MotoGP Rules

MotoGP is motorcycle road racing at its highest level. Featuring four-stroke, 800cc engines, bikes can reach speeds of more than 215 mph at some of the most historic race tracks worldwide. Rules set by the motorcycle racing governing body Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) ensure a fair and level playing field for all riders.

  1. Weight Limits

    • Unlike many other forms of racing, not all MotoGP cycles have the same weight limit; rather, the limit for each bike is determined by the type of motor it has. Bikes can have anywhere from two to six cylinders, with cycles with less cylinders having a lower weight limit. This limit can vary from 133kg to 163kg.

      Having different weight limits ensures parity between the various styles of cycles, adding variety to the sport. In the MotoGP level, the weights do not include the riders, and bikes are weighed before the end of a practice session or race. Because of the extremely light weights of the materials used in construction, additional ballast can be added to reach the minimum weight.

    Tire Regulations

    • At the beginning of each week, the teams are given an allotment of 20 Bridgestone tires for practice, qualifying and the main race. These are "slick" front and rear tires without treads of two different compounds. In addition, four "wet" tires are available with treads for rainy conditions. If conditions change from dry to wet during a race, officials can decide to let riders change tires--and bikes--once during the week.

    The Race Start

    • The starting grid is determined by each rider's best time during a one-hour qualifying session. The race begins from a standing start, with the riders lined up in rows of three. A series of lights counts down to the green light which starts the race. If a rider jumps the start, they are penalized by being forced to drive through the pit lane at a maximum speed of 60 km/h before rejoining the race.

    Flags & Lights

    • There are a variety of flags and lights used to communicate information to riders during the course of the race. Green lights and flags mean the the track is open for full speed racing. Yellow flags are used to indicate danger on the track, and riders are required to slow down and not pass until a green flag is shown. A checkered flag indicates the end of the race. If a rider is shown a blue flag, that means he is about to be lapped and must let the lead rider pass them.