When it comes to finding decent quality modern tyres for vintage scooters, some sizes are a problem, and the Maicoletta\’s 3.00-14 is one such size.
We\’ve run Michelin City Grip 110 x 80 – 14 on Tracy\’s 400cc Maicoletta conversion since we built it years ago.
City Grips are great modern tyres with a decent speed rating, but the only problem is that for 14\” they were marked for rear use only. We ran them on both wheels without problem but technically we shouldn\’t and could have caused a problem for insurance etc.
Just recently we found these. Michelin City Grip Winter in 110 x 80 -14. They are M&S approved (Mud & Snow) but the interesting thing is that they are bidirectional so they can legally be fitted in the opposite direction for front wheel use.
M&S marked tyres are now compulsory for winter riding in countries such as Germany.
First impressions are that they don\’t feel quite as secure as the normal City Grip, but if you want a high rated road legal tyre with a retro tread pattern for a Maico then you could do much worse. Certainly safer than prehistoric original rubber.
Michelin City Grip Winter is currently available in 11 sizes including 3.50-10 for Vespa and Lambretta.
We\’ll update you on performance when we\’ve done a few more miles.
Sticky
If you\’d like to know more about this particular Maicoletta, which Tracy from ScooterLab used on a ride to Istanbul, pick up a copy of Frankenstein Scooters to Dracula\’s Castle in the SLUK Shop.
The book is also available to read on Kindle.
I have been using City Grips Winter tyres on my Lambretta for the last 6 months, all through the poor weather over the last few weeks. I have found them to be excellent tyres with good grip in all conditions. They have not let me down.
Daz