Le Castellet,
18
September
2019
|
16:44 PM
Europe/Amsterdam

Dunlop’s ‘stronger for longer’ technology to feature at 2019-20 EWC opener

  • Dunlop to supply tyres to 36 of the 59 bikes competing

  • New rear tyre to be introduced

  • Top factory teams to benefit from Dunlop’s tyre technology

  • The Bol d’Or 24hr race to feature latest tyre developments

The opening round of the 2019-20 FIM Endurance World Championship (EWC) takes place at Le Castellet next weekend for the Bol d’Or 24hr race. 

The 83rd edition of the race will feature top riders in the Formula EWC and Superstock classes racing for glory with Dunlop supplying tyres to 36 of the 59 bikes, including top Formula EWC teams Suzuki Endurance Racing Team, BMW Motorrad and VRD IGOL Pierret Experiences.

Dunlop’s illustrious history in the EWC has provided a technology test bed for their tyre development. The SportSmart Mk3 tyre is one of five new hypersport tyres that has been developed in the last three years from extensive technological innovation in the EWC.

This week, Dunlop confirmed their continued support of EWC for a further two seasons. Edouard Carpentier, General Manager, Dunlop Motorcycle Europe, explains the Dunlop/EWC partnership: "Endurance racing is at the heart of Dunlop's racing activities. For over 130 years, we have used racing to develop tyre technology that allows riders to push further and faster than ever before. Open tyre competition in endurance racing is a tough battleground, but we love the challenge. Riders demand tyres that not only last longer each season but relentlessly perform, lap after lap. Dunlop has developed a 'stronger for longer' mindset and EWC provides the perfect arena to develop compounds and constructions that we transfer to road tyres. In the last three years, Dunlop has launched five new hypersport tyres, including the acclaimed SportSmart Mk3, and they all feature technology proven in EWC.”

The Superstock class features teams that have chosen Dunlop tyre technology. The 2018-19 Le Mans 24hr Superstock victors, Motors Events, benefited from Dunlop’s continuous tyre development. Although the Superstock bike features standard wheels and a stock engine, they can compete with the Formula EWC bikes. In a championship that features a tyre-war, Dunlop’s tyre technology and continuous tyre development is paramount in the pursuit of victory. 

Dunlop introduce a new rear tyre 

Ahead of the race, Dunlop will introduce a brand new rear tyre (200/70R17 KR108) which has been designed to supply the rider with further grip and durability that is vital for the demands of a 24hr race. The rear tyre has been developed with numerous compounds to cope with endurance racing's ever-changing conditions.

Dunlop Independent Trophy

As the Dunlop Independent Trophy (DIT) heads into its fifth season, the DIT will continue to provide support to the privateer teams with financial incentives and Dunlop’s tyre technology. With a total amount of €140,000 in prize money awarded over the 2019-20 season, this financial incentive helps privateer teams compete with manufacturers.

Carpentier explains the benefits of the DIT: “Almost uniquely in World Championship level racing, EWC allows the privateer teams to strongly compete against the manufacturer teams. We are proud to offer these teams support with the Dunlop Independent Trophy. It gives a financial incentive to the privateers, who are the lifeblood of the championship, and we also offer these teams the same level of Dunlop world-class service and technical support as the factory teams."

The Bol d’Or 2019 takes place on the 21 and 22 of September at the Paul Ricard circuit. 

About Dunlop

Goodyear is one of the world's largest tire companies. It employs about 74,000 people and manufactures its products in 57 facilities in 23 countries around the world. Its two Innovation Centers in Akron, Ohio, and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg, strive to develop state-of-the-art products and services that set the technology and performance standard for the industry. For more information about Goodyear and its products, go to www.goodyear.com/corporate.