Marc Marquez on Why Nobody Rides Like Casey Stoner Anymore
In the world of MotoGP, few riders have left as lasting an impression as Casey Stoner. The Australian rider, known for his raw speed and fearless style, dominated the championship in 2007 and 2011, riding for Ducati and Honda, respectively. However, in recent years, his unique riding style seems to have faded from the MotoGP grid. Marc Marquez, a six-time MotoGP World Champion and a dominant force in the sport, recently offered insights into why nobody rides like Stoner anymore.
Casey Stoner was renowned for his ability to extract the maximum performance from any bike, particularly the notoriously difficult Ducati Desmosedici. His ability to slide the bike into corners, manage the throttle with precision, and his fearless approach to overtaking made him a formidable competitor. Stoner’s style was aggressive, yet controlled—he could push the limits of his bike in ways that few could replicate.
Stoner’s dominance was partly due to his natural talent, but also his unique understanding of the bike’s dynamics. He had an unparalleled ability to feel what the bike was doing beneath him, allowing him to make adjustments in real time. This skill, combined with his mental toughness, made him a two-time world champion and one of the most respected riders of his era.
Marc Marquez, who himself is known for his aggressive riding style and remarkable saves, believes that the evolution of MotoGP bikes and technology has played a significant role in why Stoner’s style is no longer seen on the grid. In a recent interview, Marquez explained that modern MotoGP bikes are very different from the machines that Stoner rode.
“The bikes now are much more sophisticated, with electronics playing a huge role in how they handle,” Marquez said. “The level of control you have over the bike through the electronics is much higher, which means there’s less room for the kind of sliding and wild riding that Stoner was famous for.”
Marquez also pointed out that the evolution of tire technology has contributed to the change in riding styles. “The tires we use now are different from what Stoner had. They require a more precise riding style, with less sliding and more focus on maximizing grip. The bikes are faster and more stable, but they also demand a different approach.”
Another factor that Marquez highlighted is the increasing emphasis on precision in modern MotoGP. With the development of more advanced electronics, including traction control, launch control, and anti-wheelie systems, riders are now able to manage the bike’s power more effectively. This has shifted the focus from raw aggression to precision and consistency.
“Stoner was amazing because he could control the bike in a way that no one else could,” Marquez noted. “But now, the bikes don’t require that same level of manual control. It’s more about finding the perfect line, managing tire wear, and being consistent over the race distance.”
Marquez also mentioned that the increased competition in MotoGP has led to a more calculated approach among riders. “The level of competition is so high now that you can’t afford to make mistakes. Everyone is pushing to the limit, but in a more controlled way. It’s a different challenge from what Stoner faced.”
Despite the changes in the sport, Marquez is quick to acknowledge the impact that Casey Stoner had on MotoGP. “Stoner was a legend, and his style was something special. Even though the bikes have changed and no one rides quite like him anymore, his influence is still felt. He showed us what was possible on a MotoGP bike, and that’s something that will always be remembered.”
Marquez’s comments reflect a deep respect for Stoner’s achievements and a recognition of how much the sport has evolved. While nobody rides like Casey Stoner anymore, his legacy as one of the greatest MotoGP riders of all time remains secure.
