DRY HANDLING

ALL THREE TYRES RETURNED VERY similar lap times over the selected 2.6km (1.6-mile) section of dry handling circuit, yet they were quite different in character.

The Continental felt strong and accurate, gripping well, changing direction confidently and, given just a moment to settle, hooking into every apex. It was the front end that slipped wide at the limit but it would still take decent throttle, while through the fastest curves and cambers it was the most poised. It was rated best subjectively. The surprise was that its lap was a mere 0.2sec faster than the Bridgestone and 0.4sec faster than the Michelin.

The Michelin was marginally preferred over the Bridgestone. It took a little longer to settle than the others but offered a little more rotation, which was useful into and out of the tighter corners. It felt a bit loose through faster turns but was predictable and exploitable. A rewarding tyre to get the best from. The Bridgestone performed well too, offering a bit more bite than the Michelin and a touch more adjustability than the Continental, though understeer was a little dogged, so it didn’t feel as willing.