Michelin releases new tires for trail motorcycles
Michelin releases new tires, the Michelin Anakee Adventure 2, for the trail motorcycle segment, which the company says has become one of the most dynamically developing on the two-wheeled vehicle market. Trail bikes are lightweight motorcycles for easy off-roading, and Michelin notes that while they were previously used only for off-road riding, they are now becoming increasingly versatile, with a growing number of female fans in addition to the predominantly male enthusiasts.
The new Michelin tires are designed primarily for paved surfaces but also provide "confident off-road capability," and the manufacturer positions them as "created for demanding riders who value high safety in everyday life combined with the ability to enjoy exploring any terrain their inspiration takes them to."
The main advantages of the new Michelin tires are reliable grip on wet surfaces, enhanced by high-performance rubber compounds with silica content, as well as improved smoothness and reduced noise levels. Additionally, the lifespan of the front and rear tires has increased by 7% and 21%, respectively, compared to the previous generation tires, the Michelin Anakee Adventure.
The tires are manufactured using technologies such as 2CT (the tread has a dual-structure design, with the central part made of a more wear-resistant rubber compound and the shoulders made of a compound that enhances grip), Reinforced Radial-X Evo (aramid fibers in the construction improve stability and wear resistance), and Premium Touch Design (the sidewall design elements have a "velvet effect"), while the new tread pattern is designed for an "ideal balance" of riding qualities on asphalt and loose surfaces.
Michelin notes that over the past six years, global sales of trail tires have doubled, and in 2024, they became more popular than tires for custom motorcycles for the first time. The release of the Anakee Adventure 2 is part of the company's strategy to become a major player in this segment by 2030. To achieve this goal, Michelin intends to leverage its participation in off-road racing, such as the Dakar Rally and the Enduro World Championship, as well as strengthen its relationships with motorcycle manufacturers and homologate tires for "the most iconic trail motorcycles."
The new tires are designed for popular trail motorcycles such as the BMW R1250 and 1300GS, Honda Africa Twin, Yamaha Tenere, Ducati Multistrada, Triumph Tiger, KTM Super Adventure, Suzuki V-Strom, Aprilia Tuareg, Moto Guzzi V85, Kawasaki Versys, and others.
For owners of motorcycles of this type, the company currently offers the following tires:
Michelin Road 6 (100% - asphalt)
Michelin Anakee Road (90% - asphalt, 10% - off-road)
Michelin Anakee Adventure 2 (80/20)
Michelin Anakee Wild (50/50)