Possible Answer to Ferrari's Performance

[Glen]

I don't find it credible at all to suggest that the Bridgestones are so good for Ferrari, yet so bad for, say, Sauber. I realise that Ferrari work hand-in-hand with Bridgestone to get the famous custom-package, but if the tyres are SO much better they should at least work after a fashion for another car/team. The last race was particularly suited to the Bridgestones as well.

The entire Ferrari package (yes, including tyres but by no means exclusively) is a truly amazing piece of work - pure hard work is probably more accurate than genius.

[Kicking-back]

But Sauber use Michelin tyres!


Last season, when they were on Bridgestones, many of their race performances were also helped immensely by that - think of the runs of Fisichella into several points scoring positions.

If there is any doubt about Bridgestone's superiority, compare the fastest laps of Alonso and Karthikeyan.

[Glen]

Er yea - I know. I was drawing attention to the fact that Sauber clearly feel better off on Michelins. BAR have flourished after the switch also. The Imola example is not good for a discussion of the general merits, because I do agree that the Bridgestones were better there. Over the course of the season though, there is no doubt in my mind that Michelin is the one to have... although that may change I suppose... certainly in the last two years Ferrari have won because of their superb all-round package - not just because of tyres.

[Gt_R]

Why the fuss when Bridgestone got the better tyre figured out for Imola?

Even within the ranks of Michelin runners, it's not difficult to see that the tyres suit some teams than others. But on general, if a tyre is strong over another make, it would be beneficial to all running that make of tires.

I'm cautious about Ferrari's pace. Afterall, Ferrari had been doing some testing at two Italian circuits with similar weather conditions. Besides, Ferrari had the luxury of a bit more track time to set up their car.

Ferrari has a good car, which rode the bumps seemingly well and good under braking compared to Renaults and BAR. If Bridgestones give Ferrari a tyre as good as Michelin, i'm pretty sure Ferrari and Michael would finish the job.

But it'd take a few more races to see the true form.

[Glen]

They have a big (very big, so they say) aero step coming for Barcelona, and Ferrari's claim is that the F2005 is superb in the fast corners (as has long been the case with the red cars). Could be nasty shock on the horizon if Bridgestone can do a Barcelona tyre anything like as good as their Imola tyre…

[Valve Bounce]

I've been telling my friends like forever at Motorsport Forum, and I just thought I'd share it with you guys:
SchM came to town in his new car and he kicked butt!! Got it??

[Gt_R]

If Bridgestone delivers the goods in Barcelona, i'd be very happy for them. They are always made to look bad when Ferrari struggles, and they deserve success after their hard work.

But as i've said, Imola is more or less a known quantity. Step into Barcelona and there are fresh considerations. Mclaren would have a heavily updated car (Imola's car already is quick, so the new car would be even quicker?), Toyota doesn't have to worry about the kerbs anymore, Alonso and Renault would be running the new spec B engine with aero updates, and Williams should be more comfortable on a smooth surface and bump around at Imola. And don't forget, a huge part of testing by Michelin runners are conducted at Barcelona, and it's unlikely they'd get their tyres wrong at Michelin.

It would be a far tougher challenge. I hope Ferrari/BS lives up to the challenge and bring Alonso some competition, and beat him at his hme race.

[Glen]

Downforce and efficiency (as well as tyre consistency, especially fronts) are everything at Barcelona - it pains me to say it, but that is not Williams' forté. It mot certainly is Ferrari's though (and Renault).

[Marbot]

I think for the first time this season the front tyre will be just as important as the rears as regards wear and grip.BS will have to come up with something totally different to Imola if they are to give Ferrari victory there.

[Gt_R]

Ferrari are good on high speed turn, aero and braking.
Renaults are good at traction and handling.

Car wise, Ferrari may have an edge.

Tyres though, i believe Michelin still hold the upper hand.

[Red Emperor]

Originally Posted by SetikX

My many apologies R E. I normally trust the media to report such 'facts', as I think they have no reason to fabricate stories. Thanks for the clarification =)

Welcome, no need to apologize.