Bikes

The motorcycles used in MotoGP are purpose-built, purebred racing bikes - prototypes - which are not available for purchase by the general public and cannot be legally ridden on public roads.

The technical regulations to which Grand Prix teams must adhere when they build their bikes for MotoGP competition provide a simple guide to the type of machinery the riders use.

The engine sizes of the bikes permitted in each class are as follows:

• MotoGP - As of the 2007 season, the maximum engine size capacity permitted is 800cc - 2-stroke engines are not allowed
• 250 - Over 175cc up to 250cc - maximum two cylinders
• 125 - Over 80cc up to 125cc - maximum one cylinder

Apart from the displacement and number of cylinders for each class, engine type is restricted to reciprocating piston engines with no super or turbo charging, while the bike may have no more than six gears.

The following are the minimum weights permitted:

MotoGP

(bikes must have 4-stroke engines)

• 2 cylinders or less 133 kg
• 3 cylinders 140.5 kg
• 4 cylinders 148 kg
• 5 cylinders 155.5 kg
• 6 cylinders or more 163 kg

250cc

• 1 cylinder 100kg
• 2 cylinders 100kg

125cc

• Motorcycle + rider 136kg

The teams may add ballast to their bikes to achieve the minimum weights and the weight may be checked at the initial technical control, but the main control of weight is made at the end of practice sessions or at the end of the race. For the 125cc class the weight checked is the total of the rider with full protective clothing plus the weight of the motorcycle.

In normal circumstances each team has two bikes prepared for racing for each rider, so that there is no delay should a problematic bike need to be replaced before a race or before or during a practice or qualifying session. The 2006 season saw the first instance of flag-to-flag racing at the Australian Grand Prix at Phillip Island, during which the MotoGP riders changed machinery mid-race to use bikes with wet tyres.

Showcase Design

Grand Prix bikes are produced to win races and to showcase the design and technological capabilities of their manufacturers. The machines are therefore constructed from expensive, hardwearing and extremely light materials such as titanium and reinforced carbon fibre and benefit from the sort of advanced technology (carbon disk brakes, engine management systems, traction control) which does not feature on regular road bikes.

With millions of fans watching each round of the World Championship, when the bikes are on track they are also showcases for the numerous big brands involved in sponsoring MotoGP teams. Each bike displays a race number at the front and back, and usually features the colours and logos of the respective teams’ main sponsor as well as numerous other logos displaying the names of teams’ sub-sponsors.