Introduction to Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22
Hello! The tire world is a vast one, filled with numerous options for every kind of rider. Today, I’ll be discussing a tire that’s garnered quite some attention since I disclosed that I use it on my prized bike – the Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22. For ease, let’s just refer to it as the Bridgestone X22. Contrary to popular belief, I haven’t been endorsed by Bridgestone; this is purely my take on this highly talked about tire.
Features of Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tire
Installed on my bike are profiles measuring 120 on the front and 190 on the back. However, if you own a Suzuki, a 180 would fit perfectly as well. One peek at Bridgestone’s website, and you’ll notice many common features across their tire range.
A significant highlight of the S22 is its dual-compound structure. The tire boasts a softer compound on the outer edges for increased grip while leaning, and a harder compound in the middle for durability. Bridgestone does mention a three-compound system, which might imply a transition from hard to softer to softest. Regardless, this design ensures longevity in the center and great traction on the sides. They even claim that this tire maintains grip right to its very edge, which I was eager to test out.
For context, I’ve ridden about 1500 miles (approximately 2000 kilometers) on these tires and put them to the test during two track days. This gave me a comprehensive feel of their performance in varying conditions – be it a sunny day, rain, or even hail. Not to mention, I’ve experienced a crash with these tires, pushing them to their limits. This extensive use gave me valuable insights that I’ll be sharing in this review.
Historical Perspective: The Launch of Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22
Diving a bit into the history, the Bridgestone S22s made their debut in 2019, taking the baton from the S21s. These tires came with certain upgrades, boasting a 5% faster performance on corners. Designed primarily for sporty road riders and those engaging in occasional track days, they aren’t exclusively track tires. Bridgestone offers distinct tires for that niche. My personal use aligns with a sporty road rider who indulges in the occasional adrenaline-pumping track day.
Grip and Performance: A Comprehensive Analysis
Let’s delve into the most crucial aspect for most riders: the grip. Especially in varying conditions – wet and dry. First off, their performance in dry conditions is impeccable. The grip is splendid, earning a straight 5 out of 5 from me. From the moment I had them installed, the confidence they inspired was palpable. They adapted to the road quickly, heated up in no time, and their overall performance on the road was nothing short of fantastic.
Price, Longevity, and Road Grip
When it comes to choosing a tire, price inevitably becomes a consideration. In the case of these tires, while they may not boast exceptional longevity, they make up for it in their performance. The central core design adds to their life, but by nature, they aren’t designed for extended wear. However, when it comes to gripping on dry surfaces, and tackling all types of corners, they excel. Their performance has been impeccable, and I cannot find a single flaw. The key highlight is the feedback they provide while on the road.
This feedback is instrumental, allowing riders to gauge and feel the bike’s behavior, especially during corners. Such feedback fosters confidence, ensuring that the rider trusts the tire just as one would trust a bank with their money. Simply put, these tires provide consistent performance and feedback throughout, ensuring a smooth ride on roads. On tracks too, their performance has been laudable.
Wet Weather Performance and Comparison
Turning our attention to wet conditions, it’s worth noting that while the Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tires manage reasonably well, they don’t stand out as exceptional. My benchmark for wet weather tires has always been the Metzeler Road Tech Zero Ones. These are, without a doubt, the best I’ve ever ridden on in wet conditions. Using the Metzelers as a gold standard, rated at five out of five, I’d assign the S22s a score of three and a half.
It’s not that they underperform, but they have specific nuances. For instance, they heat up swiftly but cool down just as fast. During one of my rides in heavy rain, the tires seemed to lose heat rather quickly. The rear tire, especially, felt a bit unstable.
Tire Width and Wet Weather Dynamics
One might think that a wider tire, like the 190, would offer better performance in the rain due to the larger contact patch. However, in practice, narrower tires often navigate water more efficiently. While width plays a role in grip during rainy conditions, it’s not the only factor. Compound, siping, and other design aspects are crucial. If you were to compare two identical tires in terms of compound and siping designed for water dissipation, the narrower version might handle the rain better. To elaborate, an S22 with a 190 profile designed specifically for rain might outperform a 120 profile meant for all weather conditions.
In conclusion, if you often find yourself riding in rain and prioritize wet performance, it might be worth considering other options like the Road Tech Zero One or the Road Pilot Fives. Many riders have recommended these as some of the best they’ve ever used for wet conditions.
Wet Weather Performance
While I endorse the Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tires, it’s crucial to clarify my experiences.
I haven’t used them long enough to provide an in-depth opinion, but when it comes to the Roadtech Zero Ones, I can’t recommend them enough. Especially for riders who frequently traverse wet conditions, the Roadtechs are a top pick. On the other hand, if you’re someone who predominantly rides in dry weather and occasionally faces rain, the S22s won’t disappoint. Their grip is commendable; however, you might need to adapt by slowing down and feeling the road more. They might not allow the aggressive ride you can have with the Roadtechs, but they remain competent in wet conditions. It’s noteworthy that while braking in wet conditions, the feedback from these tires is invaluable. They communicate quite effectively, giving the rider a sense of when they’re reaching their limit, which is a commendable feature.
