Aprilia Confirms 850cc MotoGP Prototype Development by April 2026

Aprilia is developing an 850cc MotoGP prototype, aiming for an April 2026 transition, in anticipation of the 2027 regulation changes.

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Aprilia MotoGP technical director Fabiano Sterlacchini has confirmed that the factory will begin shifting its development focus from the current 1000cc RS-GP to the all-new 850cc MotoGP prototype starting April 2026.

According to Crash.net, the transition comes as MotoGP prepares for major regulation changes set for the 2027 season. These include a reduction in engine capacity from 1000cc to 850cc, the removal of ride-height and holeshot devices, stricter aerodynamic limitations, and a switch from Michelin to Pirelli tyres.

To ease the shift for manufacturers, MotoGP has implemented an engine freeze for all non-D-concession teams. This locks the current 1000cc engine specifications for both the 2025 and 2026 seasons.

“With the other manufacturers, we created the engine freeze regulation, and this helps a lot,” Sterlacchini explained. “Because obviously you stop development for you, but also the others, so you can focus on designing a new project.

“To be honest, we have to concentrate at least for the first 3-4 months of 2026, so until March-April, on the development for 2026. The [850cc] engine is already on the way, because the lead time of the engine is huge normally.”

With the new engine already in progress, Aprilia aims to be fully prepared for the next era of MotoGP competition, balancing final improvements to the existing RS-GP with the long-term demands of the upcoming regulation overhaul.