~ Auto Buzz ~: TIRE REVIEW: Metzeler M7 RR Versatile new sport radial for real roads. And wet ones!

Storm clouds and wet pavement awaited me in southern Spain, the typically sunny Mediterranean region where Metzeler hosted the worldwide press introduction for its latest Racetec and Sportec tires. But inclement weather prompted our hosts to alter the plan that involved a ride from the hotel to the Circuito de Almeria Tabernas aboard bikes shod with the new Metzeler Sportec M7 RR radials, followed by hot-lap sessions on 2015 BMW S1000RR s fitted with Racetec RRs. While the Racetec test got nixed, all was not awash. Instead, the BMW Motorrad Test-Camp riding school provided us with the opportunity to log plenty of track miles on S1000RRs fitted with Metzeler Sportec M7 RRs. Metzeler, for the record, positions the M7 as having been “designed for those who use their motorcycle in all conditions.” The German company also says that development experience gained in roadracing events such as the Tourist Trophy help give the M7 RR “the highest levels of handling and safety, even in situations of wet, bumpy and dirty asphalt.” The M7 RR features a radial carcass made of rayon that is wrapped in a zero-degree steel belt featuring Metzeler Interact technology that varies tension across the width of the tire for progressive behavior across the range of lean angle and load. The profile has been adjusted to offer lighter turn-in and a broader cornering footprint. The all-new 100 percent silica compound (single in front, dual rear, with 75 percent silica center band) operates over a broader temperature range while the revised tread grooves are said to improve water drainage and reduce wear.

I viewed this rainy day as a good opportunity to put Metzeler’s wet-performance claims to the test. Having previously obtained a set of M7 RRs for an early evaluation on my Kawasaki Ninja 1000 , I already knew the M7s offer surefooted handling in the dry, in both cool and warm conditions. The tires provide neutral steering character, plus excellent straight-line and cornering stability. Metzeler also claims that the M7 provides a 20 percent increase in durability compared to its Sportec M5 predecessor. My first on-track session was spent following BMW riding instructor Jürgen Fuchs at a mandated (sedate) pace with the mighty S1000RR set in its tempered Rain ride mode. Despite the fully damp surface and standing water in a few areas, the level of grip was confidence inspiring. So much so that I began contemplating the possibility of planting a knee slider midcorner. Toggling the BMW into Sport mode for the following sessions unleashed notably stronger corner exit drive while maintaining a margin of electronic rider-assist safety. This combination of German motorcycle and tire technology simply blew my mind as Fuchs, a former GP racer, stepped up the pace until it was just he and I slicing through traffic and achieving knee-dragging lean angles (50 degrees, according to the maximum bank angle displayed on the dash) through apexes. We hit speeds in excess of 175 mph on the main straight. Riding relaxed and loose was key, putting full trust in the traction control, the ABS, and, above all, the tires.

Since I haven’t ridden the Metzeler Sportec M7 RR on a dry circuit, I hesitate to comment on its potential for general track-day use. However, if you’re looking for a solid performance on wet or dry public roads, this Sportec gets a knee out and a thumbs up. The Metzeler Sportec M7 RR is already on the market, in these sizes. Front: 110/70-17, 120/60-17, 120/70-17. Price: $161.95 to $168.95 Rear: 150/60-17, 160/60-17, 180/55-17, 190/50-17, 190/55-17, 200/55-17. Price: $194.95 to $273.95