MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Takaaki Nakagami has completed the first on-track outing of Honda’s new 850cc MotoGP prototype developed for the 2027 technical regulations. The initial test took place at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia in December 2025, with the footage only now released publicly by Honda Racing Corporation.
The prototype represents a major step in preparation for the next regulatory cycle introduced by the FIM and the MotoGP championship. From the 2027 season, engine capacity will be reduced from 1000cc to 850cc as part of a wider effort to lower top speeds while improving safety and technical efficiency across the premier class.
The newly released footage shows Nakagami riding the prototype during a rain-affected test session at Sepang. The video captures the sound of the new engine along the main straight and includes the Japanese rider’s first comments regarding the characteristics of the next-generation machine.
“The first impression is that the bike feels super light. I was a bit surprised in these conditions. Yeah, quite nice.”
Honda becomes the second manufacturer to publicly reveal its 850cc MotoGP machine on track after KTM released footage of its own prototype earlier in December 2025. Meanwhile, Yamaha is understood to have carried out private initial running, while Ducati and Aprilia are targeting a spring debut for their respective development bikes.
Alongside the reduction in engine capacity, the revised technical regulations will ban ride-height devices and restrict the size of aerodynamic components. Another major change will see MotoGP switch tyre suppliers from Michelin to Pirelli, which will become the exclusive tyre provider for all Grand Prix classes starting in 2027.
Reigning world champion Marc Marquez has previously expressed support for efforts aimed at reducing the extreme top speeds seen in recent seasons, although he believes lap times at several circuits could remain similar or even improve due to lighter and more agile machines.
“I think lap times at many circuits will be very similar, or even faster, because you have lower weight and horsepower but better handling. We will see how it goes.”
Development of the new 850cc MotoGP machines will intensify across the grid over the next two seasons before the regulations officially come into force in 2027, with manufacturers expected to expand testing programmes throughout 2026 and early 2027.
Photo Gallery
Read Also
Toprak Razgatlioglu’s manager Kenan Sofuoglu says the MotoGP rookie is 99% likely to remain with Pramac in 2027 despite links to Yamaha’s factory team.
VR46 confirms talks with Aprilia over a possible MotoGP 2027 partnership but says the team is close to extending its current deal with Ducati.
Davide Tardozzi says Ducati must respond after a tough start to MotoGP 2026 in Thailand, where Aprilia and Pedro Acosta’s KTM outperformed the Italian manufacturer.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!