The tests of the new Michelin front tyre at Misano revealed a major evolution in the equipment of MotoGP riders. Designed to meet the challenges posed by the new generations of bikes, equipped with sophisticated aerodynamics and height control systems, this tyre has proven to have several advantages appreciated by a majority of riders, and among them often the most critical of the products of the Bibendum…
During the official MotoGP tests at Misano On Monday, part of the tests was dedicated to the evaluation of a new Michelin front tire, planned for the 2025 season. This tyre has been designed to meet the increased demands generated by the aerodynamic and levelling devices of modern MotoGP. It also aims to offer better temperature and pressure management when drivers are closely following other competitors.
Piero Taramasso, director of Michelin MotoGP, has explained : " We have reserved a slot for all official riders to test this new generation of front tires. This is a completely new design with new construction and profile, the aim of which is to improve grip, provide better feedback and to be less sensitive to variations in pressure and temperature »
In addition to its performance, This tire is also lighter than the current version, an important element for durability. Most riders needed a few laps to adapt to the feel of the new tire, but once that was done, They appreciated the grip and stability, especially in fast corners.
Pecco Bagnaia: “ I love this Michelin tire! I really needed it »
Taramasso described the test as "positive", stressing that although there are still adjustments to be made, the basis of the new tire is solid: " Now we need to analyze the data, make changes to make it work better for all manufacturers and drivers, And this, within a limited time »
Francesco Pecco Bagnaia, reigning world champion of Ducati, was one of the most enthusiastic pilots: " I love this tire! I really needed it. As a rider who uses a lot of braking to enter corners, this tire performed extremely well.. » He noted, however, that the tire is " harder to change direction » but praised the grip and ability to push harder with this tire, especially when it comes to reducing pressure problems when following another driver.
MotoGP will probably not test this tyre again until the end-of-season tests in Valencia, but the feedback is encouraging, and this tire could play a key role in performance in the 2025 season. Michelin still has work to do to refine the settings of the new front tire. The data collected during the Misano tests will be analyzed in detail to identify the strengths and weaknesses of the tire. The engineers at Michelin will have to find a balance between the different qualities sought by drivers, whilst ensuring that the tyre performs optimally on all types of circuits and in all weather conditions.
Le new Michelin front tire for 2025 represents a significant development for MotoGP. It should improve the performance of the bikes and offer riders a more powerful tool to express their talent. However, we will have to wait until the next few seasons to fully assess the impact of this new technology on the championship.