"I'm massively looking forward to Rally Australia and can't wait to get going," Bates told RallySport Magazine."We've done no back-to-back testing between tyres, but it's more about being on the same tyre as the other WRC2 guys. "After three years on the MRFs I learnt that they work better in cool and damp conditions, whereas the Michelins have lots of grip in the dry and seem to work right down to a low tread level." Above-average temperatures in NSW recently could mean that Rally Australia is held in very hot and dry conditions, which will be another challenge. "When I've used Michelins in the past they did provide more traction and better side grip, but I'll still have a lot to learn about the tyre as the rally progresses."
Harry Bates is looking forward to challenging the WRC2 runners at Rally Australia. Photo: Peter Whitten
"I'm desperate for a good result at Rally Australia, and not having the pressure of scoring ARC points will mean I can just focus on my own rally," Bates added."I can focus on driving fast and seeing what stage times I can do against the other WRC2 guys." While his AP4 spec Yaris isn't eligible for the WRC2 victory, the car is of a similar specification as the R5 cars, so his times will be keenly watched by those in the know. Bates will have a test in Coffs Harbour on the Monday before the rally, alongside his brother, Lewis, in a second Yaris AP4. Former Toyota factory, Ben Barker, will also join the team for Rally Australia, driving the team's well-used Corolla S2000.
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