The corridors of MotoGP are buzzing with discussions about a major technical reform planned for 2027, where the proposal to reduce engine displacement arouses as much interest as controversy. This reduction would increase current engines from 1cc to 000cc in order to reduce the power and maximum speeds reached by the motorcycles. The objective is thus to limit the risks linked to extreme top speeds. On this basis, other restrictions are also being studied…
This is the case of limiting aerodynamics with at least restrictions on the size of the fins such as the potential ban on “holeshot devices”. This involves reducing aerodynamic downforce for more stability and control for pilots in a more general idea of removing certain advanced technologies which influence driving too much.
This reduction in the complexity of motorcycles for greater safety would in theory give more control and responsibility to riders. In summary, the main safety goals are to reduce maximum speeds, simplify technology to give drivers more control, and limit the effects of aerodynamics.
MotoGP seems to forget the edifying experience of 2008
Certainly, but the heart of these debates is this reduction in the engine capacity of motorcycles to 850 cc. An idea which, although not new, is hotly debated. Because there was a precedent, in 2008, where the engine capacity was reduced from 990 to 800 cc. A provision which paradoxically resulted in an increase in speed when cornering, despite engine power reduced to around 220 hp. This experiment showed that reducing the displacement did not make it possible to effectively control the speed of the machines.
The alternative, according to some, lies in modulating tire grip. Less grip could theoretically slow down motorcycles, but also increase the risk of falling. However, the risk of an accident is inherent to racing, regardless of tire grip. Riders will always seek to exploit the full potential of their mounts, adjusting their handling to the limit of available grip.
Dance what contexts, speedweek recalls that the British Superbike Championship (BSB) is proposing an experiment for 2024. In addition to banning electronic driving aids to improve safety, the BSB has decided to eliminate Pirelli's ultra-soft SCX tires from its allocation , favoring more durable rubbers, less conducive to breaking records but safer in the event of failure.
Stuart Higgs, head of the BSB, justifies this decision by emphasizing the importance of safety and the relevance of tire choices to achieve this objective. “ We don't need to break lap records anymore », he explains, criticizing the use of tires optimized for short distances. This approach invites global reflection on the future directions of MotoGP.
