Ducati Hopeful of Testing 2027 MotoGP Bike Next Year
Ducati’s MotoGP boss has confirmed the first incarnation of its 2027 bike could hit the track as early as 2025
The huge MotoGP rule change in 2027 seems like a distant thought at present, I mean it’s not even 2025 after all, but if you think teams are sleeping when it comes to development, then think again, as Ducati is hopeful of running its new prototype for the first time next year.
As part of the new rule change, MotoGP engines will drop from the current 1000cc capacity to 850cc power units, while further regulation tweaks such as 100 per cent sustainable fuel, and fuel tanks shrinking from 22 litres to 20 for Grand Prix races - they will also drop from 12 to 11 litres for the sprint races.
Aerodynamic designs will be stricter which means a narrower front-end is a must, while ride-height devices will be banned, hooray. GPS data will also be shared from every rider’s motorcycle across all the teams.
Given the fact these are substantial changes and the most high-profile regulation tweaks for a very long time, it’s no surprise the reigning world champions are already looking to get a leg up on the competition.
As a result of rapid development seemingly taking place, Ducati is hopeful of introducing its first version of the 2027 prototype next year, according to the factory team’s general manager Gigi Dall’Igna.
Speaking about the work that’s being done ahead of the new regulations and when the bike could be seen for the first time, Dall’Igna said: “We are working on it. We have some new ideas. We are working. It’s difficult now [to know a timeline]. Now we have only ideas. But I think for sure next year.”
An engine freeze is coming into effect next season which will lead to Ducati, Aprilia and KTM being unable to develop their engines until 2027. Yamaha and Honda, due to their struggles, will not have that problem until 2026 which could give them an advantage in the development phase for 2027.
Dall’Igna added: “So, the manufacturers who are struggling now can make a jump in front. You never know. So, you have to be focused on the problems you have to solve and try to develop the bike as much as possible. This is our job and what we will have to do.”
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After graduating with a sports journalism degree, Robert joined Crash.net to lead the WorldSBK coverage in 2021, while also providing MotoGP coverage. Fulfilling that role for over three years, Robert was able to put his knowledge about all things racing to the test.
