KTM MotoGP test rider Dani Pedrosa believes the upcoming 2027 regulations will give riders greater control, especially at the start of races. This year marks the end of the 1000cc engine era, which has been in use since 2012. Moving forward, an 850cc engine will replace it, alongside plans to reduce aerodynamic aids and ban ride height adjustment devices. These changes aim to enhance safety and improve the racing experience, as previous advancements in aerodynamics and ride height manipulation had negatively affected the on-track action.
One of the most significant changes in 2027 will be Pirelli taking over as the official tire supplier, replacing Michelin. Pedrosa, who has won 31 MotoGP races, has already tested KTM’s 850cc prototype and experienced Pirelli’s new tires. He believes the new rules will offer riders more control, resulting in less predictable race starts. “The new regulations will allow us to fight for more positions, making the races more exciting,” he said in an interview with the Spanish edition of motorsport.
While Pedrosa cannot yet reveal specific details about Pirelli’s tires, he acknowledges the switch is a major change that impacts the chassis, riding style, and brake and throttle management. He noted that lap times have improved but adapting to new tires requires significant adjustments. Pedrosa also recalls a similar shift when Michelin replaced Bridgestone in 2016, a season that saw nine different race winners and four different manufacturers claim victories.
Fan Take: This news is hugely significant for racing fans as the 2027 changes promise to shake up the status quo, making races more dynamic and unpredictable. With greater rider control and a new tire supplier, the sport could enter a thrilling new era where talent and strategy become even more crucial.
