Michelin Faces Uncharted Terrain: Navigating New Challenges at Resurfaced Aragon MotoGP Circuit

Michelin 'beginning anew' at revamped Aragon

"The particular qualities will be determined by the grain size of the refreshed surface"

After taking a break for one year, MotorLand Aragon makes its comeback to the MotoGP schedule this weekend, having been a regular venue from 2010 to 2022.

The 5.077km track has been entirely resurfaced since the last time MotoGP was held there.

Without any test data, teams and the tire provider Michelin are venturing into uncharted territory. In reaction to these uncertainties, Michelin will introduce a third rear tire option.

"Managing temperature and wear is going to be the primary concern this weekend," Piero Taramasso, the head of Michelin's motorcycle racing division, stated.

"Considering the anticipated weather, we've selected quite durable rubber compounds from our latest collection, since the race track temperature might soar up to 50°C."

"Two years prior, the competition occurred on September 18, featuring somewhat simpler weather conditions, and it was held on a circuit that was very familiar to us."

"Considering the updated asphalt, the layout of the track, and the considerable demands it places on both the front and rear tires, we are essentially beginning anew with fresh tires."

"It's understood that a newly laid surface increases the rate of wear on the back tires, while also causing considerable changes in temperature. Yet, the exact effects are determined by the size of the grains in the new surface."

"When it's 'open,' the terrain will be extremely rough, and when it's closed (smooth), we'll face swift rises in temperature.

"The initial training sessions are crucial for configuring the motorcycles, and the competitors will face various options. However, we'll support them in making their selections.

"As per our standard practice, we'll introduce three compounds for the front end, yet this time, we'll present three for the back end as well, diverging from the typical two."

The front tires will offer options among symmetrical Soft, Medium, and Hard rubber formulations.

At the back, cyclists have the option to select a Soft tire featuring a rubber mixture designed for stiffness, a Medium that follows the same approach, and a Hard tire specifically made for enduring high temperatures.

The back tires will feature an asymmetrical design, with added strength on the left side, to accommodate the higher frequency of left turns.

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