Michelin has introduced its new PRO5 bicycle tyre to the North American market, targeting experienced riders with a product that delivers improved performance and durability.

The French tyre manufacturer claims the new model offers 35 percent  better rolling resistance compared to its predecessor, the PRO4 Endurance. This is achieved through a Tubeless Ready design and Michelin’s proprietary Gum-X tread rubber compound.

“The tyre plays a key role in the bicycle’s dynamic behaviour, transmitting the force needed for it to move,” said Andrew Besancon, Marketing Director for Recreational Brands at Michelin. “The tyre is the only point of contact between the bicycle and the road, an imperfect surface. While cyclists cannot change the surface on which they are riding, they can choose the type most suited to conquer the terrain.”

Designed for endurance cycling and competitive racing, the PRO5 features a new tread pattern and wider cross-sections ranging from 28mm to 35mm. Michelin says this allows riders to use lower inflation pressures for improved comfort.

The company reports that the tyre underwent extensive testing covering more than 60,000 miles in actual conditions with various rider types, including recreational cyclists, ultra-distance athletes and professional racers.

Available in two sidewall colour variations—black and classic—the PRO5 is compatible with most road bikes and is positioned as an all-weather, all-terrain option for serious cyclists.

Industry analysts note that the premium road cycling segment has seen increased competition as more riders adopt the sport for recreation and competition.

Pricing and distribution details were not included in the announcement.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Yokohama Rubber has commenced the supply of its ADVAN Sport V107 tyres as original equipment for the newly launched Lexus RZ 600e ‘F SPORT Performance’ edition. This special model, an SUV-type battery electric vehicle featuring enhanced motor output, became available for sale in March 2026 across various international markets including Japan, Australia, nations in Asia, Latin America and Africa. The vehicle is fitted with a staggered tyre setup, utilising size 255/40ZR21 (102Y) for the front axle and 295/35ZR21 (107Y) at the rear.

The ADVAN Sport V107 is positioned as an ultra-high-performance product within Yokohama’s flagship ADVAN brand, specifically engineered for the premium automotive segment. These tyres are the result of collaborative development with leading car manufacturers and undergo exhaustive evaluation at Yokohama’s own test centre located at the Nürburgring, a circuit renowned for its extreme demands. The tyre is engineered to deliver a balanced integration of driving dynamics, comfort and safety while also excelling in both dry and wet conditions with precise steering stability.

Yokohama’s ADVAN series has an established relationship with Lexus, with other models like the ADVAN V61 – designed for premium SUVs – already serving as standard equipment on the Lexus RX, RZ, and LBX.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Triangle Tyre is supplying customised TH801 PLUS EV tyre for the 2026 Sealion 06 EV, a newly unveiled model from BYD. The Sealion 06 EV is from the batch of 10 new vehicles introduced during BYD’s recent ‘Flash Charge China, Change the World’ event – all of these models are equipped with second-generation blade battery and megawatt flash charging technology. The Sealion 06 EV stands out not only for its advancements in powertrain and smart systems but also for significant upgrades to its chassis and tyre configuration, with the Triangle TH801 PLUS EV serving as its factory-standard equipment.

Triangle has engineered the TH801 PLUS EV tyre, sized at 235/55R19, specifically to meet the demands of electric vehicles. Its design addresses the high instant torque characteristic of EVs while focusing on reducing road noise and ensuring stability. The tyre’s construction prioritises wet grip and overall driving safety, contributing to the vehicle’s control and efficiency. As the only component in contact with the road, its performance is critical to the coordinated operation of the vehicle’s advanced systems, complementing BYD’s new battery that offers improved energy density and faster charging capabilities.

The collaboration between Triangle and BYD has deep roots, originating in 2009 with the supply of commercial vehicle tyres for BYD buses. This relationship subsequently expanded into the passenger car segment, with Triangle equipping models like the F0. As BYD’s new energy vehicle portfolio has grown, Triangle has strengthened its role as a partner. Its passenger tyres are now fitted on several bestselling electric models, including the Seagull, Dolphin, E7, Qin L and Seal, in addition to the new Sealion 06 EV. With the launch of this latest model, the jointly developed tyre aims to deliver a driving experience that is safe, comfortable and highly efficient for users.

R&D personnel at Triangle Tyre said, “We are not simply providing a tyre but crafting a ‘dedicated electric shoe’ for the Sealion 06 EV. The TH801 PLUS is the result of deep integration between technology and scene, achieving true vehicle-specific customisation.”

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Continental has been named the original equipment tyre supplier for the all-new smart #5, a premium midsize electric SUV jointly developed by Mercedes-Benz and Geely. As the largest model in the smart lineup to date, the vehicle will come equipped with Continental’s EcoContact 7 tyres as standard, available in two sizes – 255/45 R20 and 255/40 R21. Both versions are high-performance summer tyres rated for speeds of up to 240 kmph and carry the XL designation, indicating they are built to support higher load capacities.

The EcoContact 7 is engineered to deliver both efficiency and durability. Its design draws inspiration from the dimpled surface of a golf ball to enhance aerodynamics. A special sidewall structure helps reduce air turbulence behind the tyre, allowing the vehicle to maintain momentum with less energy. Inside, advanced materials in the carcass and inner layers reduce internal friction, contributing to lower rolling resistance. The tyre’s rubber compound is also optimised to support energy efficiency, making it particularly suitable for electric vehicles.

Noise reduction is another key feature. The tyre incorporates a silent pattern tread design aimed at minimising rolling noise, especially in urban settings where frequencies around 50 kmph are common. This combination of low energy loss, long mileage and quiet operation positions the EcoContact 7 as a well-suited option for electric mobility.

The new smart #5 will feature these tyres across multiple markets, with approved specifications including 255/45 R20 105 V XL FR and 255/40 R21 102 V XL FR.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!

Dunlop (company name: Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd.) has commenced the supply of its DUNLOP GRANDTREK PT20 tyres as original equipment for the all-new 2025 US-spec Subaru Outback, which launched in the American market in April. This collaboration equips the latest iteration of the popular SUV, a vehicle designed to blend refined daily usability with a spirit of adventure.

To complement the new Outback’s capabilities, the GRANDTREK PT20 features a newly developed tread compound. This advanced formulation is engineered to deliver a high level of steering precision and reliable performance on wet surfaces. Furthermore, the tyre achieves notable gains in fuel efficiency and wear resistance, successfully balancing dynamic driving characteristics with environmental responsibility.

Since 2026, the company has unified its consumer communication under the DUNLOP brand. This brand identity is built upon three core principles: dependable support, the delivery of surpassing experiences and a commitment to exceeding limits. The overarching brand statement, ‘TAKING YOU BEYOND’, encapsulates the company’s mission to expand possibilities for those who embrace new challenges, a philosophy now extended to drivers of the new Outback.

Comments (0)

ADD COMMENT

Link Copied!