Michelin have been specialists in tyre manufacturing for a number of years, producing
premium tyres for motorists since the 19th century.
A tyre type that Michelin have been perfecting their craft for quite some time now is
motorcycle tyres, with tyre series such as Pilot Power, Pilot Road, Road, and more being at the forefront of the market.
Two of their most popular motorbike
tyres include their
Road 6 and
Pilot Power 2CT tyres, two models that have been a top-selling tyre in the motorbike segment since their respective releases.
This article will compare both tyres that have defined Michelin’s modern motorcycle tyre production, outlining key features and customer data to better inform you on what tyre suits you the most.
Buy motorcycle tyresMichelin Road 6 vs Pilot Power 2CT: What’s the Difference?
The biggest difference between the Michelin Road 6 and Michelin Pilot Power 2CT is the type of riding they have been designed for.
The Michelin Road 6 is Michelin’s latest premium sport-touring motorcycle tyre, engineered to deliver exceptional wet-weather grip, long tread life and all-day comfort for commuting, touring and everyday road riding. Michelin states it offers 15% better wet grip and 10% longer tyre life than the Road 5.
The Michelin Pilot Power 2CT is a hypersport road tyre that became well known for introducing Michelin’s dual-compound (2CT) technology. It was developed for riders seeking sharper handling, strong dry grip and confident cornering on sports bikes, while still offering dependable performance in wet conditions.
It’s also worth noting that Michelin has since introduced the Michelin Power 6, the latest generation of its sports motorcycle tyre range. Riders considering the Pilot Power 2CT today may also wish to compare the newer Power 6, which builds on its predecessor with improvements in grip, agility and rider feedback.
In simple terms:
- Choose the Road 6 if you ride in all weather conditions, commute or tour regularly.
- Choose the Pilot Power 2CT if you’re replacing an existing set or want an affordable sport-focused road tyre.
Road 6 Overview
The Michelin Road 6 is a premium motorcycle tyre that made its global debut in 2022, acting as the new generation of Michelin Road tyres.
Designed with 100% Silica Technology, the Road 6 offers a 15% improvement in grip over the previous Road 5 – enhancing confidence in both wet and dry conditions.
This advanced compound also extends the tyre’s mileage by up to 10%, making it ideal for long-distance touring and consistent performance.
Michelin has also equipped the Road 6 with its innovative Aramid Shield Technology, reinforcing the tread for increased stability. Alongside this, the tyre benefits from Michelin’s 2CT+ Technology, delivering additional support in the tyre's structure for enhanced cornering stability.
Released as the successor to the
Michelin Road 5, the Road 6 builds on its predecessor’s success with upgraded grip, longevity, and performance features.
Buy Road 6 tyresPilot Power 2CT Overview
The Michelin Pilot Power 2CT is a motorcycle tyre that remains a firm favourite among riders, thanks to its reliable performance and dual compound design.
Originally introduced as one of the first tyres to feature Michelin’s 2CT (Two Compound Technology), the Pilot Power 2CT combines a harder centre for enhanced durability with softer shoulders that boost grip through corners.
This Pilot Power tyre delivers confidence-inspiring performance in both wet and dry conditions, offering a balance of agility and control that suits everyday road use as well as more aggressive, sporty riding.
Michelin’s 2CT Technology allows riders to lean into corners with more confidence while preserving the central tread for longer-lasting wear. This smart compound blend gives the Pilot Power 2CT its unique ability to combine track-inspired grip with road-ready resilience.
Despite being on the market since 2006, the Michelin Pilot Power 2CT continues to be manufactured due to its enduring popularity and trusted performance across a range of riding scenarios.
Buy Pilot Power 2CT tyresCustomer Reviews Comparing Michelin Road 6 vs Pilot Power 2CT
At Blackcircles.com, customer feedback plays a vital role in helping others choose the right tyres with confidence.
Our customer review system invites genuine, verified buyers to rate their previously purchased tyres based on real-world performance and experience.
When leaving a review, customers are asked to score their tyres across four key categories:
- Overall Ratings
- Would the customer buy the tyres again
- Does the vehicle feel better to drive
- Were the tyres value for money
Road 6 Customer Reviews
customers have reviewed the Road 6 as follows:
Pilot Power 2CT Customer Reviews
customers have reviewed the Pilot Power 2CT as follows:
Why Has Michelin Continued To Develop Its Motorcycle Tyre Range?
Michelin has
been developing two-wheel tyres since 1891, continually refining its technology to meet the changing needs of motorcyclists. Over more than 130 years, innovations such as radial construction, dual-compound technology and advanced tyre compounds have helped improve grip, durability and rider confidence.
Today, Michelin continues to apply this expertise across its motorcycle ranges, developing dedicated tyres for sport riding, touring, adventure riding and everyday commuting.
Road 6 Common Tyre Sizes
Pilot Power 2CT Common Tyre Sizes
Road 6 Common Bike Manufacturers
Pilot Power 2CT Common Bike Manufacturers
Why Do Motorcycle Manufacturers Work With Michelin?
Michelin works closely with leading motorcycle manufacturers during the development of new models to ensure tyres complement each bike’s handling, stability and performance characteristics.
