MotoGP introduces new regulations, including the reduction of 1000cc engines to 850cc, the removal of traction systems, and changes to aerodynamics. These regulations aim to reduce speed in the highest level of motorsport. Ducati, Aprilia, KTM, and Honda are undertaking intensive work on new engines for the upcoming season. During these tests, it is questioned how fast the 850cc bikes are with Michelin tires. In tests, it is noted that the lap times of some 850cc bikes appear close to those of 1000cc models.
The Purpose of the New Rules
The main objective of the new rules is to reduce speed in the top class of motorsport. These regulations aim to ensure safety in races. Therefore, engine power and cylinder capacity are being reduced. It is stated that this step will ensure safety, even if the lap times are close to those of 2026.
One step we must not take
Performance and Speed Debates
Motorsport expert Gigi Dall’Igna and Aprilia Rennchef Massimo Rivola shared their views on this matter. Dall’Igna stated that the main reason for reducing performance is not the engine itself, but how quickly drivers approach corners.
The main reason why we want to reduce performance is not the performance of the engine itself – it is the speed at which drivers approach the corner
Maximum Speed Records
Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin set a speed record of 368.6 km/h on the Mugello circuit in May. Massimo Rivola stated that this speed is high.
In Mugello, both Marco and Jorge achieved 368.6 km/h, and that is fast
The Importance of Tires
Rivola supports the view that reducing engine power will lower speed, while simultaneously stating that drivers can control the bike more easily. However, since a decision has been made, he emphasized that looking backward is better than looking forward. Rivola expressed uncertainty about the current condition of the tires.
We do not know if the times are equally fast over the entire race distance
For a single lap, the motorcycles appear quite fast – perhaps very fast on some tracks, with a small time difference compared to the 1000cc bikes. But the tire is the decisive factor, which is currently unknown.
Conclusion
It is noted that the motorcycles appear quite fast for a single lap, and the time difference may be small when compared to 1000cc bikes on some circuits. However, it is emphasized that the tires are currently an unknown factor. This indicates that the overall speed of motorsport must be evaluated.
Comments
Massimo Rivola:
The main reason for wanting to reduce performance is not how the vehicle approaches the corner
That is why we are reducing engine power and cylinder capacity. Even if the lap times are quite close to those of 2026, we can gain safety this way. If we have to speak openly, I see this as a step we must take.
In Mugello, both Marco and Jorge achieved 368.6 km/h, and that is fast.
If you get more or less 50 horsepower, this will definitely reduce that speed. From what we have seen, the lap times still appear quite fast. At the same time, drivers say the motorcycle is easier to ride. Perhaps it can be controlled a bit better. But since a decision has been made, it is better to look backward than forward.
We do not know if the speed is the same throughout the entire race distance
For a single lap, the motorcycles appear quite fast – perhaps very fast on some tracks, the time difference is small when compared to the 1000cc. But what is certain is the tire, which is currently an unknown thing.
Figures
- Archive: [Ducati's harsh criticism of Bagnaia: "We went backward in the last two years!"]](/news/agenda/bagnaiadan-ducatiye-sert-elestiri-son-iki-yilda-geriye-gittik) (October 13, 2026)
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Go to sourceCompiled by Şükrü Utku Poyraz
