Bridgestone primed for 2012 MotoGP tests30/01/2012
Following an intensive development programme over the winter break, Bridgestone is primed for the first MotoGP group tests as evaluation of the tyres that will be used for the 2012 season continues.
With six lap records set on Bridgestone rubber in 2011 and race times at ten of the rounds faster than in 2010, Bridgestone analysed tyre performance data and rider feedback throughout last year to develop tyres for the 2012 season that offer improved warm-up performance, enhanced rider feel and extended operating temperature range.
While the majority of teams take to Malaysia’s Sepang International Circuit for their first test, some teams fielding Claiming Rule Team (CRT) bikes this year have already commenced their first shake-down of the year at Spain’s Circuit Ricardo Tormo in Valencia.
Riders at the first Sepang test will have access to newly developed front tyres featuring revisions to rubber compounds and construction that were specifically developed to boost warm-up performance. Evaluation of the new front tyre will take place alongside ongoing assessment of the 2012 specification tyres that were well received by riders when debuted at last November’s Valencia post-season test.
To provide on-site support at each of the tests, Bridgestone has sent technical engineers to both Spain and Malaysia. Aside from providing technical support, the engineers will focus on the acquisition of tyre data and rider feedback, all of which will be compiled and sent back to Bridgestone’s Technical Centre in Japan for further analysis.
The complete MotoGP test schedule for 2012 is as follows:
- Valencia (Private test), January 30-31
- Sepang (IRTA official test), January 31 - February 2
- Jerez (Private test), February 20-22
- Sepang (IRTA official test), February 28 - March 1
- Aragon (Private test), March 8-9
- Jerez (IRTA official test), March 23-25
