| 2007 Motorcycle
Tires Market Report
Megan Vickers
Assistant Editor
Buying a motorcycle and deciding which kinds of accessories to add on can be difficult. However, no matter what type of motorcycle they choose to buy, consumers are going to need a nice set of tires to go with it. By knowing different sizes and types of tires that are available, dealers can ensure their customers are getting the appropriate tires for their bike. We contacted some of the industry’s leading tire companies for their help in supplying us with all the information one could want on these new exciting tires.
|
|
Achieva Rubber Corp. introduced its Innova Enduro tires for motorcycles, reported Inside Sales Representative Louis
Campodonico. “The new Super Enduro tire line is street legal (DOT rated), yet has a fondness for dirt,” he told us. The tire’s computer aided design produces a tread pattern that enhances traction
offroad, while also offering a stable ride on the highway, explained
Campodonico. “This dual sport tire combines a durable casing for puncture resistance and a special rubber compound for excellent grip under any condition,” he added.
Achieva Rubber Corp.
1800 Border Ave.
Torrance, CA 90501
Phone: 877-328-8868
Fax: 310-328-5768
www.achievatires.com |
|
|
“For the sport touring market, Michelin has introduced Pilot Road 2 tires, our latest application of Two-Compound Technology,” said Motorcycle Marketing Manager Brad
Faucette, “And in the cruiser segment, Michelin’s Commander and Macadam 50 lines include several new sizes that are approved fitments on select Harley-Davidson models.” The new Pilot Road 2 incorporates two distinct rubber compounds in its tire tread: a harder rubber in the center of the tread helps deliver exceptional mileage, while a softer compound on the tread shoulders gives the tires exceptional cornering grip, described
Faucette. “In fact, independent testing confirms that Pilot Road 2 tires deliver both longer tread life and best wet-weather grip of any comparable sport touring radial tire,” he told us. The Commander and Macadam 50 tires offer Harley-Davidson riders a choice in premium replacement tires, said
Faucette, who continued by saying, “These tires have met Harley-Davidson’s exacting standards for performance, which speaks volumes about Michelin quality. We feel that the comfortable ride, outstanding grip and durability of Commander and Macadam 50 tires provide a viable alternative to OE cruiser tires.” The high performance sport bike segment continues to be strong due to the increasing popularity of track days, Faucette noted, adding that another trend he has noticed is the use of trials tires on the rear wheels of offroad bikes for better traction and grip. “There really is a difference in tire brands,” he told retailers. “While many consumers have already researched their purchase prior to entering a dealership, probably an equal number rely on the salesperson’s expertise and recommendation when buying tires,” he concluded.
Michelin North America
P.O. Box 19001
Greenville, SC 29602
Phone: 800-346-4098
Fax: 864-458-6650
www.michelin-us.com |
|
|
The Shinko 747 series touring/cruiser tires are the latest tires carried by Western Power Sports, reported Street Product Manager Scott Casper. “The 747 series tires are a high-quality radial tire at a reasonable price,” he told us. “They are currently available in sizes to fit the Honda 1800
Goldwing, with more sizes available soon,” he said. Casper added, “Retail prices are $131.95 for the front tire and $158.95 for the rear.” Customers are paying more attention to tire manufacturer’s Web sites, noted Casper. “They are learning about the technical aspects of the tires and making purchasing decisions from this information,” he explained. Sales are up compared to last year, he told us, partly due to Shinko’s commitment to building high-quality, technically advanced tires and Western Power Sports’ increased market share as a wholesale distributor. “Learn as much as possible about the tire brands you are selling, so you can help the retail customer make an informed decision about their tire purchase,” he advised.
Shinko Tire Company –
Western Power Sports
601 E. Gowen Road
Boise, ID 83716
Phone: 800-999-3388
Fax: 208-375-8901
www.wps-inc.com |
Selling tires can be difficult if the customer doesn’t know much about the product. By retailers knowing as much as they can, regarding each set of tires in stock, dealers can make a tough decision seem like a breeze. If we were unable to answer some of your questions regarding the latest tire products, please go ahead and contact these companies for more information. And before you put this issue aside, remember to read our motorcycle wheels
segement, elsewhere in this issue. |
