CECCHINELLO EXPECTS 850CC MOTO GP BIKES TO BE EASIER AND SAFER TO CONTROL

MotoGP’s next technical step is set to arrive for the 2027 season, bringing a major shift in engine capacity, electronics and aerodynamics. The regulations reduce displacement from 1000cc to 850cc, cut back aerodynamic components, and remove any systems that allow ride-height adjustment (“Devices”) from the bikes. Another headline change is the tyre switch: Michelin will be replaced by Pirelli.

The new rule set has already been discussed extensively, and some riders and test teams have been able to sample the new prototypes. In a video released on 4 September by motogp.com, LCR Honda team boss Lucio Cecchinello, VR46 team manager Pablo Nieto and Gresini Racing’s Carlo Merlini shared their early impressions of how the changes could affect racing.

Cecchinello focused on what the 850cc package could mean for control and safety. “The direction we’re taking with the 850cc bikes and the reduced aerodynamics could mean that riders will have safer motorcycles,” he said. His reasoning was that the new machines should be “a bit narrower, more agile and easier to control.” He also pointed to the overall weight and power picture: “The bike is a little lighter and will also have less power.” While he acknowledged that the spectacle matters, he argued the racing should remain compelling for fans. “That doesn’t mean the audience won’t like it, because they won’t notice it,” Cecchinello said, adding that “from a team perspective” the changes could have “positive impacts on the sport.”

Nieto, meanwhile, suggested that lap times may not drop dramatically. “I think the lap times will be relatively similar,” he said, attributing that to one of the biggest variables in the new era: “One of the biggest changes we’ll have will be the tyres—that’s my personal opinion.”

Both men also linked the regulation changes to on-track battles. Cecchinello said that some riders who have already tested the 850cc bikes believe the sport will benefit because “there will be more duels on track.” Nieto added a more direct expectation for overtaking: “It will be easier to overtake—we’ll see.”

With the timeline now close, further testing is scheduled. On 21 September, some riders will try the 850cc machines running Pirelli tyres at the Red Bull Ring immediately after the Grand Prix weekend. Then, on 1 December during the Valencia test, all riders are set to be on the new bikes.