Michelin launches Anakee III

The new Michelin Anakee III tyre has been homologated on the new 2013 BMW R 1200 GS, the benchmark motorcycle in its category.

As a result more than half of these BMW models coming off the production line will be fitted with the new Michelin tyre as original equipment. The tyre will also equip the segment’s other leading motorcycles.

The performance and multipurpose nature of the Michelin Anakee III is reflected in its ability to meet BMW’s extremely demanding specifications and as a result Michelin will be the main tyre supplier for the new model. To accomplish this, BMW and Michelin worked together to co-develop the tyre, which saw both partners renew their respective product ranges. The new BMW R 1200 GS was entirely revamped, from the liquid cooled engine to the tyre sizes of 120/70 R19 for the front and 170/60 R17 for the rear.

The new Michelin Anakee III represents a technological breakthrough compared with the previous-generation tyre. Because of the close cooperation between BMW and Michelin, the two products are perfectly aligned. And the fact that the Michelin Anakee III has been selected to equip the majority of the R 1200 GS production confirms Michelin’s technological leadership and ability to meet the expectations of the most demanding manufacturers and riders.

The market success of big trail bikes is being driven by several factors. Reassuringly safe, comfortable and easy to ride, these bikes are at home just about anywhere. They can negotiate traffic jams on the daily commute, hit the motorway for longer trips with a passenger and luggage and can also pull off the road for cross-country adventures on back roads or dirt trails. Michelin has addressed these expectations with the new Michelin Anakee III as it’s capable of adapting to any of the uses popular with big trail bike enthusiasts.

Owners of these motorcycles usually demand more performance from their tyres. In line with usual practice, the new Michelin Anakee III has been designed for 90% on-road and 10% off-road use. As a result, it is slightly more of a road tyre than its predecessor even though it preserves all of its recognised ability to negotiate trails. The void ratio of the tread has been reduced from 30% to 20%, while safety, high mileage and riding enjoyment top the list of design specifications.