Maxxis Tyres Introduces Specialised Tyre Range for Premium Cruiser Segment Bikes

Lanxess' Rhein Chemie Site Marks 25-Years Milestone

Maxxis India has introduced an exclusive range of tyres for the cruiser segment for premium bikes. These are Maxxis M6311/M6312 and M6239/M6240. The closed grooves at the shoulder of Maxxis M6311/M6312 minimise the chances of cracking by providing additional support and resistance to the wear and tear forces. Maxxplore Series i.e. M6239/M6240, is specially designed to cater to the needs of riders for the exploration of off-road conditions without compromising speed. It has been built with state-of-the-art advance rubber compound technology that offers higher strength and performance on dry/wet conditions.

These tyres have specially-designed tread patterns to meet the needs for safety and comfort. They are currently available for the replacement market for Royal Enfield Classic 350, Classic 500, Thunderbird 350, Thunderbird 500, Bullet 500, Bullet Electra, Himalayan, Hunter.

Maxxis Maxxceed Series M6311/M6312 gives control while riding. Its curvilinear design supports cornering on wet roads and dispersing water. Steering, leaning, cornering all get an upgrade because of the technologically-advanced design which creates a greater contact area and optimises structural rigidity. The custom designed zigzag pattern on alternate lugs relieves the stress of the tyres. This results in reduced shape distortion, improved performance and enhances the tyre’s total life. 

Both the series are supported by a 5+1 unconditional warranty with Maxxis two-wheeler tyres. This unconditional warranty is a no-questions-asked warranty that applies to all unserviceable and unrepairable tyres, states Maxxis India. Brian Yen, Commercial and Marketing Head, Maxxis India, said, “Over the years, Maxxis has built a strong legacy and excellence in producing the finest tyres in the world. As we progress in the year 2023, we want to strengthen our national footprint.  Maxxceed and Maxxplore series is a testament to our expertise in tyre manufacturing and re-instate our preparedness for the Indian market. We are glad to introduce the M6239/M6240 and M6311/M6312 series of tyres for the replacement market that will set a benchmark for the cruiser segment tyres in a big way. These new ranges of tyres will bring out the zeal and fervour amongst those who long for performance and ensure a great cruising experience for new as well as experienced riders. We have engineered these tyres for enjoyable long distance riding and highway cruising, that gives the right driving force with control while unlocking the performance of their vehicle.”

The tyres are available pan India across all Maxxis dealer outlets.

Rally Poland Opens Under Cloud of Tragedy Following Driver's Death

Rally Poland Opens Under Cloud of Tragedy Following Driver's Death

The 2025 Rally of Poland commenced amid an atmosphere of mourning following the tragic death of Italian motorsport driver Matteo Doretto in a racing accident.

The 81st edition of Europe's second-oldest rally competition, taking place across the challenging gravel roads of the Masurian Lakes region from June 13-15, has been overshadowed by the loss of the rising Italian talent.

"His loss is a tragedy that deeply saddens us," said Terenzio Testoni, Pirelli Rally Activity Manager. "On behalf of Pirelli, I would like to extend our most heartfelt and sincere condolences to his family and friends."

Despite the sombre mood, 63 crews took to the start line for what remains one of the European Rally Championship's most demanding events. Notable competitors include Jon Armstrong driving a Pirelli-equipped Ford Fiesta, alongside Jos Verstappen and Andrea Mabellini, both piloting Skoda Fabias fitted with Pirelli tyres.

The rally features 14 special stages covering 190.40 timed kilometres across terrain known for its technical difficulty. The Masurian Lakes route presents drivers with uneven, often sandy roads where grip proves elusive even for experienced competitors.

"It's a very difficult and high speed rally, where attention to detail is very important," commented Testoni. "With every car passage the terrain gets rougher, forming deep ruts that can challenge even the most experienced drivers."

Weather conditions are forecast to remain dry, though organisers caution that conditions can change rapidly on such challenging terrain.

The rally serves as the third round of this season's ERC Fiesta Rally3 trophy, for which Pirelli provides exclusive tyre supply. Competing crews have access to three variants from Pirelli's Scorpion gravel range: the K4A hard compound, the K6A soft compound designated as the prime choice for this event, and the K8B supersoft option.

Regulations permit each crew to utilise 16 tyres total, including those selected for qualifying sessions. Trophy category vehicles will run on Scorpion 175/70-15 specifications in both K4 hard and K6 soft compounds.

Rally Poland's reputation for difficulty stems from its unique surface characteristics, where the sandy base becomes increasingly rutted as more vehicles traverse each stage. The deteriorating conditions throughout the weekend create an additional strategic element as crews must balance speed with mechanical preservation.

