- Honda shows video footage of the RC214V debut with 850cc engine for the first time
- Nakagami praises the low weight of the new prototype
- Four manufacturers tested 850cc machines and Pirelli tires in Jerez this week
Almost three months after the initial roll-out, Honda has now released video footage of its MotoGP prototype for the 2027 season. The new RC214V with the engine downsized to 850cc was first on track at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia on December 17. Test rider Takaaki Nakagami was at the handlebars, and he has since been working exclusively on developing the 2027 motorcycle.
Nakagami Surprised by the Low Weight
The footage shows the RC214V in wet track conditions, fitted with treaded tires. The engine sound on the start-finish straight can also be heard. In the video, Nakagami shares his first impressions: “The first impression is ‘super light’. I was a bit surprised, in these conditions. Yeah, quite nice.”
Which tire brand was actually used during the December test cannot be clearly identified in the video. However, Pirelli is said to have already delivered prototypes of the new MotoGP compounds to Sepang. The Italian tire manufacturer will supply the spec tires for the premier class from 2027 onwards, replacing Michelin.
Test Program with Clear Role Division
Honda has clearly divided the development work on the RC214V. While Nakagami is fully focused on the 2027 prototype, his fellow test rider Aleix Espargaro continues to work on the current RC213V for the ongoing 2026 season. After the official MotoGP test in Barcelona on May 18, Espargaro is also expected to join the development of the new machine and work alongside Nakagami on the RC214V.
The first opportunity for Honda’s regular riders to test the 2027 prototype themselves is scheduled for the official test at Brno on June 22.
Reigning World Champion Expects Faster Lap Times
Reigning MotoGP World Champion Marc Marquez generally welcomes the efforts to reduce the enormous top speeds of the current machines. At the same time, he expects the smaller motorcycles to achieve similar or even faster lap times on many circuits. The reason, he says, lies in the lower weight combined with better handling, even though power output decreases. He noted that they would have to wait and see how things develop.
In addition to a potential performance leap through the new regulations, Honda’s rider lineup could also change. 2021 World Champion Fabio Quartararo is reportedly strongly linked with a move from Yamaha to HRC.
Honda Is Not the Only One Testing for 2027
Honda was the second manufacturer after KTM to officially show video footage of its 850cc prototype. KTM had first tested its new machine in Jerez in December 2025, with test riders Pol Espargaro and Dani Pedrosa at the handlebars. KTM’s 850cc engine currently produces about 30 hp less than the previous 1000cc unit. The exterior appearance of the KTM in its carbon look has changed since the first test, with aerodynamics reportedly slightly reduced.
KTM advisor Heinz Kinigadner explained that they had also brought the 850cc bike to the official IRTA tests to gather data under different conditions and at as many race tracks as possible.
Four Manufacturers Testing Together in Jerez This Week
Development for 2027 continued on a large scale this week. Four manufacturers tested their 850cc prototypes at the Circuito de Jerez. Alongside KTM with Pol Espargaro, Ducati with Michele Pirro, Aprilia with Lorenzo Savadori, and Yamaha with Andrea Dovizioso were also present. All four teams used the private test in southern Spain to also try out the new Pirelli tires that will be used from the 2027 season. Conditions in Jerez were significantly better than during Honda’s rain-affected debut in Sepang.
All five MotoGP manufacturers have now brought their 2027 machines to the track. Yamaha is said to have already completed initial runs behind closed doors before officially joining in at Jerez.
Striking Aerodynamics on the Honda Prototype
The Honda video reveals that the aerodynamic configuration of the RC214V still closely resembles the current generation of machines. In this form, it would not be compliant under the new regulations from 2027. The revised rules stipulate that front fairings must be five centimeters narrower and shorter. Additionally, the height of the rear section including all wing elements will be reduced by ten centimeters.
What Changes in MotoGP from 2027
The 2027 season marks the beginning of a new era in MotoGP. The most significant change is the reduction of engine displacement from 1000 to 850cc. Beyond that, ride-height devices will be banned during racing, aerodynamic possibilities will be restricted, and fuel will be fully switched to sustainable production. Added to this is the already mentioned switch from Michelin to Pirelli as the spec tire supplier.
→ For all information on the MotoGP 2026 season – teams, riders, calendar & standings – visit our MotoGP 2026 Season Overview.
➜ This article is part of our comprehensive overview: 2027 MotoGP Season: The Complete Overview. Find all key information on this topic in one place.
