HardDrive/WPS Adds Shinko 'Long Haul' Cruiser Tires
Manufactured to WPS/HardDrive specifications, the SR999 Long Haul "targets the motorcycle rider craving a high-mileage tire with advanced handling and a sturdier ride for cross country trips."
Richard Kelsey, Director of Sales, Tire and Wheel
WPS/HardDrive is the exclusive U.S. distributor of Shinko tires, and this new addition to the cruiser segment of WPS' portfolio of Shinko sport bike, cruiser, scooter, off-road, and dual sport tires is offered in 19 sizes, front and rear.
"Designed for the cruiser rider looking for exceptional tread life and performance, features include an all-new rubber compound formulated for high mileage and inspiring grip. Functional tread grooves are said to deliver superior traction in wet and dry conditions, with a reinforced carcass for a stable and planted feel with Aramid belting providing ample load capacity while also providing stability."
"We have helped to grow and develop the Shinko brand in the U.S. and have a great relationship with the company," said Richard Kelsey, Director of Sales, tire and wheel, at the Boise, Idaho headquartered distributor.
"Most of their cruiser tires are sold in America, so when we wanted to develop a long-haul tire for U.S. terrain and conditions, they were right there with us. Shinko has owned the performance cruiser segment, and consumers know and trust the SR777 line. The SR999 Long Haul tire is a great alternative for the rider looking for higher mileage on cross country rides," Kelsey said.
WPS will celebrate the 20th anniversary of its exclusive U.S. distribution partnership with Shinko in 2023. Headquartered in Osaka, Japan, the Shinko Group purchased the motorcycle tire technology and molds from Yokohama Rubber Co. and began production of the Yokohama motorcycle tire line under the Shinko name in 1998.
"With manufacturing based in South Korea and design based in Japan, the company has seamlessly combined Japanese engineering and design principles with South Korean production and quality control standards. Today Shinko Tires produces approximately 200,000 motorcycle tires per month. The company continues to build on the foundation of Yokohama's technology, conducting R&D in Japan. The Yokohama Rubber Company, Limited was founded in 1917 and began manufacturing tires under a joint venture between Yokohama Cable Manufacturing and B.F. Goodrich."