Pirelli-Metzeler Motorcycle Test Center

Most motorcyclists are familiar with the Italian island of Sicily as a vacation destination. In the off-season, Sicily’s mild temperatures, low-traffic roads, and spectacular landscapes tempt people to escape the Northern Hemisphere’s bad weather. 

Some motorcycle companies have also recognized this and carry out their endurance runs and test rides on the Mediterranean island, especially in the winter months. Supporting them in their efforts is the Pirelli-Metzeler test center in Giarre near Catania, directly on the eastern flank of the 11,000-foot-high (active) volcano Etna. 

The driving force behind this branch, which has been operated out of Sicily for more than 30 years, is Salvo Pennisi, Head of Outdoor Testing and Technical Relations, Motorcycle and Bicycle.

Born in Sicily, Pennisi worked as a test rider, journalist, and consultant for the motorcycle industry and Pirelli in the 1990s. When the tire manufacturer ceased production in Sicily’s Villafranca Tirrena in 1992, the opportunity arose to set up a new testing department in Pennisi’s hometown of Giarre. 

The facility later started also doing testing for German tire manufacturer Metzeler, which Pirelli acquired in 1986.