Different sides of the same
coin.
On the broadest scale, there
is the similarity of the motor-
cycles. So many of the most
fundamental elements are man-
dated—one size fits all. Regula-
tions stipulate four cylinders with
a maximum bore size of 81mm;
six gears and no twin-clutch sys-
tems, exotic materials banned.
The basic parameters of
power are fixed, and detail
developments likewise held
in check, with engine design
frozen through the season,
with homologated engines also
sealed. Any notion of racing as a
field of technical development is
hopelessly old-fashioned.
Then there's a limited number
of engines—updated in May to
take account of the longer calen-
dar. Previously it was seven per
rider, nine for concession teams.
Now an extra engine is allowed if
there are 19 races, although only
available for the 19th race. There
is also a maximum 5.8 gallons of
fuel. These restrictions limit revs
and horsepower. Most crucially
control electronics level things
still further.
M
any are the reasons
given for an aspect that
some think is spoiling
MotoGP—an extreme difficulty
in overtaking. It's said to be too
difficult for riders to pass. The
litany is heard to various degrees
from all levels.
Funnily enough, many of
those reasons are the same as
those praised for making the rac-
ing closer than ever, for yielding
a number of different winners.
P148
CN
III IN THE PADDOCK
BY MICHAEL SCOTT
MOTOGP'S
PASSING PARADE
Overtaking in racing is
never easy but is it getting
too hard in MotoGP?
