Repsol YPF
Ruta
Sepang, an up-to-date circuit
The Sepang circuit hosts this weekend`s Malaysian GP. Everybody agrees that the most striking feature of this race is the high temperatures the riders have to put up with, but in addition the circuit in Malaysia is a little peculiar. Technically the riders have to make a big physical effort because of its special characteristics. On the other hand its large, modern installations are equipped with the latest technology.
Constructed in 1998 Sepang is the third circuit in Malaysia to host a GP race. It was held at the Shar Alam for seven years and at the Johor track just once. The track`s design as well as the installations were created by the German architect Hermann Tilke, he would later design the tracks in Shanghai and Bahréin as well.
The installations in Sepang are an authentic reference point for other circuits. This circuit has large pits with the latest equipment and are designed to make things very comfortable for the riders and their teams. Dani Pedrosa emphasises this aspect on his blog “The pits have an office with bathroom where we can have a shower and change, something we are grateful for because it is always very hot”.
Sepang has three circuits, as there are others for zones for karts and motocross. The main track, 5.5km long, is used for motorbike racing. The most notable feature is the interior straight that separates the main straight in the pit zone with a small hairpin. The riding style has to be more technical than at other circuits and a lap is very varied since it has some sections and corners that are very different. All this together with the high temperatures that leave their mark on the riders, Sepang drains them of their strength.
Circuit characteristics
Sepang
Year of inauguration: 1998
Length: 5 548m.
Width: 25m.
Right-handers: 10
Left-handers: 5
Longest straight: 920m.
10/16/2008
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