Marc Marquez’s daring riding style has been credited with changing the way MotoGP riders prevent crashes — particularly front-end washouts.
In his early career, Marquez stunned the paddock by leaning so far into corners that his elbow often touched the ground. While it looked extreme, the technique was grounded in logic.
James Toseland explained via TNT Sports:
“It’s about feeling the vibration from the front tyre through his arm. Once Marquez realised his elbow could give him feedback earlier than the bike’s front end let go, he was able to react in time and save it. Others didn’t have that early warning — by the time they felt it, it was too late.”
Fellow rider Cal Crutchlow added:
“No one used to save crashes like that. We all tried using the knee, but it wasn’t the same. Now, riders lean off the bike so much that they rely on their elbows — just like Marc started doing. He invented this.”
Neil Hodgson highlighted Marquez’s fearless mindset:
“He realised he could go past the limit and still save it using his elbow. But there’s a cost — and when it goes wrong, you get hurt. Still, if it made him faster, he was willing to risk it.”
Marquez’s aggressive and revolutionary style has led to both record-breaking wins and serious injuries. His 2020 crash in Aragon — returning too quickly from injury — remains his biggest regret.
Despite the setbacks, Marquez currently leads the MotoGP standings. If he clinches the title, he will equal Valentino Rossi’s nine world championships — a milestone that would further solidify his place as one of the greatest riders in the sport’s history.
