Moto GP Racing

There are two main motorcycle events in the world, the Moto GP and World Superbike. Moto GP refers to the Grand Prix of motorcycle racing and is considered by many to be the premier global motorcycling event in the world.

The Moto GP features special prototype motorcycles that are not available for purchase by the general public, with three different engine categories 125cc, 250cc and up to 990cc. For safety reasons, this upper engine class limit will be reduced to 800cc in 2007. This is very different from World Superbike, which features specially modified motorcycles of those sold to the public.

Motorcycle racing, as we know it today in the Moto GP form, began its life around 1949, after World War II and was very much Europe-centered. Although there are Moto GP fans around the world now, because of its historical racing roots in Europe, Moto GP remains fairly Europe-centered, even today. In fact, the largest number of Moto GP fans were and still are Italians, where most of the initial technological innovations took place and where many of the great motorcycle drivers originated from.

The Moto GP currently features a 17-race season, which runs from April to November. Although called a worldwide championship, 11 out of the 17 races in 2005 were held in Europe. Some of the non-European tracks featured, include the Twin Ring Motegi track in Japan, the Losail Circuit in Qatar and Shanghai in China.

The Moto GP is a must-watch for any motorcycle enthusiast. The current era is currently being dominated by Valentino Rossi who is rapidly becoming the most successful rider ever and has so far one 7 championships before his thritieth birthday. Find further details on the racing schedule and tracks at the links listed below.