Michelin said it does not believe Aprilia's early-season MotoGP dominance was caused by Michelin's stiffer rear tyre carcass, and described Aprilia's RS-GP as having "something extra."
Aprilia opened the season with three grand prix wins and a sprint victory, leading the standings before the first European race at Jerez. Marco Bezzecchi, Aprilia rider, led every lap of the Austin grand prix on Michelin's standard compounds, weakening the stiffer-carcass theory.
Piero Taramasso, a Michelin representative, told Motorsport.com Italy that teams and riders have long adapted to the reinforced carcass and that it does not confer a unique advantage. Michelin added that Ducati has struggled with rear tyre degradation, with two-time MotoGP champion Francesco Bagnaia notably affected, but expects Ducati to make gains in upcoming European rounds.
This article is based on reporting from Motorsport.
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