Bikers' Days Bikers’Days Introduce Sector-Based Slow Zones at Spa-Francorchamps

The Circuit of Spa-Francorchamps is undoubtedly the favourite and most visited track for motorcyclists who enjoy speed and excitement. It is therefore naturally the backbone of the Bikers’Days calendar, with all events organized under the best possible safety conditions.

A circuit of this length obviously requires efficient management of any incident. Until now, the approach was simple: as soon as a problem occurred on track, even a minor one, the session was stopped with a red flag. DG Sport wanted to improve this situation after observing the latest Fun Cup race held on the same circuit.

“The sector-based Slow Zone system was introduced there to avoid reducing speed across the entire track because of a trip into the gravel trap or a minor technical issue,” explains Florian Jupsin of DG Sport. “By limiting the neutralisation to just one of the three sectors of the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, we reduce both downtime and the loss of rhythm for riders. From June 7 onwards, this system will be implemented. Illuminated ‘SZ’ panels will indicate the neutralised zone. Within that zone, the speed limit will be 80 km/h and overtaking will be strictly prohibited. Riders must also remain on the left-hand side of the track.”

For DG Sport, this represents an alternative to the usual red flags, which often result in lost track time.

“This is a major improvement, provided everyone respects the illuminated signals indicating the Slow Zone,” continues Florian Jupsin. “If participants fail to comply with the rules, we will return to the traditional session stoppages. The responsibility clearly lies with the riders.”

As a reminder, the Bikers’Days programme at Spa-Francorchamps begins on Sunday, June 7, and continues on Friday June 12, Saturday June 13 and Sunday June 14 (during SpaItalia), Tuesday June 30 and Wednesday July 1, Friday July 31, Saturday August 1 and Sunday August 2 (during SpaAsia), Friday August 14, Saturday August 15 and Sunday August 16 (during the Bikers’Festival), and finally Friday September 11 and Saturday September 12, bringing the season in the heart of the Ardennes to a close.

With so many dates already scheduled, the new sector-based Slow Zone system should significantly increase effective track time for riders.

See you in Spa!