StarCross 5 launch the start of Michelin’s motocross tyre range renewal
Getting airborne with the StarCross 5
Following an “extensive three-year testing and development programme with riders of all levels,” Michelin has launched the new StarCross 5 range of motocross tyres. The tyre maker reports that its research and development teams and Michelin Motorsort pooled their respective expertise and worked together to design the new tyre; the result is a product that “breaks new ground for the Michelin group in the world of motocross.”
The introduction of the StarCross 5 range “marks Michelin’s return to this constantly shifting and particularly competitive market in 2015,” and the tyre maker reports it is poised to renew its entire motocross range within the next two years. Australia is a key market in this segment and accounts for approximately 15 percent of the global motocross tyre market, and therefore it will be the first country to receive the StarCross 5.
Compared to its predecessors (the Michelin StarCross 3 and 4) the StarCross 5 range features a new, lighter casing design that is said to offer easier and quicker handling with no loss of durability due to the use of stronger, higher density materials. Michelin says this more flexible casing also offers a number of other benefits for riders, including improved traction in a straight line and more progressive handling in corners, the ability to run higher pressures (with no loss of grip or comfort) to reduce the risk of the tyre coming off the rim, no ‘running-in’ needed as the flexible casing offers great performance from the starting gate, and easier fitment.
Directional intermediate and side tread blocks are there to ensure good steering response from the front tyre and traction from the rear while the central blocks are designed specifically to enhance braking performance and traction on all types of track surfaces – where they act like hooks to dig-in and drive the motorcycle forward.
The MICHELIN StarCross 5 range is available in four versions – Hard, Medium, Soft and Sand – and a total of 21 sizes.
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