How a racing motorcycle is prepared - from set-up to scrutineering

Have you ever wondered what happens behind the scenes before a motorcycle becomes a finely tuned racing machine that rolls out of the pit lane with a roaring engine? The path from the first wrench to approval by race control is a long process that requires a structured approach and a great deal of precision. Every move counts, because even the smallest detail can make the difference between a podium finish and failure. Let's take a look together at how a motorcycle is prepared for tough use on the race track.

Choosing the right motorcycle

Before you even start wrenching, you need the right machine. Depending on the racing class - whether MotoGP, superbike or endurance racing - there are special models that are tailored to the respective requirements. These bikes are a far cry from road bikes. Their aerodynamics are optimized, the chassis is highly developed and they have a wealth of electronics on board.
The basic set-up

The starting point for the future racing machine is the so-called basic set-up. The teams rely on the manufacturer's specifications and, of course, on experience from previous races. This includes

Brake system: Discs and pads must be designed for extreme loads and sudden temperature changes.

Suspension and damping: The basic set-up must match the weight of the driver and the expected conditions.

Tire selection: Compound and size depend on the surface, temperature and tire manufacturer.
Without this foundation, any fine-tuning would be a shot in the dark.

Perfectly adapted to the driver

Whether on the road or on the racetrack: every rider has their own riding style - and the racing motorcycle is tailored precisely to this. This applies in particular to the chassis and geometry. The degree of firmness, the spring preload, the wheelbase or the steering head angle influence whether the bike runs in a stable straight line or can be thrown into corners with agility.

Ergonomics also play a decisive role. The handlebar position, seat height and footrests are adjusted so that the rider can not only ride safely but also in a relaxed manner, even at top speed. A difference of just a few millimeters can decide whether the rider retains full control when entering a corner.

Test drives: the finishing touches on the asphalt

All the modifications and adjustments have been made, now the bike has to prove itself under real conditions on the race track. Track days or special test rides are an ideal opportunity for this. It quickly becomes apparent whether the suspension is too soft, whether the brakes are too aggressive or whether the chassis does not yet provide the necessary stability.

At this stage, the driver's feedback is essential: for example, do they feel too little grip when cornering at speed? Or does the steering feel too sluggish? All this feedback flows directly into the next adjustments. There are more than enough adjustment screws:

• Aerodynamics: Changes to winglets or spoilers for the best possible stability at top speeds.
• Suspension: Hardness and damping must be tuned as finely as possible.
• Electronics: Adaptation of the engine control system for more control over torque and power.
• Tires: Selecting the optimum set of tires for track conditions and weather.

Step by step, these measures turn the motorcycle into a machine that is perfectly tailored to its rider and the track.

The digital heart: electronics and telemetry

Modern racing motorcycles are computers on wheels. At the center is the ECU (Engine Control Unit) , which controls the engine. Parameters such as throttle response, torque curves and even traction control are programmed in this unit. The aim is to elicit maximum performance from the machine while maintaining full controllability.

Telemetry is even more exciting. Numerous sensors record data in real time such as

• Position of the throttle grip
• Movement of the chassis
• RPMs
• Brake pressure

All this information is analyzed in the paddock and is an important component in continuously improving the set-up. This makes the interaction between man and machine a complex science.

One hurdle still needs to be overcome

Before the motorcycle becomes a real racing machine and is allowed to go out on the race track to chase the best times, it has to pass technical scrutineering by the race organizers. This checks whether it complies with the rules of the respective class. This includes specifications on permitted modifications, weight, materials and all safety-relevant components. Only when everything fits is it given the official "go" for use on the track.