Libra Racing

5/08: 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 2000 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.

8/09: BFG is now producing, and we have, a replacement for the old Michelin 17/65x15. It seems to be an exact duplicate of the BFG's that were used in the final WRC events of 2007. It is an excellent tire for high horsepower, Open Class Cars.

There is also a replacement for the Michelin ZE80; it's called BFG 185/70x15 GZE4. These are available now. The Michelin ZE70 remains in stock and the price has been lowered.

There is due to be a replacement for the 14/62x15 L82 called BFG 175/70x15 GL4. And it will be available the beginning of 2010.

The Michelin M4 continues in stock and will not be replaced at the present time.

Asphalt tires also exist; the only ones currently available are 17" and 18". There are currently none in the USA stock but will be reordered from France before the 2010 season.

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.

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