As the successor to the hugely popular M7RR, big things were expected of the new Sportec M9RR from Metzeler when it was announced in late 2019.
Featuring a 100% silica compound on both front and rear, the Sportec M9RR is claimed to offer high levels of all-weather grip and excellent performance in colder conditions too – like all modern day hypersport tyres, versatility is key.
Metzeler engineers have also used a brand new cord technology within the construction of the carcass, which allows for dynamic performance of the rubber without affecting the stiffness of the tyre. For the rider, this translates into a nimble, predictable handling response and a smooth, enjoyable ride.
There’s also claims of a 10% increase in mileage over the M7RR based on internal test data.
RiDE editor Matt Wildee has had the opportunity to test the new Sportec M9RR this year on Kawasaki’s Ninja Z1000SX, and in the magazine’s previous issue he had this to say about their performance to date:
“The old Z1000SX had ponderous low-speed steering and while the new bike has done much to eradicate that, you still felt like you had to wrestle the bars a bit in low-speed turns. That’s now gone, replaced by accuracy and feel. The rate of turn in is better too; the SX feels lighter, livelier and changes direction better.
Combined with an amazing feeling of grip when you’re at lean, you end up with a machine that feels both sportier and more reassuring – and with great stability and improved ride quality. This isn’t a knife edge track tyre but lets you ride the SX as hard as a sportsbike without sacrificing its touring ability.
In the wet, the M9RRs provide feel and traction and work well in the cold too. I got 5000 miles out of the rear of its predecessor, the old M7RR, so it’ll be interesting to see if the new ones can match the claims. But if it stacks up, these are a compelling proposition.”
