin terminology), the tread area of Pilot Power 2CT tires is divided into three separate areas, incorporating two different rubber compounds. The center of the tread is designed to withstand high speeds, sudden acceleration and braking. The outer edges of the tread come into use at maximum lean angles. Their softer rubber compound heats up quickly and provides optimal grip at lower speeds, delivering outstanding traction when cornering.
     The respected U.K. weekly Motorcycle News was so impressed with the performance of Pilot Power 2CT tires that the magazine proclaimed them its 2006 Product of the Year.
     Pilot Power 2CT tires are available now from Parts Unlimited, in sizes to fit current 600 to 1000cc sportbikes. The MSRP for the 120/70 ZR 17 front is $177, while rear Pilot Power 2CT tires range from $227 to $277, in sizes 180/55 ZR 17, 190/50 ZR 17, and 190/55 ZR 17
     The single-compound Pilot Power, an acclaimed performance tire in its own right, is also available from Parts Unlimited, in sizes to fit a wider range of bikes. Suggested retail for Pilot Power front tires is $156 to $161, and $190 to $242 for rears.
Another addition to Michelin’s range of high-performance tires is the Pilot Classic, developed specifically as the original-equipment tire for Ducati SportClassic bikes. Like the Ducati GT 1000, Sport 1000 and Sport 1000S, Pilot Classic tires combine timeless styling with contemporary performance features.
     Pilot Classic tires incorporate the high-performance rubber mix of Pilot Power tires, the comfortable ride and stable handling of Pilot Road sport touring tires, and a classic tread design inspired by the Michelin TG22 tire from the early 1980s. Pilot Classic tires are also unusual in that they are radials that can be installed with inner tubes, a necessity with the SportClassics’ wire-spoked wheels. Of course, they can also be mounted without tubes, on tubeless rims, for riders who want to use them on something other than a Ducati SportClassic.
     The ‘V’ speed-rated Pilot Classic 120/70 R 17 front tire carries a suggested retail of $163, and the 180/55 R 17 rear is priced at a suggested $213. Pilot Classic tires are already available through Parts Unlimited.
     As the company that made the first radial tires for motorcycles, it’s only appropriate that Michelin has now brought radial technology to scooters. Designed for large-displacement touring scooters like the Suzuki Burgman 650, the new Pilot Sport SC Radial tire can provide scooter enthusiasts with enhanced ride quality, stability and handling.
     The radial casing of Pilot Sport SC Radial tires helps maintain stability at higher speeds and promotes uniform tread wear. Precise steering, maneuverability and a compliant ride are other benefits of radial construction. The tires’ semi-slick tread design maximizes the contact patch, while deep grooves efficiently evacuate water.
     Pilot Sport SC Radial front tires are available from Parts Unlimited in 120/70 R 14 and 120/70 R 15 sizes, at a suggested retail of $116. The 160/60 R 14 and 160/60 R 15 rear tires are priced at a suggested $152.
     Dealers visiting the annual International Powersports Dealer Expo on February 17-19 can get a closer look at these exciting new Michelin tires at booth #533 in the Indianapolis Convention Center.