Blizzak LM001

BRIDGESTONE MAGAZINE
The story of one man
– Harvey Firestone
PAGE
10
2/2014
Blizzak LM001
PAGE
16
Relax it’s Bandag
PAGE
22
Dear Readers,
Dear Readers,
This year's ranking of the Tire Business magazine confirmed that our company remains the world's largest manufacturer of tyres and rubber products for the sixth year in a row. We managed
to stay on the top by generating 27.4 billion dollars of revenue from tyre sales which represents
over 85% of our total revenue. As the largest tyre manufacturer, we shape market trends. This is
a great privilege, but also an obligation. By working closely with leading motor manufacturers,
we develop innovative solutions that we offer to our customers. Such cooperation requires us to
undertake constant efforts to further develop our company.
We started the winter season with a strong marketing campaign implemented in six major European markets, including Poland. The campaign focuses on safety and technology. The aim of the
project is to make drivers realise that tyres are the only part of a car’s safety system that comes
into direct contact with the road.
Anna Paszt
Marketing & PR Manager
Bridgestone East Europe
The upcoming season will also bring important changes for our industry with the introduction
of new provisions on the mandatory fitting of tyre pressure monitoring systems for all new cars.
This will allow drivers to have universal access to Run Flat tyres that can be used only in cars
equipped with TPMS. Changes in regulations create new challenges for both drivers and garages. Cars fitted with RTF tyres should only be serviced by an authorized tyre dealer because of
the specialist equipment, software and personnel that they require. We expect that widespread
use of advanced TPMS and Run Flat technologies will force the tyre services market to introduce
changes leading to greater professionalization and specialisation.
From Bridgestone’s point of view, the last season was particularly important because of our project that involved revitalising the Firestone brand. It is a great asset in our range of products, but
so far has not been strongly supported in Europe. Our aim is to reactivate it and maximize the
potential of the brand.
The Essen Reifen fair, an event that draws the attention of tyre producers, technicians and dealers
from around the world, was held in May. Our company was also present and unveiled its full line
of performance tyres, retreaded tyres and agricultural tyres that were introduced this year.
In recent years, we have also been actively investing in Poland. A total of nearly one billion zlotys
was spent for this purpose, so that ultimately, among others, we will create over 300 new jobs
in our two factories: in Poznań and Stargard. These investments are primarily used to increase
production and further improve the quality of our products. In Stargard, where large commercial
tyres are produced, the investment made it possible to set up modern tread production lines.
All this and more can be found in the latest issue of Drive magazine.
I hope you will enjoy your read.
Anna Paszt
Marketing & PR Manager
Bridgestone East Europe
3
CONTENTS
PRODUCTS 18
Bridgestone's Winter Offer
Firestone's New Products
Bridgestone's new website
Relax it's Bandag
Bandag FuelTech
Bridgestone winter truck tyres
OPINIONS 66
INNOVATIONS 26
Bridgestone and Saroléa
Run Flat and TPMS
BUSINESS 7
Bridgestone's investments
DEVELOPMENT 28
BMW i8 exclusively on
Bridgestone tyres
WORLD OF
BRIDGESTONE 8
New campaign
Club46!
SPORT 29
INTERNET
Your Journey
31
California Superbike School
Battlax tyres
HISTORY 10
Harvey Firestone
History of Firestone racing
BRIDGESTONE 14
TIPS
Winter conditions
Why use winter tyres?
EVENTS 32
DIVERSITY 16
Blizzak LM001
Blizzak W995
4
Destination HP
Revitalisation of the Firestone brand
Bridgestone in Japan
Bridgestone for the Ambulance Service
Foundation
Bridgestone Bikers Cup
Firestone at Amber Circle
Motorcycle racing with a jet
5
OPINIONS
BUSINESS
Sergejs Pusnakovs
Bridgestone to invest
225 mln EUR in Poland!
Sales Manager Consumer Products
The demand for new tyres in Poland has been at a stable level for a long time. Taking into account the results
of the sale of passenger tyres in the first half of this year, we can say that the last summer season was also
successful. In the past five years, the share of the premium tyre market has increased. In addition, despite
the crisis, drivers are increasingly opting for larger tyres - over 17 inches and 4x4. This is due to the changes
that have taken place in the structure of the car parc in Poland. SUVs are becoming increasingly popular in
our country; they have larger engines with more power. Moreover, Polish drivers spend more and more time
behind the wheel. On average, they drive 15 thousand kilometres per year. It is one of the highest results in
comparison to other European nations. Therefore, they expect the car’s equipment, including the tyres, to
provide them with comfort and safety.
When we look at the breakdown by seasons, we can clearly see the increasing dominance of winter tyres in
the sales. Despite the lack of regulations governing the use of winter tyres, their market share is now 55%.
Interestingly, the Poles widely appreciate the advantages of this type of tyres and decide to buy better quality
products that guarantee greater safety.
We have prepared two new products for this year’s winter season. The first is the Bridgestone Blizzak LM001
for passenger cars, which received the highest rating in the ADAC test this year. The second is the W810 for
vans, which guarantees maximum safety and 15% higher mileage than the previous model. We should also
mention the last year's product - Firestone Winterhawk 3, which proved its value in the latest test of the German automobile club.
Taking this opportunity I wish you all a successful season.
Marek Drewniak
Sales Manager Commercial Products
Legislative changes had great impact on the truck tyre market this past year. The new standard for exhaust
emissions, effective from 2014, had prompted truck fleet owners to action already at the turn of 2013/2014.
Announcement of amendments to regulations motivated owners to replace their fleet with Euro-5 vehicles.
Purchase of new vehicles with new tyres on wheels postponed the need to change them.
It was only in recent months that the market has stabilised after two difficult years that affected both tyre
and automotive industries. Climate change is mainly due to fleet administrators, who more often see tyres
not as a product, but as an important element of business that requires proper management. Outsourcing
fleet services associated with tyres is becoming more popular not only in large companies but also in the SME
segment. The SMEs get about 40% of tyres sold annually.
Such market dynamics presents us with high demands. Tyres cannot be simply durable and easy to use. As
a manufacturer, we have to adapt our products to changing regulations and restrictions associated with
transport activity, which means that fleet operators attach special attention to savings in their companies.
Our task is to help them adapt to changes. This is why we recently introduced tyres that, regardless of the
operating conditions, will serve the company for many seasons without significant wear and loss in parameters guaranteed by the manufacturer.
With this approach, we allow our customers to focus on the development of their core business, which brings
expected profits. Business partners appreciate it, and in spite of a difficult market, Bridgestone coped well
with the slowdown and maintains steady growth in sales.
6
Bridgestone has two modern factories in Poland which produce
hundreds of kinds of tyres for the European and Asian markets.
