Pirelli tyres, an enjoyable first ‘taste’ for the Moto3 and Moto2 riders

With the Catalan GP done and dusted, we were happy to stay on at Montmeló because we knew that the test day arranged by Pirelli would be of considerable interest. The atmosphere in the paddock was wonderful, with Moto3 and Moto2 teams and riders openly sharing their opinions and engaging with the Milanese manufacturer. And although the riders were only getting a first taste of the Italian tyres, it appears that they found them very much up to the task and rather ‘appetising’!

Pirelli in Moto3 and Moto2: the riders’ comments

You can imagine the curiosity of those who have been using Dunlop tyres for years. One such rider is Stefano Nepa, one of the stars of Sunday’s race: "Wow", commented the Angeluss MTA Racing rider. "I knew Pirelli would come prepared but who could have imagined a rear tyre like this? It offers incredible grip! I was immediately quick, despite not pushing to the max. If this is the start, then we’re going to have fun".

His team-mate Ivan Ortolà was equally impressed: "It’s incredible at the front. The front offers significant room to lean and the bike can tip even more. We need to understand just how much… In the first sessions I took no risks, then I began to explore. The grip is impeccable".

Alonso Lopez races in Moto2 and is strong, battling for podiums and wins with the British-Japanese tyres: "Yes, the Italian tyres are different”, confirms the Speed Up rider "but totally enjoyable. After a few laps, I was able to ride smoothly, despite this new component. We need to see how much further we can go, something I’ll explore next time out".

Deniz Oncu was similarly satisfied, trying them with his Kalex-equipped KTM with Triumph 765 three-cylinder: "Good, good" commented the Turk. "The bike is fast, but I was able to build confidence thanks to the tyres. They’re a lot wider than the solutions we use in Moto3, without sacrificing in terms of agility and handling".

Moto3 and Moto2 managers: the Pirelli tyres look promising

Back in the Angeluss MTA garage, former rider and current manager Alessadro Tonucci boasts significant experience: "As soon as the two KTMs came in, I immediately saw that the edge of the tyre still had more to give. The tyre profile is different to the Dunlop but, that aside, I could see the confidence it would offer when leaning. The riders confirmed this, and then I saw the lap times, in line with Saturday’s pole time".

Luca Boscoscuro manages Alonso Lopez: "We need to start with positive comments but also a little caution. It seems like a great start, but it’s clear that the work has only just begun. The test was interesting and will help teams and Pirelli with the subsequent development. If things have gone well, it means there’s also room for improvement".

Lastly, Loris Capirossi, who needs no introduction: "We’re all really happy”, commented the 125 and 250 world champion, who is now a Dorna representative "and this is only the beginning! A great start, so let’s continue like this.”

Moto3 and Moto2: the Pirelli measurements 

Moto3

- Front 100/70 R17 2.5 inches

- Rear 120/70 R17 3.5 inches

Moto2

- Front 125/70 R17 3.75 inches

- Rear 200/65 R17 6 inches