From the Austrian GP, the first version of a stability control system is coming to MotoGP. Stability control is a system that reduces engine torque when/if the bike slides, reducing that slide. It’s slightly different to traction control, which instead reacts to the tyre spinning.
The new stability control system is a unified software update teams can use with the spec ECU. The ECU – electronic control unit – is supplied to all teams by Marelli. Each weekend, teams then choose which of the unified software versions they will run based on the allowed options for the Grand Prix. This weekend in Austria, a new version – including this stability control update – will be made available for the first time. Most if not all teams are expected to use it.
MotoGP is committed to increasing the safety of the sport. Development on the stability control system began in order to take another step forward in that mission, as it further decreases the likelihood of highside crashes. Thanks to the extensive collaboration between MotoGP, ECU supplier Marelli and the MSMA - the manufacturers’ association - the system can now make its debut this weekend.