Pirelli predicts fast, exciting racing plus scorching temperatures at the ultra-quick Snetterton 300 MCE British Superbike event this weekend.
Having endured a seemingly endless run of weather effected events, the massed grids of the British Superbike series will be looking forward to a sun-kissed Snetterton round this weekend in Norfolk. The new for 2011 ‘300’ track layout was a hit with riders and fans last season and with the closest series chase ever, the action is sure to be explosive.
For the team from Pirelli, this is a very busy time as they return from the North West 200 (having secured four race wins) focus on Snetterton BSB before the start of the Isle of Man TT practice week on Monday. However servicing the hundreds of paddock entrants in the World’s top domestic race series is the priority this weekend, with Pirelli Racing Manager Jason Griffiths keeping an eye on the thermometer, “The high-speed nature of Snetterton coupled with predicted high temperatures means that tyre conservation will be key to teams set-up this weekend, especially given the new rules of no traction control. The expected higher track temperatures should see this year’s SC1 rear slick performing within its optimum track temperature range for the first time this season, which should assist with increasing durability. The harder SC2 compound is also available to the teams if required.’
The SC2 rear tyre was used to good effect by Thruxton race winners Josh Brookes and Ian Lowry on the fast bumpy circuit, whilst the softer SC1 was utilised at Oulton Park
Reigning BSB Champion Tommy Hill leads the series for the first time this season and will be looking to rack up more podium credits for the all important ‘Title Showdown’ which kicks in after round nine of the series.
The six different winners from six races so far will all be looking to double their tally but there remains several other noticeable characters who are yet to take the chequered flag this term. Whilst Ian Lowry, Josh Brookes, Jon Kirkham, Tommy Hill, Chris Walker and Shane Byrne have each logged a win apiece, Michael Laverty, Stuart Easton, Michael Laverty and Noriyuki Haga head a grid full of talent all looking to take a maximum 25 point score.
With good conditions forecast, riders will be looking to utilise the different options of Pirelli Diablo Superbike ‘slicks’ - SC1 (softer) and SC2 (harder) for both front and rear wheels.
