MOTORCYCLE WHEEL TYRE

Abstract

Motorcycle wheel tyre (1), comprising a carcass structure (2), a belt structure (6) arranged in a radially outer position with respect to the carcass structure (2) and a tread band (8) arranged in a radially outer position with respect to the belt structure (6). The tread band (8) comprises, in an axially inner annular portion thereof, a pair of circumferential grooves (20) arranged on opposite sides with respect to an equatorial plane (X-X) of the tyre (1). The carcass structure (2) comprises at least one carcass ply (3) having opposite end edges (3a) associated with respective annular reinforcing structures (4) to form respective beads (15). Each bead (15) comprises at least one reinforcing element (18) made of an elastomeric material having a rigidity in a circumferential direction greater than the rigidity in a radial direction.

Claims

1-12. (canceled)

13. A motorcycle wheel tyre, comprising: a carcass structure comprising at least one carcass ply with opposite end edges associated with respective annular reinforcing structures to form respective beads; a belt structure arranged in a radially outer position with respect to the carcass structure; and a tread band arranged in a radially outer position with respect to the belt structure and comprising, in an axially inner annular portion thereof, a pair of circumferential grooves arranged on opposite sides with respect to an equatorial plane (X-X) of the tyre; wherein each bead comprises at least one reinforcing element comprising an elastomeric material with a rigidity in a circumferential direction greater than the rigidity in a radial direction.

14. The tyre according to claim 13, wherein the ratio between the rigidity in the circumferential direction and the rigidity in the radial direction is greater than 10%.

15. The tyre according to claim 13, wherein the elastomeric material comprises a plurality of reinforcing fibers oriented along the circumferential direction.

16. The tyre according to claim 15, wherein the reinforcing fibers comprise inorganic fibers of at least one of magnesium, aluminium, calcium silicates and mixtures thereof, wherein the fibers have nanometric dimensions.

17. The tyre according to claim 13, wherein the at least one reinforcing element is arranged in an axially outer position with respect to the respective annular reinforcing structure.

18. The tyre according to claim 17, wherein the at least one reinforcing element extends radially towards the tread band.

19. The tyre according to claim 17, wherein the at least one reinforcing element extends from the axially outer position to an axially inner position with respect to the annular reinforcing structure.

20. The tyre according to claim 17, wherein the at least one reinforcing element at least partially wraps the annular reinforcing structure.

21. The tyre according to claim 17, wherein the at least one reinforcing element is arranged in an axially outer position corresponding to a first portion of the bead configured to be coupled to a rim of a wheel.

22. The tyre according to claim 21, wherein the at least one reinforcing element extends from the axially outer position to an axially inner position corresponding to a second portion of the bead configured to be coupled to the rim of the wheel, and wherein the at least one reinforcing element defines an anti-abrasion element at the bead.

23. The tyre according to claim 13, wherein the tread band comprises a plurality of grooves forming a tread pattern and the tread pattern comprises a module replicated along the circumferential direction and has a predetermined circumferential length, wherein the circumferential grooves of the pair of circumferential grooves extend in the module along the circumferential direction for at least part of the predetermined circumferential length and define between the circumferential grooves a central annular portion of the tread band with a void to rubber ratio equal to zero.

24. The tyre according to claim 23, wherein each groove of the pair of circumferential grooves extends without interruptions along the circumferential direction.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0083] Further features and advantages of the tyre of the present invention will become clearer from the following detailed description of a preferred embodiment thereof, made with reference to the figures herewith attached solely as a non-limiting example. In such drawings:

[0084] FIG. 1 shows a radial cross section view of a tyre according to the invention, the section being made according to the line I-I of FIG. 2;

[0085] FIG. 2 shows a portion of the development in plan of a portion of the tread band of the tyre of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0086] In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 wholly indicates a motorcycle wheel tyre according to the present invention. In particular it is a tyre intended to be used on the front wheel of a Sport Touring motorcycle.

[0087] An equatorial plane X-X and a rotation axis Z are defined in the tyre 1. A circumferential direction (perpendicular to the plane of the cross section of FIG. 1 and indicated in FIG. 2 with the arrow R oriented in the direction of rotation of the tyre 1) and an axial direction (perpendicular to the equatorial plane X-X in the plane of the cross section of FIG. 1) are also defined.

[0088] The tyre 1 comprises a carcass structure 2 having a central annular crown portion 16 including at least one carcass ply 3 described hereinafter in greater detail.

[0089] A belt structure 6 is provided in a radially outer position with respect to the aforementioned carcass structure 2. The belt structure 6 is also described hereinafter in greater detail.

