The FIM and Dorna have made a major move for 2027. As part of the sweeping regulatory reform accompanying the arrival of 850cc engines, right-hand drive (RHD) ride height adjustment devices will be completely banned, sounding the death knell for a controversial innovation popularized by Ducati. This is the first step in a technological purge that could also target mass dampers and side wings. KTM is the first to welcome this.
Appeared at the end of 2018 at DucatiRide Height Devices (RHDs) allow riders to lower the motorcycle's height on command during acceleration, improving stability and grip. Already banned on the front in 2023, they will be completely banned in 2027.
This decision is motivated by two main reasons: safety, with the increased risks in case of failure or a fall, and the sporting philosophy of reducing the gap between the rider's pure technique and electronic/mechanical assistance.
Peter AcostaKnown for his aggressive style and physical mastery, he could be a major beneficiary of this return to a more "raw" driving style. He has a KTM And indeed, it is this manufacturer that is most involved in what can only be described as a technological purge…
KTM in action: the war against mass damper
KTM is thus leading a revolt against another innovation Ducati : tuned mass dampers. These parts, designed to absorb chassis vibrations, are considered by the Austrians to be a disguised form of active suspension, which is strictly prohibited.
« When all this started, we said to ourselves, " It's as if active suspension has made its appearance"It would be good if they were banned.". — Pete BeirerSporting Director KTM.
The ban would require a consensus among all manufacturers, which promises epic battles behind the scenes. Ducati fiercely defending its technological advantage.
Another burning issue is on the table: the fins fixed to the sides at the pilots' leg level, introduced by Aprilia in May 2025 and quickly copied by HondaDeemed dangerous in case of a fall (risk of snagging or injury)), they could be banned as a matter of urgency as early as next season.
Such a measure would seriously handicap Aprilia, which has precisely found in these appendages a way to rival the aerodynamic supremacy of Ducati at the end of the 2025 season.
No major changes are planned for 2026, but a last-minute rewrite of the aerodynamic regulations remains possible, creating a climate of strategic uncertainty.
The promoters' objective is clear: to simplify the motorcycles, reduce astronomical development costs, and refocus the spectacle on the man-versus-machine duel rather than the engineers' war. It's a desire to redefine the sport in the face of rapidly increasing technological complexity.
In summary, the MotoGP is about to experience a historic turning point. The 2027 era will not only mark the arrival of smaller engines, but also a forced return to basics. A gift for purists and drivers with raw talent, but a monumental challenge for design offices, particularly at Ducatiwhose technological advantage risks shrinking rapidly. The race for innovation directly clashes with the pursuit of spectacle and fairness. The paddock will be grumbling for a long time to come.
