Height Adjustment Device in MotoGP Sparks Intense Debate Among Riders
The controversial height adjustment devices, initially met with skepticism in the early 2020s, have become a standard feature for MotoGP riders.
However, recent incidents have reignited the debate surrounding these devices. Should they be banned now, even though the new regulations for 2027 already plan to phase them out? Riders are finding it challenging to voice a unanimous opinion on the matter.
These devices, which lower the bikes, are primarily used for acceleration out of corners at the rear of the bikes and also for starts – hence the name ‘holeshot device’ in English – both at the rear and front. Although they automatically disengage during hard braking, they have caused issues in the last two races.
At Le Mans, the fast first corner made it difficult for the system to disengage, forcing the bike to remain in a low position, potentially dangerous. It wasn’t until the Dunlop chicane that riders could brake hard. During the start in mixed conditions, not all riders utilized the device, leading to varying paces and crashes at the first corner.
In Silverstone, the first turn is slower but also poses challenges for deactivating the system as it is not a heavy braking zone. This contributed to Alex Márquez’s heavy fall on the initial start before the red flag. The Gresini rider weighed in on the ongoing debate among riders regarding the necessity of banning the device, hinting at discussions to potentially do away with it on certain circuits during starts, with Le Mans at the forefront.
Johann Zarco shares a similar stance, advocating for a collective decision by all riders on when to use the device during starts on specific tracks. He believes it could be a good solution to forgo using it at Le Mans and that at Silverstone, riders could brake hard enough to disengage it safely.
Marc Márquez, a supporter of banning certain recent developments, acknowledges that the ‘holeshot’ device makes riders’ tasks easier but can also lead to hazardous situations. He emphasized the impact of these height adjusters on the technical aspect of MotoGP, making it less challenging.
Aleix Espargaró, who raced as a wildcard in England, expressed his preference for discarding the system, deeming it dangerous and unnecessary for street bike development. Despite the risks involved, manufacturers cannot afford to forgo these devices, making a total ban challenging.
Silverstone witnessed several issues related to these devices, from Enea Bastianini struggling with a locked front system to Yamaha facing rear-end problems, resulting in Alex Rins losing positions on the final lap and Fabio Quartararo’s retirement.
The debate continues within the MotoGP community as riders grapple with the safety and technical implications of these height adjustment devices, sparking intense discussions and differing opinions on their future in the sport.