There are many reasons that make this country one of the best investment markets in Central and Eastern Europe. It is located very
conveniently – in close proximity to Germany. Poland put a lot of
effort into improving its road and telecommunications infrastructure. This is the main reason why Bridgestone has made several
large investments here to expand and modernize its own installations. The company allocated more than 950 million EUR for this
purpose.
Poznań
The factory
produces 500
types of tyres
for the most
renowned brands
of automobiles.
Stargard
Szczeciński
The plant produces
technologically
advanced tyres for
trucks and buses
Poznań
The expansion of the factory in Poznań cost nearly 105 million EUR.
This investment created 200 new jobs. Currently, the capacity of
the Poznań plant is more than 30,000 tyres per day, of which over
90 percent are exported, with the main customers being Europe’s
leading car manufacturers, such as BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen
and others. The remaining tyres are exported to markets located in
Asia, the Middle East and other parts of the world.
The Poznań plant is mainly focused on the production of ultra high
performance tyres (UHP) and advanced Run Flat tyres.
The Poznań factory makes ultra-modern Ecopia
EP500 tyres, with low rolling resistance, for the BMW
i3 electric car.
Stargard Szczeciński
In the case of the plant located in Stargard Szczeciński, which
produces large tyres for trucks and buses, the investment amounted to 120 million EUR. The expansion of the plant is made primarily with the aim of launching a tread production line which
will supply treads for the process of retreading truck and bus
tyres. Recycled tyre treads offered by Bridgestone are in high demand due to their competitive quality and price. The production
of treads in Stargard will begin as planned in the second half of
2014.
Visit of the Minister of Economy
at Bridgestone’s Stargard factory
A delegation from the Ministry of Economy, led by the Minister
of Economy Janusz Piechociński, visited Bridgestone’s factory in
Stargard on 15 May. The visit included a tour of the cutting-edge
production line and a presentation of the recent investment in the
expansion of the factory.
7
WORLD OF BRIDGESTONE
WORLD OF BRIDGESTONE
Bridgestone's new
campaign focuses on safety
Meeting
with Valentino Rossi
the Club46 campaign!
The Club46 promotional campaign, which
excited many fans of motorsport, was prepared for the 2014 motorcycle season. The
main prize involved meeting the most successful MotoGP rider of all time.
At the turn of September and October, Bridgestone launched a strong
marketing campaign under the slogan "There is only one part of your
car’s safety systems that actually touches the road". This winter, we put a
strong emphasis on technology and safety. The integrated multimedia
campaign will receive wide exposure through the utilization of various channels, including television, press, the Internet, as well as various
events and sponsorships.
The aim of the project is to increase awareness of the Bridgestone
brand and its tyres - "engineered with safety in mind". The activities
were conducted in September and October, spanning six core markets (Poland, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Spain).
Key elements of the campaign included TV spots and
sponsoring announcements broadcast before weather forecasts. Based on a strong relationship between Bridgestone and sports, new TV ads were introduced gradually and
connected tyre performance with performance in sports.
The new TV spot focuses on the importance of tyres as
"tonly one part of car’s safety systems that actually touches
the road." Bridgestone's ambition as a premium brand is to
increase awareness among end-users of the key importance of tyres.
The corporate campaign was supported by product advertisements that outlined solutions offered to different types
of end users. By the end of 2014, Bridgestone will introduce advertisements on winter safety and safety on wet roads, presenting the flagship winter tyre Blizzak LM001 and
the Turanza T001 tyre respectively. The first one will focus
on safety and grip in winter conditions, presenting similarities between driving a car in winter and skiing, while the
second one will present the similarities between grip on
wet roads and swimming.
The Bridgestone brand campaign was introduced as an
integrated multi-channel campaign in six markets. The
media plan included a wide variety of channels to increase
reach and interaction. The campaign was complemented
with advertising on the Internet, billboards and a series of
"Safe Winter" events and "Safe Women on the road" workshops.
Zimowe opony Bridgestone zostały zaprojektowane, aby zapewnić Ci jeszcze lepszą przyczepność na mokrych
i zaśnieżonych nawierzchniach. Zwiększyliśmy też liczbę krawędzi atakujących, abyś zawsze panował nad sytuacją.
To ważne, bo tak naprawdę opona to jedyny element systemów bezpieczeństwa w Twoim aucie, który dotyka drogi.
8
The name of the campaign refers to the starting number of the nine-time world champion Valentino Rossi, who is working with Bridgestone as advisor on motorcycle tyre development. To celebrate this partnership, the company created the Club46 campaign during which MotoGP and motorcycle fans received
unique awards associated with the famous
rider.
In total, there were seven pan-European contests with 46 winners who received Bridgestone and VR46 products. Two lucky winners
earned a one-in-a-kind price - a visit to the
MotoGP arena and a meeting with Valentino
Rossi.
The Club46 campaign was also an active form of support for our dealers and
a promotion of Bridgestone motorcycle
tyres among end customers.
A promotion that allowed the purchase of two Bridgestone motorcycle tyres,
for which the customer received a prepaid payment card with a value of 20
Euros, formed an additional element of
the project.
All information regarding participation in
the competitions was reported through
www.bridgestoneclub46.eu and Facebooku.
9
HISTORY
HISTORY
In 1988, Bridgestone Corporation purchased Firestone, a move which combined decades of experience in the
1997
ridgestone Tyre Co. is
established, production of the
first tyre.
1931
production of summer and winter tyres
2011
Bridgestone begins its
Formula 1 era.
accumulated by both companies. Cur-
80 years of Bridgestone
"Your Journey, Our Passion."
rently, the Firestone brand is a symbol
and a major driving force of the tyre in-
2014
The revolutionary BMW i3
and i8 fitted exclusively with
Bridgestone tyres.
1951
Technological innovations and
mass production.
dustry. In 2014, the brand of tyres that
grants drivers unlimited freedom of travelling and exploring underwent a process of revitalization. The re-launch of
the Firestone brand was accompanied
by the unveiling of the new Destination
HP tyre for SUVs. The introduction of a
completely new product category is
2009
1988
Third generation of Run-Flat
tyres.
done in response to the aspirations of
today's customers, who prefer a sporty
and off-road driving style.
Acquisition of Firestone Tyre &
Rubber Company.
The story of one man
Harvey Firestone
Rapid development
The next decades were very busy for Harvey Firestone. He opened several branches and factories in Canada (1919), Great Britain
(1928) and Spain (1931) among others. In 1922, Firestone engineers were the first to develop a low-pressure tyre and, four years
This is the story of how one man inspired the whole of so-
later, the company opened its service and dealership network in
ciety and forever revolutionized the automotive industry.
the United States, which for decades remained unsurpassed by
many competitors.
