Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya guide: riding at Montmeló

The Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, known as Montmeló, is the reference circuit for most riders making their first steps on track in Catalonia. At 4.655 km with 13 corners, it combines technical zones, heavy braking points and two long straights that let riders explore their bike's speed in a controlled environment.

General description

Located in Montmeló, roughly 25 km north of Barcelona, the circuit opened in 1991 and hosts the Spanish MotoGP Grand Prix. Its layout demands technical precision in sector one, commitment at the braking points in sector two, and smooth flow through sector three, which ends at the long main straight.

Sectors and key zones

• Turns 1-2-3 (Elf): Heavy braking from the main straight, multiple downshifts, first apex uphill. The reference zone for learning to brake late.
• Turn 5 (Repsol): Fast downhill corner. Requires confidence, but it is where a lot of time can be gained with a good line.
• Turns 7-8-9 (chicane): Technical direction-change sequence. Smooth transitions between trailing the throttle and reopening make the difference.
• Turn 10 (La Caixa): Big braking point followed by an increasing-radius corner. Good place to work on progressive throttle application.
• Turn 13 (final corner): Fast right-hander leading onto the main straight. The earlier you can open the throttle, the better.

Which level is it suited for?

Montmeló works for all levels when the organizer runs level-based groups. Beginners can learn their reference points in a well-marked circuit with good run-off areas. Intermediate and advanced riders have room to work on pace and technique without restrictions. It is one of the most complete circuits for progressing across every area of riding.

How to get there

• By car: AP-7 motorway, exit Granollers Nord / Montmeló. Approximately 25 minutes from Barcelona.
• By public transport: Rodalies commuter rail (R2 Nord line) stopping at Montmeló. Short distance from the station to the circuit entrance.
• Parking available at the circuit for vans and trailers.

What to bring

Check oil, coolant, brake pads and chain before leaving home. Bring spare fuel as the circuit does not always have a fuel station available during track days. If you are unsure about tyre pressures, ask the tyre service on site or the organizer.

Start riding at Montmeló

Check upcoming track days at Montmeló or sign up for a riding course if this is your first time on this layout. Learning your reference points before pushing the pace makes all the difference.