Ride Height Device

A ride height device is a mechanical system that temporarily lowers a motorcycle closer to the ground during acceleration, reducing wheelies and improving traction for faster speeds out of corners.

When a motorcycle accelerates hard, especially coming out of a turn, the front wheel naturally wants to lift off the ground in a wheelie. While this might look exciting, it's actually a problem for racers because power that should push the bike forward is instead lifting the front end up. A ride height device solves this by physically lowering the rear of the motorcycle, which keeps both wheels planted on the track and allows the rider to use full throttle sooner.

The system works by compressing the rear suspension and locking it in a lowered position. The rider activates this device using a button on the handlebar, typically when exiting a corner onto a straight section of track. Once the rider brakes for the next corner, the suspension compresses naturally and the device automatically releases, returning the bike to its normal height.

These devices originated from "holeshot" systems used in motocross racing, which helped riders get better starts off the starting line. Ducati brought this technology to MotoGP racing in 2018 with a rear ride height device that could be used multiple times throughout a race, not just at the start. This innovation gave Ducati riders a significant advantage, allowing them to accelerate harder and earlier than competitors.

Other manufacturers quickly developed their own versions, and the technology evolved further to include front ride height devices. These front systems lowered the entire motorcycle even more, providing additional aerodynamic benefits by reducing the bike's frontal area and improving airflow.

Beyond preventing wheelies, ride height devices offer aerodynamic advantages. A lower motorcycle creates less wind resistance and generates more downforce from aerodynamic fairings, which helps the bike stick to the track better at high speeds.

However, this technology has sparked debate in the racing community. Critics argue that ride height devices reduce the importance of rider skill, since managing wheelies and throttle control traditionally separated great riders from good ones. The devices essentially automate part of what used to require expert technique.

Due to these concerns, MotoGP officials introduced new regulations. Front ride height devices were banned starting in the 2023 season. Looking further ahead, all ride height devices, including rear systems, will be completely banned from MotoGP beginning in 2027. Race organizers made this decision to restore the emphasis on rider ability and keep the sport competitive based on human skill rather than technological advantages.