MotoGP, Michelin: "The new asphalt in Austin could increase tire wear"

The Circuit of The Americas (COTA), built in the early 2010s near Austin (Texas), has hosted the MotoGP since 2013. With a capacity of 120,000 spectators, its 5.513-kilometer track includes 20 turns (9 right-hand and 11 left-hand) and significant elevation changes, including a steep 40-meter climb at the first corner. The track is also known for its 1,200-meter straight, where motorcycles exceed 350 km/h, as well as its iconic 49-meter observation tower located inside Turn 17.

COTA has recently undergone several resurfacing works. In particular, the sections that were involved are the first and last parts of the track, with new asphalt between turns 1, 2, 19, and 20, as well as Turns 11 and 12. These works have helped smooth out the most noticeable irregularities, but the track is still bumpy because of the instability of the ground on which it was built. Also, the new dark black asphalt leads to higher track temperatures that, in turn, increases tire wear.

To meet these challenges, Michelin has carefully selected a tire package suited to the circuit's unique characteristics and recent surface changes.

"We have solid experience at COTA, but this year's partial resurfacing and the different grip levels in different parts of the circuit introduce new parameters to consider," Piero Taramasso, Director of Michelin's Two-Wheel Motorsport division, explained. "We know that the asphalt offers a medium level of aggressiveness and, despite the recent work, the track still has some irregularities. That's why we've adapted the allocation of our tires accordingly, while maintaining the same overall balance in terms of stiffness."

The slick tires available in Austin this year included three symmetrical compounds (soft, medium, and hard) for the front. The hard front tire has been upgraded this year with a new compound to better suit the needs of the circuit. For the rear, two asymmetric compounds (soft and medium) with a reinforced right side, are available. Despite the anti-clockwise layout, this reinforcement is necessary, in order to handle the high stress levels generated by the sequence of three right-hand turns (16, 17, and 18).

"We chose to maintain a symmetrical front tire, because the circuit places significant demands on the front, without causing excessive wear on any particular side. In contrast, the rear tire has a reinforced right side to better withstand the specific stress caused at COTA. Last year, our partners set several records on this track, and we're confident that they'll, once again, have optimum conditions to perform at the highest level this year," Piero Taramasso concluded.

Austin's climate is generally dry in March, with average daytime temperatures around 25°C. However, Michelin is also prepared for wet conditions and is bringing its rain range: symmetrical soft and medium for the front; asymmetrical soft and medium, with a reinforced right side, for the rear.