Automotive pioneer
It all started in the beginning of the last century in Akron,
Ohio. It was here, in the year 1900, that Harvey Firestone, a
friend of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford, founded Firestone
Tyre and Rubber . This pioneering company quickly gained
popularity through the reliability of their products. Henry
Ford, whom Firestone met in 1895, commissioned his friend
to make 2000 sets of tyres for the famous Model T. It was the
largest order made in the tyre industry at the time.
10
Harvey Firestone (right) with his two good
friends, Henry Ford (left) and Thomas Edison
(middle). Three great figures considered leaders
in innovation, technology and entrepreneurship.
During a test drive in the Indianapolis 300, Barney Oldfield supposedly
told the audience: "Firestone tyres
are my only life insurance policy".
11
HISTORY
HISTORY
Firestone racing history
Harvey Firestone died in 1938, just before the outbreak of World War II – an event
that changed the fate of the company. Already under new management, the company modified its production to suit the needs of the army. However, following the
cessation of military activities in 1945, Firestone returned to its roots by erecting its
The Firestone brand has been involved in motorsports from the very beginning. For decades,
the constantly evolving Firestone sport tyres helped subsequent generations of drivers, competing in the Indianapolis, NASCAR, and many other racing series around the world, cross the
finish line in first place.
own research and development centre in Akron. The company entered the next half-century of operations by broadening its portfolio with the Dayton brand, purchased
in 1961 from Dayco Corporation.
1909
The company's founder, Harvey
Firestone, mounts a set of Firestone brand tyres in a car driven by
Barney Oldfield in the Indianapolis 300.
1970
Firestone driver, Jochen Rindt,
wins the Formula 1 FIA drivers'
championship.
1996
1911
Driving on Firestone tyres, Ray
Harroun wins the inaugural Indianapolis 500 race in a Marmon
Wasp.
Arie Luyendyk, driving on Firestone tyres, sets a new
speed record when qualifying for an Indianapolis race
with 379.997 km/h. In fact, he also set a historical speed
record at a race track: 381.216 km/h. This record has not
been beaten to this day.
Merger with Bridgestone
Extremely rapid development meant that Firestone had become one of the leading
suppliers in the automotive industry. Following the company’s merger with Bridgestone Corporation in 1988, it became part of the world's largest tyre manufacturer.
The company also operates a factory in Poland. The plant, located in Wolsztyn in the
Wielkopolska region, produces high quality air springs for the global market.k.
1937
2002
On 12 September 1937, Billy
Winn wins the Syracuse 100,
starting a streak of 225 consecutive victories.
Firestone products become official tyres of INDYCAR and Indianapolis 500.
2011
1949
Firestone driver Jim Roper wins
the first NASCAR stock car race
in Charlotte (North Carolina).
Firestone drivers win all eight
races in the first season of the
competition known today as the
Sprint Cup.
On 4 September, Firestone Racing celebrates the two hundredth victory in the IZOD IndyCar Series during the Grand Prix
2012
Representatives of INDYCAR and Firestone Racing announce a contract extension until the end of the 2018
In 2014, the brand of tyres that grants every driver unlimited freedom of travelling and exploring underwent revitalisation. The re-launch of the Firestone brand took place during a ceremony held in June of this
year in Valencia. The meeting was attended by representatives of the media and customers from all over
Europe.
The brand’s new website, presented this summer, reflects the revitalised identity of Firestone.
Visit http://www.firestone.eu
12
1965
Firestone tyres make their first appearance during an FIA-sanctioned Formula 1 race – they were mounted on a Ferrari driven by Pedro Rodriguez.
13
BRIDGESTONE TIPS
BRIDGESTONE TIPS
Driving
Why use
winter tyres?
Drivers should be aware that it is the type of tyre that determines how a car behaves in difficult
winter conditions. The tyre is the only modern car safety system that comes into direct contact
with the road.
It is assumed that tyres should be changed along
in winter conditions
NOWOŚĆ
with the switch to daylight saving time. Winter tyres
are made from a different blend of rubber and have
treads designed specifically for winter conditions.
We must remember that cars have considerable weight and,
when driving on slippery road surfaces, the braking distance
increases more than fourfold. Test results also confirm that
at temperatures around 0 °C, a car driving at the speed of 100
Advantages of winter tyres
km/h requires more than 60 meters to stop on a slippery surface,
provided that it is fitted with winter tyres. This distance is doubled
when summer tyres are used to drive on snow. This difference is
Optimum traction and full controllability: sipes provide traction on slippery surfaces,
while the rubber remains flexible at low temperatures.
caused primarily by the different structure of tread patterns and
the components used in the two types of tyres. Winter tyres are
During cornering or when avoiding obstacles that pop up on the road,
made of a softer blend, which retains its flexibility even at low
it is very important not to press the brake abruptly and sharpen the
temperatures. Tyre treads adapted for use in winter conditions
turn. In particularly extreme conditions, when the asphalt is covered
contain a greater number of edges and grooves, whose task is to
by a layer of ice, even taking the foot off the gas pedal during a turn
“bite into” the snow and improve drainage of water from under
can be dangerousWhen the rear (oversteer) or the front (understeer)
the tyre.
wheels start to lose traction on a snowy road, you should carefully
Reduced risk of aquaplaning: efficient drainage of water or slush with larger, deeper tread grooves.
More safety on all winter surfaces: the combination of materials used and the tread structure improves safety on all surfaces (snow, slush, ice and permafrost or dry surfaces).
straighten the wheel and slow down as soon as you regain traction.
Whether we succeed depends largely on the depth of the tread. The
deeper it is, the faster we regain control of the car and decelerate.
Bridgestone recommends a minimum depth of 4 mm. If you purchase
Benefits of cyclic use of summer and winter tyres
only two new winter tyres, mount them on the rear axle of a vehicle.
Summer tyres
Winter tyres are only slightly more expen-
SUMMER
MILD
CONDITIONS
When driving in winter conditions, even
the manner of braking is important. Locking the wheels on a slippery road results
in a loss of control of the car in the vast
majority of cases. Sipes that densely cover
the tread of our winter tyres will help in
maintaining control of the vehicle. These
are small incisions, whose task is to "bite
into" in the snow. This is because snow has
much better grip to snow than it does to
rubber.
sive than summer tyres, however they
significantly improve safety in winter conditions.
ALL-SEASON
The cost of purchasing an additional set of
tyres is offset by the savings arising from
the non-use of summer tyres all year round
LAMELLEN
All-season tyres
Winter tyres
STUDLESS
we do it rapidly, the tyre loses traction. Increasing engine rpm will
not help. Even if you are in a hurry, you should start slowly and, if
necessary, in second gear. This way, all edges, sipes and blocks of
a winter tyre will be able to grab as much snow as possible in the
tread and maintain traction with the road.
