- 850cc MotoGP engine for the 2027 season
- First on-track debut planned for spring, according to Aprilia
- Engine already running on the test bench
Following KTM and Honda, Aprilia is also preparing to take the next step in MotoGP development. The Noale-based manufacturer has been working for some time on the new 850cc engine, which will be mandatory from 2027. According to technical director Fabiano Sterlacchini, the engine is already in an advanced testing phase and is set to be used in the new prototype for the first time in spring.
Spring a realistic time for the debut
While KTM unveiled its first 850cc concept back in October and Honda completed several tests in Malaysia, Aprilia has so far been reluctant to make any public appearances. Internally, however, work is well advanced. According to Sterlacchini, the new prototype is set to run for the first time “around the beginning of spring.” This would make an end of March debut a realistic prospect.
The Aprilia technical director explained at the Aprilia Racing team presentation that the engine is currently undergoing intensive testing on the test bench. The aim is to confirm its reliability and collect initial development data before the motorcycle hits the track.
Test bench runs and initial development phase
Sterlacchini made it clear that the 850cc engine already exists in technical terms, but is still in a sensitive phase. The initial tests are less about performance and more about securing the basis. In his words:
“The [850cc] engine is running on the test bench in, let’s say, ‘testing mode’ for reliability, to confirm everything and also to start part of the development. Basically, we are thinking that around the beginning of spring, the first prototype will go on track.”
In addition, the technical director was optimistic about the current status. The first prototype has been completed but is still in the internal testing phase.
Aprilia between the present and the future
In sporting terms, Aprilia finished the 2025 season as Ducati’s closest rival and is also considered one of the most promising challengers for 2026. However, in parallel with the further development of the current motorcycle, the team must already invest considerable resources in the 2027 project.
This double burden affects all manufacturers in MotoGP. However, the situation is particularly challenging for Yamaha, which will compete in a full season with a new V4 engine for the first time in 2026. In addition to further developing this concept, work must also be done on the 850cc prototype.
KTM and Honda are already one step ahead with their first tests. KTM completed a private test in Jerez, while Honda gathered initial data in Sepang. Aprilia could follow suit soon with its planned spring debut, allowing it to gain important experience early on as well.
Outlook for the 2026 MotoGP season
For Aprilia, 2026 will be a transitional season. On the one hand, it is important to maintain competitiveness against Ducati, while on the other hand, the course must be set for the new MotoGP era. The early test bench operation of the 850cc engine indicates that the manufacturer has tackled this balancing act at an early stage.
It remains to be seen whether the new prototype will allow reliable conclusions to be drawn about its performance as early as spring. What is clear, however, is that Aprilia has its eye on the competition’s schedule and is preparing specifically for the rule changes.
What does this mean for me as a MotoGP fan?
For MotoGP fans, this development shows above all that the transition to the 850cc era has long since begun and will not only be noticeable in 2027. The coming seasons will be strongly influenced by how well the manufacturers master the balancing act between current performance and future development. This can lead to fluctuations in performance, but also to individual teams suddenly making progress or falling behind in the short term. At the same time, anticipation is growing for the new MotoGP generation, as early testing means more time to iron out teething problems. For fans, this means that 2026 and 2027 could be particularly exciting years in terms of racing, because the foundations for the next balance of power are already being laid behind the scenes.
