Moto GP Tires and Race pace?

Question

Whats the difference between qualifiers and the race tires in Moto GP?

And why are people like Colin Edwards fast during the qualification, but in the race they slowly lose posisitions to guys like Rossi, Pedrosa and Lorenzo?

I know its the difference between a factory and satelite team and bike, but there must be something else.

Any idea?

Answer 1

Wiggy has just about covered it - A qualifier is a completely different compound, it's grip is far superior than that of the race tyre and is only suitable for a few laps before it's cream crackered.

As for those who can do really fast laps to qualify - it could be to do with tyre choices for the race. However, it could also be said that it's easy to do just ONE fast lap, but not so easy to do 28!! Without sounding detrimental to the likes of Mr Edwards, who is clearly very talented and has a wealth of experience, but younger & maybe hungreier blood could also be a contribution ???? Colin is less likeley to take uncalculated risks whereas 'Pedrobot'(lol courtesey of our Mr Proc) and 'Lorenzoniz48ss' will.

;.  Having said that though, maybe it's the taking

~   risks, (calculated or not) that makes the  racer what he is, or indeed, what he isn't !!!!!!

The qualifier is only used to determine grid positions and (in my opinion) bears no reflection on how good a racer is or isn't - as demonstrated on many occasions by Mr Rossi (aka GOD) starting on 3rd/4th row.

Enjoy tomorrow's race, I can't wait  - x*x -

Answer 2

Qualifiers last 3 laps. Thats it.

Race tyres last the race.

Rossi knows his rubber, and is the best in the world.

Factory is the main team.

Example Team Repsol Honda is owned and run by HRC Japan.

Team Carlos Honda is a satelite owned and run by Team Gresini. They pay Honda & HRC to lease the lastest bikes and parts from HRC. They will always be down the list when it comes to good parts.

Answer 3

Hi Empress.  Wiggy and Girl rider have it covered.

Michelin have the best qualifying tyres, which is where Nicky Hayden (the best example) gets his fast times. but his race tyres don't give him the grip. Tyres are a compromise between grip and wear. the harder the rubber compound the longer it lasts. but it does not grip like a soft compound does.   As Wiggysan says the qualifier tyre only has to last 3 laps (the out lap, a quick lap, in lap) so the tyre is as soft as possible. giving maximum grip. this allows for a harder suspension setting too. as the tyre will soak up some of the bumps.

Bridgestone have a better race tyre. (at the moment. the tyre war is always ongoing) which is why Rossi wanted to change to it. you will hear people saying it a Michelin or Bridgestone track. this is mainly on  previous track records. all changeable as tyres progress. we find at the moment Bridgestones will go quick all of the race. Michelin's go quick to start. lose a bit then get it back (Grip). hope this helps your understanding. you obviously take notice.