Supermaxx! Formula For Friction

SUPERMAXX! FORMULA FOR FRICTION

VIRTUAL PROTOTYPING has fast-forwarded tire technology into the 21st century. Newest player in this area of innovation is Maxxis, formerly known as Cheng Shin. The Taiwanese tire giant has enjoyed great success in the bicycle, go-kart and motocross markets, among others, which has accelerated the company's growth at a phenomenal pace. It also helped to ensure that its first attempt at a front-line sportbike radial wouldn't be a complete shot in the dark.

Venue for the introduction of Maxxis’ new Supermaxx radial was Georgia’s Road Atlanta, a 12-turn, up-and-down circuit that allowed the new tire’s grip potential to be completely “maxxed-out.” Aprilia provided a stable of RSV Milles and SL 1000 Falcos for the test, and 20 Maxxis representatives catered to the every need of the invited moto-journalists.

Turns out, the engineers did their homework. Maxxis may be entering the supersport market, but the Supermaxxes aren’t intended for racing. The tire’s kevlar mono-spiral construction is aimed at aggressive street riders who are looking to strike a compromise between affordability, durability and outright grip. That said, after lap ping Road Atlanta so many times that I lost count, the Supermaxxes weren’t completely fragged. Instead, they wore very evenly, and offered predictable grip. This, despite 95-percent humidity, 95-degree ambient temperatures and track temps as high as 130 degrees-a true torture test. Supermaxx radiais are available for most latemodel sportbikes with 17inch wheels. Prices start at $114 for front tires, and $174 for rears.

Mark Cernicky