Pirelli Race Tires Come With New Compounds, Sizes in the US

The North American division of Pirelli, who is again the Official Tire Supplier to the Superbike World Championship (WSBK) this season, announced today it has launched its race motorcycle tires with new sizes and compounds.

The new SC1 compound for the Diablo Supercorsa 120/70, 180/60, 200/55 & Slick 120/70, 120/75, 200/60, and 190/65 tires provide more feedback and works much better at a higher and wider track temperature range.

The SC2 compound is similar to last year’s compound but it has been improved to offer more grip and longer life. Due to the new compound mods and attributes the entire range offering has been changed - the SC3 and SC4 tires are no longer needed.

The new 180/60ZR17 & 200/55ZR17 rear DOT tires, along with the 200/60R17 slick tire, feature new carcass materials and sizing. With the diameters of the tires increasing to improve turn in and side bite Pirelli has stiffened the carcass to increase feedback and stability. Riders will find set up changes are needed to address the modifications in tire diameters and possibly slight compression/rebound changes to maximize the increased performance of these world-class tires.

"Our involvement at the highest level of racing continues to allow us to offer the latest in compounding, structure and profiles to racers around the world,” said Giorgio Barbier, Pirelli Moto Racing Activities Manager. “North America continues to be an important market to Pirelli; for that reason our U.S and Canadian race vendors will be offering the latest in Pirelli race tire technology in 2011. We truly race what we sell and sell what we race."

The following tires will be available with new sizing and compounds:

• 180/60ZR17 Diablo Supercorsa SC1 & SC2 600cc Supersport tire
• 200/55ZR17 Diablo Supercorsa SC1 & SC2 1000cc Supersport tire
• 200/60R17 Diablo Superbike SC1 & SC2 Slick