MotoGP safety advisor Loris Capirossi believes Bridgestone's 2012 tires have addressed the issues that concerned riders in '11.
Several front-runners complained that a lack of feeling from last year's Bridgestone control tires was a contributory factor in a number of crashes, particularly on cold rubber. But after working with Bridgestone at the opening 2012 MotoGP test at Sepang last week, Capirossi believes the latest tires are an improvement.
"In my discussions with the riders, the general feeling is that the 2012 specification tires are very good and they're happy with the improved feeling they offer, which is important for the rider's confidence," said Capirossi. "Also, the experimental front tire that was tested in Sepang gave the riders an understanding of Bridgestone's direction with development."
Capirossi became a safety advisor at the end of last season, when he retired from riding at the age of 38 following a 22-year career.