Ducati chooses redesigned Pirelli MT 60 RS for all Scrambler models

Pirelli’s MT 60 RS has been chosen as original equipment for all four versions of Ducati’s new Scrambler. The motorcycle manufacturer is fitting the Pirelli enduro street tyre in size 110/80 R18 (front) and 180/55 R17 (rear) on the Icon, Urban Enduro, Full Throttle and Classic. Although the MT 60 RS is something of a perennial within the Pirelli portfolio, the Italian tyre maker says the particular sizes supplied to Ducati were specifically made for the Scrambler, and when developing the fitments it “totally redesigned the MT 60 RS in terms of specifications and performance.”

The tread pattern of the tyres designed for the Scrambler feature a chunkier tread with varying-sized tread elements, providing a multi-pitch design instead of the single-pitch of the original tyre. Pirelli says this results in a significant decrease in the land/sea ratio and a greater contact surface. The said benefits of these tweaks include a reduction in braking distance and greater stability both in the straight and when leaning in curves. Finally, thanks to the multi-pitch tread design, the noise generated by the tyre rolling on asphalt is significantly decreased compared to the original MT 60 RS.

Upgrades to the tyre are completed by the use of new compounds; on the front a balanced silica/carbon black compound derived directly from the Diablo Ross II has been used, and Pirelli says this provides a dynamic ride and a high level of grip on both wet and dry surfaces. On the rear, a high silica content sport touring compound has been used to ensure good mileage and a high level of grip in the wet.

Last but not least, Pirelli reports completely redesigning the structure of the front tyre; while it previously was a radial design with cross-ply belts, it is now a radial with a 0° steel belt. Pirelli says this new structure brings significant benefits in terms of stability and steering precision.