Michelin North America Inc. (MNA) gave tire dealers a sneak preview of several new products during its Michelin Americas Small Tires Alliance Associate Dealer program meeting, held yesterday, Sept. 29, in Greenville, S.C.
New tires scheduled to be launched in 2009 include:
* the Michelin LTX M/S 2, which boasts 20% more tread life than its predecessor, the Michelin LTX M/S. The tire will be available in 34 sizes in September, with more sizes to follow.
* the BFGoodrich Advantage T/A, a touring tire that will roll out in March. It will be available in 17 sizes, ranging from 15 inches to 18 inches, and will carry a 60,000-mile warranty.
* the BFGoodrich g-Force Super Sport A/S, which will be available in 16 sizes in May.
* the Uniroyal Tiger Paw AS65, which will be unveiled in June. The T-rated tire will come in 27 sizes, ranging from 13 inches to 18 inches. Its size range will cover 90% of the market, say MNA officials. The tire will replace the Uniroyal Tiger Paw, the Uniroyal Freedom and the Uniroyal AS-6000.
In addition, MNA will change the load range of its BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A KO from D to E. The tire also will receive seven new sizes during the fourth quarter of 2009.