As the first Grand Prix of the season approaches, a fascinating subject is stirring discussions in the upper echelons of the championship: the weight of riders in MotoGP. In the demanding world of motorcycle racing, the weight of the rider is of crucial importance, especially in the Moto3 category where the machines, without fuel, weigh about as much as a rider equipped with his leather suit with airbag. To prevent weight from having a disproportionate impact on performance, a minimum weight of 152 kilos is required for the rider and his motorcycle...
In the premier category, MotoGP, the rules regarding weight are different. The minimum weight of racing motorcycles is set at 158 kilos, without specification for the pilots. However, the debate over pilot loading is not as predominant, as most of them do not differ significantly in terms of stature and weight. Exceptions like the big one Luca marini, measuring 184 cm for 68 kilos, confirm this rule. However, considerations are necessary, particularly to optimize pilot performance in relation to their body weight.
The pilots MotoGP have varied physical characteristics, but it is clear that every kilo can make a difference on the track. The overall performance of the motorcycle over a race distance is influenced by factors such as tire management and weight distribution. Pilots like Maverick Vinales, having lost four kilos, or Brad Binder, now at 60 kilos, sparked discussions in the paddock. “ I went from 68 to 64 kilos, and if things go well, I'll stay at this weight all year...and if not, I'll move up a bit. I did it to reduce tire consumption » commented on Top Gun.
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Marco Bezzecchi: “ I honestly think if I lose weight I'll just fly off my motorcycle »
The drivers themselves recognize the importance of their weigh-in result in the competition. Pecco Bagnaia considers that a weight fluctuation of a few kilos is normal: “ four kilos, that's what I gained » laughs the double MotoGP world champion. “ Seriously, this is normal for me. At the end of the season I weighed 64 kilos, in winter it was 68, now it's 64 again. Some fluctuation is normal and every rider should know what the best position is for them ».
George Martin emphasizes the importance of remaining consistent: “ I'm quite vulnerable and I gain weight quickly » recognizes the Martinator. “ So I have to be careful and strive to always be consistent. But I think a difference of 1 to 2 kilos is normal and makes no difference ».
For others, like Bezzecchi, the loss of kilos could have consequences on their stability on the motorcycle… “ I honestly think if I lose weight I'll just fly off my motorcycle ". With currently 61 kilos, the Italian is at the back of the pack on the scale established by the drivers' weigh-in...
This debate over pilot weight reveals the increasing importance placed on physical preparation and the balance between strength and optimal body weight. Drivers and their teams strive to find the right balance to maximize performance on the track. In WSBK, the new rule imposing a minimum weight with the rider equipped has led to the installation of ballast on the motorcycle. An approach that is not used in MotoGP. But the item remains a concern and requires sacrifices as the signa Aleix Espargaró : " I do 65 kilos and I'm almost 1,80″ tall. Pfor this reason I have hungry every day for five years”…
