Pirelli creates e-bike tyres from car tyres

Pirelli has launched a series of e-bike tyres that includes recycled content from end-of-life car tyres.

Pirelli revealed its Cycl-e range of three models at the annual Eurobike expo in Germany in September. The new range was developed with sustainability in mind as it incorporates crumb rubber sourced from used Pirelli tyres. They are available in a ‘sport’ or ‘standard’ type. The Milan-based company says the tyres are constructed with two different compounds for the tread and carcass, to optimise grip and puncture protection.

Pirelli’s focus on city bike tyres is not wholly surprising. Global sales of e-bikes are forecast to reach almost 40 million units by 2023, according to market analysts. China is likely to remain the most important market – with over 34 million bikes sold there.

Even in a smaller e-bike market like America, sales are starting to take off. More than 260 000 units were sold in 2017, reports the Light Electric Vehicle Association.