In MotoGP, riders touch the ground with their foot before leaning the bike into a turn for a technique known as "knee-down." While it may seem counterintuitive, there are several reasons why riders employ this technique:
Balance and Stability: By extending their leg and touching the ground, riders lower their center of gravity and gain additional balance and stability during the turn. It helps them maintain control of the bike while leaning it at high speeds.
Reference Point: The contact between the rider's knee and the ground serves as a reference point, allowing them to gauge the maximum lean angle without risking a fall. It provides a tactile indication of how far they can lean the bike before losing traction.
Confidence and Feedback: The physical contact with the ground gives riders a sense of confidence and feedback. It helps them feel the dynamics of the motorcycle and the track surface, making split-second adjustments to optimize their positioning and cornering technique.
Body Positioning: Leaning the bike while keeping the inside foot on the pegs can limit the rider's ability to position their body optimally for the turn. By extending the inside leg, riders can shift their body weight to the inside, counterbalancing the lean and improving control.
It's important to note that not all MotoGP riders employ the knee-down technique. Some riders, particularly those with a smooth and refined riding style, may prefer to keep both feet on the pegs and achieve similar results. Ultimately, it comes down to individual rider preference and riding style.