Why do some MotoGP riders stick out their legs just before entering a corner?

I read an article about this and it started with Rossi. He just did it because it felt good but there was absolutely no difference in lap times. The other riders saw this and thought "Hmm, rossi is doing it so I should try it"

That's about all there is to it.

Rossi seems to get the credit for starting it. But many riders have been known to use this method. perhaps not as frequently as Rossi.

There are many theories as to whether it helps or not.

Im with the weight transfer thinkers.

Think of the weight in one of your legs, throw that to one side. (it used to just be left handers- Right turns often needed rear brake ) Not only have you shifted the weight but you have created a lot of wind drag too.

in a race where 0.001 matters, that little bit extra in the turn may be worth the risk of snapping a leg if it snaps up. which is the down side to having a leg out there.

Plus you have to think of the strength needed to stick a leg out at 200mph - the wind force is massive. and your trying to stop yourself being thrown over the bars under braking as it is.

It might look easy, and even considered by some as a point too far and a panic reaction. But it takes a great amount of skill to do it at race pace.

MX riders shift the weight to the front wheel and (sometimes) slide the foot, Not quite the same thing.

And before Rossi, there was "knee-dragging". I think Paul Smart started that.

Hebehbee

Transfer of weight balance.

Nothing to do with MX.

sooooo simple Transfer of weight balance.