Organisers claim every single timed section of the loop course, which will include a rest day in Ha’il, is completely new and will not use last year’s tracks.
After a test run in at this year’s Dakar, road books will now be handed only minutes before each special in every stage and organisers have said other measures have been implemented to slow down the competitors.
Prior to this year’s Dakar Rally, road books have always been handed out the night before each stage giving riders the chance to study the route and highlight particular instructions. Now, the road book will be given to riders less than 30 minutes before the start of each special, highlighted and ready to use.
Furthermore, the rules have been amended to slow down the vehicles and, in general, to make the race even safer. Aural warnings in the approach to certain difficulties, the definition of “slow zones”, the reduction in the number of tyres available to bikers and the mandatory use of airbag vests will help to curb risks.