[0090] A tread band 8 is provided in a radially outer position with respect to the belt structure 6. By means of the tread band 8 the contact of the tyre 1 with the ground takes place.

[0091] The carcass structure 2 is preferably coated, on the inner walls thereof, by a sealing layer 11, or so-called “liner”, essentially consisting of a layer of elastomeric material impermeable to air, adapted for providing the tyre with an hermetic seal once it is inflated.

[0092] Two carcass plies 3 are provided in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0093] Each carcass ply 3 is preferably made of elastomeric material and comprises a plurality of reinforcing elements (not illustrated) arranged parallel to one another.

[0094] The reinforcing elements included in the carcass plies 3 preferably comprise textile cords selected among those usually adopted in the manufacturing of carcasses for tyres, for example nylon, rayon, PET, PEN, Lyocell, each cord comprising elementary wires each having a diameter comprised between 0.35 mm and 1.5 mm or metallic cords made of steel having an elementary wire with a diameter comprised between 0.10 mm and 0.5 mm.

[0095] Each carcass ply 3 has its axially opposite end edges 3a turned around respective annular reinforcing structures 4 configured to hold the tyre 1 on a corresponding mounting rim. The annular reinforcing structures 4 are typically called “bead cores”.

[0096] A tapered elastomeric filler 5 that occupies the space defined between the carcass plies 3 and the corresponding turned end edge 3a of the carcass plies 3 is applied on the outer perimeter edge of the bead cores 4.

[0097] In an alternative embodiment, not illustrated, the carcass ply has the opposite lateral edges thereof associated without any turning with particular annular reinforcing structures provided with two metallic annular inserts. In this case, a filler made of elastomeric material can be arranged in an axially outer position with respect to the first annular insert. The second annular insert, on the other hand, is arranged in an axially outer position with respect to the end of the carcass ply. Finally, a further filler ca be provided in an axially outer position with respect to said second annular insert, and not necessarily in contact with it, the further filler ending the manufacturing of the annular reinforcing structure.

[0098] The area of the tyre comprising the bead core 4 and the filler 5 forms the so-called “bead”, globally indicated in FIG. 1 with 15, configured to anchor the tyre on a corresponding mounting rim, not illustrated.

[0099] The tyre 1 can also comprise a pair of sidewalls 2a applied laterally to the carcass structure 2 on axially opposite sides with respect to the equatorial plane X-X. The sidewalls 2a extend from the tread band 8 to the bead 15 of the tyre 1.

[0100] The tyre 1 of the present invention is characterized by a high transversal curvature.

[0101] The transversal curvature of a tyre is defined by the particular value of the curvature ratio or “arrow” of the tyre. With reference to FIG. 1 and in accordance with the definition given above, the curvature ratio is the ratio between the distance f of the radially outermost point P (or top) of the tread band 8 from the line b-b passing through the extremities 0 of the tread band 8, measured on the equatorial plane X-X, and the distance wt between the extremities 0 of the tread band 8. In all cases, even when the ends of the tread band are not easily identifiable, for example due to the lack of a precise reference like for example the extremities indicated in FIG. 1 with 0, the size of the maximum cord, or maximum radial section width, of the tyre can be assumed as the distance wt.

[0102] The tyre 1 of the present invention preferably has a curvature ratio greater than or equal to 0.3, preferably greater than or equal to 0.35. Such a curvature ratio is in any case lower than 0.4.

[0103] As far as the sidewalls 2a are concerned, the tyre 1 of the present invention is preferably a tyre with particularly low sidewalls, i.e. in which the ratio between the distance f and the height H, measured on the equatorial plane X-X between the top P of the tread band 8 and the fitting diameter, identified by the reference line L passing through the beads 15 of the tyre 1, is lower than 0.6, more preferably lower than 0.58, for example equal to 0.55.

[0104] Each bead 15 comprises a reinforcing element 18. Such a reinforcing element 18 is preferably associated with an end portion of the sealing layer 11, more preferably so as to project with respect to the latter.

[0105] The reinforcing element 18 preferably partially wraps the bead core 4. In particular, in the example illustrated in the figures the reinforcing element 18 extends with continuity from an axially outer position of the bead 15 up to an axially inner position of the bead 15 with reference to the equatorial plane X-X of the tyre 1.

[0106] In the aforementioned axially outer position the reinforcing element 18 extends radially for a first segment extending up to or close to the tread band 8.

[0107] In the aforementioned axially inner position the reinforcing element 18 extends radially for a second length segment a length shorter than that of the first segment.

[0108] The radial length of the second segment can vary between 5% and 60% of the radial length of the first segment.

