MOTOGP TYRE TEST FOR PHILLIP ISLAND

Written by Mike Ryan, Senior Writer

February 6, 2014 4:42 PM AEDT

In the wake of the tyre problems encountered by both Dunlop and Bridgestone at the controversial Tissot Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix last October, a number of MotoGP and Moto2 teams will return to Phillip Island in March to undergo tyre testing in an attempt for both tyre companies to avoid a repeat of the drama again this year.

As previously reported, the resurfacing of the entire Phillip island track in late 2012 resulted in greatly improved grip, which ultimately proved too much for Bridgestone (MotoGP) and Dunlop (Moto2) tyre compounds used at the circuit, with severe degradation, particularly on the left hand side, resulting in the shortened and stop-start races for each class.

Both Dunlop and Bridgestone deservedly came in for criticism for failing to respond to the demands of the resurfaced 4.44km track, despite an alleged invitation to test at the circuit ahead of the Australian MotoGP round.

The special three-day test is scheduled for March 3-5. Participating teams have yet to be confirmed.