The most important thing during a race is to go the fastest, and every little detail counts when it comes to shaving off precious milliseconds. It is therefore not surprising that MotoGP motorcycles have very strict and rigorous maintenance protocols.
The team's mechanics are responsible for replacing all of these parts. These professionals work tirelessly at every Grand Prix, paying close attention to every little detail.
The RC213V used by Marc Márquez and Dani Pedrosa is one of the most advanced pieces of mechanical engineering on earth. This motorcycle requires completely different maintenance than other seemingly similar models like the Honda CBR. It also differs greatly from the way 2-stroke motorcycles were maintained during the 500cc world championship era. As the engines of these motorcycles were more rudimentary, they had to be completely disassembled so that each part could be cleaned…. and this, at the end of each GP day!
Today, with rules stating that engines must be sealed, and advances in technology, such exhaustive maintenance is no longer necessary (or permitted). However, many parts are subject to heavy wear and must be replaced frequently to avoid accidents. Assuming that a MotoGP has around 2 separate parts and components, around 000 of them require high maintenance and monitoring.
Tires : These are changed before each session, and sometimes also during sessions, if necessary. MotoGP tires do not last longer than the distance covered in the race (around 120 km).
Oil : The oil level is checked at each session and replenished if necessary, although it is completely drained and replaced with new lubricant on race day. The oil used by MotoGP motorcycles has special qualities because it is specially formulated to get the most out of the engine. After each GP the oil is removed so the bike can be transported, meaning every weekend starts with new oil.
Cooling systems : The coolant is checked at each session and replaced completely at the start of each day. At the end of each session, the radiator and cooling pipes are cleaned and checked for any damage or imperfections that may have occurred.
Chain and sprockets : These parts are checked, lubricated and tightened after each session, and are only replaced if necessary. They have a lifespan of around 500 km, the equivalent of a GP weekend. The sprockets, both front and rear, last almost twice as long, so they are normally replaced every two GPs.
Clutch : Although the clutch is disassembled after almost every session to check the clutch plates, springs and other components, it has a lifespan of approximately 1 km. After the initial test sessions, the entire clutch system is completely replaced.
Brakes : Brake discs and pads can be reused if they have not been excessively worn during previous sessions. Their useful life is estimated between 800 and 1 km. The brakes are also bled before each session. Stirrups are good for an entire season, but teams rely on suppliers to provide an official maintenance service that keeps them in excellent condition.
Wheels : Wheels can last around 2km before needing to be replaced, but they are usually changed every two races, like sprockets.
Motor : Marc and Dani each have 7 engines for the entire season. In accordance with regulations, the engines are sealed, preventing any internal maintenance or modification. When they are replaced, the entire motor is removed and a new motor is installed; this decision is entirely up to the team.
Capteurs : As these are electronic parts, they are not subject to extreme wear, but the sensors may deteriorate due to their working conditions. For maximum performance, they are usually replaced every four GPs, which represents a distance of approximately 2 km.
Air filter, injection systems, bearings and spark plugs : all these parts are checked after each session and replaced if necessary, either due to visible wear or because the electronics have detected a drop in performance.
<span style="font-size:0.9em">FAIRING</span> : Although the fairing can last several GPs, or even an entire season if there are no crashes that break it, it is usually checked and cleaned after each session.
Suspension : Suspension settings are adjusted several times during a GP weekend to test different configurations. The frame and swingarm last a long time and only need to be replaced mid-season. The replacement of these parts may also depend on other related factors, such as the development of the motorcycle.
Handlebars and saddle : These two parts come into contact with the rider and are generally changed once per season in MotoGP. It's always nice to have a new seat.
Source: Box Repsol
