Aerodynamics is where most of the performance can be found – that’s why the MotoGP teams are focusing on it – Jorge Lorenzo a critic of the “mini Formula 1”
The importance of aerodynamic development in MotoGP was also evident for the 2024 season. All manufacturers have placed a strong focus on this area, as aerodynamics influence the performance of the motorcycle in practically all riding conditions.
In Qatar, lap times were significantly faster compared to last fall. This is also due to the aerodynamics. The engineers are learning better and better how to integrate this aspect into the overall package.
“That’s the main thing,” says Jack Miller about aerodynamics. “We’ve spent so many years developing the electronics, the engines, the tires and so on. Now we’ve got to the last piece of the puzzle.”
“I saw a statement from someone at Aprilia that it would be cheaper for them to develop the aerodynamics instead of the engine. That is true. We don’t want to redevelop one of these MotoGP engines. That would be crazy.”
“Aerodynamics is a simple feature that you can fit and is a help. But where does it end? Where does it go?” the KTM rider asks himself, shrugging his shoulders: “I don’t know.”
Aprilia has made significant changes and refinements to the aerodynamic concept. A wide variety of configurations were tried out during the winter tests. In addition to wings on the front fork, for example, there were large baffles on the rear swingarm.
The area behind the seat is also not part of the homologated aero body and can be modified at any time. “We can see that a lot is changing in our sport,” says Aleix Espargaro. “It’s part of the game. “
“I’ve said many times that it’s not about whether I like it or not. It’s the rules and you have to be the best. Our bike is quite good aerodynamically. Everyone has a lot of aero. Our aero is very good.”
“If you have a good team of aerodynamic engineers, then the bike generates a lot of downforce in the middle of the corner. We have that, but we also don’t have too much drag on the straights. “
Aerodynamics make overtaking more difficult
The new technical regulations from 2027 at the latest will see a reduction in aerodynamics. The details are being worked out in the background. Wings will remain, but the possibilities and effects of aerodynamics are to be limited.
“Technology is important,” says former world champion Jorge Lorenzo in Mundo Deportivo. “If the technology is transferred to road models, that is positive if you can sell safer motorcycles.”
“So if the past few years have helped to develop aerodynamics, it’s to make road bikes a bit safer. But it’s true that spectators don’t appreciate it when racing motorcycles look like a small Formula 1 in terms of aesthetics and technology. “
“If the wings were removed and less turbulence was created, then the riders wouldn’t have such difficulties overtaking. The motorcycles would also be a little slower in the corners,” says Lorenzo.
That is why he is a supporter of the planned measures, which also include a reduction in engine capacity to 850 cubic centimeters: “The motorcycles are perhaps going a little too fast. They can reach almost 370 km/h, which is a high speed.”
“The motorcycles now also go very fast through the corners and generate a lot of turbulence. That’s why you don’t see these overtaking maneuvers that you would see without these wings and add-on parts,” the Spaniard is convinced.
