Edwards braking free

Texas Tornado Colin Edwards believes Michelin’s new 16-inch front tyre has helped him make a massive step forward in braking and corner entry speeds on the new factory Yamaha YZR-M1.

The American has been one of the biggest supporters in Michelin’s decision to switch to the 16-inch front tyre this winter.

He told MCN: “Going into the corner you can brake so hard and so deep and so far round the corner you can brake at the apex. With the old 16.5 tyre you really had to time your braking right, get off the brake at a certain point and get it in there.

“But with this one you can play with the braking a little bit.”

Edwards said his mind was made up that he would definitely race the new 16-inch front when he lines up on the grid for the first race in Qatar on March 10, 2007 by adding: “I don’t care if they bring me another 16.5, I don’t want it.”