The MotoGP race to catch Ducati

Ducati's four MotoGP rivals-Aprilia, Honda, KTM, and Yamaha-have a straightforward but difficult target this year: to catch the flying Desmosedici

- Mat Oxley

DUCATI HAVE LED the way technologically for the last few seasons, with the fastest engine aided by game-changing downforce aerodynamics. This year is significant because it is the first time that every factory on the grid is using ground-effect aero, 50 years after the technology arrived in Formula I cars.

There are two types of ground-effect fairings in MotoGP: those with diffuser ducts and those with flat-sided lowers designed to run parallel to the road. The idea of both is to accelerate the airflow between the fairing and the ground at full lean. This creates a low-pressure area, so the atmospheric pressure pushes the motorcycle into the asphalt, increasing grip and, thus, improving turning.

Oher big changes in MotoGP this year are Saturday's half-distance sprint races and the supposed introduction of minimum pressure tyre regulations. This rule, which could have a major effect on the racing, is due to come into force at the fourth race, at Jerez in Spain, so long as teams agree to it. 

LAST YEAR APRILIA WON THEIR FIRST MotoGP race and the RS-GP was probably the second-best motorcycle on the grid, after the Ducati; so, can the little Noale factory catch the Bologna giants in 2023?

‘Our 2023 bike is better everywhere,’ said the lead rider, Aleix Espargaré. The aerodynamics are better, the chassis is a bit lighter and turns a bit better, thanks to the new aero, and the engine is slightly faster. But I'm not sure it will be enough. After Ducati we aren't bad, but all their riders are very fast.”

There is little doubt that Aprilia and Ducati currently build the best bikes, largely because they have embraced downforce aerodynamics, hiring Formula 1 aerodynamicists to unlock the secrets of this hugely important new area of performance.