Bridgestone tyres have had the exact same specifications as previously used in the Malaysian Grand Prix last season, giving the squads a guaranteed entity to aid their setting up works at testing time in Sepang.

In wet and dry conditions, competitors have gained the opportunity to add valuable data on slick and hard compound tyres. Many racers began their dry test with the softer of the slick wheel compounds, however the harder option was favoured as it gained more durability during circuit temperatures at a high of 55°C.

The test was also an imperative chance for Bridgestone to liaise with all the new squads and racers that are participating this season.

The part of Bridgestone’s engineers is crucial this year with the pre-season testing being reduced to only six days. They play a significant role is choosing the best suited tyre compounds and locating optimum setting up per bike as soon as possible, particularly to rookie racers who have limited knowledge of competing with Bridgestone tyres in the premier session.

Tohru Ubukata – Manager, Bridgestone Motorcycle Tyre Development Department states, “I am pleased with the way the test has gone from a tyre perspective, both in terms of outright performance and durability. We can see that our tyres are still suitable for all the manufacturers’ new bikes, and Jorge (Lorenzo) completed a race distance at the end of the final day with consistent times throughout so this is good.”

“We specifically chose to use the same tyre specifications as selected for last year’s Grand Prix to assist the teams in setting up their new bikes by keeping the tyres constant, therefore making their existing data more valid. What was also important during this test, and will be for all events this season, was working very closely with all teams and riders to help them make the most of their limited testing and track time.”