Aleix Espargaro Voices Concern: MotoGP Bikes’ Downforce Straining Riders Beyond Limits

Aleix Espargaro: "Current MotoGP motorcycles resemble Formula 1 vehicles, yet our physical capabilities remain constant."

"The level of downforce in the MotoGP category exceeds what the human body can handle."

Aleix Espargaro has voiced worries about the increased physical demand needed to maneuver a MotoGP motorcycle throughout an entire race owing to the downforce levels.

The Aprilia standout was among numerous competitors to point out the intense arm fatigue experienced while maneuvering a 1000cc prototype across 23 laps at Mugello during the latest Italian Grand Prix.

Downforce increases the weight of the motorcycles during turns, yet enhances their speed throughout a circuit.

The enhanced capability, along with advancements in other sectors such as tyre technology, has consistently led to new lap and race records being set in MotoGP throughout this season.

"Espargaro mentioned that the speed of the motorcycles has increased due to enhanced downforce, yet the physical condition of the riders' arms hasn't changed in a decade."

"Even though the bike becomes increasingly heavy and gains more downforce, the strength of the arms and the muscle power remain unchanged."

"I believe we're all in better shape than a decade ago, yet altering our physique isn't possible… The motorcycles resemble a Formula One vehicle and the lap speeds are incredibly rapid."

Francesco Bagnaia of Ducati secured first place at the 2024 Italian Grand Prix, finishing the race in 40 minutes and 51.385 seconds. This was a significant improvement, being 25.478 seconds faster than his previous victory time from last year.

Despite slipping from sixth position at Mugello the previous year to eleventh this year, Espargaro managed to shave 17.204 seconds off his race time. However, the Spanish rider expressed that he was at his limit and couldn't have completed an additional lap.

"I had to bow out after just one more round, which was incredible," Espargaro remarked, reflecting on the toll taken on his arms. "The motorcycle was extremely fierce and jittery, making it impossible for me to speed up or even brake. For the final 8 to 10 laps, I was merely using a single finger to brake.

"Clearly, our setup at Mugello wasn't the greatest, but it seemed like everyone was more or less in the same boat. This suggests that the level of downforce present across the MotoGP class is overwhelming for the human physique. Simply put, it's excessive."

Espargaro is set to conclude his career in full-time racing after this season, and he mentioned that it would be beneficial if the new regulations scheduled for 2027 were implemented a bit sooner, in 2025 or 2026. However, he added that this issue won't concern him much longer.

The 2027 technical regulations will scale down capabilities in several aspects, such as aerodynamics.

"He expressed his desire for them to become less aggressive yet not as fast, noting their current high levels of physical intensity and the remarkable downforce they exhibit."

However, Espargaro sees a positive side to downforce, particularly noting how it has made the main straight crest at Mugello considerably safer by keeping the front wheel firmly on the track.

Recalling my experience with the Suzuki, I distinctly remember popping a wheelie just before attempting to slow down from a speed of 350km/h. Now, it's so effortless that you can casually rest a hand on the fuel tank! It's incredibly simple. I must mention, the addition of wings at the Mugello circuit has undoubtedly made riding much safer. Absolutely.

Espargaro, who is speculated to be moving to Honda as a test rider next year, is anticipated to participate in at least one wild-card event each season going forward.

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