Aprilia’s new 850cc MotoGP engine is generating excitement as it undergoes testing, with the company expressing considerable satisfaction with its performance. This comes in anticipation of the upcoming technical regulations set to take effect in 2027, which promise to bring significant changes to the sport.
While Aprilia remains tight-lipped about the timeline for unveiling their 850cc engine, the enthusiasm is palpable. "The 850cc engine is prepared and operational," stated Massimo Rivola, the CEO of Aprilia Racing, in an interview with Crash.net. He elaborated, "We are genuinely pleased with the progress we are making on the test bench with this engine."
Rivola went on to clarify that while the bike's development is ongoing, it is not currently a top priority. "It's certainly a work in progress. Although it isn't our immediate focus, we know that it will become more important in the future. Right now, Noale is quite busy with various projects."
This season has been particularly successful for Aprilia in MotoGP, highlighted by the impressive performance of newcomer Marco Bezzecchi, who finished third overall in the championship standings. Additionally, the RS-GP motorcycle secured victories in three out of the last four races, signaling a strong competitive presence.
Looking ahead, Aprilia aims to mount a serious challenge for the championship title in 2026. This ambition complicates their strategy regarding when to begin shifting resources from their current 1000cc bike to the development of the new 850cc prototype. Rivola noted, "We need to consider our strategy carefully: How long do we push the development of the '26 bike? We have some plans in mind, but much depends on how the championship unfolds next season."
Fabiano Sterlacchini, the technical director, hinted that a major transition in development could occur around March or April of 2026, aligning with the anticipated changes in regulations.
The forthcoming 2027 regulations will introduce a reduction in engine capacity, appoint Pirelli as the exclusive supplier of tires—replacing Michelin—impose restrictions on aerodynamics, and ban ride-height devices that have been a topic of controversy in the paddock.
Bezzecchi achieved his first victory with Aprilia at Silverstone this year, a race that saw Yamaha's Fabio Quartararo forced to retire due to a failure of his ride-height device. Rivola has voiced his concerns regarding these systems, stating, "They are foolish devices that we all dislike; yet, for some inexplicable reason, they continue to be utilized in the sport."
Peter, a veteran in the paddock for two decades, has witnessed the rise and fall of racing icons like Valentino Rossi and has been closely involved in the narrative surrounding Suzuki's departure and Marc Marquez's injury struggles.
