Michelin witnesses successful testing with MotoGP factory riders

Michelin, one of the largest tyre manufacturing companies of the world, witnessed a successful testing of its upcoming MotoGP control tyres with MotoGP factory riders at Sepang International Circuit, Malaysia. The riders got a foretaste of the Michelin tyres they are going to race in near future. The French tyre maker provided the riders with a choice of four front tires (different profiles and constructions) and three rear tyres. The main motto of the testing was to get the riders's first impression in order to obtain a more acurate idea of the best front/rear combination that be developed by the company in the next few months.

Initially, the drivers had an objective to discover the new Michelin tyres and then naroow down their choices. However, in the clear weather and with the track temperature being at 55°C, the riders racked up a high number of laps. Some of them even went for long runs in order to produce a grand prix.

Nicolas Goubert, Technical Director and Deputy Director of Michelin Motorsport, said: “Today's testing was very positive. The riders praised the consistency of the MICHELIN tyres they tried and confirmed that our development work is heading in the right direction. They unanimously described the grip of the rear tyres as 'exceptional'. As of the solutions for the front, the riders singled out a wider option which they preferred over a narrow version that would have favoured cornering speed. They also provided us with valuable feedback that will enable us to identify the areas in which we can work during the months ahead.”

The engineers working for Michelin Motorsport are going through a quite busy schedule this year. The next phase of the development process will be held in Doha, Qatar, on 23rd March. The factory riders will be seen again at the official Michelin test which is going to be held in the month of June at Mugello, after the Gran Premio d’Italia.