MotoGP’s Shift to ‘Normal’: Navigating the Future of Two-Wheeled F1 Tech and the Quest for Closer Racing

Aero advancements are turning MotoGP into a two-wheeled version of Formula 1

"The moment engineers get a better grasp on the updated rules, they'll devise innovative methods to introduce wild features back onto the motorcycles."

Numerous MotoGP competitors welcomed the elimination of ride-height gadgets and the reduction of aerodynamics in the 2027 technical regulations with enthusiasm. However, Fabio di Giannantonio confessed his affection for the 'F1' technology present in the existing motorcycles.

Nonetheless, the victor of the 2023 Qatar Grand Prix is optimistic that with the shift back to more traditional motorcycles, passing will be less challenging.

"Without a doubt, it's going to change," di Giannantonio remarked regarding the 2027 rules, highlighting a significant decrease in engine capacity to 850cc.

"The updated engines will feature variations, along with the latest aerodynamics."

"Everything is going to feel significantly more… 'standard,' perhaps, closely resembling a typical bicycle.

"Currently, I'm really into MotoGP, mainly because the aerodynamics are impressive, and the equipment feels akin to riding a Formula 1 car, but on two wheels."

The rider from Italy, who moved from Gresini to VR46 for the current season, stated:

"Looking ahead, it would be intriguing to observe whether this regulatory adjustment leads to tighter racing and more intense competitions."

"Currently, it's somewhat challenging to maintain a very close proximity to the person leading."

However, di Giannantonio cautioned that it's only a matter of time before engineers figure out how to take advantage of the updated regulations.

"In the initial stages, things will appear simpler and more serene. However, once engineers become more familiar with the updated rules, I believe they'll discover methods to reintroduce innovative and unconventional features to the motorcycles," he commented.

KTM's Brad Binder stated that the absence of ride-height/holeshot mechanisms will have the greatest impact at the beginning of races.

"The part I'll definitely miss is the beginning, without a doubt. The bike's stability makes it much simpler to take off," the South African mentioned. "Without them, our only option is to reduce the power, which means we'll be a bit slower."

Aleix Espargaro mentioned that according to Aprilia's engineers, decreasing the engine capacity by 150cc and reducing the maximum bore size is expected to lead to a reduction of approximately 35 horsepower and notably longer lap times.

"Espargaro highlighted an astonishing fact, pointing out that the current Moto3 bikes are clocking lap times on par with those achieved by Doohan and Criville on the 500cc bikes in their era. He specifically mentioned that during this year's event at Jerez, David Alonso's Moto3 lap time of 1m 43.710s surpassed Mick Doohan's winning time in the 1996 Spanish Grand Prix on a 500cc bike."

"Espargaro further stated, 'The circuits are no longer ready as they were,' indicating that while minor adjustments can be made, the limitations of space remain a constant. Therefore, there's a need to slightly decrease the performance."

"The engineers possess an exceedingly high level of intelligence, and the abundance of technology needs to be slightly curtailed. This adjustment will enhance the overall experience of the show… The viewers aren't concerned if the lap times increase by 1.5 seconds. The motorcycles will continue to operate at an exceptional level, yet the quality of the entertainment will significantly improve.

Espargaro expressed his admiration for the aerodynamic bikes, highlighting how incredible it feels to ride them due to the immense speed they can achieve. However, he noted that when it comes to the spectacle of the race, it becomes challenging to pass the riders ahead.

The Spanish individual highlighted that going forward, WorldSBK will require a comparable decrease in performance due to its upcoming regulations.

"Clearly, altering the regulations in such a manner and continuing to supply Superbikes with qualifying tyres will lead to streetbikes outpacing MotoGPs, causing confusion among viewers," he explained.

"Lowering the intensity across all segments would enhance both the safety and the overall experience – it's a win-win for everyone."

The FIM has verified that discussions are currently underway with WorldSBK manufacturers regarding a reduction in performance levels to prevent any overlap with MotoGP.

Explore Further

Recent Updates

Recent Updates

Site Navigation

Crash.Net

©1999-2024 Crash Media Group

Recreating, in whole or in part, the written content, photos, or images is strictly prohibited in any manner.