[0109] In the aforementioned axially outer position the reinforcing element 18 corresponds to a first portion of bead 15 configured to be coupled to the rim of the wheel. In the aforementioned axially inner position the reinforcing element 18 corresponds to a second portion of bead 15 configured to be coupled to the rim of the wheel.

[0110] The reinforcing element 18 thus defines an anti-abrasion element suitably provided in the tyre 1 at the bead 15.

[0111] The reinforcing element 18 is made of an elastomeric material having a rigidity in a circumferential direction greater than the rigidity in a radial direction.

[0112] Preferably, the ratio between said rigidity in the circumferential direction and said rigidity in the radial direction is greater than 10%, preferably greater than 15%, more preferably greater than 20%.

[0113] The elastomeric material of the reinforcing element 18 comprises a plurality of reinforcing fibers oriented in the circumferential direction. Such reinforcing fibers preferably comprise inorganic fibers of magnesium and/or aluminum and/or calcium silicates, and/or mixtures thereof, having nanometric dimensions.

[0114] Examples of suitable fibers of silicates are fibers of sepiolite, fibers of palygorskite (also known as attapulgite), fibers of alloisite, fibers of wollastonite, possibly organically modified, and mixtures thereof. Fibers of sepiolite and alloisite, possibly organically modified, and mixtures thereof are particularly preferred.

[0115] Preferably, the aforementioned reinforcing fibers have a diameter comprised between 1 nm and 100 nm, more preferably between 5 nm and 50 nm and a length comprised between 0.1 μm and 10 μm, more preferably between 0.2 μm and 5 μm.

[0116] In particular, said reinforcing fibers have an aspect ratio, i.e. a ratio between the length and the diameter, of at least 2:1, preferably at least 3:1, more preferably at least 5:1.

[0117] Preferably, the fibers have an aspect ratio not greater than 1000:1, more preferably not greater than 100:1.

[0118] Preferably, said aspect ratio is evaluated by microscope observation, preferably carried out on at least one hundred fibers.

[0119] Preferably, at least 70%, 80%, 90% of the fibers have the aforementioned aspect ratio.

[0120] Preferably, at the end of the possible modification process at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80% or 90% of the modified fibers maintain their aspect ratio as defined previously.

[0121] In a first embodiment of the process, the fibers of silicates are preferably fibers of silicates comprising magnesium, like for example fibers of sepiolite, fibers of palygorskite (also known as attapulgite), possibly organically modified, or mixtures thereof.

[0122] Generally, the fibers of silicates, in particular the natural fibers of sepiolite, originally comprise from 12.5% to 15.5% of magnesium with respect to the weight of the same fibers. Fibers of sepiolite originally comprising around 15% of magnesium are particularly preferred.

[0123] Examples of fibers of silicates that can be used according to the present invention are the sepiolites Pangel S9 or Pansil 100 or the organically modified sepiolites Pangel B5, Pangel B20, Pangel B40, commercialized by Tolsa Group (http://www.tolsa.com).

[0124] Advantageously, the process by which the modified fibers suitable for the present invention are obtained comprises one or more of the following features, taken individually or in combination.

[0125] In an embodiment, the preparation process of the modified fibers firstly provides for the suspension of the fibers of silicates with needle-shaped morphology of nanometric dimensions in a suitable liquid medium.

[0126] Preferably, said suitable liquid medium is selected among water, alcohols, ethers, ketones and mixtures thereof, more preferably it is selected among water, mono- or poly-alcohols C1-C6 and mixtures thereof, and even more preferably it is water.

[0127] Alternatively, the liquid medium can be an alcohol C1-C6, more preferably isopropanol, or a mixture of water and at least one alcohol C1-C6, more preferably water and isopropanol.

[0128] Preferably, said liquid medium is used in a volume/weight ratio with respect to the fibers comprised between 2 and 100 ml/g, preferably between 2 and 50 ml/g, more preferably between 4 and 15 ml/g.

[0129] Preferably, the suspension of the fibers in the liquid medium is carried out under agitation.

[0130] Said suspension can be carried out with different media, for example using a mechanical paddle stirrer, a mechanical mixer, for example of the type used to mix paints or enamels, a magnetic or sonication stirrer.

[0131] The process then comprises adding to the suspension, preferably gradually, at least one acidic compound, as described, for example, in WO 2016174629 or in WO 2018078500, or, alternatively, placing the suspension in contact with a precursor compound of amorphous silica, possibly dissolved or suspended in a second liquid medium, as described, for example, in WO 2016174628.