233%
179%
100%
DIFFICULT
The same applies to starting and accelerating on snow and ice. If
STUDED
DRY
WET
SNOW
ICE
PERFORMANCE
14
15
DIVERSITY
DIVERSITY
Bridgestone Blizzak W995
flawless in all conditions
The Blizzak W995 winter tyre for vans is a high quality product designed to meet the needs of
professional drivers in the areas of reliability, fuel economy and driving safety in all weather
conditions. The wide range of W995 sizes available to customers will cover demand of the 10
most popular models of vans in Europe.
The greatest progress in the design of the new
NEW
W995 was made in the areas braking, traction and
fuel efficiency. Bridgestone engineers were able
to reduce rolling resistance by 10% and improve
handling on wet surfaces by 5% compared to the
previous model – the Blizzak W965.
A special symmetric tread design of this model delivers excellent performance on both dry and wet
surfaces. Increased volume of the grooves accelerates the process of water draining, allowing the
tyre to dry more quickly and prevent aquaplaning.
Blizzak W995 uses the durable Multicell™ blend,
The Blizzak LM001 is the latest item in our range of
Bridgestone winter tyres and features the most
technologically advanced tread pattern suited to the
conditions of this time of year. This model is destined to
set new standards in the winter products category. In 2015,
the range of LM001 sizes will cover 92% of the demand in
the market.
notable for its high flexibility across a wide range of temperatures. Regardless of the prevailing
weather conditions, the tyre retains adequate softness, which has a direct impact on optimal grip
and provides high driving comfort. The design of
the tread includes special reinforcement enabling
The tyre’s excellent performance parameters are attributed
to its unique structure. The model has its distinct tread
pattern with large drainage grooves, the so-called horn
lugs. They expand as they approach the shoulder tread
which allows, among other things, for the effective removal
of water and, consequently, increases road traction and
improves braking performance.
Innovative 3D sipes featured in this model have a beneficial
effect on traction and performance. The sipes provide
an "edge effect" on a slippery surfaces which greatly
improves traction. The LM001 model was also included
in our weight reduction programme. The use of new
construction materials makes these tyres much lighter than
their predecessors. Bridgestone engineers also managed
to reduce noise emission by dispersing sound energy to a
greater number of frequencies as compared to the tyre’s
predecessor - the LM001.
This year, the Blizzak LM001 is available in 8 sizes (with a
diameter of 14 or 15 inches). In the near future, starting in
2015, the range of sizes will be expanded up to 54 variants
with diameters ranging from 14 to 20 inches.
16
the tyres to operate under heavy load. The weight
of the tyre was reduced, which has a positive impact on reducing rolling resistance and, consequently, fuel consumption.
Excellent performance on wet surfaces.
Balanced performance on both wet and dry surfaces.
MARKINGS: snowflakes, M+S
recognizable as a winter tyre in all European countries.
With Blizzak W995, Bridgestone took care of the
peace of mind and safety of professional drivers of
the most popular commercial vehicles, including:
Great traction in winter
Reliable braking and control in winter conditions.
Longer tyre life.
Balanced performance on both wet and dry surfaces. Excellent resistance to abrasion guarantees full
control over the vehicle, even over longer periods
of time.
Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter and VW Transporter. The tyre will be available in 10 sizes with a profile of 15 and 16 inches.
DECORATION
The name "studless" on the sidewall and a snowflake pattern help
to identify the purpose of the tyre.
PROTECTION OF THE SIDEWALL
Strengthening the sidewall
of the tyre in order to ensure
longevity without affecting
rolling resistance (fuel consumption).
17
PRODUCTS
PRODUCTS
NEW
Created specifically for the needs of today's
This studless tyre, made of the high-tech Multi-
The tyre provides excellent grip in various conditions. It en-
SUVs and off-road cars in terms of performan-
cell blend, provides high traction on snow and
sures safety on wet, dry and frozen surfaces.
ce, safety and response time. It increases the
ice and excellent handling on wet roads. No ro-
quality of driving and control over a vehicle on
ute – whether in the Alps or Scandinavia - will
snow and ice, as well as on wet and dry roads.
be a challenge for you.
Optimized for maximum performance in winter and
Full control of the vehicle
on winter roads.
Reliable braking, acceleration and cornering on wet
and dry surfaces.
ADAC Motorwelt 10/2013
15 Winter tyres in test
Low rolling resistance
for economic driving.
BRIDGESTONE
Blizzak LM 32 S
TÜV approved:
Bridgestone
Blizzak LM-32s
Size
225/45 R 17 91 H
good (2,2)
High traction and short braking distances on snow, slush
and ice.
when driving on wet surfaces, it is a product recommended by several major European automotive
magazines. The highest scores in independent tests
attest to the tyre’s reliability in winter conditions.
Reliability on wet surfaces
without compromising performance on dry roads.
High stability and speed of
response on all winter surfaces.
Winter tyres of the latest generation provide the highest
reliability and maximum safety in winter conditions and
have excellent functional properties and abrasion resistance.
Very high resistance
to treadwear.
18
Full steerability during braking
and cornering on snow, ice and
wet roads.
The highest level of durability and low rolling resistance
which translates into lower
costs per kilometre.
19
PRODUCTS
PRODUCTS
New generation
of Firestone truck tyres
Reliability, excellent mileage, quality and a reasonable price.
During the Reifen Essen fair, Bridgestone introduced a new generation of Firestone truck tyres,
offering carriers a high level of
performance and long mileage coupled with low maintenance costs.
The FS422 for steering axles
- Long life and excellent
traction
The new
Bridgestone
website
dedicated to truck,
industrial and
agricultural tyres
The new steering axle tyre provides excellent handling on both wet and dry surfaces
and high resistance to irregular wear. With
From July 2014, the FS422 (for steering axles), FD622
its innovative structure that uses Groove
(for drive axles) and FT522 (for trailer axles) tyres
Fence technology, the tread design effec-
have been gradually replacing the FS400, FD600
tively reduces noise and provides excellent
and TSP3000 models, already well-known on the Eu-
driving comfort.
We have simplified the layout, to help visitors
find information and products, and added a
functional product finder to help you find the
right tyre.
ropean market."The road is yours" is a message that
accompanies the new range of tyres and reflects the
reliability of Firestone products associated with the
"Fit and Forget" and "Trouble-Free" slogans.
The latest technology
Firestone has an established position in the European truck tyre market as a reliable brand offering high
quality at a reasonable price. Based on its position,
the new range of Firestone tyres, made using the latest technology - including an advanced design of
tread grooves and the carcass - offers carriers a great
The FD622 for drive axles Excellent traction
Its unidirectional tread pattern disperses
water quicker and removes it from under
the tyre, improving braking and traction in
When viewing content on the new site, visitors will find detailed information on:
the whole range of truck products, including the flagship series of fuel efficient ECOPIA tyres
www.bridgestone.pl/ciezarowe-i-autobusowe/
The new generation of Bridgestone premium agricultural tyres
www.bridgestone.pl/opony-rolnicze/
An extended range of OTR products
www.bridgestone.pl/przemyslowe/
wet weather. The FD622 is also well suited
for use in harsh environments on mud or
fresh snow (M+S marking) and in winter
(mountain symbol).
