Absolute limit : 450cc
The operation to reduction engine power, introduced during the 2010 edition is now coming into full force. The rule which was initially applied to the elite riders has now been extended to all motorcyclists : the cubic capacity of their engines must not exceed 450cc. The measure has already encouraged several manufacturers to become involved in the sport. It also responds to the need for moderation in terms of both safety and of the environmental impact.
Modifications to engines : new penalties
In long-distance rallies, physical and technical performance must be coupled with endurance, which includes paying the greatest attention to equipment. This year, motorcyclists who modify their engines (including the first time they do so) will be penalised. The penalty scale will be as follows :
1st modification : 15 minutes
2nd modification : 45 minutes
3rd and subsequent modifications : 2 hours
A «semi-marathon» stage
On the evening of the 11th stage, motorcycle and quad riders will be accommodated in a specific bivouac. This should enable them to avoid a lengthy liaison section the following morning. An additional constraint has been introduced, as assistance vehicles will not have access to this bivouac. Vehicles will be parked in a maintenance area, to which only competitors who are involved in the race will have access.
Reduction of engine power
Changes to the rules for motorcycles have inspired a similar approach to the quad category, with the introduction of restrictions on engine power. Thus, for two-wheeled motor vehicles, the limit is set at 750cc (for four-stroke engines only, and 500cc for two-stroke engines) and for four-wheeled motor vehicles at 900cc.
Prototypes... with original engines
Changes to the rules made by the FIA encourage manufacturers to design vehicles with non-modified engines. In order to bring itself into line with this movement, from this year onwards, the Dakar has created an open class for cars meeting these criteria. Ultimately, widespread use of these prototypes will lead to a reduction in costs and a levelling of performance which should attract new manufacturers.
Download the Car / Truck regulations (.pdf, 1.3 Mo)
Download the Moto / Quad regulations (.pdf, 1.2 Mo)
At the same time as the approach begun in motorcycle category, to level partially the mechanical performance of the vehicles and to open the race to all the machines of the market a limitation of the capacity was decided in the quad category. Find all the technical details on the quad regulations extract.
Download the Quad regulations extract (.pdf, 1 page, 178 ko)
The nature of the types of terrain and ground, the weather risks, the dangerousness of some routes and tracks and the crossings of the Cordillera make regulations necessary for vehicles admitted in the assistance category. All the novelties are presented on the regulations extract downloadable below.
Download the Assistance regulations extract (.pdf, 3 pages, 178 ko)
community