Martin, Ogura ride-height issues persist despite MotoGP holeshot ban

Jorge Martin and Ai Ogura encountered rear ride-height device problems at the start of the British Grand Prix, despite MotoGP's ban on front holeshot devices. This incident underscores that the prohibition does not fully eliminate technical risks during the critical race-start phase.

Martin, starting from pole position, lost the lead after running wide at Turn 1, while Ogura also dropped down the order due to a similar issue. Replays showed the rear sections of both bikes dragging on the asphalt, indicating the ride-height devices failed to disengage. Despite the setback, Martin recovered to finish second, whereas Ogura crashed out later in the race.

Silverstone marked only the second weekend since MotoGP banned holeshot devices following a crash-filled Catalan GP. However, all bikes still feature a rear ride-height device used for acceleration out of slow corners and deployed at the start for better launches. This rear device caused the problems for both Martin and Ogura.

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Unlike previous complaints that often blamed the device, both riders accepted responsibility this time. "I didn't start really well – or well, Raul started much better than me. I could hear his bike," Martin explained. "I was too optimistic trying to keep the first position, so I didn't brake enough and my rear device didn't come back."

Ogura, also on an Aprilia, stated the issue did not put him in danger. "I forgot to brake hard enough to unlock the rear. I lost a couple of positions, but nothing scary," the Japanese rider said. A stuck rear ride-height device can severely compromise the bike's turning ability.

This incident highlights that riders may continue to face ride-height issues at starts until the devices are explicitly outlawed in 2027 with the advent of the 850cc era. Some manufacturers have developed more sophisticated systems, fueling debates about a complete ban for safety reasons. Several riders have called for an expedited ban on rear devices, though some believe start crashes are inevitable regardless.

To mitigate risks, MotoGP has also increased the grid spacing between riders from three to four meters starting with the German GP. This measure aims to provide more safety margin at starts, given that modern aerodynamics make close following difficult during the race.