'New technology' Michelins for Le Mans
'We have new compounds in the range that were added after the tests at the start of the year and these will certainly help the riders to improve their performance' - Piero Taramasso, Michelin.
Michelin will be bringing its 'new technology' rear tyres, plus a new compound hard front, for its home MotoGP at Le Mans this weekend.
The French company doesn't give much away about the new tech, which was tested in the pre-season and then included in this year’s tyre range, describing it only as "a different way to mix the components".
Either way, the end result should be improved grip, working range and consistency. Lap records were set on last year's new asphalt, but the inclusion of the revised rears should mean even quicker times this weekend - providing the weather stays dry.
"This weekend is one the most important events for us on the calendar," said Michelin Motorsport Two-Wheel Manager Piero Taramasso.
"It is our home race so we have the support of the French fans with us and also we have a huge presence from Michelin that come to the race, so we know we have a lot of people that want us to do well, meaning it is imperative that we give them a good show.
"The Le Mans circuit is one where we have many records and also one which we use a reference because the asphalt is so good since it was resurfaced, but that doesn’t mean we won’t be looking to improve.
"We have new compounds in the range that were added after the tests at the start of the year and these will certainly help the riders to improve their performances - as happened at Jerez last time out - and add to what promises to be another great event."
As well as the soft, medium and hard slicks, soft and medium wet weather tyres will be on offer should rain arrive during the weekend.