[0132] In an embodiment, the elastomeric material is prepared as indicated in Table 1 herein below (the amounts of the various components are indicated in phr).

[0133] All of the components, with the exception of sulfur, accelerant (TBBS) and retardant (PVI), were mixed in an internal mixer (model Pomini PL 1,6) for about 5 minutes (1.sup.st step). As soon as the temperature reached 145±5° C., the elastomeric composition was discharged. The sulfur, the accelerant (TBBS) and the retardant (PVI) were added and the component were mixed in an open roller mixer (2.sup.nd step).

TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 1st STEP NR 70.00 BR 30.00 CB 45.00 Pangel B5 16.00 Silane 1.00 Stearic acid 2.00 Zinc oxide 3.00 6PPD 2.40 2nd STEP TBBS 1.40 PVI 0.30 Vulcanizer 2.76

[0134] where:

NR: Natural rubber, SMR-GP, Lee Rubber
BR: Butadiene rubber, Europrene Neocis®, Polimeri Europa
CB: Carbon black, N375, Cabot
Pangel B5: Sepiolite modified with quaternary ammonium salt to about 20% by weight (16 phr of Pangel B5 correspond to 13 phr of mineral load), Tolsa Group, fibers having a length comprised between 0.2 μm and 2 μm and diameter comprised between 5 nm and 30 nm
Silane: bis[3-(triethoxysilyl)propyl]tetrasulfide, Evonik-Degussa
Stearic acid: Sogis
Zinc oxide: Zincol Ossidi
6PPD: N(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N′-phenyl-p-phenylendiamine, Chemtura Corporation
TBBS: N-tert-butyl-2-benzothiazolesulfenamide, Vulkacit® NZ/EGC, Lanxess
PVI: cyclohexyl-thiophthalimide, Santogard PVI, Flexsys

Vulcanizer: Sulfur, Redball Superfine, International Sulphur Inc.

[0135] The belt structure 6 preferably comprises one or more rubber-coated cords 7, arranged parallel and side-by-side in the axial direction on the crown portion 16 of the carcass structure 2, to form a plurality of turns 7a. Such turns are substantially oriented according to the rolling direction of the tyre 1 (in particular with an angle comprised between 0° and 5° with respect to the equatorial plane X-X), such a direction usually being called “zero degrees”. The aforementioned turns preferably extend over the entire crown portion 16 of the carcass structure 2.

[0136] Preferably, the belt structure 6 comprises windings of a single cord 7, or of a strip-like element of rubber-coated fabric comprising adjacent cords, preferably up to five, spirally wound from one extremity to the other on the crown portion 16 of the carcass structure 2.

[0137] Preferably, such cords 7 are made by steel wires with high carbon content (HT), in other words steel wires with a carbon content greater than 0.9%.

[0138] Alternatively, the belt structure 6 can comprise at least two radially juxtaposed layers, each consisting of elastomeric material reinforced with cords arranged parallel to one another. The layers are arranged so that the cords of the first belt layer are oriented obliquely with respect to the equatorial plane of the tyre, whereas the cords of the second layer also have oblique orientation, but symmetrically crossed with respect to the cords of the first layer, to form the so-called “crossed belt”.

[0139] In this case, generally, the cords 7 of the belt structure 6 are generally textile cords, for example textile cords made of synthetic fiber, for example nylon, rayon, PEN, PET, preferably synthetic fiber with high modulus, in particular aramid synthetic fiber (aromatic polyamide). Alternatively, it is possible to use hybrid cords comprising at least one wire having a low modulus, in other words with a modulus not greater than 15 GPa (for example nylon or rayon), interwoven with at least one wire having a high modulus (for example made of aramid fiber—AR, aromatic polyamide), in other words with a modulus not lower than 25 GPa.

[0140] For aramid fibers (AR) the elastic modulus is evaluated according to BISFA—Testing methods for para-aramid fibre yarns, 2002 edition, Determination of the linear density—Chapter 6, Determination of the tensile properties—Chapter 7—Test procedure—Paragraph 7.5—with procedure with initial pretensioning.

[0141] For the other fibers (nylon, rayon, etc.) the elastic modulus is evaluated according to BISFA—Testing methods for viscose, cupro, acetate, triacetate and lyocell filament yarns—2007 edition, Determination of tensile properties—Chapter 7—Tensile test conditions: oven dry test—Table 7.1—Test procedure—Paragraph 7.5—With oven dry test on relaxed samples—Subparagraph 7.5.2.4.

