MotoGP could introduce new restrictions on ride-height devices at selected circuits following growing safety concerns from riders.
Discussions took place during the Safety Commission meeting at the French Grand Prix in Le Mans, where several riders warned that the use of front and rear ride-height systems during race starts could create dangerous situations at high-speed tracks.
According to reports, race direction proposed banning the devices for race starts at Le Mans, Silverstone Circuit and Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit. Officials are particularly concerned about the fast and flowing nature of Turn 1 at those venues, where riders arrive at extremely high speeds with reduced control over bike trajectories.
Teams were asked to provide feedback on the proposal, although no rule changes were approved in time for the Le Mans weekend. Had the measure been accepted immediately, MotoGP would have needed to adjust the schedule to allow riders extra practice starts without the systems.
The debate adds to the growing scrutiny surrounding ride-height devices in recent years. Originally introduced to improve acceleration and reduce wheelies during starts, the technology has become a major talking point in the paddock due to both safety and sporting concerns.
MotoGP has already confirmed that all ride-height and holeshot devices will be banned under the new technical regulations coming into force in 2027. The upcoming rules are designed to reduce speeds, improve overtaking opportunities and increase rider safety across the championship.
Even though the Le Mans proposal was delayed, discussions are expected to continue ahead of the rounds at Silverstone in August and Phillip Island in October. If approved, the restriction would effectively serve as an early preview of MotoGP’s post-2027 era, where riders will return to more conventional race starts without electronic or mechanical lowering systems.
