IN-DEPTH: 990s & the birth of modern MotoGP

This week, in the second episode of a special five-part series, host Toby Moody is joined once again by renowned MotoGP engineer Tom Jojic for a deep dive into MotoGP’s popular 990 era.

Grand Prix racing’s premier class officially became known as MotoGP in 2002, as sweeping new rules and regulations were introduced that brought 990cc four-stroke bikes onto the grid. The era would run until the end of 2006, during which time we were treated to some incredible bikes, the introduction of amazing new technology, classic rivalries, a tyre war, new races in new locations, and the unstoppable rise of Valentino Rossi. 

Our hosting duo dive into all of the above, plus discuss the origins of the 990 formula, look at the key technical differences between the leading manufacturers throughout the era, and weigh in on other key changes, like the introduction of flag-to-flag wet races. 

And as if that wasn’t enough, Tom takes listeners inside the world of Team Roberts - the team he was working for at the time - as they joined forces with the likes of KTM and (thrillingly for Tom) Honda. 

Got a question for the show? Send a voicenote to [email protected]

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