I'll explain the issue with tyres in general, I need a rant....
Sportmax GP Racer D211 (French Made)
Last years price pair - 1250 AED
Last years price for 2 rears, 1 front - 1800 AED
New Price pair - 1500 AED (20% increase)
These are mass produced tyres manufactured in France and from the research I've done they look to be road based tyres rather than race tyres. The grip levels are good but wear rate on the rear is too high for a fast race pace. We used these 2 years ago (and the 2 weekends where Dunlop failed to supply the D211GP last season) and we had to have the rules ammended to allow the 600s to use 2 rears per race weekend as they simply didnt last.
For a first time Rookie these tyres may suit better as they are cheaper and will not be used as hard as the front runners. I would be asking if Dunlop will still do a deal on 2 rears to 1 front.
*for someone purchasing these, check the date. We were supplied 2009 manufactured tyres on the last race of last season.
D211 GP NTEC (UK Made)
Last years price pair - 1980 AED
New Price pair - 2105 AED (6.3% increase)
These tyres are made at the UK motorsport factory and are designed as a race tyre. As above they offer excellent grip levels and a pair will last the weekend and maybe the next test day.
The biggest issue we had about these was the price. This was the main topic of all conversations with the DAMC and Dunlop over the summer.
Some internet prices below, its unknown if these are french or UK made (one easy call) You would have to add shipping and 5% duty but it still works out way cheaper. I dare say there are deals to be had if buying bulk too.
Presumed to be French product-
Dunlop Sportmax GP Racer D211,
www.demon-tweeks.co.uk (no VAT, ex 5.8 ) - 1368 AED
D211GP RACER
www.motorcycletyresuk.com (no VAT, ex 5.8 ) - 1285 AED
Presumed to be UK product-
Dunlop D211GP pair N Tec
www.arracing.co.uk (no VAT, ex 5.8 ) - 1508 AED
D211 GP Racer Treaded
www.mandp.co.uk (no VAT, ex 5.8 ) - 1440 AED
I ask this, Why is it our local Dunlop supplier think it correct to charge almost 50% higher prices than available to the public elsewhere and why do DAMC force the racers to pay these inflated and unrealistic prices if they want to compete in the championship?
It would be nice if someone could ask this question on my behalf at the Media day on Thursday. I've invested a huge amount of my own time and money into this championship so I feel the least I am due is an honest answer for these huge price increases.