Comparative Wet Performance and Braking
When it comes to braking, especially in the wet, these tires exhibit slight quirks. Their feedback provides clear indicators of their limits, a feature that’s essential for safety. Like all tires, the S22s have their boundaries in wet conditions. However, if we are to talk about exceptional wet performance, my wet track tires stand out. These are different, meant explicitly for tracks and have a history with me. Yet, when we’re discussing road tires, the S22s hold their own. In terms of feel and braking in wet conditions, I’d rate them four out of five. They’re just a notch below the Roadtech Zero Ones but are adequately equipped to handle wet roads.
Sporty Road Riding and Dry Performance
Should you be considering a tire for sporty road riding, primarily in dry conditions, but one that won’t betray you during sudden wet spells, the Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22s are a viable choice. Bridgestone’s craftsmanship is evident in their performance. I’ve observed that their slightly skittish behavior in wet conditions might be attributed to the harder compound in the middle.
After rigorous track days, you can even discern the demarcation between the compounds. Perhaps this harder middle doesn’t warm up as efficiently in wet conditions, which might be a reason for its altered performance.
Track Performance Insights
A significant question is the S22s’ performance on the track. I’ve had a mishap with them on the track, but it’s essential to state that I was pushing them beyond their limits. Revisiting a video captured during the incident, I realized I was leaving black marks on the track, clear evidence of their stress. Comparing my lap times with other tires designed explicitly for tracks, the S22s held their ground commendably. Road tires and track tires are worlds apart in their design and objectives.
My best lap on specialized track tires was recorded at 209 seconds. On the S22s, I managed a close 213 seconds before my crash. They are more than competent for track days. The new Hayabusa, for instance, sports the S22s, attesting to their capabilities. My experience reflects more on my overconfidence than the tire’s shortfall. A lesson learned the hard way.
Track Day Performance
Throughout the day, the tires showcased a stellar performance. Even when a mishap occurred mid-day, the tires had already weathered four demanding track sessions. They managed to bounce back, performing flawlessly the next day. From what I’ve gathered online, some riders claim to have used these tires for up to eight track days, interspersed with regular road riding. I managed two and a half track days before noticing that the rear tire had seen substantial wear, especially on the edges. Although there’s still some life left in them for regular road use, I’d consider replacing them sooner due to the accelerated wear from track sessions. As for their capability for track use, they certainly live up to the hype.
Value for Money
So, the pivotal question: Would I endorse the Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22? Without hesitation, yes. Were it not for my desire to test various tires and produce reviews, I’d certainly fit another set of S22s on my bike. Price-wise, having them fitted at my local motorcycle shop in Kilkenny cost me around 320 to 330 euros. While they aren’t the most affordable option out there, I firmly believe they offer great value for the performance they deliver. Depending on where you buy and how you get them fitted, you might be looking at a total of around 320 to 350 euros. From both my personal experience and the feedback I’ve found online, the rear tire should last approximately three and a half thousand kilometers, with the front tire’s lifespan ranging from 5000 to 10,000 kilometers. However, actual mileage can vary based on individual riding styles and whether or not the tires are subjected to track conditions. It’s noteworthy that despite my weight being significantly above the European male average, these tires demonstrated even wear, making me exceedingly satisfied with their durability.
Weather Adaptability
Turning our attention to the tire’s wet riding capability, I must admit that I’ve subjected the Gixxer to diverse scenarios – from track conditions to rainy roads and twisty terrains. Regardless of the setting, these tires have consistently bolstered my confidence. Even after a crash, I never attributed the mishap to the tires.
Delving into the details, I believe the incident wasn’t a result of tire failure (a deep dive into this can be found in my other videos). All in all, the Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 has my ringing endorsement for anyone seeking a dynamic, track-ready tire. That said, potential buyers should be aware of its slightly skittish nature under wet conditions. On a side note, for those curious about the tire’s age, it’s indicated by a four-digit marker. For instance, my rear tire reads “24-20”, signifying it was manufactured in the 24th week of 2020.
Tire Age and Proper Storage
When it comes to selecting tires, especially for older models, it’s crucial to ensure their proper fitting. The S22 model, released around 2019, is relatively new, implying that if you’re considering purchasing one, you’re likely making a sound decision. However, an often overlooked aspect is the storage conditions of the tire before purchase. While tires can remain shelf-stable for up to seven years if stored correctly, improper conditions, such as extreme temperatures or incorrect positioning, can significantly degrade their quality. This underscores the importance of purchasing from a reputable dealer who understands the nuances of tire storage. For those who possess the technical know-how, fitting the tires oneself might be an option. But for the majority, trusting a reliable source for both purchase and fitting is paramount.
