Here is the part devoted to MotoGP of a text published by KTM which compares brakes in MXGP and MotoGP.
It includes some interesting figures, technical or financial…
MXGP and MotoGP™ are two racing disciplines that are polar opposites in many ways, and the braking aspect is one of the big differences. We got a glimpse of the Red Bull KTM factions from both paddocks to understand it better….
OK, simply through the respective nature of road racing and motocross, it's easy to see why the subject of motorcycle brakes and slowing down is so different. In a series like MotoGP, front-wheel braking systems are essential to keeping the KTM RC16 on the track, both from speeds approaching 360 km/h and when overtaking. In MXGP, the same principle applies, but many other factors come into play, such as the type of terrain, engine braking and gyroscopic effects in the air. A motocross rider will barely use the front brake in sand and overtaking may come through other avenues, such as line choice, traction and time in the air.
Braking is an undeniable element of racing, even an art form that a professional will have perfected over years of practice. But it is curious to see how much its importance can vary.
" It's essential ", says John Eyre, a veteran of almost twenty years in MotoGP, and who is now part of Bradley Smith's technical team. “We mainly use carbon brakes in MotoGP, in the wet and in the dry. We will have a 340 High Mass disc on high braking circuits like Sepang [Malaysia] and Motegi [Japan], and there is a standard mass option of 320mm, which we use in the wet with disc covers. Every motorcycle must brake and this explains and justifies the cost. »
This figure can reach staggering levels at the peak of road racing. “When I worked for other manufacturers, the budget was a million euros just for the brakes”, explains Mr. Eyre. “We had a pallet full of Brembo boxes. When you crash in MotoGP, you usually damage a set of pads and discs; a 'speckle' means they are destroyed. It's 12 euros for the discs and another 000 to 4 for the pads. You try to keep your best set for the race and another set that we will transfer from one bike to another”.
Why so expensive? The strength and reliability of the Brembo material used by KTM must not only perform for sporting reasons, but also for absolute safety. “It’s strength”, he says, talking about the powerful G-force that puts a strain on both rider and machine. “As for temperature, I know at Motegi we were riding at almost 1000 degrees, which is the limit and why you really need the 340mm. Every rider is different with their braking, with different forces, so that means different pad compound”.
To complete this extract and explain the cost of carbon discs and pads, we remind you that their manufacture requires cooking for 9 months!