[0142] In both cases, the cords 7 of the belt structure 6 are textile or metallic cords. Preferably, such cords are made by steel wires having high carbon content (HT), in other words steel wires with a carbon content greater than 0.9%. In the case of use of textile cords, these can be made of synthetic fiber, for example nylon, rayon, PEN, PET, preferably synthetic fiber having a high modulus, in particular synthetic aramid fiber (aromatic polyamides).

[0143] The belt structure 6 can also comprise a first support layer substantially consisting of a sheet of elastomeric material interposed between the layer of cords 7 and the carcass ply 3 and on which the turns 7a are wound. Such a layer can extend on a surface having an axial extension substantially corresponding to the surface on which the turns 7a extends. Alternatively, such a layer can extend on a surface smaller than the development surface of the turns 7a, for example only on opposite lateral portions of the belt structure 6.

[0144] The belt structure 6 can also comprise an additional layer interposed between the layer of cords 7 and the aforementioned first layer. Such an additional layer can extend on a surface corresponding to the development surface of the belt structure 6. Alternatively, the aforementioned additional layer can extend on a surface smaller than the development surface of the belt structure 6, for example only on opposite lateral portions of the belt structure 6.

[0145] In a preferred embodiment of the tyre 1 of the present invention, at least one among the aforementioned first layer and the aforementioned additional layer comprises short aramid fibers, for example made of Kevlar®, dispersed in the elastomeric material.

[0146] The tread band 8 has a tread pattern defined by a plurality of grooves formed on the outer surface of the tread band 8 through a molding operation carried out concurrently with the vulcanization of the tyre 1.

[0147] The aforementioned grooves overall define on the tread band 8 a void to rubber ratio greater than 8%, for example equal to about 13%.

[0148] Preferably, in order to provide the tread band 8 with an adequate rigidity without limiting the drainage capability thereof, the grooves overall define on the tread band 8 a void to rubber ratio lower than 20%, preferably lower than 16%.

[0149] As illustrated in FIG. 2, the tread pattern of the tyre 1 comprises a module T reiteratively replicated along a circumferential direction of the tyre 1. Preferably, the module is reiterated at least ten times along the circumferential extension of the tyre 1, for example twelve times.

[0150] In the tyre 1 of the invention the module T corresponds to the portion of tread band 8 that, in the development in plan illustrated in FIG. 2, is circumferentially delimited by the two dashed lines t1 and t2.

[0151] The module has a circumferential length, measured on the equatorial plane X-X and indicated with in FIG. 1, and an axial length, measured on the development in plan of the tread band 8 or, in other words, on a plane tangent to the tread band 8, which is equal to the length wt of the maximum cord of the tyre 1.

[0152] In the tread band 8 it is possible to identify a central annular portion A arranged astride the equatorial plane X-X, a pair of first lateral annular portions B arranged on axially opposite sides with respect to the equatorial plane X-X and in an axially outer position with respect to the central annular portion A, and a pair of second lateral annular portions S arranged on axially opposite sides with respect to the equatorial plane X-X and in an axially outer position with respect to the pair of first lateral annular portions B.

[0153] The central annular portion A, the first lateral annular portions B and the axially inner areas of the second lateral annular portions S are defined in an area of the tread band 8 intended to come into contact with the road surface when the motorcycle travels in a straight line or slightly leaning, for example with a camber angle lower than about 30°, whereas the axially outer areas of the second lateral annular portions S are mainly defined in shoulder areas of the tread band 8, i.e. in the areas intended to come into contact with the road surface when the motorcycle corners leaning in a more pronounced manner, for example with a camber angle greater than about 30°.

[0154] The tyre 1 has, at the aforementioned central annular portion A, and possibly at the aforementioned first lateral annular portions B, a first curvature radius (corresponding to f in FIG. 1), preferably comprised between about 50 mm and about 70 mm, for example equal to about 65 mm.

[0155] Preferably, the tyre 1 has, at each of the second lateral annular portions S, a second curvature radius greater than the aforementioned first curvature radius. Preferably, the aforementioned second curvature radius is comprised between about 55 mm and about 85 mm, for example equal to about 75 mm.

[0156] In particular embodiments, the tyre 1 has the aforementioned second curvature radius in the first lateral annular portions B and in the axially inner areas of each of the second lateral annular portions S and a third curvature radius greater than the second curvature radius in the axially outer areas of each of the second lateral annular portions S. In this case, preferably, the aforementioned third curvature radius is comprised between about 60 mm and about 90 mm, for example equal to about 80 mm.

