Libra Racing

In 2007 Michelin France rebranded all their Michelin rally tires with the BFGoodrich brand. The tires remained exactly the same for the WRC competitors. Since most countries don't allow WRC cars in their National championships, BFG also began producing a different tire, which would also be good for the new Super 200 class.

For 2008 Pirelli was awarded the 4WD contract in the WRC. Thus Michelin/BFG have stopped producing the old sizes and are now only producing and distribuing the newer spec tires.

These tires are now in the USA and will be ready for sale the end of this month (May '08). We have used some of these on occasion in the past, but I have not done a back to back comparison test. If and when I do a direct test, I will post that info.

The tread of the larger size - 195/70x15 - is only very slightly narrower than the 17/65x15. The tread pattern is the Z type pattern. Four compounds exist; a 2 (which equates to the old 7), a 4 (which = 8), a 5 (which equates to a 8.5), and a 6 (which equals the old 9). The overall section width is much narrower (perhaps 1") and thus will go on a 6 or 6.5 inch wheel very well. The new BFG also doesn't have the extra ribbing on the sidewall. However due to the newer construction I believe the tire will be as fast as the older models. We believe the cost will be about $200.

The Z72 is sold out; only 10 of the ZA81 remain. There continue to be approx. 100 ZE80's left and I believe it will continue to be the best tire when conditions or car spec dictate. The small 15" L82 and the 14" M4 tire remain in stock in good quantities.

Photos will be available soon. Asphalt tires also exist; more info on these later.

Don't hesitate to call John Buffum should you have a question or need something. In addition to a worldwide network of parts, John with 30 years of rallying under his belt is more than qualified to answer any rallying question.

Rally Supplies

Libra Racing is a supplier of Michelin Rally Tires, RalliArt, and Proflex.

Contact

Contact Libra Racing using any of the forms below:

Address:
Libra Racing
John Buffum & Co
170 So. Oak Circle
Colchester, VT 05446

Phone: (802) 655-5768

Fax: (802) 655-1030

Email: librarally@aol.com