[kropotkin thinks...] - Guest Blog: Mat Oxley - MotoGP’s aerodynamic advances: wings

[Ninjette Newsbot]

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What’s the story behind the fuel-tank wings appearing on MotoGP bikes? It’s all about the extra grip offered by the latest aerodynamics

MotoGP riders pull 1.7g on the brakes, which sounds like nothing when Formula 1 cars pull 5g. But an F1 driver is strapped into his car with a seven-point harness, similar to those used in fighter jets. A MotoGP rider holds on by curling his hands and fingers around the handlebar grips.

In fact, this isn’t enough, so riders use their thighs, feet and backsides to help grip the bike, by gripping the tank like a vice with their knees, digging their feet into the footpegs, (at least until they dangle a leg) and jamming their backside against the seat hump; basically trying to wedge themselves into the bike.