Dunlop brings new slick tyre to Isle of Man TT

Dunlop will bring a new version of its KR 108 slick tyre to the Isle of Man TT (IOMTT), as it seeks a continuation to its success at the event. Developed over the winter at a range of test circuits, including a final validation at the traditional pre-IOMTT test at the Castle Combe Circuit, the KR 108 has been designed to heat up faster and give the rider more grip and confidence at the start of the race.

The tyre includes multi-tread technology, jointless belt technology and the NTEC – Pressure Adjustment System, all of which are designed to improve handling, cornering ability and reduce tyre wear. Tested on both 600cc Supersport and 1000cc Superbikes, the tyre test was described as ‘very positive’ with IOM TT riders Dave Johnson, Ian Hutchinson and Conor Cummins all on Honda machinery.

Dunlop said the test helped it to understand how the new technology will react to different bikes and riding styles.

Dunlop’s road racing event leader, Pat Walsh, explains: “The new slick tyre will give the riders more grip and confidence. We will have compounds suitable for both cool and warmer conditions that will heat up straight from the start line.”

Dunlop riders have won 13 consecutive Senior TTs, and hold three lap records on the 37.73-mile course. The TT has qualifying each evening until May 31 (except Sunday, May 26). The first race begins on 1 June, with the Superbike TT Race and ends on 7 June, with the Senior TT Race.