Champions Clash for Speed & Sacrifice: 2023 MotoGP Showcases Endurance Legends

Motorsport photo MotoGP regulations have largely remained stable in recent years. The current 1000cc engines were introduced in 2012, Michelin has been the official tyre supplier since 2016 and the core chassis/aero ruleset has changed little since then, aside from the ban on front ride-height devices in 2023. However, all three areas will be completely overhauled as part of MotoGP’s big rules reset for 2027.

The current 1000cc engines producing close to 300bhp will make way for smaller 850cc units, Pirelli will replace Michelin as the sole tyre supplier, and the bikes themselves will look noticeably different following significant aerodynamic cuts and a complete ban on ride-height devices. The scale of the changes makes this one of the most radical technical shake-ups in MotoGP’s modern history, and it has forced all five manufacturers to ramp up investment as they develop their next-generation bikes alongside their current machines. With effectively a clean-sheet design required, getting the concept right early will be crucial to avoid starting the new era on the back foot.

Even before the 2026 season started, manufacturers had already started early development work on their 2027 bikes. In December, KTM became the first MotoGP manufacturer to run its 2027 engine on track, with test rider Pol Espargaro completing first laps on the next-gen RC16 prototype at Jerez. Since then, Honda and Yamaha have also run early versions of their 2027 engines, while Aprilia and Ducati are expected to begin track testing their new prototypes by mid-April.

For KTM technical director Sebastian Risse, the new regulations present both a challenge and an opportunity. The key, according to the German engineer, is ensuring that the chassis, engine and tyres all work in harmony despite the reduction in both downforce and power. “It's these three big chunks.