What makes us different? In addition to detailed descriptions of
The new site is user-friendly and fully compatible with tablets and
our products, all interested parties have the opportunity to learn
will soon be optimized for all mobile devices.
all-around performance and long tyre life coupled
the ins and outs of the technology and processes that lie behind
with low maintenance costs.
each tyre and the benefits they bring to end users.
The new tyres are fitted with durable carcasses,
providing longer life and greater potential for retreading. This allows to reduce the per-kilometre costs
throughout the entire period of use. The new Firestone products make use of the Slim Bead technology, which reduces the volume of fillers, and thus
the weight of the tyre, thereby reducing fuel con-
The FT522 for trailer axles High durability
The tyre for trailers has been designed for
long term use and excellent performance
on wet roads, as well as resistance to irregular wear.
sumption.
The site is currently available in Polish, English, French, German
and Spanish. Other language versions will be launched in the next
The new layout is the result of advice from our customers, whose
few months. This will allow us to effectively reach out to all cu-
feedback and suggestions we took into account. This resulted in a
stomers across Europe, from end-users, managers of truck fleets,
website tailored to the needs and requirements of a modern user.
experts, to professional tyre dealers.
One of the key new elements is the opportunity to find Bridgestone tyres appropriate for use on any type of vehicle and any type
of surface. Regardless of whether you are looking for a specific
model, size, or tyres meant for a specific purpose, the Tyre Finder
search engine generates expert tips and advice that will enable
These new Firestone tyres are initially available in sizes 315/80 R22.5 (FS422 and FD622) and 385/65 R22.5 (FT522). Other sizes will be
introduced in the future and will gradually replace their predecessors.
20
you to make the best choice. You also have the ability to download multiple auxiliary materials in different formats.
21
PRODUCTS
PRODUCTS
Relax it’s Bandag
The acquisition of Bandag, an American company, by the Japanese tyre manufacturer
Bridgestone allowed to merge superior retreading technology with the potential and
experience of the largest tyre manufacturer in the world. This made it possible to offer customers less expensive products (even by 35%) with quality and reliability similar to that
of brand new tyres.
Bandag FuelTech®:
new, fuel-efficient retreaded tyres
Because fuel is important!
Fuel and personnel expenses are the largest costs in transport operations - each of these
areas comprises about 30% of the total costs of the fleet. Fuel consumption is significantly influenced by tyres and, in particular, rolling resistance. This is why choosing the
right tyres is a key business decision for any transport company.
Based in Muscatine, Iowa (USA), Bandag is the world's largest provider of services and equipment for retreading. Its products are offered
through a global network of over 800 franchised dealers.
With FuelTech® tyres, Bandag has created the perfect answer to the cost
challenges of fleets: a new range of treads which combine minimal rolling
resistance and long tyre life.
Using an advanced blend and an innovative tread pattern, Bandag FuelTech® tyres ensure optimum fuel efficiency without compromising mileage, durability or performance on wet roads. The FuelTech® tyre design was
based on the successful Bridgestone Ecopia line - the flagship, fuel-efficient
truck tyres offered by the Japanese manufacturer.
`T̀hink green
and do smart business!
The Bandag Alliance Excellence programme is aimed
at members of Bandag’s franchise network. The programme is based on the best, time-tested practices of
Bandag dealers from Europe and around the world.
Bandag Alliance Excellence is accompanied by an attractive programme of financial rewards and support
FuelTech® M749 tyres for drive axles - safe all-season
tyres marked M+S with an M speed index.
in the process of continuous self-improvement.
Added value
Cold tyre retreading is the essence of Bandag technology. Each carcass that is shipped from a tyre service shop working with Bridgesto-
The primary advantage of the Bandag retreading process is the lo-
ne to one of the three retreading plants in Poland, passes through a
wer cost of tyres for the end customer. It is on average 35% lower
shearography control unit, which allows for the detection of even
compared to new tyres, because optimally used premium truck
the smallest changes and damage to a tyre carcass. A distinguishing
tyres can be retreaded even two times. Therefore, by purchasing
feature of tyres that have passed the Bandag technological process
tyres with a view to their reuse, you should invest in a more expen-
is their very high reliability. At the same time, the parameters of
sive, but more durable products. It is best to buy tyres made by
rolling resistance, traction, and above all safety, remain almost the
companies that do their own retreading, such as Bridgestone. Cu-
same as those of brand new tyres. Retreaded tyres have the same
stomers who are sceptical about tyre retreading should also know
velocity indices as new tyres and pass equally stringent stress tests
that, over the years, this process has been greatly improved. Today,
under type approval. Tyres made using this technology are subject
it ensures even lower tyre weight, better balance, lower rolling re-
to the same quality requirements, including the ECE109 standard
sistance and lower noise, which translates into reduced fuel con-
set by the Economic Commission for Europe. The same process that
sumption.
Fueltech® R109 tyres for trailer axles - virtually indistinguishable from brand new tyres, with low noise
and a J speed index.
FuelTech® treads fit perfectly with premium quality carcasses, such as
those produced by Bridgestone. In order to maximize savings, Bandag
recommends the use of Bridgestone Ecopia carcasses, because 55% of
rolling resistance depends on the design of the carcass.
new tyres are required to pass.
22
23
PRODUCTS
M788
PRODUCTS
The M788 tyres have a tread made of very durable materials so, over time, they transform from typical winter tyres to year-round tyres that provide excellent performance
M852
in all conditions and there is no need to replace them with the advent of warmer days.
3
The M852 is a new, very durable tyre for trailers moving
2
1
in winter conditions. This
Guarantee of perfect performance in all conditions:
product works well during
Great handling on snow and ice.
winter and offers outstan-
Excellent mileage during warm seasons.
ding grip when driving on
and off road. This is due to
Zaawansowany bieżnik opon M788 zapewnia doskonałą
a number of technological
przyczepność na mokrej nawierzchni.
solutions:
1
More sipes along the middle ribs increase performance on
snow in the first half of tyre life.
2
2. Compact supporting casing ensures more even wear of
side blocks.
3
3. Small empty spaces within side blocks prevent irregular
lines from forming on the tyre.
W990
W990 utilizes Bridgestone anti-slip technology. This solution provides more edges (x 3)
on each of the blocks, what increases the adhesion.
W970
This translates into:
Excellent performance on roads covered with ice and snow. Excellent handling and
short braking distances on wet and frozen roads.
The W970 tyres owe their perfect controllability to an advanced, multicell tread compound with
microscopic pores. Anti-slip blocks further enhance traction and handling in wet conditions.
