Michelin Faces Uncharted Territory with New Tyre Strategy at Resurfaced Aragon MotoGP

Michelin is beginning anew at the newly resurfaced Aragon track. "The exact features will be influenced by the grain size of the fresh surface," they stated.

After being a regular event on the MotoGP schedule from 2010 to 2022, MotorLand Aragon is making a comeback this weekend following a one-year break.

The 5.077-kilometer track has been fully repaved since the previous MotoGP event.

Without any testing data available, both the teams and tyre supplier Michelin are venturing into uncharted territory. In light of the unpredictability, Michelin will provide an extra third rear tyre option.

"Managing both wear and heat will be the primary challenges this weekend," stated Piero Taramasso, who oversees two-wheel competitions at Michelin.

Due to the anticipated conditions, we have selected relatively hard rubber compounds from our new series, as the track temperature here might climb to 50°C.

"Two years ago, the race happened on September 18 under relatively simpler weather conditions, and it was held on a track that we were very familiar with."

"With the new 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 is understood that a freshly laid surface increases the wear on rear tires and causes notable changes in temperature. Nonetheless, the exact effects will be determined by the grain size of the new surface."

If the surface is rough, it will be highly abrasive, whereas if it is smooth, the temperature will rise quickly.

The initial practice sessions will be crucial for configuring the bikes, and the riders will need to experiment with various setups. However, we will be present to assist them in making their decisions.

“We traditionally bring three compounds for the front, but this time we’ll be bringing three for the rear as well, instead of the standard two.”

The front tires will offer options of Soft, Medium, and Hard rubber compounds in a symmetrical design.

For the back tire, riders have the option to pick from a Soft version with a firmer rubber compound, a Medium version following the same approach, or a Hard version designed for high-temperature conditions.

The back tires will have an asymmetrical design, featuring a strengthened left shoulder to handle the increased number of left-hand turns.

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