Bridgestone minimizes the degradation of its slick tires

The equipment manufacturer Bridgestone is confident that the teams will quickly adapt to the challenge of setting up their cars with the new slick tires. Complaints of chronic degradation of the rear tires were made during testing.

The rear tires with the new regulations are being severely tested, an increase in oversteer has been noticed.

This characteristic, noted by the drivers during the initial winter tests, led to rear tire wear on long straights.

But Bridgestone Motorsport’s chief mechanic, Jun Matsuzaki, thinks that the teams will look into the issue in due time before the start of the season.

« It is still too early for the teams to work simultaneously on understanding aerodynamics, tires, and regulations, » stated Matsuzaki.

« The tests mostly took place on the Jerez circuit. Also, this track in December experiences quite cold conditions, there was graining on the rear tires, which led to some degradation. We have to wait for warmer weather. »

« The tire size is a factor, but the tire compound also plays an important role. »

« The tire grip depends on the slight oversteer present, but it’s something that will be counteracted by the car’s setup. The teams will learn to make the most of these tires, » he continued.

The new aerodynamic regulation, which was designed to reduce the downforce of single-seaters, shows that the tires play a more significant role in grip.

« The management of tires was crucial in 2008 and will be again in 2009. The factors of this management have changed due to the new regulations. It will be interesting to see the teams and drivers evolve throughout the year. »