Metzeler Karoo 4: the new knobby tire for on/off use presented [PHOTO]

Metzeler Karoo 4 it is the latest generation of the knobby tire for Adventure and maxi enduro motorbikes, proposed by the German specialist. A type of tire with improved performance qualities off-road and on wet asphalt, even at full load as indicated, designed for on/off use.

The quality characteristics

The tread design is patented, increasing effectiveness on road and dirt. Work has been done to improve riding neutrality and behavior on wet surfaces, creating a knobby pattern that allows certain lean angles to be tackled safely on wet surfaces, as indicated.
Returning to the tread, the DETRATEC™ patented design It features central spoon-shaped blocks, a wavy longitudinal groove and other lateral blocks. The combination of the three elements initially allows the material to be trapped between the blocks to provide lateral thrust, then released to enhance the self-cleaning characteristics, as indicated.
The was used patented DYMATEC™ technology, functional to preserving the geometries of the blocks and performance over time. Specifically, the technology provides various angles of the groove walls depending on the position along the tread band. Also highlighted is a multi-pitch design with groups of blocks repeated with an irregular cadence to attenuate the impact of the tread elements with the asphalt for homogeneous rolling. Furthermore, the footprint area is optimized with a greater number of blocks gripping simultaneously to support handling and integration with electronic assistance systems.

The tyre Metzeler Karoo 4 It has less heavy construction schemes than its predecessor. The radial measurements, given the use of zero-degree steel belt structures and INTERACT variable tension technology, convey a progressive gradual driving feedback and a feeling of control.
The profile is equipped with Metzeler MRC technology (Multiple Radius Contour) with a curvature of the central band that is more extensive than the shoulder area. An aspect that facilitates steering action and refines stability and traction, even when fully loaded. In the rear sizes, given a different contact area compared to the predecessor, the profile helps to reduce and uniform wear, again according to the information released.
The tread of the front tire is single compound. In the radial sizes, a carbon black based compound is used, an evolution compared to the extremely resistant Karoo 3. For conventional measures, a new compound is foreseen with the aim of granting a wider range of operating conditions. 
Various rear radial sizes are dual-compound, that of the central band is 100% carbon black; that of the shoulder sections includes an 80% carbon black and 20% silica formulation, for the compactness of the band and for thermal stability.

The range

Several measures are planned:

Front
19” 100/90-19 TL 57Q M+S
19” 110/80 R 19 TL 59Q M+S
19” 120/70 R 19 TL 60Q M+S
21” 90/90-21 TL 54Q M+S

posteriore
17” 130/80 R 17 TL 65Q M+S
17” 140/80 R 17 TL 69Q M+S
17” 150/70 R 17 TL 69Q M+S
17” 170/60 R 17 TL 72Q M+S
18” 140/80 – 18 TL 70Q M+S
18” 150/70 R 18 TL 70Q M+S

Availability

Metzeler Karoo 4 in the sizes mentioned will be available from March 2022.

Photo: Metzeler