Today, Dorna reminds in the press release reported below that Airbags are compulsory in the three Grand Prix categories, from the next tests at Sepang which will take place in two weeks.
For the moment, the only exceptions will be the competitors entered as wild cards as well as those designated as replacements for the first two events in which they will participate.
This is undoubtedly a step forward in the field of safety, both for Grand Prix drivers and for the everyday motorcyclist who is beginning to be able to benefit from the same type of protection.
On this subject, it will be interesting to take stock of the different technologies available to everyone, and this is among other reasons why we have opened our new section [STREET] which we will gradually fill…
Airbags compulsory from 2018
Airbags will be made compulsory from next season in each category in order to increase the level of safety.
From 2018, suits must be equipped with an airbag system; imperative which will concern all categories of the MotoGP™ World Championship. Which must be worn at each session by the permanent drivers and functional once on the track. Competitors entered as wildcards will be exempt, as will those designated as substitutes for the first two events in which they participate. Beyond that, the combinations of the latter must meet the same requirements.
The airbag must cover at least the shoulders and collarbone. Full or central rear protection is optional. However, if an equipment manufacturer opts for a back protector, it must cover the entire spine. Small adjustments will still be authorized depending on the specificities of each system and the rider's body shape, as long as these areas remain properly protected.
Each airbag system will also have to pass a whole series of tests to prove that it complies with the regulations. These tests range from battery to electronics to deployment time. Accidental triggering of the airbag, a parameter which must also be taken into consideration, must in no case prevent the rider from controlling his motorcycle or cause a fall. In addition, these systems should not require the addition of parts to the motorcycle.
Each manufacturer must certify, through an official document, that their system complies with these standards. They will also have to declare its reliability based on internal tests.
These regulations mark another step forward in terms of safety, with the FIM, IRTA and Dorna fully committed to making MotoGP™ as safe as possible.
Source: MotoGP.com