Anti-spin block
W958
The W958 tyres have a unique tread and, over time, transform from typical winter tyres
to year-round tyres that provide excellent performance in all conditions and there is no
need to replace them with the advent of warmer days.
The W958 offers excellent handling and very short braking distances. The tyre tread is
dynamically changing - in the first half of the operation period, during winter, the edge
of the tyre is larger by 10%. This guarantees the highest levels of safety and performance on snow and ice covered roads, just when they are needed the most.
24
25
INNOVATIONS
INNOVATIONS
Pressure
under
control
TPMS, a system for monitoring tyre pressure, will be mandatory
on all cars manufactured from 1 November 2014. All new cars
Eco-friendly
does not mean slow!
Bridgestone and Saroléa cooperated
in developing the SP7 electric motorbike.
The SP7 electric motorbike was first unveiled during the
Speed Trophy competition held on the Belgian Mettet racetrack in April. It is the latest child of the Belgian brand
Saroléa, for which Bridgestone provides technical support
and tyre expertise.
sold in the EU must be outfitted with appropriate systems for measuring air pressure in the tyres.
The research that we conduct every year
shows that two-thirds of drivers in Europe
drive on tyres with inadequate pressure.
We calculated that this represents 4.8 million tonnes of additional CO2 emissions.
Currently, there are two pressure measuring technologies in use.
The intermediate one, in which the device is connected to the
Run Flat tyres are worth
considering because:
they provide driving comfort even when damaged
ABS and ESP, measures the difference in rotational speed of the
wheels. This system is based on the difference in wheel diame-
Why us?
ters, showing the difference in tyre pressure. However, such a me-
Our company was selected because of our
thod provides no accurate measurement data, but the advantage
extensive experience in motorsports, which
The cooperation between the two companies is also a result of Bridgestone's involve-
is necessary to conduct track tests for Saroléi
is its low cost. The second measurement system - direct- makes
ment in the development of sustainable mobility. For years, the company has focused
and indispensable when executing their racing
use of a sensor mounted in the valve assembly of the wheel.
on the protection of the environment and Earth’s natural resources, as well as redu-
plans. And these are very ambitious, including,
Measurements are accurate and immediate. The sensor turns on
cing CO2 emissions. The Saroléa motorbike fits this vision perfectly and is paving the
among others, the TT Zero Challenge held on
when tyre pressure falls below 25% of the level recommended by
way for electric motorcycles and e-racing. It also marks Saroléa's return to the market
the Isle of Man as part of the TT series of races -
the manufacturer. The type of tyres mounted on the car is very
after more than a 50-year absence. The company has rich traditions in the world of ra-
the most prestigious motorcycle racing event,
important for road safety. Car manufacturers increasingly often
cing, where it developed and tested new technologies, and makes its return through
as well as the FIM eRoadRacing World Cup.
combine TPMS with Run Flat tyres. Tyres that feature this techno-
an innovative electric drive system.
logy are very durable and provide greater road safety. From the
they prevent the driver from losing control of the
car following a sudden puncture
they allow to safely drive for a distance of 80 km
after a total pressure loss
they protect wheels from damage
outside, the tyre is no different from a regular one. The difference
The Saroléa electric motorbike is a real speed demon - it accelerates from
0 to 100 km/h in less than 2.8 seconds, proving that eco-friendly does not
necessarily mean slow. It is capable of reaching a top speed of 250 km/h.
The Battlax V02 Slick racing tyres, built with the latest GP Belt technology,
help in harnessing this power.
26
is in its internal construction – a reinforced sidewall and bead area
amortise the loss of pressure, so the tyre becomes only slightly
deformed. This requires an indicator of tyre pressure, because
the moment of puncture is practically imperceptible for the driver. Bridgestone Run Flat technology guarantees the capability
of driving for over 80 km at an average speed of 80 km/h with a
damaged tyre.
27
DEVELOPMENT
The revolutionary BMW i8
will be outfitted exclusively with Bridgestone tyres
Bridgestone became the sole tyre supplier for the revolutionary BMW i8. This new sports
hybrid car will be equipped with Bridgestone Potenza S001 tyres.
SPORT
Another California
Superbike School
season has drawn to close!
Because of the fruitful cooperation during the development of the previous model, the i3 electric car, Bridgestone and BMW decided to continue this strategic
partnership. By participating in the design of the i8
model, Bridgestone created a tyre that meets the high
demands of hybrid cars in terms of fuel and energy
consumption. When developing a tread for BMW, Bridgestone engineers relied on the Potenza S001 model,
which was developed for racing cars and performance
driving. There are also plans to develop a winter tyre
The California Superbike School took place on the track in Poznań. It was attended by over
100 motorcyclists from Poland and other European countries. Bridgestone was an official
partner of the event and supplied Battlax S20 EVO sports tyres to the participants.
model – the Blizzak LM-32.
California Superbike School is a world-famous motorcycle school. This year, motorcyclists from Poland and other European countries
The contract for the exclusive supply of tyres is only
one element of the long-term cooperation with BMW,
both on the race tracks and roads. Over the past 17
tested their skills on the track in Poznań. British coaching staff, assisted by trainers from Poland, prepared exceptionally difficult exercises for the participants. During training, motorcyclists had to deal with all road conditions - from dry, heated asphalt to very wet
surfaces.
years, Bridgestone created a number of tyre models
that are fitted to BMWs during factory assembly, as
well as joint technological concepts, e.g. Run-Flat tyres. The companies also co-created the BMW Driving
The technologies used in the new Battlax S20 EVO tyres were transferred directly from
Experience training programme.
MotoGP tracks. The special NanoPro-Tech™ blend managed to significantly reduce
rolling resistance and improve the mileage of rear tyres by 22%, as compared to the
previous S20 model.
28
29
SPORT
Battlax tyres
as witnessed by motorcyclists
Building on the experience gained in MotoGP, Bridgestone has developed the most advanced line
of motorcycle tyres - Battlax. Their outstanding performance could be witnessed by participants
of a series of Speed-Day meetings on the automobile club track in Poznań.
INTERNET
Your journey is our journey!`
Bridgestone makes every kilometre of the road smooth. Helpful hints, tips, what to remember in
preparation for the road and a handy guide to the attractions on the route chosen by the driver are just
some of the contents of the new Your Journey tab at bridgestone.pl
www.bridgestone.pl/your-journey/
“Travelling is probably the oldest known form of learning about the world. For many of us it is
a passion to which we willingly give in. By providing drivers with this useful tab on our website, we make travelling easier and make it possible to avoid unnecessary stress"
An excellent racing tyre. "Excellent traction." “(...) provide
great grip, safety and comfort." "Gives great feedback when
approaching the traction limit”- these are just some of the
opinions expressed by training participants who learned
firsthand about the excellent performance of Bridgestone
Battlax.
says Anna Paszt, Marketing & PR Manager, Bridgestone East Europe.
