Bridgestone, the world’s number one tyre and rubber company[1], has upgraded its motorcycle line-up with the launch of Battlax Sport Touring T31: a combination of high-level safety and performance to give riders full confidence in all conditions.

At the heart of the new Battlax Sport Touring T31 concept is the enhanced wet grip and handling while maximising contact feel, so that riders feel safe and in control, free to enjoy the thrill of every ride.

Working on the front compound, Bridgestone used its latest nano technology which works at the molecular level to improve the dispersion of silica in the compound mix. This increases rubber flexibility which improves the contact « bite » feel of the surface and enhances grip in wet and low-temperature conditions.

The rear tyre features a triple-layer compound in a cap and base configuration construction, providing the ideal balance between grip and cornering stability.

The T31 tread pattern is designed with a higher void ratio[2] on the shoulders, for higher water drainage, and reduced void ratio in the centre area of the rear tread, to maintain good high-speed stability. The contact patch is up to 7% larger, from upright to full lean angle, generating a higher camber thrust for more confident cornering.

Bridgestone tests confirm that T31 has a higher friction coefficient on wet than its predecessor, recording 3% faster lap times on a wet handling track.[3] The whole T31 package has been developed without sacrificing any of the outstanding wear life of its predecessor.

Nico Thuy, Head of Europe - Motorcycle, Bridgestone EMEA, summarises: "New Battlax T31 is the perfect partner for bikers who want to put the sport back in touring. With its outstanding wet grip and contact feel, T31 gives full confidence to riders".

Battlax Sport Touring T31 is available in 8 front tyre sizes and 9 rear tyre sizes in standard construction, plus 2 front and 3 rear sizes in reinforced GT version.

[1] Based on 2016 tyre sales. Source: Tire Business 2017 - Global Tire Company Rankings.

[2] All comparisons versus Battlax T30 Evo predecessor.

[3] Internal tests. Testing on Bridgestone Proving Ground versus T30 Evo.