MotoGP is the pinnacle of motorcycle racing, featuring the most technologically advanced bikes. Despite the physical challenges placed on riders, some, including Casey Stoner, claim that electrical and aerodynamic aids have made these bikes too simple to operate.
In an interview with GPOne.com, the former rider stated: “I believe this issue is widespread across racing in general; it’s also happening in motocross, where we’re saying the 450s are too hard to ride and too big and powerful.” Motorsport is meant to be about the best riders on the most difficult tracks, and MotoGP is currently too easy. They do not have adequate control over the bike. Engineers are making too big a difference.
The Australian criticizes the use of wings, holeshot devices, and ride height devices, saying they are ‘destroying racing’ and adding that ‘the MotoGP bike is now one of the easiest motorcycles to ride in the world’. When asked about recent statements from Andrea Iannone regarding the physical demands of a MotoGP bike, Stoner replied:
Ezoic – When you go to the middle of the turn, to the exit, more or less everyone is the same, they all have comparable electronics, so the only chance to make a difference is on braking. Because of the ride height devices, you approach the corner more faster, and the margin for error is much narrower. That’s why we see everyone on the limit all the time, and if you make a mistake, it’s generally a major crash.