Aimed at the enthusiast who would like to gain a greater understanding of the technical and design questions facing MotoGP constructors, this fascinating book provides detailed analysis of the cutting-edge technology and the bikes used in the sport's premier class today. Each area of a racing motorcycle's design is explained in down-to-earth language, and separate chapters for each manufacturer trace the development of each machine through to the detailed specification of the current version. For this second edition the book has been updated to include the developments of the first three years of MotoGP's 800cc formula, which was introduced for 2007.

Table of Contents

A brief history of the MotoGP class and how it has evolved, the rules and design concepts. The motorcycle dissected - engine and transmission, electronics, chassis, suspension, brakes, wheels and tyres, aerodynamics. The constraints of packaging, the interrelation of the component parts. Individual makes - initial design, problems and solutions, development since launch, future direction. Yamaha, Honda, Ducati, Suzuki, Kawasaki, Proton, Aprilia, WCM. Major updates for the second edition include coverage of manufacturers' 800cc machines, electronic throttles, pneumatic valves, big bang theory, chatter and Nicky Hayden's special 990.

Author Biography

Former team owner Neil Spalding, who raced motorcycles for over 25 years, runs Sigma Performance, a specialist Ducati workshop and website. He is well-known in the MotoGP paddocks and pit lane as he attends most races as a journalist, writing for Motor Cycle News among others.