“At this test we have had some good material from Michelin, so we've been able to make quite a lot of progress,” said Dani Pedrosa. “Now the engineers must continue working to improve the machine and the tyres so we will have the best possible package for next year. Michelin is putting in a great effort, for sure they are as determined as we are to be totally competitive from the first race of 2008. It's a two-way process and we must work together – we give Michelin all the information they need for their development and in return they will bring us the tyre performance we require. I'm confident that both Michelin and Honda have the skill and the desire to make this happen.”

Hayden meanwhile focused on set-up experiments with the 2008 RCV and recorded his fastest lap on the new machine. “We found some good tyres at this test, so it's been a positive test,” said the 2006 MotoGP World Champion. “I've got a lot of faith in Michelin – I know they want to fight back and win this championship as much as Honda and I do. Sure, we still have some work to do and I've certainly seen a lot of work going in through the last part of the season and during these first winter tests. We've been making progress at each test and that's what we'll have to keep doing – keep our heads down and chip away. Michelin is a great company with so much experience and know-how, so I'm happy we're in this fight together.”

Reigning 250 World Champion Lorenzo completed his third MotoGP test in buoyant mood. “I felt very comfortable on the bike here and was very happy with my pace in my race simulation,” said Lorenzo. “We now have better rear traction, thanks to some new tyres from Michelin, so I'm satisfied.”

MotoGP now commences its traditional mid-winter testing moratorium. Testing resumes at Sepang, Malaysia, on January 22/23/24.

Michelin Competition