Aprilia has expressed strong satisfaction with the performance of its new 850cc engine during testing, as the company prepares for the MotoGP technical regulation changes coming in 2027. While KTM is currently the only manufacturer to have publicly shared footage of their 850cc engine in action with test rider Pol Espargaro at Jerez, Aprilia’s CEO Massimo Rivola confirmed that their 850cc engine is fully operational, though the exact timing of its debut remains uncertain.
Rivola mentioned that “the engine is running” and expressed that the team is pleased with its progress on the test bench. He described the 850cc bike as a work in progress and noted that while it is not an immediate priority, it is certainly a future focus. Meanwhile, the factory in Noale is very busy with ongoing projects.
This year, Aprilia enjoyed its best-ever MotoGP season, with Marco Bezzecchi, a recent addition to the team, securing third place in the overall standings and the RS-GP bike winning three of the last four races. As the team aims for a championship challenge in 2026, deciding when to shift resources from the current 1000cc project to the new 850cc prototype has become a complex strategic decision. Rivola highlighted the need to carefully consider how far to develop the 2026 bike, with their approach depending on next season’s championship dynamics.
Aprilia’s technical director, Fabiano Sterracchini, indicated that the main development transition might happen around March or April 2026. The 2027 MotoGP rules will feature a reduced engine size, the introduction of Pirelli as the sole tire supplier instead of Michelin, tighter aerodynamic regulations, and a ban on ride height devices. Rivola also publicly criticized ride height devices, calling them “stupid devices that we all hate,” despite their continued use in the sport.
Fan Take: This update is crucial for racing fans as it signals the evolving technology and fierce competition ahead in MotoGP, especially with Aprilia preparing to challenge established players under new regulations. The shift to 850cc engines and other rule changes could reshape the sport’s dynamics, making the upcoming seasons some of the most exciting and unpredictable in recent memory.