[0157] The central annular portion A is axially delimited by a pair of circumferential grooves 20 arranged on opposite sides with respect to the equatorial plane X-X and preferably extending without interruptions along the entire circumferential extension of the tyre 1. Such a central annular portion A has a constant axial width A1 along the circumferential extension of the tyre 1. The two circumferential grooves 20 are therefore parallel to one another.

[0158] The aforementioned axial width A1 is also comprised, preferably, between about 9% and about 15% of the length wt of the maximum cord of the tyre 1, more preferably between about 10% and about 14% of the length wt of the maximum cord of the tyre 1, even more preferably between about 11% and about 13% of the length wt of the maximum cord of the tyre 1, depending on the size and type of the tyre 1 and on the load which such a tyre 1 is subjected to.

[0159] For example, the axial width A1 is equal to about 12% of the length wt of the maximum cord of a tyre 1 of the type 120/70ZR17 subjected to a load equal to 200 Kg.

[0160] In particularly preferred embodiments, the aforementioned axial width A1 is lower than or equal to about 20 mm, preferably lower than or equal to about 18 mm, more preferably lower than or equal to about 16 mm, even more preferably lower than or equal to about 15 mm, for example equal to about 14.5 mm for a tyre 1 subjected to the load indicated above and having the dimensions indicated above.

[0161] Preferably, each of the circumferential grooves 20 has a width A2 comprised between about 2.5 mm and about 3.5 mm.

[0162] In particularly preferred embodiments, each of the aforementioned first lateral annular portions B has an axial width A3 comprised between about 5 mm and about 10 mm.

[0163] In order to obtain an optimal compromise between ground adherence, water drainage in wet road surface conditions and rigidity, and consequently an adequate response of the tyre during driving in a straight line and leaning, both the central annular portion A and the first lateral annular portions B have a void to rubber ratio substantially equal to zero, whereas the aforementioned second lateral annular portions S comprise a plurality of pairs of transversal grooves.

[0164] In the specific example illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, both the central annular portion A and the lateral annular portions B are without grooves.

[0165] Again in the specific example illustrated in the attached figures, there are four pairs of transversal grooves 30, 31, 32, 33 arranged in the module T in sequence along the circumferential direction of the tyre 1 moving from the line t1 towards the line t2.

[0166] The grooves of each pair of grooves 30, 31, 32, 33 are arranged symmetrically with respect to the equatorial plane X-X, all of them being in an axially outer position with respect to the circumferential grooves 20.

[0167] Hereinafter the transversal grooves 30, 31, 32, 33 are described in more detail with reference to a single side of the tread band 8 with respect to the equatorial plane X-X. It is understood that what is described is also valid for the other side of the tread band 8.

[0168] All of the transversal grooves 30, 31, 32, 33 extend in the module T along respective broken lines defined by at least two differently inclined rectilinear segments, where each segment is inclined with respect to the equatorial plane X-X by a respective predetermined angle. However, it is possible to provide a number of segments different from those indicated below or even a single curvilinear segment.

[0169] In the specific example illustrated in the attached figures, the transversal grooves 30 and 32 are defined by three differently inclined rectilinear segments, whereas the transversal grooves 31 and 33 are defined by two differently inclined rectilinear segments.

[0170] The transversal groove 31 is circumferentially interposed between the transversal grooves 30 and 32, whereas the transversal groove 32 is circumferentially interposed between the transversal grooves 31 and 33.

[0171] In order to optimize the evacuation of water from the axially inner portion of the tread band 1 towards the opposite axially outer portions in wet road surface conditions, the single segments of the transversal grooves 30, 31, 32, 33 are inclined with respect to the equatorial plane X-X by respective angles whose the size increases progressively moving away from the equatorial plane X-X. In particular, each transversal groove 30, 31, 32, 33 has an axially inner segment having an angle of inclination with respect to the equatorial plane X-X smaller than that of the axially outer segment and the transversal grooves 30 and 32 have a segment axially interposed between the respective axially inner and axially outer segments (hereinafter said segment is indicated as “intermediate segment”) that is inclined with respect to the equatorial plane X-X by an angle greater than that of the axially inner segment and smaller than that of the axially outer segment.

[0172] The transversal grooves 30, 31, 32, 33 have respective axially inner first ends 30a, 31a, 32a, 33a that are proximal to the equatorial plane X-X and respective axially outer second ends 30b, 31b, 32b, 33b that are distal from the equatorial plane X-X.

[0173] The first ends 30a, 31a, 32a, 33a of the transversal grooves 30, 31, 32, 33 are axially spaced apart from the circumferential grooves 20. In other words, the transversal grooves 30, 31, 32, 33 do not join to the circumferential grooves 20.