The event's location in the Masurian Lakes region, known for its natural beauty, provides a stark contrast to the intense competition unfolding on its roads. The rally has maintained its position as a crucial championship round despite the technical challenges it presents to both drivers and machinery.

TyreSafe Welcomes Self-Driving Innovations, But Maintains Caution On Effectiveness And Safety

TyreSafe

UK-based tyre safety watchdog TyreSafe has welcomed the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT)’s announcement highlighting Britain’s fast lane position for self-driving vehicles.

While the safety watchdog has acknowledged the potential the technology holds for enhancing road safety and reducing collisions, it maintains a caution towards the effectiveness and safety benefits of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) – and by extension, fully autonomous vehicles. This it shared are intrinsically linked to the fundamental safety and maintenance of a vehicle’s tyres.

Stuart Lovatt, Chair of TyreSafe, said, “We are incredibly optimistic about the future of mobility and the significant strides being made in self-driving technology. Anything that has the potential to save lives and dramatically reduce serious collisions on our roads is something TyreSafe wholeheartedly supports.”

“However, it is crucial to remember that even the most sophisticated ADAS systems rely on optimal vehicle performance, and tyres are the sole point of contact between the vehicle and the road. Without sound tyre safety management – ensuring correct pressure, tread depth, and condition – the integrity and performance of these advanced systems can be severely compromised,” said Lovatt.

He highlighted the persistent issues that is seen among current vehicle owners, when it comes to proper tyre maintenance. 

“For many years, tyres have consistently been identified as the primary cause of MOT failures for vehicles up to seven years old. This underscores a widespread complacency regarding tyre safety that we must collectively address,” he added.

As per the latest statistics, over 35 percent of MOT failures were attributed to previous tyre-related advisories, which translates to 768,410 drivers ignoring warnings and subsequently failed their next MOT due to tyre issues. The trend of vehicles failing MOTs on wheel and tyre-related advisories is unfortunately increasing, indicating a growing disregard for these critical safety components.

“The promise of self-driving vehicles is immense, but their safety cannot be fully realised if the foundational elements are neglected. As we move towards a more autonomous future, the importance of tyres – their condition and correct maintenance – becomes even more paramount. TyreSafe urges all stakeholders, from manufacturers to policymakers and drivers, to recognise that tyre safety is not just an advisory; it is a non-negotiable prerequisite for safe, efficient, and technologically advanced motoring,” concluded Lovatt.

Vaculug Appoints Darren C As Regional Operations Manager For West

Vaculug Appoints Darren C As Regional Operations Manager For West

Vaculug has announced the appointment of Darren C. as the company’s Regional Operations Manager for the West, overseeing key areas including Manchester, Birmingham and Wales. Darren brings with him extensive experience, knowledge and skillset and will be a valuable asset to the team, said the company.

Marcus Kirkness, Fleet Operations Manager at Vaculug, said, “These are truly exciting times at Vaculug. We’re incredibly pleased to have Darren join our team. His knowledge of the tyre industry, combined with his experience in managing customer fleets and delivering top-tier customer service, will be instrumental as we continue to expand our customer base. Darren’s expertise ensures we remain agile in addressing challenges and fulfilling our commitments swiftly and effectively."

Linglong Tire Appoints Jeff Hughes As Regional Director For EMEA Specialty Tyres

Linglong Tire Appoints Jeff Hughes As Regional Director For EMEA Specialty Tyres

Former Goodyear executive to lead strategy and sales across Europe, Middle East and Africa

Leading tyre maker Linglong Tire has appointed Jeff Hughes as Regional Director Specialty Tyres for the EMEA region, effective 1June , as the company seeks to establish itself as a leading specialty tyre provider in the market.

Hughes, who brings more than 25 years of industry experience, will be responsible for strategy and sales for the specialty tyres division across Europe, the Middle East and Africa in the newly created role.

Prior to joining Linglong, Hughes served as Sales Director at Maxam Tyres, part of the Sailun Group, where he led the European specialty tyres replacement business. Before that, he spent over two decades in various senior management positions at Goodyear Tyre & Rubber Company worldwide.

"I am very much looking forward to my new role at Linglong Tire and hope to achieve the ambitious goals together with my colleagues in the EMEA region with my more than 25 years of experience in the tire industry," Hughes said.

"Our most important task will be to optimise existing customer contacts and develop new customers and thus further strengthen our company's market position," the new regional director added.

In his new position, Hughes will work closely with product and marketing teams as Linglong seeks to expand its presence in the competitive EMEA specialty tyre market.