Michelin launches new tire series | Ride MTB

Michelin launches new tire series

With the new "Wild" tire series, Michelin is trying to regain a foothold in the mountain bike sector after years of abstinence. The French company is working with three new tread patterns for the presented series.

The "Race'R" is designed for dry cross-country use with its good rolling profile and flat blocks (knobs). The "Grip'R" is an all-round tire with a tread pattern that offers sufficient lateral grip and good rolling characteristics. Despite the good rolling performance, the tread is relatively open, giving the "Grip'R" good self-cleaning properties. With the "Rock'R", the French also have a tire for extreme terrain. Its coarse tread design offers good traction and lateral grip on rocky, blocked surfaces.

New technologies
The three new profiles are available both as tubular tires and as Tubless versions. While only one type of rubber is used for the tubular tires, the respective Tubless version uses "Dual Compound Technology", i.e. a mixture of two different types of rubber. Michelin's self-developed "Gummwall Technology" is also used in the Tubless tires. Here, the sealing rubber is not applied to the inside of the carcass, but to the outside. According to Michelin, the carcass should be less susceptible to cuts, making the tire more puncture-resistant.

Positive impression
Initial test rides with the new tires have left a thoroughly positive impression. However, the weight is a clear drawback. Although the "Wild" tire series is generously dimensioned across the board, it is not possible to keep up with the weight in direct comparison to the competition. For the time being, Michelin is building on a very good price/performance ratio. Prices between 25 and 45 euros are attractive. However, the French already have other variants of the "Wild" series ready. In addition to a mud tire called "Dig'R", the dual compound and rubber wall technology will also be partially extended to the cheaper tires.

Internet presence
Detailed information on dimensions and rubber compounds will be available on Michelin's new homepage from the end of February. Michelin will work there with a program in which the customer can enter their preferred driving style, terrain and other needs and immediately receive a tire recommendation.

Profile Grip'R, Rock'R, Race'R
DualCompound designs
Gummwall Technology


Note: This content has been automatically translated from German. Please report any incorrect translations.