The world of MotoGP is no stranger to innovation, and Ducati‘s latest project is a testament to that spirit. In the heart of Valencia’s Ricardo Tormo Circuit, a revolutionary concept was born and refined, setting the stage for a new era in motorcycle racing. This project, shrouded in secrecy, has been a game-changer, yet its implementation has not been without challenges.
At the core of this project is the SLD (Suspension Load Distribution) system, a complex mechanism designed to enhance the bike’s performance. The system’s intricacy lies in its ability to lower the bike and limit the shock stroke, a feat that requires a delicate balance of rigidity and adaptability. This balance, as explained by Ducati’s technician Barana, is crucial for the rider’s comfort and the bike’s
The SLD System: A Double-Edged Sword
The SLD system, while advantageous, presents a unique set of challenges. Its complexity requires riders to adapt to a new way of handling the bike, a process that can be time-consuming and demanding. The system’s harsh feeling, as described by Barana, can be a complaint for riders unaccustomed to its unique characteristics. However, the potential benefits of the SLD system are undeniable, with riders like Marc Márquez showcasing its capabilities through a series of impressive victories.
Yet, the system’s complexity has not been without its drawbacks. Francesco Bagnaia, Ducati’s double world champion, struggled with front grip and other issues, highlighting the delicate balance between innovation and practical implementation. The SLD system’s influence on the bike’s performance has been a topic of vague responses from riders, underscoring the sensitive nature of technical information in the high-stakes world of MotoGP.
The Role of Öhlins in Ducati’s Success
Öhlins, a key player in the MotoGP grid, has been instrumental in Ducati’s success. The company, which supplies components to 18 of the 22 teams, has been able to satisfy Ducati’s objectives while maintaining high-level provisions to other teams. The company’s ability to provide custom solutions, tailored to each manufacturer’s specific needs, has been a significant factor in its success.
Öhlins’ management describes the company as ‘almost a single supplier company but with a factory feel,’ a testament to its ability to balance the needs of multiple teams. The company’s strength lies in its ability to make special designs in a couple of weeks, a capability that has been crucial in the fast-paced world of MotoGP. Despite facing competition from KTM-owned WP Suspension, Öhlins has maintained its position as a leading supplier in the MotoGP grid.
The Future of MotoGP: The 2027 Revolution
As the MotoGP world prepares for the 2027 revolution, with the introduction of new 850cc engines and other technical changes, the role of suspension manufacturers like Öhlins and WP Suspension will be more critical than ever. The new regulations, aimed at containing performance and increasing safety, will require manufacturers to find innovative solutions to the challenges posed by the new rulebook.
Ducati, with its Corse division led by renowned technician Gigi Dall’Igna, is already charged with the task of finding these solutions. The division, a mix of expertise and youthful graduates from prestigious technical universities in Italy, is at the forefront of MotoGP’s technical evolution. As the 2027 season approaches, the world of MotoGP is poised for a new era of innovation and challenge.
