Source: MotorcyclistOnline.com
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Adam Waheed Official (@adamwaheed) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Adam Waheed Official (@adamwaheed) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Adam Waheed Official (@adamwaheed) View this post on Instagram A post shared by Adam Waheed Official (@adamwaheed) Bridgestone’s Battlax motorcycle tires have gained recognition in the streetbike segment for its versatile performance on a variety of new and used motorcycles. The Battlax-series launched in ‘83 and is positioned as the ultimate “hypersport” streetbike tire from the Japanese rubber giant. The words “battle” and “axe” were morphed to signify the tire’s honed performance edge. For 2024 it has something fresh in the form of its Battlax S23. It supersedes the Battlax S22 (introduced in 2019) and the now discontinued Battlax S21 (introduced in 2016).We try out Bridgestone’s new for 2024 Battlax S23 high-performance streetbike tires. (Jonathan Godin/)Editor’s note: Please review the Bridgestone Debuts Battlax S23 Sportbike Tires for 2024 article and Top 5 Features of Bridgestone’s Battlax S23 Motorcycle Tires article and videos for supplementary insight on this product.Bridgestone’s Battlax S23 rear tire continues to employ five separate compound zones. The edge compounds have continued to evolve for more cornering grip at high lean angles. (Adam Waheed/)Positioned below a racing tire (Battlax R11, and the pure-bred track tire Battlax RS-11) but ahead of sport-touring rubber, the Battlax S23 continues to employ a multicompound design front (three compound zones) and rear (five compound zones). The zones are easy to spot during fast-paced trackday rides when the tires get hot enough to define the sections.Although not a racing tire, the Battlax S23 offers plenty of long-lasting grip for more than one trackday event. (Adam Waheed/)Specifically the front edge/shoulder and rear edge benefit from a “optimized resin” with added carbon black (fine black powder) which boosts grip at high lean angles. Although not vastly different from the S22, the S23 is more gummy with ample grip, even on a liter-class bike, so long as you are smooth with throttle application, especially at higher lean angles.As usual, we love Bridgestone’s neutral handling manners that complement a wide variety of sport- and naked bikes. (Jonathan Godin/)One of the standout features of Bridgestones are neutral handling manners. This complements the chassis on most motorcycles and proves more versatile than other major tire manufacturers’ product offering in this segment. The ‘Stones provide a level of stability and responsiveness that instills confidence without having to worry about having the optimum chassis setup to fit the tire (i.e., characteristics of both Dunlop and Pirelli motorcycle tires).Wet-weather riders will value Bridgestone’s new Pulse Grove technology which allows the tread to have a venturi-like effect to evacuate water more quickly from the tread zones. (Adam Waheed/)Bridgestone motorcycle tires generally perform more optimally with higher psi versus the aforementioned brands, and during our track test at the Kyalami racing circuit in South Africa our bikes were set at 36 psi front and rear.The tread pattern offers slightly more rigidity versus its predecessor. This helps mitigate tread squirm during trackdays on torquey liter-class sportbikes. Furthermore, the tires are nice and quiet so the rider can hear the sound of their bike instead and focus on the road ahead without distraction.Stability at any speeds is another signature trait of Bridgestone tires, including the Battlax S23. (Adam Waheed/)The Battlax S23 also is designed to perform in the rain. Bridgestone’s advanced compounds enhance wet grip. While we didn’t get to try them out in rain, Bridgestone’s innovative “pulse grove” technology promotes a venturi effect which helps evacuate more water from the tread versus the Battlax S22.The Battlax S23 holds up well on an warm, abrasive circuit. Here you can spot the separate compound zones inside the rear tire. (Adam Waheed/)Durability is a crucial factor for any motorcycle tire, and the Battlax S23 delivered after a full-day at the racetrack on liter-class machines. We can’t wait to see how these tires perform on the street.Bridgestone Battlax S23 tires complement the handling of any type of bike, including this Yamaha XSR900 retro-sportbike. (Jonathan Godin/)The Battlax S23 motorcycle tire is a testament to Bridgestone’s commitment to excellence in both performance, safety, and durability. The tire’s remarkable handling, wet-weather capabilities, durability, and overall comfort make it a top choice for riders seeking a high-performance tire that excels in various riding conditions. While these tires’ MSRP certainly can’t be deemed cheap, the enhanced riding experience justifies the cost. When it comes time to replace your worn-out rubber, the Bridgestone Battlax S23 is a worthy tire option for sport riders who ride in any and all road conditions.Precision and well-rounded performance on the road are what the Bridgestone Battlax S23 tires are about. (Adam Waheed/)Front Size: 120/70-17 ($249.49)Rear Sizes: 160/60-17 ($291.19); 180/55-17 ($302.19); 190/50-17 ($340.67); 190/55-17 ($349.39); 200/55-17 ($385.69)Gear BoxHelmet: Shoei X-FifteenSuit: Dainese MisanoGloves: Dainese Full Metal 6Boots: Dainese Axial Pro
