A brand new tyre to the market in 2021, the Road Classic replaces the long-standing Pilot Activ and French tyre giant Michelin hope it will give them a bigger slice of the modern retro and classic bike market than it’s predecessor.
Michelin state that it combines a retro style tread design with the latest materials and tyre technologies, and we’ve already sold a handful since the first few units arrived with us last week.
With a 26% rubber-to-tread ratio, the directional pattern of the Road Classic stikes an optimal balance between performance and styling. A slick central band and shoulder area ensure maximum strainght line traction and edge grip in the dry, while the 100% silica rubber compound boosts wet grip and promotes fast warm up times. Working alongside the compound are the chamfered groove edges in the tread pattern, which help to break through the surface of the water on wet roads to further increase grip in difficult conditions.
Michelin’s expert team of engineers also strived to create a casing which could effectively:
- Carry the weight of a bike, rider, pillion and luggage
- Offer excellent levels of comfort at high speeds
- Limit heat build up between casing components to reduce wear rates
To do this they have placed two Bi-NST plies directly beneath the tread rubber, and these reduce centrifugal growth at speed to deliver a more consistent contact patch size. This means you get a more predictable ride, and it also promotes even wear characteristics.
Underneath the top two casing plies there sits a further two Bi-NC casing plies which are rigid enough to support high loads while providing excellent stability. However, they remain supple enough to make for a comfortable ride, providing the tyre with excellent bump absorption properties.
All of the Road Classic sizes are market as ‘TL/TT’ denoting that they are a tubeless tyre, but also suitable for use on tube type wheels as long as an appropriate sized tube is fitted.
With significant improvements in straight-line and cornering stability along with all-round grip, the Road Classic range is bound to prove popular with riders across the board.
The majority of sizes are expected to be available by the end of January, and dealers can speak to our sales team for further information.