Specifications and Real-World Application
Diving into specifics, the rear tire of the S22 is denoted as a 73W. From what I recall, this translates to a load-bearing capacity of 365 kg and a speed limit of 270 kilometers per hour. On the other hand, the front tire, labeled as 58W, can bear around 220 kilos and can also reach speeds up to 270 kilometers per hour. Now, it’s essential to juxtapose these numbers with real-world applications. For instance, expecting a bike to hit the 270 km/h mark might be a stretch unless, of course, you’re thinking of suspending it from a plane! Realistically, with the current gearing setup, the bike would max out at around 210-220 km/h, and even in its stock configuration, reaching 240 km/h would be its limit. I won’t delve into how I acquired this knowledge, but it’s safe to say these tires are equipped to handle the speeds and weights most riders would subject their bikes to. Just a word of advice: steer clear of strapping heavy objects like fridges to your bike – not only would it be a logistical challenge, but it’s also not what these tires were designed for!
In the vast world of motorcycle tires, understanding the intricacies of what you’re investing in is key. While the above information doesn’t draw a definitive conclusion, it provides valuable insights for potential buyers to make informed decisions based on their unique requirements and riding conditions.
The Importance of Proper Tire Fitting and Storage
Ensuring that your tires are correctly fitted is crucial, especially if you are opting for an older model. The S22, released in 2019, stands as a testament to the quality one can expect from modern tire offerings. If you’re considering an S22, there’s a high likelihood you’re making a solid choice, as long as the tire has been appropriately stored. A properly stored tire can remain on the shelf for an impressive seven years. However, improper storage conditions, such as extreme temperatures or incorrect positioning, can lead to a drastic reduction in the tire’s longevity. It’s essential to make purchases from trusted dealers who not only sell but understand the importance of maintaining the integrity of the tire. For the hands-on enthusiast, fitting the tires yourself might be appealing. Still, for most, trusting a reputable source for both purchase and fitting ensures peace of mind.
Decoding Tire Specifications
Digging deeper into the S22’s specifications, the rear tire is labeled as a 73W, which, to the best of my recollection, signifies a 365 kg load-bearing capacity and a top speed of 270 kilometers per hour. The front, denoted by 58W, holds a weight of approximately 220 kilos and boasts the same top speed. Real-world performance, however, provides a more grounded perspective. The dream of hitting a 270 km/h mark remains just that – a dream. Unless, of course, you fancy dropping your bike from an aircraft! In reality, with my current gearing setup, the bike peaks at around 210-220 km/h. Its stock configuration pushes this limit slightly further to approximately 240 km/h.
Without going into the specifics of how this knowledge was acquired, it’s evident that these tires are more than capable of handling any speed or weight challenges that most riders might subject their bikes to. That said, it’s worth noting: while the tires might handle it, strapping unwieldy objects like refrigerators to your bike is definitely not recommended. Besides the obvious logistic issues, it’s not what these tires were engineered for.
As riders, our safety and the performance of our bikes depend significantly on the choices we make concerning our tires. While the final verdict remains subjective, being armed with accurate information and a thorough understanding of the product specifications is always beneficial.
Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 Review
When diving into the world of motorcycle tires, one can’t help but come across the Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22. Though the version I tested is the S22r, I’m not entirely convinced that there is a vast difference between the various S22 variants. Nonetheless, it’s safe to say that the S22s, regardless of the specific model, have been nothing short of exemplary in my experience.
Admittedly, they come with a heftier price tag, but as the adage goes, “you get what you pay for”. In the case of the S22, you’re paying for excellence.
Performance in Various Conditions
The S22 shines brilliantly in dry conditions; there’s little, if anything, I could critique. It’s a tire that seems to have been meticulously crafted for dry terrains. However, like any product, it’s not without its nuances. In wet conditions, especially when cold, the tire can exhibit a somewhat skittish behavior. However, this minor setback is offset by the S22’s remarkable ability to heat up at an impressively rapid rate. Even during my winter rides, a quick trip up and down the road was enough to get them warm. So, unless you’re caught in a downpour as I once was, maintaining the optimal temperature for these tires shouldn’t be an issue.
Looking Ahead: The Next Test
Though the S22s have served me well, the allure of exploring other options remains. On my radar is the “Muay Thai Sport Force+” or more specifically, the “Sport Force+ ES”. My Suzuki will be the test subject for this new tire. While another set of S22s might seem like the obvious choice given my positive experience, the comparatively lower price of the Sport Force+ ES makes it an enticing prospect. My plan is to also test these on a track day, pushing them to their limits. The goal is to provide a comprehensive review, drawing parallels, and contrasts with the S22. And, needless to say, I hope my testing doesn’t end with a toppled bike – that’s an experience I’m not keen on repeating!
Conclusion
The Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22, particularly the S22r variant, has proven itself as a formidable contender in the motorcycle tire market. Its performance, especially in dry conditions, is nearly flawless. While it’s not the most budget-friendly option out there, its quality justifies the cost. However, as with all things in the ever-evolving world of motorcycling, there’s always something new on the horizon. The Sport Force+ ES beckons as the next challenge, promising performance at a more affordable price point. As I gear up to test this new contender, I’m reminded of the thrill that comes with each ride, each test, and each discovery. Whether you’re loyal to a specific brand or eager to experiment, the journey of finding the perfect tire is one filled with excitement, learning, and, above all, passion.
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