What is an Apex in Motorcycle Racing?
A Guide from Jacobsen Motorcycle Training…
When it comes to motorcycle racing, the apex is a concept that separates casual riders from those truly mastering the art of cornering. At Jacobsen Motorcycle Training, led by the accomplished PJ Jacobsen, understanding and mastering the apex is one of the cornerstone skills we teach. But what exactly is an apex, and why is it so important in motorcycle racing and advanced riding?
Defining the Apex
In motorcycle racing, the apex refers to the innermost point of a corner that a rider aims to hit while navigating a turn. It’s the sweet spot that maximizes speed, control, and efficiency. The apex isn’t a fixed point but rather depends on the corner’s geometry and the rider’s approach.
Hitting the apex correctly is crucial for minimizing lap times and ensuring the smoothest line through a corner. However, there’s more to the story—it’s not just about hitting the apex but choosing the right apex.
Types of Apexes
There are three main types of apexes riders encounter, each suited to different situations on the track:
- Early Apex
- This occurs when the rider reaches the apex earlier in the turn.
- Typically used in slower corners or to prioritize a strong exit.
- Risk: It can compromise stability and lead to over-speeding into the latter part of the corner.
- Mid-Apex
- This is the classic racing line where the apex is at the middle of the corner.
- Balances entry and exit speeds, making it versatile for many track layouts.
- Late Apex
- A late apex is closer to the corner exit.
- Prioritizes a faster exit speed, especially useful in long straights following the corner.
- Offers better vision through the turn, enhancing control and safety.
The Science Behind the Apex
Cornering is all about physics: maintaining balance, controlling momentum, and managing the forces acting on the bike. By targeting the right apex, you’re optimizing the bike’s lean angle, throttle control, and line through the turn.
The ultimate goal is to reduce braking time, maintain higher average speeds, and ensure a smooth transition from one section of the track to the next.
Training for the Perfect Apex
At Jacobsen Motorcycle Training, PJ Jacobsen and his team focus on refining your cornering technique to find the ideal apex. Here’s what you can expect:
- Track Walks and Analysis
- Understand the layout of the track, corner geometries, and potential apex points.
- Learn how to adapt your line to different situations, whether it’s wet conditions or tight competition.
- Throttle and Brake Control Drills
- Practice managing your speed as you approach, hit, and exit the apex.
- Fine-tune your ability to trail brake and smoothly accelerate out of corners.
- On-Bike Apex Coaching
- Real-time feedback as you navigate turns, helping you adjust your body position, entry angle, and throttle inputs.
- Video Analysis
- Review footage of your laps to pinpoint areas for improvement.
- See how your technique evolves as you implement training tips.
Why Train with PJ Jacobsen?
PJ Jacobsen’s expertise in motorcycle racing brings unmatched insights into mastering the apex. With years of professional racing experience and a passion for coaching, Jacobsen Motorcycle Training is designed to elevate your skills, whether you’re a novice rider or a competitive racer.
Apex Mastery for Every Rider
Understanding and mastering the apex is not just a racing skill—it’s a gateway to becoming a more confident and skilled rider. At Jacobsen Motorcycle Training, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, helping you sharpen your technique and conquer the track with precision.
Ready to find your apex? Let’s get started. Book your training session with PJ Jacobsen today!