In the June 2016 issue of US based Sport Rider Magazine, bike journalist Thomas Montano has been reporting back from the official launch of the new Battlax S21 hypersport tyre from Bridgestone in Abu Dhabi.
Promising extra grip, more precise handling and a big improvement in mileage over the acclaimed Battlax S20 EVO, which was well liked by many riders (and is still available, at a great value price!)
The superb Yas Marina circuit under the glow of floodlight was the venue for the launch, with journalists given a plethora of the latest sportsbikes to choose from and told to test the tyre to it’s limits.
The rear Battlax S21 has a lower profile and new compound on the shoulder, and uses rib blocks in the central band to control slip and improve tyre life. The front on the other hand is taller and narrower, but also gets a new shoulder compound. The end result – better grip at full lean, allowing you to carry more corner speed. This resulted in a 2 second improvement in lap times at the Sugo circuit in Japan under testing, when running against the old tyre.
Thomas says:
“The first thing you notice about the S21 is it’s stability. The tyre provides a very reassuring feel. By that I mean there is no nervousness – just a solid connection between you and the road. Even at max lean, the S21 stayed in line whereas some other tyres can get upset easily or tend to move around a bit. And the same amount of feel and stability was present no matter which bike I was on.
Corner entry was equally impressive, with the tyre remaining very stable during hard braking and then the bike turning in nicely, though it does take a little more effort than some other brands to initiate turn-in. The flip side of that effort however, is there’s no flightiness over bumps, and steering remains very precise, giving you added confidence. The transition from trail braking to max lean is also very good, with only the slightest sense of vagueness during the change.
Direction changes are another plus when it comes to the S21. Again, the tyre needs a bit more muscle than usual to flick the bike from one side to the other, but it pays off with the Bridgestone providing a positive feel throughout the transition. The S21 rolls over very evenly, never falling in or fighting to complete the transition from mid to full lean and the back upright.
Overall the grip from the new Bridgestone was excellent, especially for being a street-oriented tyre. Granted, we were riding well within our limits during our time at Yas Marina, as the F1 circuit’s runoff in the turns is comparatively small due to its automobile-intended use; the walls and barriers are way too close for comfort. When the S21 does start to protest at being ridden too aggressively, it lets you know with smooth, progressive slides that don’t threaten to put you on your head. Grip began to fade after a good number of laps, but again the S21 is a sport tyre, not a DOT race tyre.
Ridden with moderate levels of aggression, the new Bridgestone S21 is a superb sport tyre than can handle multiple roles with ease. It’s meant for everyday riding, but if you feel the need, the S21 makes for a very competent trackday tyre as well.”
Thomas certainly felt more worn our than the S21 looked come the end of the day….
View the full range of Battlax S21 sizes here.