[0174] The first ends 30a, 31a, 32a of the transversal grooves 30, 31, 32 have the same axial distance from the equatorial plane X-X, whereas the first end 33a of the transversal groove 33 is arranged at an axial distance from the equatorial plane X-X greater than that of the first ends 30a, 31a, 32a of the transversal grooves 30, 31, 32.

[0175] The axial distance d of the first ends 30a, 31a, 32a of the transversal grooves 30, 31, 32 from the equatorial plane X-X is equal to the sum of the axial width A3 of each of the first lateral annular portions B, of the width A2 of each circumferential groove 20 and of half the axial width A1 of the central annular portion A.

[0176] The second end 30b of the transversal groove 30 has the same axial distance from the equatorial plane X-X of the second end 32b of the transversal groove 32, whereas the second end 31b of the transversal groove 31 has the same axial distance from the equatorial plane X-X of the second end 33b of the transversal groove 33, the latter distance being lower than that of the second ends 30b, 32b.

[0177] Again in order to optimize the evacuation of water, the circumferential size of each transversal groove 30, 31, 32, 33 increases moving from the respective first end 30a, 31a, 32a, 33a towards the respective second end 30b, 31b, 32b, 33b. In particular, in the embodiment illustrated herein: [0178] the axially inner segment and the axially outer segment of each of the transversal grooves 30 and 32 have a continuously increasing circumferential size moving progressively away from the equatorial plane X-X, whereas the intermediate segment has a substantially constant circumferential segment moving progressively away from the equatorial plane X-X; [0179] the two segments of each of the transversal grooves 31 and 33 both have a continuously increasing circumferential size moving progressively away from the equatorial plane X-X.

[0180] However, it is possible to foreseen alternative embodiments in which the intermediate segment of the transversal grooves 30 and 32 also has a continuously increasing circumferential size moving progressively away from the equatorial plane X-X and/or in which at least one of the axially inner and axially outer segments of the transversal grooves 30 and 32 or of the two segments of the transversal grooves 31 and 33 have a substantially constant circumferential size moving progressively away from the equatorial plane X-X.

[0181] The module T also comprises a pair of secondary grooves 40 arranged on opposite sides with respect to the equatorial plane X-X, in an axially outer position with respect to the pair of first lateral annular portions B and circumferentially offset with respect to the transversal grooves 30, 31, 32, 33.

[0182] Such secondary grooves 40 are described hereinafter with reference to only one side of the tread band 8 with respect to the equatorial plane X-X. It is understood that what is described is also valid for the other side of the tread band 8.

[0183] The secondary groove 40 has a first end 40a proximal to the equatorial plane X-X and circumferentially facing towards the transversal grooves 30, 31, 32, 33 and a second end 40b distal from the equatorial plane X-X and circumferentially facing the opposite way with respect to the transversal grooves 30, 31, 32, 33. Therefore, the first ends 40a of the grooves of the aforementioned pair of secondary grooves 40 are separated from one another by a first axial segment 40a1 and the second ends 40b of the grooves of the aforementioned pair of secondary grooves 40 are separated from one another by a second axial segment 40b1 having a size greater than that of the first axial segment 40a1.

[0184] The size of the aforementioned first axial segment 40a1 is substantially equal to the distance D1 between the first ends 30a, 31a, 32a of the grooves of the three pairs of transversal grooves 30, 31, 32, whereas the size of the second axial segment 40b1 is lower than the distance D2 between the first ends 33a of the grooves of the pair of grooves 33 that is, in the module T, in a position closer to the grooves 40.

[0185] Considering the direction of rotation R of the tyre 1 indicated in FIG. 2, the first end 40a of the secondary groove 40 enters into the footprint F of the tyre 1 before the second end 40b of the secondary groove 40.

[0186] The first end 40a of the secondary groove 40 can be substantially axially aligned to, or slightly circumferentially offset with respect to, the first end 33a of the transversal groove 33.

[0187] Tests

[0188] Outdoor Tests

[0189] The Applicant carried out a series of outdoor comparative tests by comparing a reference front tyre provided with beads without the aforementioned reinforcing element and a tyre in accordance with the invention that differed from the reference tyre only for the provision in the beads of the aforementioned reinforcing element. The reference tyre is a tyre appreciated by customers for its good behavior on dry and wet road surfaces in terms of maneuverability and braking.

[0190] The tests were carried out with the tyre being partially worn, after 5000 km of travel. Indeed, this is a condition in which typically the deterioration of the dynamic features caused by the increase in flexibility of the tread band due to the consumption of the compound of the tread band begins to be perceptible to the user.

