Riders in motorbike Grands Prix take corners very quickly by leaning sharply into hands , scraping their Knee against the track. This is called the 'knee down' position. For protection, they have tough nylon knee pads sewn into their leathers.
Which motorbike racers have three wheels?
Sidecar Race bikes have three wheels. The sidecar isn't powered, but the second rider provides vital balance. On corners, the sidecar rider leans out, for extra roadholding, and the driver hardly has to reduce speed.
Amazing!
Some bikes have tires with metal spikes sticking from them, for riding on ice. The spikes pierce the icy surface and stop the bike from skidding. Without them, both bike and rider would go flying!
Is it true that motorbike races last only one hour ?
No. Different races have different lengths. The famous Le Mans race in France, for example, lasts for an exhaust 24 hours, while speedway races are often run over just four laps (1,300 yards) and lasts for about a minute!
Which motorbikes don't have brakes?
Speedway race bikes don't have brakes. Instead, the bike slows to an almost instant halt, as soon as the throttle is released. Riders wear extra sturdy steel boots, which they grind into the dirt, to bring the bike to a final standstill.
