Michelin Unveils New Multipurpose Tire for Big Trail Motorcycles

GREENVILLE, S.C. (Feb. 5, 2013) – The new MICHELIN® Anakee® III tire, designed to deliver all the safety and off road capability big trail motorcycle users demand, has been certified for use on the new BMW R 1200 GS, the benchmark motorcycle in its category. In 2013, more than half of these BMW models will be fitted with the new MICHELIN tire when they leave the assembly plant.

The big trail motorcycle segment continues to expand as additional manufacturers are investing in this family of bikes. For 2013, BMW is revamping its flagship R 1200 GS model, which up until 2012 was the world’s best-selling large motorcycle. BMW and Michelin worked together to co-develop the tire, which required both partners to renew their respective product lineups.

“This release begins a strong year for Michelin when we will introduce three new tires in North America for motorcycle enthusiasts,” said Ross Shields, vice president, Two Wheel Michelin North America. “The Anakee III delivers what riders demand, a smooth and predictable highway experience and a stable off road capability. This is a perfect tire for dual-sport riders.”

MICHELIN Anakee III tire will also be available as a replacement option for other leading dual sport bikes like the Suzuki V-Strom, Kawasaki KLR, Triumph Tiger and Yamaha Super- Tenere.

Intended to replace the MICHELIN Anakee 2 tire, the new MICHELIN Anakee III tire innovates with its unique tread pattern, developed through Michelin’s technological expertise. Featuring bevel-cut central sipes, the tread delivers improved lateral grip. Thanks to new silica-based components, the new MICHELIN Anakee III rear tire lasts 20 percent longer according to internal company tests than the MICHELIN Anakee 2 tire, which already offered unmatched mileage. In addition, silica helps to improve wet grip. The new tread design makes for regular wear, while delivering a lively response and consistent behavior as the miles roll by, for greater safety and a more enjoyable ride.

In short, the new MICHELIN Anakee III tire means an agile, yet stable ride even with a passenger and luggage (thanks to its rigid casing), precision cornering even at high speed, and excellent braking and cornering response. When cornering at a 30 degree angle, the contact patch is 10 degrees wider than with the preceding MICHELIN Anakee 2 tire, thereby demonstrating Michelin’s ability to simultaneously deliver superior performance in several areas by using advanced technologies.

The new MICHELIN Anakee III tire is introduced in 14 versions (five bias and nine radials) in the following sizes:

FRONT                                
100/90 – 19
 90/90 – 21
 90/90 – 21
 90/90 – 21
110/80 R 19
110/80 R 19
120/70 R 19 *

REAR
120/90 – 17
130/80 R 17
130/80 R 17
140/80 R 17
150/70 R 17
150/70 R 17
170/60 R 17 *

*2013 BMW R1200 GS Original Equipment Sizes

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