Pirelli ramps up BSB commitment
Added on Thursday, February 26th, 2009 by Carole Nash Editor
Pirelli ramps up BSB commitment
Tyre manufacturer Pirelli increase its commitment to the British Superbike Championship in 2009 as the manufacturer approaches its second year as sole tyre supplier for both Superbike and Supersport classes.
Next season BSB race teams will now be offered an extra rear compound from the tyre giant that will see 6,000 tyres used over per event at each of the twelve championship rounds. Pirelli’s 17 race staff will now offer four Superbike compounds and three compounds for Supersport, plus wet and intermediate selections.
Pirelli became sole tyre supplier for the two main classes in BSB in 2008, signing a three-year deal with championship organisers. The manufacturer is also the sole supplier to the World Superbikes Championship, having taken the position in 2003, and are currently working through a contract that runs up to 2012.
Racing Manager at Pirelli Jason Griffiths said: “We learnt a lot in 2008 with a major logistical presence in BSB and a very high benchmark to hit at what is unquestionably the most competitive domestic race series in the world. Our team also know the way all the race-squads work now and so we can really hit the ground running.”
Airwaves Yamaha Team Manager Colin Wright said: “We were really interested to see how Pirelli would step up to supplying the whole grid. Also as a team that previously had a direct tyre contract, we were keen to ensure we would still receive a personal service. I can honestly say we were impressed in the consistency and performance of the tyres. They have also helped to make the whole series a more level playing field, which has got to be good for the fans.”
