With Michelin set to replace Bridgestone as the sole tyre supplier from the 2016 season, preparations are already underway to be fully prepared for the French firm’s return to the premier-class – with tests planed at all Grand Prix tracks throughout 2015.

Michelin’s Technical Director Nicolas Goubert confirmed in an interview with Speedweek.com that the tyre supplier aims to test at every track on the MotoGP™ calendar throughout 2015. Colin Edwards has already given the Michelin’s a workout in Motegi on a Yamaha, Michele Pirro in Brno on a Ducati, and Japanese test rider Shinichi Itoh has also started the testing program for Honda.

A key part of testing is not just related to the construction and compound of the tyres, but also how the bikes will behave with the increase to 17-inch wheels from 16.5. Goubert believes that the change is vital for the sport to make its research and development more relevant for road use. Michelin will aim to bring a range of tyres that should suit all bikes at all tracks, with Goubert speculating with six fronts, and a similar number or rears to Bridgestone.

Asymmetric rear tyres are certain, yet whether Michelin will use more than one compound on the fronts, as Bridgestone will be implementing at Phillip Island and Valencia this year, remains to be seen. Yet one thing is sure – there will be no "overnight" tyres from France shipped to any of the nearby races. Goubert confirmed to Speedweek.com that their original practice of occasionally developing tyres during a race weekend will not take place, and that tyre choice will be same for everyone.