At Sepang, the 2019 MotoGP prototypes showed innovative fairings in the name of aerodynamics. Ducati has started experimenting with winglets.
Tests on the Sepang circuit aroused the curiosity of the most passionate observers of technical innovations in the racing world. In fact, there are already those who speak of a real challenge with fairings among the great protagonists of the world championship. After last year's controversy that had seen KTM ask for more stringent rules for the use of winged fairings on the track, the Austrian company has finally adapted to the most popular design on the Malaysian circuit. Suzuki's choice, which modifies the lines of its GSX-RR, is also surprising. The Japanese have in fact installed a pair of slimmer and more slender front wings, more detached from the chassis. A choice which, given the results in the test phase, paid off, as confirmed by the driver Alex Rins, who defines the new model as better than the previous one. Triple front fins for Maverick Vinales' Yamaha M1, which is however overtaken by the Ducatis. Since November, the Reds had already caused discussions due to the decision to install a pair of fins also on the bike's tail.
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Tests on the Sepang circuit aroused the curiosity of the most passionate observers of technical innovations in the racing world. In fact, there are already those who speak of a real challenge with fairings among the great protagonists of the world championship. After last year's controversy that had seen KTM ask for more stringent rules for the use of winged fairings on the track, the Austrian company has finally adapted to the most popular design on the Malaysian circuit. Suzuki's choice, which modifies the lines of its GSX-RR, is also surprising. The Japanese have in fact installed a pair of slimmer and more slender front wings, more detached from the chassis. A choice which, given the results in the test phase, paid off, as confirmed by the driver Alex Rins, who defines the new model as better than the previous one. Triple front fins for Maverick Vinales' Yamaha M1, which is however overtaken by the Ducatis. Since November, the Reds had already caused discussions due to the decision to install a pair of fins also on the bike's tail.
Ducati and experimentation with winglets
The motorcycle manufacturer from Borgo Panigale has certainly played a seminal role in research regarding the aerodynamic performance of the vehicle on the track. It was Ducati itself that believed most in the potential of developing innovative fairings, as demonstrated by the use of the famous fins on its racing bikes since 2010. While manufacturers and riders maintained ambivalent positions on what seemed like a simple accessory that could be unless, the Reds continued to invest in this direction.
The importance of the hull
But what are the real advantages of aerodynamic flaps? The advantage over traditional fairings on the track is still debated. Certainly it is possible to reduce the wheelie of the vehicle during acceleration. However, much is determined by their position, which decides the balance of the vehicle at high speeds. Excellent aerodynamic performance also improves tire wear over time, an issue MotoGP riders and manufacturers are forced to address.
Design, study of aerodynamics, innovative and captivating shapes that do not remain confined to the track, but also become commonly used on the road. On the market today there are numerous examples inspired by the look of the most famous sports models (here are some examples of motorcycle fairings made of fiberglass), which from simple accessories for the frame become true icons of style, to give your racing car an appearance worthy of a racing bike.
Sepang is already starting to teach how, together with the study of the engine and the improvement of transmission and tire performance, attention to the design of the fairing and its lines is crucial in the context of motorcycle racing. An aspect of the design that interests both great champions and simple enthusiasts and those curious about the new features and innovations implemented by the most prestigious motorcycle manufacturers.
CMW motorcycles Chichester