Ride Height Device

A Ride Height Device is a mechanical system that temporarily lowers a racing vehicle closer to the ground to improve acceleration and reduce drag during specific parts of a race.

Think of it like a car that can crouch down when it needs extra grip or speed. When a motorcycle or car sits lower to the ground, its center of gravity drops, making it more stable and less likely to lift its front wheels during hard acceleration. This allows drivers and riders to apply more power without losing control.

The most common type is called a "holeshot device," which racers activate before the start of a race. This system compresses the suspension and locks it in place, keeping the vehicle low for maximum acceleration off the starting line. The device automatically releases when the rider brakes for the first turn, returning the suspension to normal height for cornering.

More advanced ride height devices can be used multiple times during a race. In MotoGP motorcycle racing, riders press a button to lower their bike's rear end when exiting corners onto long straightaways. This reduces wind resistance and prevents wheelies, allowing for faster acceleration and higher top speeds.

Motocross riders have used basic versions for decades, manually compressing their front forks before race starts. Meanwhile, premier racing series like MotoGP have seen increasingly sophisticated systems that can adjust ride height on demand throughout a race.

These devices add complexity to racing machines and require skill to use effectively. Riders must time their activation perfectly to gain maximum benefit without compromising their ability to handle corners safely.

Due to safety concerns and the growing complexity of these systems, racing organizations have begun restricting their use. MotoGP has banned front ride height devices and plans to eliminate all ride height devices by 2025, citing safety and cost control as primary reasons.