MotoGP is heading toward one of the biggest technical changes in its modern era. From 2027, the premier class will move from 1000cc motorcycles to smaller 850cc machines, while several other major rules will reshape how the bikes are designed and raced.
The new regulations will cover the 2027–2031 period, with the first race under the new rules scheduled for the Thai Grand Prix at Buriram from March 5–7, 2027.
1000cc Engines Will Become 850cc
The biggest change is the reduction in engine displacement from 1000cc to 850cc.
The aim is to reduce top speeds, improve efficiency and create a new balance between engine performance and rider skill. MotoGP expects the smaller engines to produce less torque and lower overall performance compared with the current generation.
But smaller does not necessarily mean slow. Manufacturers will still use advanced engine technology to extract maximum performance from the 850cc configuration.
Less Aerodynamics, More Racing
MotoGP will also reduce the amount of aerodynamic influence on the bikes.
The maximum width of the front aero body will be reduced from 600mm to 550mm, while the rear height limit will drop from 1250mm to 1150mm. Manufacturers will also have tighter restrictions on aerodynamic updates.
The goal is to reduce the aerodynamic advantage and help riders get closer to each other during races, potentially creating more opportunities for overtaking.
Ride-Height and Holeshot Devices Are Out
Another major change is the ban on ride-height devices, including holeshot devices.
These systems have become an important part of modern MotoGP bike performance, particularly during starts and acceleration. From the new regulations cycle, riders will have to manage the bike without these mechanical advantages.
Interestingly, MotoGP has already brought forward the ban on holeshot devices for the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix.
Smaller Fuel Tanks and New Fuel
Fuel regulations are changing too.
The fuel tank capacity for a MotoGP Grand Prix will fall from 22 litres to 20 litres, while Sprint capacity will be limited to 11 litres.
More importantly, MotoGP will move to 100% non-fossil fuel from 2027. The fuel can be produced from sources such as bio-based materials or synthetic e-fuels made using captured atmospheric CO₂.
What Could 2027 Look Like?
The combination of smaller engines, reduced aerodynamics, banned ride-height devices, new tyres and sustainable fuel will create motorcycles that are significantly different from today's MotoGP machines.
Honda test rider Aleix Espargaro has already described the new 850cc bike as more fun to ride, highlighting its lighter feel and improved change of direction.
That could make 2027 more than just another regulation update. It could mark a genuine change in how MotoGP bikes behave—and potentially put greater emphasis on rider skill, braking, cornering and racecraft.
The new era officially begins at Buriram in March 2027. And with all five current manufacturers—Aprilia, Ducati, Honda, KTM and Yamaha—committed to the championship through 2031, the next generation of MotoGP is already taking shape.
