Overview of MotoGP
Anyone with an interest in motorcycles would enjoy MotoGP. MotoGP is one of the oldest motorsport championships in the world. The first MotoGP races began in 1949 after the racing series was established by the Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM). 62 years later Moto GP has become the most popular motorcycle racing series in the world.; in 2010 more than 2.2 millon fans attended the races, with millions more watching on television. Each year there are 18 races which take place in 14 different countries on 4 continents. MotoGP combines the thrill of racing with some of the best motocycles made today.
MotoGP races are three day events taking place over the weekend. Friday and Saturday are reserved for practice, with qualification occurring on Saturday afternoon. The times from qualification determine the starting position for the main race on Sunday. A normal MotoGP race takes between 40-45 minutes to complete; the length of each race is 90-130 km depending on the track.
MotoGP riders use motorcycles from the following manufacturers: Ducati, Honda, Suzuki, and Yamaha. The motorcycles provided for MotoGP are specially built racing motorcycles (prototypes). These bikes must follow guidelines specified by MotoGP in regards to engine size and number of cylinders. While the motorcycle manufacturers are common names who produce many different models of bikes you will not find the type of motorcycle used in MotoGP for sale in any showroom. The motorcycles are not for sale to the general public, nor are they street legal. Moto GP works with Shell, Elf, and Repsol to provide fuel for the motorcycles. MotoGP rules state that a maximum of 21 liters of fuel can be used during a race. Fuel balance is an exacting science in MotoGP- a rider needs enough to perform at the higest level, but no one wants to carry extra fuel which can add weight and slow down their times during a race.
The last 62 years have shown huge advances in MotoGP, and the advancement is continuing now. The popularity of MotoGP is sure to keep growing- the motorcycles are getting faster, the riders are more skilled, and the races are more exciting, making MotoGP an entertaining option for all motorcycle fans.