Thanks to a whole range of innovative solutions used in a single model, the Michelin CrossClimate guarantees safe grip on both dry and wet asphalt, as well as mobility during unexpected snowfall. The new rubber compound ensures optimal performance, even on snow-covered roads, and stands out with a high level of wear resistance.
The Michelin CrossClimate (M+S) tread pattern has a directional shape with a large number of sectors separated by wide grooves. Each sector has a special shape at a defined tilt angle, which allows the block edges to work effectively both when accelerating and when manoeuvring on snow-covered roads. In addition, on every sector the sharp edges are on one side only - for better acceleration dynamics on snowy roads. At the same time, the other side of the block has rounded edges, which ensure a stable contact patch with the road and minimise the risk of grip loss caused by deformation that can occur when the block edge interacts with the hard road surface. In this way, the V-shaped tread gives the Michelin CrossClimate summer tyres improved grip on dry roads, as well as a high level of safety on snow-covered roads.
The tyres have two types of sipes: those in the shoulder area widen towards the base so that, as the tyre wears down, they retain their ability to effectively disperse water along with the overall tread-edge effect, while those in the central part have a Z-shaped profile that forms inside the block. This complex sipe shape reduces deformation of the tread block, which in turn improves the tyre's handling.
The range of available sizes for the summer 2016 Michelin CrossClimate tyres will be quite broad - 32 sizes for rim diameters from 14 to 18 inches. Going forward, the size range will expand further, including SUV sizes as well.
