MotoGP has evolved over the years to become the F1 of the 2 wheeler world. Since it began in 2002, the world has seen the very highest levels of 4-stroke motorcycles. Over 180 pages of content. Niel Spalding has done beautiful work preparing this book, which is filled to the brim with photographs, and covers in-depth aspects of MotoGP Technology, showing the reader how the top MotoGP factory teams compete at the very highest level of 2 wheeler motorsport.
Spalding writes about the main teams, including new entrant WCM, giving information on the engines and frames used. My only gripe is that MotoGP Technology: The Official Book doesn’t really go in-depth into the engineering side of things, but there are other books for that.
MotoGP Technology: The Official Book covers the start of the 990cc, 4-strokes to 2006, the last year of the 990cc formula. Much of the book covers developments, team-by-team, and further sections cover components. The ‘teams’ sections provide an in-depth look at each team’s machine development & progress over the years, while the components sections cover specific parts of the bike, like frames, valve technologies, suspension, etc. After reading MotoGP Technology, you will understand how engine rotation affects handling during acceleration/deceleration, and how engine firing pulses, “Big Bang” for example, affect ‘rideability’ and traction.
Arguably, the author tries to cover a LOT of information such little space, so die-hard fans may have some issues with the book, as things move on there could be more info released which may warrant a 2nd Edition. Nevertheless, Niel Spalding covers the 990cc MotoGP Formula well and MotoGP Technology: The Official Book makes a good buy for all but the most jaded motoring fan!
Rating: 4/5 Stars
Contributor: Ben Corley
After dabbling for years in the IT industry, Paul Tan initially began this site as a general blog covering various topics of personal interest. With an increasing number of readers paying rapt attention to the motoring stories, one thing led to another and the rest, as they say, is history. An avid electronic gadget aficionado as well as big-time coffee lover, he's also the executive producer of the Driven motoring TV programme.
Good to know that you are reviewing books. Please do more.
I remember writing to a lot of teams in 99-00 begging to go to 4-stroke, just hatted the buzzing sound of 2strokers. These days I don't mind watching the 125cc buzzbombs but this MotoGP book looks good. I just picked up a copy at Kinokuniya, KLCC. Good stuff!
good stuff it is!
I must say Paul, would be nice if you can cover abit on bikes from time to time, though i know most of the readers here are into cars, me included.
I still miss the year that Michael Doohan dominating its class.
After he had an accident and retired, i no longer watching moto grand prix but already switch to Formula 1. I also miss Michael Schumacher.
Just feel that the Motogp riders are more talented than F1 drivers.