Get ready for a wild ride as we dive into the story behind MotoGP's most insane wheelie in recent memory!
A Heart-Stopping Moment
LCR Honda's Somkiat Chantra had a close call during the first practice session for the Portuguese Grand Prix. He accidentally pulled off an epic wheelie, one that could have easily turned into a backflip, and lived to tell the tale. But here's where it gets controversial: Chantra's mistake was a result of trying something different, and it almost cost him dearly.
Chantra explained that he chose a higher gear than the other riders, assuming the power would be lower. Little did he know, the power of a MotoGP bike is no joke! As he went up the hill, the bike started wheelie-ing like there was no tomorrow. He was shocked, and his heart was racing as he realized the gravity of the situation.
"I was surprised, and my heart was shaking! I thought, 'Oh my life, I'm safe!'" Chantra recalled.
And this is the part most people miss: the electronic wheelie control on MotoGP bikes only works up to the fifth gear. Chantra was in sixth gear, and that's where the trouble began.
The Max Biaggi Connection
MotoGP drew comparisons to Max Biaggi's iconic wheelie celebration after winning the premier-class race at Brno in 1998. It's a moment that has become legendary in MotoGP history.
But Chantra's wheelie had a different cause. Fellow Honda rider and 2020 world champion, Joan Mir, shed some light on the incident. According to Mir, it's a common occurrence on modern MotoGP machines, especially for rookies like Chantra. The front wings on these bikes can cause unexpected lift when they rise above a certain elevation.
"Woah, unbelievable!" Mir exclaimed. "Because of the wings, you get downforce until you make a big wheelie, and then it works the opposite way. It's a fine line to manage."
Mir, an experienced rider, knows how to handle these situations. He emphasized the importance of awareness around the elevation changes at the Portimao circuit. Riders must adjust their techniques or make changes to their bikes to prevent such incidents.
"Some use the rear brake, others play with the throttle, and some tweak the electronics. It's all about finding the right balance," Mir explained.
So, there you have it! A thrilling tale of a close call, a lesson learned, and a reminder of the incredible power and precision required in MotoGP racing.
What do you think? Are wheelies an inevitable part of the sport, or should riders and manufacturers do more to prevent such incidents? Let's discuss in the comments!
