The test day in Jerez de la Frontera was useful for trying out a big innovation that will be introduced in the MotoGP in the next few years.
Three MotoGP class riders tested innovative technology during the IRTA test day in Jerez. Dorna has imposed a “no comment” on journalists’ questions.
Radio communications
In the aftermath of Jerez GP, which ended with the victory of Pecco Bagnaia ahead of the factory team KTMs, the MotoGP class returned to the track on Monday for a day of IRTA testing. Each manufacturer has worked on possible aerodynamic and chassis updates, since it is not possible to change the engine specification once the championship has started. The occasion was also useful for the organizers of the Sleep who have tried a new device.
It is a radio communication system unidirectional, which will be used by the Race Direction to communicate urgent messages to the riders while they are on the track. In the event of accidents and red flags, the marshals will launch a pre-recorded audio to invite you to slow down and avoid dramatic consequences. During the test day, three riders experimented with this new technology: Aleix Espargaró, Fabio Quartararo and Jonas Folger. For now, none of them has been able to make statements about it, even if something has leaked.
Audio messages in the future of MotoGP
In the post-test debriefing, Aleix Espargarò it was very clear: “I can’t say anything at all, sorry“. However, it was leaked from the Andalusian paddock that the new radio device is not a classic earphone placed inside the ear, but a system integrated into the helmet to avoid hearing problems or cause possible discomfort in action. It is only a prototype for the moment, the testing phases will continue during the season. Something similar had already been seen in a test at Misano held in 2020 and was tested by Stefan Bradl.
Dorna has also involved the brands that supply suits to the MotoGP riders, since the system consists of a receiver that is hidden in the hump of the suit, from which a small antenna emerges. Fabio Quartararo provided a few more details on the radio system: “Sure it’s good for emergencies, but you should limit yourself to the safety information… It’s also light and small, but not very comfortable. In this regard, the prototype still needs to be adapted“.
