The most crucial piece of equipment on our bikes is often the most over looked. But a good set of tyres not only make a huge difference in better performance, handling and fuel economy but, more importantly, safety as well.
Michelin's predecessor to the Pilot Road 3 -- which funnily enough was the Pilot Road 2 -- drew somewhat of a cult following in sport touring circles for its all-weather continuity, tenacious dynamics and impressively high mileage.
Now, with tyre technology taking another quantum leap forward, the Pilot Road 3 directional radial aims to build on that glowing reputation to deliver what Michelin says is 'superior grip in all conditions'.
Marketing gaff aside, we tried the new PR3s for ourselves in the curly back roads of Victoria's Yarra Valley to determine just how their performance stacks up, but more on that later.
Michelin also claims PR3 brings higher levels of grip on painted surfaces, such as nasty white lines, even under heavy braking.
To achieve these results, PR3 now includes fine transverse grooves known as 'sipes', double-effect drainage 'wells', a revised tread design (to promote even wear) and new-generation dual-compound technology.
The introduction of numerous fine sipes (referred to as X-Sipe Technology or 'XST' by the Michelin boffins) between the tyre's block edges are designed to break through the film of water on the road and localise high pressure along the sipe. This action allows continuous contact between the tyre and the road surface. Water is then cleared to the sides of the tyre via the broad grooves in the tread pattern (see picture above).
To draw a simple comparison, the sipes clear water over a rounded surface more efficiently because there are more of them, much like a multi-blade razor does a better job shaving your face when compared to a single blade.
Michelin has also introduced what it calls double-effect 'wells' on PR3 which act like little reservoirs to capture water before it can be cleared -- the theory here is that the tyre's water clearance capacity is increased by providing a space where water can be held temporarily (mere milliseconds) before the tyre rotates and lifts to allow egress.
The wells also increase the 'cutting' efficiency of the sipes by more quickly withdrawing held water.
A newly revised tread design aims to promote consistency in tyre wear, maintaining peak performance across the entirety of the tyre's life. Cutting the sipes on a 15-degree angle is said to further promote even wear by reducing scalloping on the block edges.
Finally, the latest-generation dual-compound technology (or 2CT in Michelin speak) further improves on the compound used in PR2. A softer rubber compound is used on the tread shoulders with a wear resistant, harder compound down the centre – no surprises there.
What is new however is the consistency of the rubber and the amount of silica used (both trade secrets). The compound ratio across the tyre's cross-section also changes on the new-generation hoops with the front tyre comprising a 20:60:20 ratio (soft, soft/medium, soft) and the rear a 40:20:40 split (of soft/medium, medium, soft/medium).
Michelin Pilot Road 3 tyres are manufactured in three plants globally: France, Spain and Thailand.
THE TEST
Fitting the new Michi PR3's to our long-term Triumph Street Triple R we were keen to see how quickly the tyres would scrub in. Pushing the bike early on new rubber saw a little more bravado required to equal the results achieved from the previous (now well worn) Dunlops, but after a hundred-odd kays we were ready to go.
After weeks of above average rainfall in Melbourne, the days since having the new rubber fitted have been irritatingly mild and dry, hardly any test of all this new tech. But what we did notice after burning off the mould release was a level of grip determined to make my blood run blue and yellow.
Punting a few well-loved roads that neighbour the Yarra Valley, the dry performance of the tyres proved reassuring after my initial doubts. Commuting had seen a struggle in achieving a comfortable pressure.
The sipes can (when braking into a corner) squidge around a little, and I soon found a couple of extra PSI over the manufacturer's recommendations was required to find a happy balance.
Conversely, the rear tyre felt proud at the handbook pressure making for a nervous and sudden gesture upon tip in. Releasing four pounds of air pressure seems to have helped.
Riding the same route only five days earlier (and in similar conditions) gave a great comparison as to just how much grip the new rubber held. Cornering is rapid and tenacious with a fluid transition from upright to leant over and back again clear across the dual-compound surface.
Harder braking still seems to present a little movement through the bars went you're leant over but that said, a clear reduction in stopping distance is also evident. As we continue to put the tyres through their paces, and with autumn on its way, we're sure to have more feedback and some wet weather critique coming your way.
What I'm trying to say here is that the new Michelins aren't cheap (see below). But when it comes to saving your sump - or even your rump - a few extra bucks spent on good quality, high-tech rubber is money well spent.
Already living up to expectations we're super eager to try the PR3s out in wet weather and even more keen to see if the tyres can meet their high mileage claims.
If the popularity of Michelin's previous Pilot Road tyres is anything to go by then the new rubber should sell like the proverbial hot cake, and maintain the French manufacturer's position as top dog (or is that top white fat man) in the sport touring tyre sector.
Sizing is available as follows with trail tyre sizes to be added to the line-up by the end of the year. Michelin stockists can be found online at: Michelin.com.au
FRONTS:
110/70 ZR 17 M/C (54W) TL
110/80 ZR 18 M/C (58W) TL
120/60 ZR 17 M/C (55W) TL
120/70 ZR 17 M/C (58W) TL
120/70 ZR 18 M/C (59W) TL
REARS:
150/70 ZR 17 M/C (69W) TL
160/60 ZR 17 M/C (69W) TL
160/60 ZR 18 M/C (70W) TL
170/60 ZR 17 M/C (72W) TL
180/55 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL
190/50 ZR 17 M/C (73W) TL
190/55 ZR 17 M/C (75W) TL
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