Ducati introduced the modern MotoGP winglet era in 2015 with its GP15 motorcycle.
Ducati’s aerodynamic winglets appeared prominently on the Desmosedici GP15 during the 2015 season. Their purpose was to generate aerodynamic downforce, helping keep the front wheel on the ground during acceleration and improving stability under braking. The development was associated especially with Ducati engineer Gigi Dall’Igna.
Wing-shaped devices had appeared in motorcycle racing before 2015, so Ducati did not invent every earlier motorcycle aero experiment. Its importance was bringing the concept into a sustained, high-profile MotoGP development programme. Rival manufacturers soon investigated and adopted their own aerodynamic solutions.
The exposed winglets became controversial because of safety concerns and questions about their effect in close racing. MotoGP regulations prohibited the original external winglet designs for 2017, but manufacturers continued developing aero fairings that incorporated similar aerodynamic effects within the bodywork.