Holeshot and ride-height devices have revolutionized MotoGP starts and noticeably improved lap times – despite technical advantages, their end has been decided
In MotoGP, a brief moment can often make the difference between victory and defeat. This is especially true for the start. This is precisely where one of the most influential innovations of recent years came into play: the so-called holeshot device.
Originally introduced by Ducati towards the end of the 2018 season, the system quickly became the standard in the premier class of motorcycle racing.
The basic principle is as simple as it is effective. By mechanically lowering the motorcycle, the center of gravity is shifted downwards. This prevents the front wheel from rising when accelerating – an effect that not only costs time, but also forces the electronics to reduce power.
The result: a significantly more efficient start with maximum acceleration and optimum traction. The term “holeshot” itself comes from motocross and describes the first position when turning into the first corner, a strategically extremely important moment that often influences the rest of the race.
Mechanics instead of electronics: how the system works
The holeshot device is a purely mechanical system that is activated by the rider immediately before the start. By applying targeted pressure to the bike, the suspension is compressed and then fixed in this position.
Once the race begins, the bike initially remains lowered, which enables aggressive but controlled acceleration. Only when braking hard into the first corner does the lock release automatically. The bike returns to its normal riding position. Important: According to the regulations, the system may only be used at the start and works completely without electronic assistance.
The further development of the ride-height device
What began as a starting aid quickly developed further. Manufacturers transferred the principle to the entire race and developed so-called ride-height devices. These systems – usually hydraulically controlled – lower the rear while driving.
The advantage of this is obvious: when accelerating out of corners, the front wheel remains stable on the ground (fewer wheelies), which means more power can be converted into propulsion. This brings measurable advantages, especially on tracks with long straights or tight corner combinations.
In fact, engineers estimated that teams without this technology sometimes lost up to 0.4 seconds per lap – a huge gap in the tight MotoGP field.
Influence on riding style and race strategy
The introduction of the systems not only changed the technology, but also the riders’ approach. The starts became more aggressive and at the same time more controlled. The importance of the first corner increased further.
Timing also became crucial during the race: drivers had to know exactly when to activate and deactivate the ride height device. Factors such as layout, corner type and race situation play a key role here.
The systems also influence the set-up. Suspension travel, weight distribution as well as tire and brake wear must be adapted to the changed conditions.
Between innovation and risk: criticism of the systems
Despite all the advantages, holeshot and ride height devices have come under increasing criticism. The main reason: safety concerns. Time and again, situations arose in which the systems could not be deactivated as intended.
A blocked system can have a massive impact on driving behavior, especially when braking. In the past, such defects have sometimes led to crashes or races being abandoned. There is also another critical aspect: some drivers deliberately brake particularly hard into the first corner in order to reliably deactivate the system, which poses a potential risk for following drivers.
In addition to safety, the rising development costs and increasing technical complexity also played a role in the discussion about a possible ban.
The end of an era: ban from 2027
The consequence has already been decided: From the 2027 season, all systems for changing the ride height will be banned in MotoGP. This means that both holeshot devices and ride height devices will disappear from the technical arsenal.
The decision is based on several factors. In addition to safety aspects, the main focus is on factors such as cost control and equal opportunities. The extent to which such technologies provide real added value for motorsport or merely increase complexity was also scrutinized.
Holeshot and ride-height devices have had a lasting impact on MotoGP. They made starts more efficient, races faster and strategies more complex. At the same time, however, they also revealed the limits of technological innovation in motorsport – with all its consequences. Within just a few years, the systems went through the entire cycle from groundbreaking innovation to abolition.