The Your Journey Tab is a handy advisor when
travelling by car. It will make even the longest
Things to keep in mind before you go
Here are some tips from Bridgestone.
route more pleasant, attractive and easier on
Bridgestone tyres earned recognition for their great balance between the comfort of a road tyre and the grip of a racing model. Users praised the Bridgestone
Battlax S20 EVO model mainly for the great sense of security that it provides and
its incredible durability. In their view, Bridgestone Battlax tyres provide excellent
cornering feel and superb grip when cornering. Especially since they were tested in adverse weather conditions.
the driver. A few "golden tips" will help drivers
select appropriate glasses for driving and advise them on what things they should pack before setting out among others. It also suggests
a list of the most useful applications for finding
hotels, assisting in navigation or creating music
compilations.
Your Journey has been fully adapted to the
modern interface of the Bridgestone website,
whose advanced navigation technology provides easy access to content for all visitors. The
site is fully compatible with tablets and soon
will be optimized for all mobile devices. It is available in most European languages.
1. Camera. Why would you need a camera when most smartphones take really
good photos? Well... a trip without a good camera is like going to a pub where
they serve no beer.
2. Phone adapter. Dozens of applications can help you with navigation. No matter if you wish to find a restaurant or plot the route using the stars. Unfortunately, the phone is dead. Murphy's law. Don’t forget to take a car adapter for your
phone.
3. Decent pair of sunglasses. Don’t forget to take decent sunglasses that will allow you to arrive safely and smoothly at your destination.
4. Traditional map. Of course most new cars are equipped with satellite navigation, but if you want to feel like a real traveller, you need to take a paper map and
indulge in the atmosphere of a great expedition.
5. Good music. Regardless of whether the trip takes place in the summer sun
or leads you through snowdrifts, always bring the right music! And don’t forget
about travel companions. Without good company even the most interesting journey can become dull!
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31
EVENTS
EVENTS
Realising
the potential of Firestone
The Legendary Firestone brand
introduces tyres for SUVs
This year's Firestone new tyre, the Destination HP, is dedicated to urban crossovers and
small and medium-sized SUVs. Destination HP mileage was improved by up to 35% without
compromising safety, and its market position is confirmed by a highly competitive technical
package.
One of our main projects in 2014 is the reactivation of the Firestone brand. Although the brand has
not been strongly supported in Europe in recent years, it is an important asset in our range and still
possesses many of the strengths developed during its century-old history. The aim of the reactivation
is to stimulate this latent force and release the potential of the brand.
Destination HP tyres are designed primarily for drivers
who are young at heart, love the freedom of driving
urban crossovers and lead an active life outside the
city. The new model of Firestone tyres is the result of
consistently implementing our brand philosophy which
states that everyone should take advantage of opportunities to explore the freedom of driving. This is why Firestone is committed to fulfilling the aspirations of customers looking for an exciting, all-terrain sporty lifestyle.
The designers of the Firestone Destination HP model
had this in mind during development. Its sporty tread
pattern is designed to provide maximum control and
traction in corners. The system of grooves is optimized
for wet surfaces and stiff shoulder blocks provide excel-
lent grip and responsiveness on dry roads. The special
design of the carcass, designed especially for SUVs,
ensures stable driving even in rough terrain and high
resistance to wear. This feature is not only desirable off
road, but also in challenging urban conditions.
Firestone Destination HP possess very good parameters
when compared to other tyres in the segment. The tyre
received a B note under the European tyre labelling system in terms of braking on wet surfaces and notes ranging from C to E in terms of fuel savings, providing the
perfect balance between rolling resistance and wear.
Firestone Destination HP is available across Europe in
10 sizes for 16 and 17 inch wheels.
The Firestone reactivation campaign began in Europe in June with the launch of our
new flagship tyre for SUVs, the Destination HP, in Valencia, Spain. Developed specifically for today's new generation of urban crossovers and SUVs, the Destination HP
perfectly symbolizes the new identity of the Firestone brand, referring to key customers as "young at heart" individuals who seek "freedom of driving". The introduction
of the Destination HP is, therefore, an excellent opportunity to put the Firestone
brand back in the spotlight.
The two-week inauguration in Valencia brought together around 450 independent
experts, dealers and journalists from all over Europe – during dynamic product presentations and test drives. The spectacular Espai Rambleta ensured an unforgettable
experience during the opening presentation and the start and end of the Road Book
Challenge test drives on the roads around Valencia. Our guests also had the opportunity to test Destination HP tyres in varying conditions on the Ricardo Torme track.
A well recived message
The event was a huge success! Representatives of dealers and the press highly
appreciated both the event, as well as the workshops and communications. Our main
message concerning the reactivation of Firestone has been well understood. What is
more, our new Destination HP tyre garnered a lot of positive reviews from journalists.
32
33
EVENTS
EVENTS
The revitalisation of the Firestone brand is one of our most important projects this year.
One element of the campaign was a series of events and competitions that we organised
between May and July.
Indy500
Visit to the
Bridgestone headquarters in Japan
The visit was also an opportunity to become acquainted with the rich history of
the company as well as the culture and hospitality of the Land of the Rising Sun.
Together with a group of our customers from Central and
Eastern Europe, we went on a trip to the United States where the Firestone brand originated.
Bridgestone
Technical Centre
Plans and objectives of the company were
presented to the invited guests by Bridgestone engineers who we met at the Technical Centre in Tokyo. This is the facility that
manages global research and development
activities.
We started by visiting the Chicago area and its most famous landmarks.
Test track
Tochigi Factory
The Tochigi track is where internal and
external tests are conducted. This centre
was opened in 1977 and expanded in 1989,
with a view to examine UHP tyres. Each
month approx. 10,000 tyres are tested there on 200 different vehicles (cars, trucks,
motorcycles).
The Tochigi factory was established in
1971. Tochigi produced tyres for trucks,
buses, cars, vans, and new transport systems among others.
The visit to Japan was not only about Bridgestone’s technological
innovations - the company has a different side to it too.
We could not miss a visit to the legendary racetrack in Indianapolis, home of the Indy500.
A visit to the paddock and witnessing drivers battle it out
on the track gave many thrills to all participants.
The Bridgestone Museum of Art and
the Bridgestone Today Museum
The Bridgestone Museum of Art, established in 1952 by company founder, Shojiro Ishibashi, houses magnificent examples of
ancient art, works of great impressionists, as well as the cultural
achievements of contemporary Japan.
Firestone
Currently, the museum is operated by the Ishibashi Foundation
and contains about 2,500 works of art. Above Paul Cezanne Mont Sainte-Victoire et Château Noir.