[0191] The tyres were mounted on a Sport Touring motorcycle, in particular a KAWASAKI VERSYS™ 1000. Such a motorcycle has been always equipped with the same model of rear tyre. The model of the front tyres was 120/70ZR17, whereas that of the rear tyres was 180/55ZR17.

[0192] The inflation pressure of the front tyres was equal to 2.5 bar, whereas that of the rear tyres was equal to 2.9 bar.

[0193] The result of one of the comparative tests is given in Table 2 below, where INV indicates the front tyre of the invention and RIF indicates the reference front tyre. Such a result was validated by carrying out a further comparative test with a new set of front and rear tyres of the type described above. In Table 2, the symbol “=” indicates the mark, considered good or excellent, obtained with the reference tyre and the symbol “+” indicates an improvement with respect to the reference tyre.

TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 INV RIF SHIMMY EFFECT F (damping of the vibration of the + = handlebars after and impact, in a cold condition) SHIMMY EFFECT C (damping of the vibration of + = the handlebars after and impact, in a hot condition) DANGLING (maintaining lean at low speed) + = STABILITY OF TRAVEL IN STRAIGHT LINE INV RIF STABILITY IN ACCELERATION + = STABILITY IN STATIONARY SPEED >140 Km/h + = STABILITY OF CORNERING INV RIF STABILITY IN ACCELERATION + = STABILITY IN STATIONARY SPEED + = SUBJECTIVE CHARACTERIZATION INV RIF FRONT RIGIDITY + = DRIVING FUNDAMENTALS INV RIF RESPONSE + = DRIVING WEIGHT WITH LOW ENGAGEMENT + = (soft) DRIVING WEIGHT WITH HIGH ENGAGEMENT + = (hard handling) DRIVING HOMOGENEITY + = WARM UP = = ADHERENCE = = CONTROL OF MOTORCYCLE AFTER PASSING + = AN OBSTACLE ON A BEND RECOVERY MANEUVERS + = UNDERSTEER + =

[0194] Table 2 highlights how the tyre 1 of the invention offered improved results with respect to the already good results of the reference tyre in all the items related to the stability and drivability of the tyre, without highlighting any worsening in the other items.

[0195] Indoor Tests

[0196] The Applicant also carried out a series of indoor comparative tests by comparing a reference front tyre of the same type used in the outdoor test and a tyre in accordance with the invention of the same type used in the outdoor test.

[0197] Such indoor tests were carried out with the aim of evaluating the dynamic behavior of the tyre; in particular, the relaxation length and the drift rigidity were measured when changing the load on the tyre.

[0198] The indoor tests were carried out by a MTS Flat-Trac® device, known to be a reliable and accurate device for applying forces and torques to a tyre rolling on a flat drum.

[0199] The result of the tests is shown in Table 3 below.

[0200] Also in this case, INV indicates the front tyre of the invention and RIF indicates the reference front tyre.

[0201] In Table 3, the symbol “=” indicates the value measured for the reference tyre and the symbol “+” indicates that the value measured for the tyre of the invention is deemed better. In particular, with reference to the relaxation length, a value is deemed better than the reference one if such a value is lower than the reference one.

TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Load Relaxation length Drift rigidity (kg) INV RIF INV RIF 75 + = = = 112.5 = = = = 150 = = = = 225 = = = =

[0202] Table 3 shows that the provision of the aforementioned reinforcing element in the beads of the tyre of the invention results at low loads in a reduction of the relaxation length with respect to that of the reference tyre, whereas at medium and high loads the relaxation length remains substantially equal to that of the reference tyre. All of this without any significant change in the drift rigidity.

[0203] A reduction of the relaxation length at low loads is deemed by the Applicant to be particularly advantageous in terms of drivability and stability of the tyre due to the fact that the typical travel condition for a front tyre of the Sport Touring type is indeed the one at low load. In fact, for a front tyre such a travel condition is the one occurring when travelling at high speed without the need for braking, as for example happens in the case of routes having long straight parts, like for example on motorways. In such travel conditions, indeed, the front tyre tends to lift from the road surface because of the aerodynamic resistance.

[0204] The fact that the drift rigidity remains substantially equal to that of the reference tyre in all load conditions confirms that the aforementioned advantages achieved by the tyre of the invention in terms of drivability and stability (demonstrated by the reduction of the relaxation length) are obtained without altering other dynamic features of the tyre, and therefore without leading to any worsening of performance.

[0205] Of course, those skilled in the art can bring further modifications and variants to the tyre 1 described above in order to satisfy specific and contingent application requirements, said variants and modifications being in any case within the scope of protection as defined by the following claims.