MotoGP 21 is finally here! We absolutely love Milestone's latest MotoGP game and you can find out exactly why in our full review. For a more general guide to how to get used to the game, check out our beginner's guide.
When you start your Managerial mode, Qatar's Losail circuit will be the first you tackle. Whether you choose the full or official calendar for track roster, you'll be coming here at least once.
Here's the setup you need to succeed in the desert!
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Tyres
Tyres are generally softer in 2021, so despite Losail's smooth surface, you'll need a medium on the front axle and a hard on the rear.
Suspension
For MotoGP 21, the suspension options have been broadened to better replicate the real bikes. Qatar's long start/finish straight tempts you to go for straight-line speed, but you need good cornering ability to back it around the back end of the lap.
Front pre-load needs to be low at 2 to allow for more consistent steering around long corners. Oil quality is best at 4, front spring hardness at 5, with the front swingarm compression at 8. Finally, for the front of the bike's suspension, front swingarm extension is ideal at 4.
On the rear, values need to be in and around default for a good compromise. The rear pre-load has to be around 5. The rest of the settings have to be at the default setting of four, although if you're struggling, have a tinker with these.
Vehicle geometry
Steering adjustment has been renamed to vehicle geometry for '21, as these settings now encompass more of the bike. Steering head inclination is required to be all the way up at 8 to aid stability.
The trail has to be at 6, with the steering plate position down at 3. Lastly, the rear swingarm length needs to be around middle of the road at 5.
Transmission
Gear ratios has been renamed as Transmission for MotoGP 21, but they do exactly the same job. The gears have to be set at around default values, with the higher fifth and sixth gears slightly lower to aid acceleration.
Brake System
For 2021, the brake system options have been limited to four options of front brake disc and two for the rear. This better replicates real life, as there aren't unlimited combinations of braking discs available for each race.
For Qatar, the first corner is such a huge braking event that you need the most powerful brakes available for both front and rear. Turn 1 makes the rest of the circuit a challenge to keep the brakes cool, as the only real chance to cool is down the start/ finish straight.
ECU
You'll need a lot of help from the electronic aids in Qatar. Traction Control and Engine Braking need to both be up at the maximum of 5. Anti-wheelie has to be at around 4 to prevent the front wheel from flying off the ground.
Power mapping is best at 3 for a flying lap, but you'll need to turn this around during some points in the race.
All of these can be adjusted out on track using the HUD in the bottom-right of the screen.