Kart Racing Event
During the FS Kart Racing Championship,
we selected the best go-kart drivers who
accompanied us on a trip to the finals
that were held in Barcelona on 12 September. The campaign spanned all countries of Central and Eastern Europe. Three
winners were selected in each country.
34
Bridgestone Today is a museum devoted entirely to the company.
It is a real journey through more than 80 years of the company’s
history, from its humble beginnings, to its most advanced products.
The main prize of the second stage of the
race was a trip to the Indy500 track scheduled to take place in May of 2015.
Bridgestone
Headquarters
One of the attractions included in the tour of Tokyo was a visit to
the headquarters of the Japanese tyre dealer
During a meeting in the headquarters we were familiarised with very
specific objectives, including reducing water consumption by 35% by
2020, producing a tyre made entirely
from renewable materials, replacing
fossil fuels and reducing CO2 emissions by half.
Bridgestone is also a world leader in the production of seismic
isolation for buildings. Our solutions have been used in the construction of the town hall and the police department of Los Angeles and the Pixar Film Studio among others
Bridgestone engineers have developed a prosthetic tail fin for an
injured dolphin named Fuji. With its aid, this lovable mammal could once again swim and jump out of the water.
35
EVENTS
EVENTS
Bridgestone supports
the Hungarian Ambulance Service foundation
Firestone at Amber Circle
The third season of the "Dzintara aplis"
It was another year during which Bridgestone supported the Hungarian
rescue service, providing it with the highest quality tyres for medical motorcycles and co-financing the National Foundation for Ambulance Service.
Motorcycles are more effective in urban traffic and can easily avoid traffic jams.
The time that elapses from an accident to the arrival of an ambulance is of crucial
importance to the health of accident victims. The "golden hour" is the period within which the victim needs to be taken to the hospital. In certain circumstances,
the time for a surgical intervention can be extended, but only if a paramedic provides assistance to the victim. For this purpose, the Hungarian Ambulance Service appointed a team of paramedics on motorcycles who can provide immediate
medical help. In 2013, the Ambulance Service received more than 1,000 calls from
all over Hungary, of which more than 170 were cases where the life of victims
was in danger. Thanks to immediate and precise response, paramedics were able
to perform effective resuscitation. We are honoured to have the opportunity to
participate in providing on-time help andsecuring the scene of the accident until
the arrival of an ambulance.
(Amber Circle) event, sponsored by the
Firestone brand, opened on 5 May at
the Bikernieki sports complex in Latvia. This popular event included races
of historic cars on an asphalt track in
the "Volga", "Vaz" and "Formula" categories. The drivers came mainly from
Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania and Russia. In
addition to the races, the audience could enjoy restored vehicles and visit a
market with spare parts for classic cars.
Bridgestone organized an auction of the original helmet of the ten-time MotoGP
World Champion Valentino Rossi. All proceeds from the auction were donated to
the Rescue Foundation.
Bridgestone Bikers Cup
Adrenaline on the track
Bridgestone and Racetrack Service Company continue to cooperate in a series of
amateur motorcycle races as part of the
Bridgestone Bikers Cup. Bridgestone offers participants a range of modern tyres
for track driving, which reflects the extensive experience of the exclusive supplier
of tyres for the MotoGP World Championship, the world’s most important motorcycle racing series. The Bridgestone Bikers
Cup is open to amateurs, hobby drivers
and licensed riders. The cup consists of
three categories: Supersport, Superbike
and Naked, as well as the Streetfighter category meant for modified motorcycles.
Riding training sessions held on the track
are open to everyone. The prizes for the
fastest riders include sets of Bridgestone
motorcycle tyres among others.
36
The Czech track in Brno
Racing on the Automotodrom track in Brno is a traditional element of the MotoGP™ World
Championship, the most important motorcycle competition taking place on road tracks.
One lap of the track measures 5403 metres. The fastest participants in the Bridgestone
Bikers Cup, in the Superbike and Supersport categories, are able to complete it in 2:06
minutes. Interesting fact: last year, C. Crutchlow managed to complete a full lap at Brno in
the MotoGP category in 1:55.527 minutes while riding a Yamaha motorcycle.
Motorcycle racing with a jet
Pepa Srsen raced head to head with a fighter plane and a race car
Pepa "Srsen" Šiler, a Czech motorcycle stuntman, multiple world record holder and motorcycle test driver, continues to rely on Bridgestone tyres. He obviously chose our tyres when faced with a 800-meter sprint in April during which, while riding a Kawasaki ZZR 1400
motorcycle, he faced the JAS 39 Gripen, a military fighter plane, and the Skoda S2000 rally car modified to European Rally Championship
spec.
The Gripen won by a nose, but the Kawasaki managed to defend its reputation as the
fastest motorcycle. Škoda, with a top speed
of only 170 km per hour, came in last. "The
surface was wet and that which kept me on
the track at a speed of 300 km per hour was
the most important asset of the motorcycle – the high quality Bridgestone S20 tyres,
which are used in the most powerful motorcycle in the world, even in their standard
version" commented Pepa "Srsen" Šiler
after the race.
37
EVENTS
BATTLAX S20
HYPERSPORT:
THE BEST TYRES FOR THE ROAD
The Bridgestone Battlax S20 Hypersport, designed for roads and for an occasional drive on
the track, is the most durable sports tyre in the
range of Bridgestone products. In its development, Bridgestone used extensive experience
in MotoGP, the world’s most important motorcycle racing series. The exceptional quality
of Battlax S20 Hypersport tyres has also been
confirmed by securing the first place over the
last two years in tests conducted by the prestigious Motorrad magazine , the most important motorcycle magazine in Europe. This year,
Bridgestone introduced a further improved
version, the Battlax Hypersport S20 EVO, with
longer life and greater manoeuvrability and
cornering grip at wide angles. This new formula, combined with patented Bridgestone
NanoPro-Tech™ technology, reduces rolling
resistance, which extends service life at the
molecular level.
PEPA SRSEN HAS BEEN USING
BRIDGESTONE TYRES FOR MANY YEARS
“I rode thousands of miles on Bridgestone tyres and I can recommend them
to anyone. You can’t deny the enormous experience that they gained in MotoGP” says Pepa "Srsen" Šiler when asked about Bridgestone tyres; on 12
September, he will celebrate his fortieth birthday. Recognition from Pepa
Srsen means a lot. This rider from Klatova is one of the icons of the Czech
motorcycle scene (and also those of other countries). He became famous for
his amazing exploits and beating several world records that demonstrate his
mastery on the racetrack. Pepa Srsen, supported by Bridgestone, passes on
his rich experience in his Srsen Moto School and also acts as the main instructor in Moto School at the Masaryk circuit in Brno. He also trains motorcyclists
serving in the Czech police force. Currently, he rides a Triumph Speed Triple
1050 and covers 40 000 km a year.
38