The below information comes from Bryn Philips from the motorcycle division at Bridgestone's UK headquarters. For more information speak to him or Arthur Macdonald on 01926 488500.
As of January 2003 Bridgestone are now only APPROVING four tyre fitments for the
, all running
42psi front & rear:
1) BT57 G matched pair (yes they're still available)
2) BT 020 W on the front BT 020 L on the rear
3) BT 011 E on the front BT 010 on the rear
4) BT 011 E on the front BT 012 on the rear
A few points: The front compound of any matched pair is always different to that of the rear.
The BT 020 W is an
specific front version of the 020.
The BT 011 E for the front is the exact same tyre that is Original Equipment on the 2002 GSXR1000. This
tyre is very similar to a standard 010 but has a special construction giving far better damping characteristics.
Note: Bridgestone DO NOT approve the fitment of an 010 on the front of the
. In their words,
"This fitment results in a noticeable 'shimmie' when decelerating that becomes greater as the tyre wears".
The
's are too heavy on the front for the 010.
The fourth recommended fitment uses a BT 012 on the rear.
THIS TYRE IS NOT TO BE CONFUSED WITH THE ULTRA SOFT BT 012 SS. The BT 012 is currently
standard fitment on the new ZX9R and Blade. It's a brand new design which will eventually replace the now
four year old BT 010. It's a tyre for 'future' superbikes according to Bridgestone and will give similar mileage
to an 010.