Trail, classic products to join Conti portfolio in 2013

After a year of steady sales increases in 2012, Conti says it is ready to ‘Attack’ in 2013 and is looking to maintain the company’s position as the UK’s fastest growing motorcycle tyre brand. UK Product mix demand has changed dramatically in the last few years and Continental believes its product range is well suited to the wide variety of tyres now being purchased.

Quality products backed by first class customer service are viewed by the tyre maker as essential ingredients to achieving further Continental success in a tightening market. The company says its 2013 pricing programme will offer both premium hi-technology products as well as economic entry levels where appropriate. Strong association with the highly regarded California Superbike School will also continue through 2013 giving the opportunity for riders to find out for themselves the benefits of riding on the very latest RaceAttack and SportAttack products.

New product development is key to maintaining brand loyalty, therefore in 2013 Continental will release a new tyre line for the increasingly important market adventure sport segment. The Conti TrailAttack 2 will feature all the very latest design elements from the German manufacturer, including Traction Skin, for quicker break in time and Continuous Compound, for both grip and mileage. The strongest development in this new tyre is said to have been achieved through the addition of Continental’s ‘Black Chilli’ compound; Conti product designer Thomas Zoeler reported “the increase in wet grip is outstanding.”

A reflection of the new tyre’s capabilities is that it has been chosen as OEM fitment on 100 per cent of the new KTM 1190 Adventure models and also on the new BMW 1200GS. Both new bikes feature completely new sizes that have been developed in conjunction with both manufacturers. The tyre maker also says that round the world travellers who already appreciate the high mileage capability of Continental Tyres, such as world record breaking Nick Sanders, will now have increased performance without any compromise on tyre life.

Despite some decline in the sports bike segment, one area of growth in the market has been the restoration of classic and vintage bikes. To meet with the increased demand for tyres for older motorcycles, in 2013 Continental is reintroducing the classic range of TKV11 and TKV12 tyres, which were a very popular fitment on classic motorcycles. Another recent introduction is the Conti Classic Attack, radial tyres for classic bikes. “This entirely niche product is for riders wishing for the ultimate in performance and handling on their lovingly restored motorcycles,” the tyre maker comments.

Continental brand manager for the UK, Graham Matcham, is expecting a busy year. He reports “total miles ridden by UK consumers has been  disappointingly low in 2012, with better weather anticipated bikes will be in more use and we are in a strong position to meet new tyre requirements.” He went on to say “The market will continue to be challenging but by focusing on the traders requirements I believe we can reach new levels of business.”