Ford has chosen to equip all of its new Focus RS models with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires in size 235/35 R19 or, if customers want a more track-focused package, Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires are available as an option in the same size.
David Put, a Ford development engineer and driver, said, “The Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tire offers a surprising level of grip thus reducing lap times on the track, while bringing a highly appreciable level of precision to road handling for the Focus RS, and maintaining its playful, dynamic character. This is all thanks to the joint work carried out by the Michelin and Ford Performance teams, with a level of mutual understanding that enabled us to promote the wild temperament of the car.”
Both tires share technologies developed in motorsport, including a variable tension high-density fiber belt to ensure high-speed stability. Due to its variable tension, the belt tightens the tread area more than the shoulders and as a result, centrifugal force is more effectively overcome and pressure is more evenly distributed throughout the contact patch.
The tires also feature a bi-compound tread, which was originally developed for racing tires, where different rubber compounds are used on the left and right sides of the tread to ensure high and consistent grip levels in a variety of weather and road conditions.
January 27, 2016
