Maxxis targets asphalt track racers with ZR9

Towards the end of April a new high performance tyre will be added to the line-up of Maxxis products available in the UK. Called the ZR9, the UHP tyre will be released in size 195/50 VR15 and is designed for and targeted at asphalt track racing. Describing the new tyre, Maxxis explains that the ZR9 features a “directional tread pattern design with low void ratio for impressive handling” and large shoulder blocks that aid cornering and lateral stability, plus central V-shaped grooves that disperse water efficiently for strong wet traction.

“The well-balanced tread, sidewall, bead design and advanced racing compound meet all the handling and traction requirements for racing, ensuring the new Maxxis ZR9 gives competitive racers the edge,” the tyre maker comments. The ZR9 complements the MA-Z1 Drift, which is based on the road-going MA-Z1 tyre and incorporates a high temperature silicone rubber compound that Maxxis comments gives not long life plus the “all-important smoke required to score extra points in the sport of drifting.” In 2009 the MA-Z1 Drift was used by the Maxxis-sponsored drivers who took out victory in the British Drift Championship, the Prodrift Super Series, the Need for Speed European Drift Championship and the US-based Formula Drift series. 

In the UK the ZR9, like other Maxxis products, is exclusively available through independent tyre wholesaler Grouptyre.