Michelin Alpin 7 review
A balanced performance overall, with a slight snow bias. Reassuringly good to drive in the wet.
A solid fourth for the latest Michelin winter tyre puts it well clear of the mid-field pack and is a result built on consistency, with a slight snow bias. This was led by second fastest lap time, with the Alpin 7 just over half a second off the winning pace, demonstrating strong traction and braking, but also a delicate balance at the limit. It was a strong third in the traction test and sixth in braking, where it took less than a metre longer to stop than the best.
Fourth in both aquaplaning tests was the highlight of its wet performance. It was seventh in wet cornering and fifth in wet braking, just under two metres behind the leading tyre. Although it was sixth around the wet-handling circuit, it was within 1.5 seconds of the fastest and drew praise for its predictable nature and quick recovery. It wasn’t the sharpest on turn- in, but once hooked into a corner, stayed hooked up and inspired confidence.
Second in dry braking was contrasted by seventh on the dry circuit, where the Alpin 7 lacked bite and precision, and had a rumbly feel that was unpleasant. It was sixth for measured noise, but a second for economy completed an impressive performance.
Blackcircles.com says…
“We cannot currently provide insight into this tyre. However, its predecessor was positively rated 4.6/5 for ‘would buy again’.”
| Michelin Alpin 7 | ||
| Overall | 98.5% | |
| Price | £170 | |
| Snow braking | 96.9% | 6th |
| Snow traction | 98.0% | 3rd |
| Snow handling | 97.7% | 2nd |
| Wet braking | 94.6% | 5th |
| Wet handling | 98.4% | 6th |
| Wet cornering | 96.6% | 7th |
| Straight aquaplaning | 94.5% | 4th |
| Curved aquaplaning | 83.6% | 4th |
| Dry braking | 97.7% | 2nd |
| Dry handling | 97.3% | 7th |
| Cabin noise | 99.9% | 6th |
| Rolling resistance | 98.5% | 2nd |
