Michelin’s Intermediate Tyres Dropped By MotoGP For 2017

In the 2016 MotoGP season, riders sparingly used the intermediates because the ideal operating window for this rubber is too narrow to use in flag-to-flag races.

By Sreejith

MotoGP organisers have confirmed that the intermediate tyres will no longer be available. When Bridgestone was the exclusive tyre supplier for the event, they only offered slick or wet tyres. But, Michelin returned to the sport this year and made the third option by introducing intermediate tyres.

Michelin’s Intermediate Tyres Dropped By MotoGP For 2017

In the 2016 MotoGP season, riders sparingly used the intermediates because the ideal operating window for this rubber is too narrow to use in flag-to-flag races. Towards the end of the season, discussions were underway about scrapping intermediates for 2017.

Michelin’s Intermediate Tyres Dropped By MotoGP For 2017

Michelin's Nicolas Goubert said about the scrappage during last month's Valencia season finale, "Dorna asked us to bring intermediate tyres because they wanted to make sure that especially during free practice, the riders would be out on track if the conditions were half-wet, half-dry.

Michelin’s Intermediate Tyres Dropped By MotoGP For 2017

"So, of course, we did that willingly, but during the course of the year, we realised that our medium rain tyres could live quite easily on a drying track or completely dry track. I remember a couple of occasions where exactly - at the same time - we had on track people with slicks, wets and intermediates, and using the tyres for a few laps without any trouble.

Michelin’s Intermediate Tyres Dropped By MotoGP For 2017

"So we are discussing right now with Dorna because they noticed that as well. We said that maybe there is no need to bring the intermediates again.

Michelin’s Intermediate Tyres Dropped By MotoGP For 2017

"When we first brought them, and as I say it was a request from Dorna, a lot of riders and teams were not in favour. So now that we've proved they could go out on a dry track with rain tyres maybe there is no need.

Michelin’s Intermediate Tyres Dropped By MotoGP For 2017

"I'm not telling you there won't be any intermediates next year, we are in the process of discussing what the regulations will be."

Michelin’s Intermediate Tyres Dropped By MotoGP For 2017

The decision to scrap the intermediates next year was finalised by the MotoGP safety commission with the approval of Michelin. For 2017, the maximum number of wet and dry tyres remains unchanged.

Michelin’s Intermediate Tyres Dropped By MotoGP For 2017

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Read more on: #motogp #motorsport #michelin
Article Published On: Tuesday, December 13, 2016, 12:21 [IST]
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