Michelin unveils all-new ScorcherTM “31” tire for Harley-Davidson® Dyna® models

GREENVILLE, S.C. (July 25, 2009) – For the first time in their long history, Michelin® and Harley-Davidson® have joined forces to develop the all-new MICHELIN® Scorcher™ “31” tire, which carries both companies’ trademarks on its sidewalls and the signature Harley-Davidson logo carved into the shoulder. Available exclusively as original equipment on four 2010 Harley-Davidson® Dyna® models, the all-new tire was unveiled today at the Harley-Davidson summer dealer meeting in Denver.

“Michelin has specifically engineered this innovative and durable tire to meet the high expectations of Harley-Davidson owners,” said Gary Midkiff, vice president of Michelin North America’s two wheel division. “Michelin is excited to build upon our successful relationship with Harley-Davidson as we launch this historic first original equipment fitment.”

The MICHELIN® Scorcher™ “31” tire delivers superior performance in three key areas, providing sensational grip, impressive durability and excellent handling.

The exclusive deep-cut tread design improves grip and water evacuation capability. Grip performance, particularly on wet pavement, is also enhanced by the tire’s rubber compounds, which use the latest generation of Michelin synthetic polymers.

The new tire’s particularly high mileage is a result of the premium-quality components used in its rubber compounds and Michelin’s exclusive manufacturing process. The result enables the new MICHELIN® Scorcher™ “31” tire to deliver truly outstanding durability.

Michelin also wanted to ensure that the tire would provide confidence-inspiring handling, so its Research & Development teams used aramid belts under the rear tread to stabilize the contact patch. In addition, the carcass plies are made from polyester to provide exceptional ride comfort.

As well as being offered as original equipment on 2010 Harley-Davidson® Dyna® Super Glide®, Super Glide® Custom, Street Bob® and Low Rider® models, the MICHELIN® Scorcher “31” tire can also be fitted on a variety of 2006-2009 Dyna models.

Michelin began offering replacement tires for Harley-Davidson motorcycles in 2007 when select sizes of the MICHELIN® Commander® and Macadam® 50 tires were first tested and validated by Harley-Davidson for fitment on a wide range of Sportster®, Dyna®, Softail® and Touring motorcycles. The introduction of the MICHELIN Scorcher “31” tire marks the first exclusive Michelin original equipment fitment on Harley-Davidson motorcycles.

Dedicated to the improvement of sustainable mobility, Michelin designs, manufactures and sells tires for every type of vehicle, including airplanes, automobiles, bicycles, earthmovers, farm equipment, heavy-duty trucks, motorcycles and the space shuttle. The company also publishes travel guides, hotel and restaurant guides, maps and road atlases. For additional information, visit www.michelin-us.com.