Multiple-time Irish Superbike Champion Brian McCormack is switching to Bridgestone tyres for the first time in his career to help keep the memory of a close friend and fundraiser alive.
Aidan Lynam died in a accident during a charity bike ride for Down Syndrome Ireland in May 2015 and had been pushing the superbike rider to switch tyre manufacturers for months.
Speaking about his friend, McCormack said: “Aidan was pushing for me to get in touch with Bridgestone for a long time as he was raving about the product. He actually introduced me to the company at a track day in Mondello Park and I’ve been in touch with Bridgestone for some time since then.
“I want to make the change now. The decision certainly makes me think of Aidan. He was a special man and raised so much money for Down Syndrome Ireland. He talked so highly of Bridgestone from his experiences and I’d like to follow him by making the change. Aidan always told me how Bridgestone is a very loyal company and they look after their customers.”
The 32-year-old will now use Bridgestone’s Battlax V02 slick tyres as he looks to continue being successful in the Superbike, Superstock and Supersport series.
Many have questioned the switch after so many years with another manufacturer but McCormack is confident the move will be a good one, especially after speaking to a former MotoGP star.
McCormack said: “I spoke to Jeremy McWilliams who rides on Bridgestone tyres and he gave me the nod. The feedback was great and I don’t see any reason why I can’t be as successful – if not more so – this year.
“I was at a bike show in Cork recently and people were asking me why I’ve made this decision. But why not? Why do we have to stick with a certain brand if I can see another company offering me a fantastic product and so much support off the track.”
McCormack is a 11-time bike racing champion and is used to winning in the Irish Championships. He has also competed on the roads at events such as the Isle of Man TT.
Bridgestone’s product manager Gary Hartshorne believes that this is the beginning of a successful partnership.
He said: “Aidan introduced me to Brian at a track day and we were keen to support him. It was about getting the right product to suit his set-up, which we believe we have now achieved.
“It means a lot to us to be so closely involved with such a talented rider as Brian. He’s a winner of multiple titles and races and we’ll be supporting him throughout the season. We have a good feeling about the future and we wish him all the very best.”
