Recent advancement in the performance of maxi scooters has led to a revolution in that section of the tyre market, with most major manufacturers now offering radials which are often a scaled down version of their high-performance big bike rubber.
The latest tyres to join the party are the Battlax SC2 and SC2 Rain from Bridgestone, the former being based on their superb S21 sportsbike tyre, and the latter on their brand new Battlax T31 sport touring hoop.
The ‘Rain’ version features a high silica content in the centre of it’s dual compound rear tyre, which boosts grip in low temperatures and on wet surfaces. The optimal groove layout also channels water away from the contact patch area more effectively.
MCN’s Michael Neeves recently tested a pair for 1,200 miles on the Yamaha TMAX, with a mixture of commuting and touring in both the UK and France.
On their website, Michael says:
“With a much rounder profile than the OE Dunlop Roadsmart, the new Bridgestones transform the TMAX. Now it rolls more eagerly into corners, takes less effort to steer and there’s a heap more feel and grip and confidence at full lean.
Warm-up time is impressive and they’re good to go by the time you’ve swung out of your drive or left the office car park, even on freezing tarmac, which is reassuring.
They’re wearing well so far, but we’ll report back to later in the year to let you know how long they last.
There are cheaper tyres around, but then there are much more affordable scooters, too. You get what you pay for and the increase in fun and safety are worth every penny.”
You can read Michael’s article in full at motorcyclenews.com.
Alternatively, find out more about the new Battlax SC2 Rain here.
