All MotoGP engines are four-cylinders with identical cubic capacity. However, there is no uniformity in the architecture so that, on the track, there is no risk of boredom. The majority of protagonists have opted for a V-shaped presentation which opens to power and V-max. But Suzuki and Yamaha decided to go online instead. A mistake ? Davide Brivio, who takes care of the Hamamatsu-designed GSX-RRs, answers…
A V-four or the same in-line? A dilemma because, in both cases, there are advantages and disadvantages, with which both the pilot and the technicians must deal. To make a point, Davide Brivio helps us : " it is clear that the V4 engine has more power than an inline engine. A V4 engine has more power, but less cornering speed and you have more difficulty handling it. The inline engine is not that fast, but you are more agile and have better cornering speed », explained the Italian.
Inline engines require a different setup, a different type of driving and a different strategy to tackle each race weekend. Well understood and well managed, it can make the difference just as much in the Grand Prix. All you have to do is remember the times achieved during the off-season by Maverick Vinales et fabio quartararo, on their Yamaha . " There are different approaches. Both have positives and negatives. In a race like Qatar, where the straight is a kilometer long, it can be a nightmare for the inline engine. If you look at the calendar, there are circuits better suited to the V engine, like Qatar or Spielberg. But in some circuits you can fight or even win » assures the team leader Suzuki.
Last season, Suzuki won two races. Alex Rins climbed to the top of the podium in Austin, considered the invincible territory of Márquez, and at Silverstone. Furthermore, in races where straight lines predominate, as is the case in Qatar or at Mugello, Kidneys played the podium. “ You have to be smart and think of a strategy. It is a technological struggle between different concepts and philosophies. The V engine will always be faster in a straight line, but we can reach them in the cornerss "Concludes Brivio.
