The Racetec SM K2 motorcycle tire is designed for the most powerful and fastest superbikes participating in various sports competitions, which is reflected in the model name, where the abbreviation "SM" means "supermoto". At the same time, the K2 prefix means belonging to one of two versions of this tire, namely the one designed for use at a road surface temperature above 19 °C and on clean racing tracks. I.e. such properties indicate that a softer rubber compound was used for this tire.
The Metzeler Racetec SM K2 model uses a modified rubber compound that differs in increased heating rate to operating temperature. At the same time, the heating process proceeds sufficiently evenly to prevent the occurrence of such a negative phenomenon as "cold-tearing", i.e. tread rupture due to a sharp temperature drop. In addition, the new rubber compound composition ensures the preservation of traction properties at the initial level even when overheated. Such features have significantly extended the life of the tire, allowing you to visit the pit lane for tire changes less often.
Another design feature is the steel cord, which was developed using two technologies - 0° Steel Radial and Metzeler Advanced Technology. In addition to abandoning textiles in favor of steel, this tire used a somewhat unusual winding method - the threads are located at an angle of 0° relative to the direction of movement. At the same time, the density of their winding varies depending on the location under the tread. This was done to give increased stiffness to those areas of the tread that are under the most intense deformation. In addition, the longitudinal winding reduces uneven wear and also significantly reduces rolling resistance, which could not but affect the durability of the tire.
Main features of the Metzeler Racetec SM K2 motorcycle tire
- The optimized rubber compound has provided ideal traction, high heating rate and stability of all characteristics when overheated;
- The variable curvature of the tread profile ensures high accuracy when entering a turn, excellent stability when passing, and maximum acceleration efficiency when exiting;
- The steel cord in combination with longitudinal winding and varying density of steel threads provides excellent resistance to dynamic deformation, low rolling resistance, even distribution of external load, and excellent strength.
