MotoGP explains stricter aero regulations and 'check-in box' for 2019
MotoGP has moved to clarify its stricter aerodynamic regulations for 2019, with a "check-in box" to be used to test the legality of the new designs
The championship announced a new set of rules surrounding aero fairings in July, most notably banning the practice of manufacturers using bodywork with removable parts that can be added at certain tracks depending on their aerodynamic requirements.
It was also confirmed that fairing designs would be subject to "new limitations" in size, which were left undefined.
Now MotoGP technical director Danny Aldridge has specified the exact changes, and he says a new airline-style metal box will be used to check that fairings comply to the new limits.
"We have restricted the aero-body in size to some extent," said Aldridge. "Whereas before it was 600mm all the way through, from top to bottom, we now have a new dimension that the bike must fit.
"The top area is still 600mm. The lowest section, below 550mm [off the ground] is 550mm wide, above 550mm is 600mm wide.
"The way we will control is we will build a check-in box, basically the bike will have to fit inside this structure. It is a box that's within the parameters of the regulations.
"What we've agreed with the manufacturers, we will more likely push the check-in box onto the bike, rather than the other way round.
"The bike will stay in position, the forks will be set at a certain length, and the back wheel will be slightly off by a maximum of 2 or 3mm, and then we will push the check-in box in.
"If the bike fits inside, it's within the rules; if it doesn't fit, it's technically illegal."
Aldridge said that not all of the existing fairings will fit the new dimensions, but refused to be drawn on which manufacturers would have to modify their designs.
MotoGP teams this year were restricted to one 'evolution' fairing on top of their base design, which could be introduced at any point in the year - something Honda and Ducati have taken advantage of.
Aldridge confirmed this will continue to be the case next season, although the front fender may be changed independently of the main part of the fairing.
"As per 2018, manufacturers will still be permitted one upgrade of the fairing per season," he said. "The manufacturer has the right to upgrade as and when they wish.
"The aero body is defined in two parts; the main fairing and then the front fender. They have the option to upgrade the main fairing and the front fender at separate times."
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| Series | MotoGP |
| Teams | AB Motoracing |
| Author | Jamie Klein |
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