This collaborative approach helps create tyres that are optimised for specific motorcycles, providing riders with greater confidence whether commuting, touring or enjoying spirited road riding.
Which Motorcycles Are The Michelin Road 6 And Pilot Power 2CT Designed For?
Although both tyres come from Michelin, they have been developed for different riding styles.
The Michelin Road 6 is commonly fitted to:
- BMW R1250RS
- Yamaha Tracer 9
- Kawasaki Ninja 1000SX
- Honda NT1100
- Suzuki GSX-S1000GT
- Triumph Tiger Sport 660
- Ducati Multistrada V2
- BMW F900XR
The Michelin Pilot Power 2CT is commonly fitted to:
- Honda CBR600RR
- Yamaha YZF-R6
- Suzuki GSX-R750
- Kawasaki ZX-6R
- Triumph Street Triple
- Yamaha MT-09
- Honda CB1000R
- Suzuki GSX-S750
Price Difference Between Michelin Road 6 And Pilot Power 2CT
Tyre prices for models will typically vary between different tyre sizes.
Mail order prices for the Michelin Road 6 range from £ to £ .
Mail order prices for the Michelin Pilot Power 2CT range from £ to £ .
Should You Buy The Michelin Road 6 Or Pilot Power 2CT?
Both tyres are excellent Michelin motorcycle tyres, but they have been developed for different riders.
Choose the Michelin Road 6 if you want Michelin’s latest sport-touring tyre. It combines excellent wet-weather grip, impressive longevity and everyday comfort, making it an ideal choice for riders who use their motorcycle in a wide variety of conditions.
Choose the Michelin Pilot Power 2CT if you primarily ride for enjoyment on dry roads and prefer a sport-focused tyre with responsive handling. It remains a capable option, particularly for riders replacing an existing set.
If you’re buying a new sports tyre today, it’s also worth considering the Michelin Power 6, which succeeds the Pilot Power 2CT as Michelin’s latest premium sports road tyre.
Where Can I Buy Michelin Road 6 Or Pilot Power 2CT?
You can buy both the Michelin Road 6 and, where available, the Michelin Pilot Power 2CT directly from Blackcircles.com. Simply enter your motorcycle’s tyre size to compare available options and view the latest prices.
Motorcycle tyres purchased from Blackcircles.com are delivered directly to your chosen address, allowing you to arrange fitting at your preferred motorcycle workshop or fit them yourself if you have the appropriate equipment and experience.
With a wide range of Michelin motorcycle tyres available, Blackcircles.com makes it easy to find the right tyres for your bike and have them delivered straight to your door.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Michelin Road 6 better than the Pilot Power 2CT?
Neither tyre is universally better – they are designed for different purposes. The Road 6 is optimised for sport-touring, all-weather riding and longevity, while the Pilot Power 2CT focuses on sporty road handling and dry grip.
Should I choose the Road 6 or the Power 6?
If you’re deciding between Michelin’s current ranges, choose the Road 6 for commuting, touring and year-round riding. Choose the Power 6 if your priority is sporty road riding with sharper steering response and greater dry-road performance.
Is the Pilot Power 2CT still a good tyre?
Yes. Although it is an older design, the Pilot Power 2CT remains a capable hypersport road tyre that offers strong grip and responsive handling. It is particularly attractive to riders looking for a sport-focused tyre at a competitive price.
Which tyre performs better in wet weather?
The Michelin Road 6 is the stronger performer in wet conditions. Its latest tread pattern and silica-rich compounds have been specifically developed to maximise wet grip and braking performance throughout the tyre’s lifespan.
Which tyre lasts longer?
The Road 6 has been engineered with long-distance durability in mind and will generally provide significantly greater mileage than the sport-focused Pilot Power 2CT. Actual tyre life depends on riding style, motorcycle type and maintenance.
Can I use the Michelin Road 6 on a sports bike?
Yes. Many sports bike owners choose the Road 6 if they mainly ride on the road and want excellent wet-weather performance, comfort and tyre life without sacrificing confident handling.
Are Michelin motorcycle tyres worth paying more for?
Many riders choose Michelin because of its reputation for premium engineering, dependable all-weather performance and long-lasting durability. Whether you choose the Road or Power range depends on how and where you ride rather than overall tyre quality.
Is the Pilot Power 2CT suitable for occasional track days?
Yes. The Pilot Power 2CT was designed primarily for sporty road riding but is capable of occasional track use. Riders who spend more time on circuit may benefit from Michelin’s newer Power range.
Is the Pilot Power 2CT still Michelin’s latest sports tyre?
No. Michelin has since expanded its sports tyre range with the Power 5 and the latest Power 6, which offer more modern compounds, improved agility and enhanced rider feedback.
How do I choose between the Michelin Road 6 and Pilot Power 2CT?
Choose the Road 6 if your riding includes commuting, touring or regular wet-weather use and you want maximum versatility. Choose the Pilot Power 2CT if your priority is sporty road riding and responsive cornering. If you’re looking for Michelin’s newest sports tyre technology, it’s worth comparing the Power 6 alongside both options.
