US MotoGP: Colin Edwards relieved tyres no longer key factor

Colin Edwards reckons he won’t even have to worry about tyres playing a key role in the American MotoGP race as he hopes to end a 12-month podium drought on home soil this weekend.
Edwards, who last scored a top three in Assen just over a year ago, was one of several riders to be struck by severe tyre issues in 2008 as Michelin had a disastrous time in Laguna Seca.
But with the entire grid now on Bridgestone rubber, Edwards said it was a good feeling to go into his home race not having to wonder or worry whether his tyres will be competitive after he finished in a disastrous 14th in 2008.
The Texan, who could score his 100th top 15 MotoGP finish this weekend, said: “We’re here on Bridgestone and looking forward to it. We don’t have to think about tyres this year. We know what Bridgestone had last year and we know what they have here and what they brought. And it’s going to be good. It’s fantastic showing up at Laguna and tyres aren’t even an issue, they’re not even a concern. All you need to really focus on is getting your bike right and getting your mind right.”