Michelin launches urban bus tire for harsh weather

Michelin North America Inc. has launched the Michelin X Incity Grip D, a heavy duty urban-bus drive-axle tire designed for harsh weather conditions like those of Canada and the northern U.S.

"The all-new Michelin X Incity Grip D urban drive tire is designed to keep buses moving with confidence in winter conditions," Mike Tolman, product category manager – Michelin Americas, Urban Mobility Business Line, said.

"Tires that move buses for transit authorities need to be cost efficient, safe and keep buses moving to remain on time and reliable, even during harsh weather conditions. But this can be a challenge for the transit equipment managers. "We want this tire offer to be the No. 1 choice of transit authorities requiring a new drive tire for their applications."

Michelin X Incity Grip D, the company claims, is robust and dependable in all weather conditions and offers long, even wear for lower cost-per-mile operation.

The tire features extra thick sidewalls that guard against shocks, impacts and curb scrub for added casing protection to handle tough urban conditions. Sidewall wear indicators promote timely tire rotation for long casing life and enhanced retreadability, the company said.

A full-width, elastic protector ply provides improved casing protection and casing-fatigue resistance. An extended metallic chafer ply dissipates heat in the bead area to improve bead durability.

Matrix sipes provide inter-locking action for traction and even wear. Zig-zag groove walls provide biting edges and water and snow evacuation for handling and stability. Full-depth sipes provide consistent traction throughout the life of the tread, the company said.

Michelin X Incity Grip D incorporates next-generation application-specific compounds, a unique tread design and wide open-shoulder grooves for extended tread life.

Michelin X Incity Grip D is available in the U.S. and Canada in a 305/70R22.5 size and load range J.

The tire meets the "Buy America" requirements for federal and state transit administration needs, the company added.