Photo: Gold & Goose / Red Bull Content Pool
Honda begins testing it's 2027 MotoGP bike
Honda has started preparing for the big MotoGP rule changes coming in 2027. The manufacturer has already tested its first prototype powered by a new 850cc engine, giving an early look at what the next generation of MotoGP bikes could be like.
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Honda has taken an important step toward the future of MotoGP. The Japanese manufacturer has already put its first 850cc prototype bike on track, which is being developed for the new MotoGP rules that will start in 2027.
The new motorcycle was tested in Malaysia during a private test session. Honda test rider Takaaki Nakagami rode the bike and completed the first laps with the new engine. The machine is based partly on a current MotoGP bike but uses a completely new 850cc engine that follows the upcoming regulations.
The first run of the 850cc @MotoGP era is complete... Plenty more to come. 😉 pic.twitter.com/xcBtfZldd5
— Honda HRC Castrol - MotoGP (@HRC_MotoGP) March 12, 2026
MotoGP will change a lot in 2027. The engine capacity will drop from 1000cc to 850cc. This is part of a big plan to make the sport safer, more sustainable and more competitive. At the same time, some technologies used today will disappear. Ride-height devices will be banned and aerodynamics will be reduced.
The new era will also bring other changes. MotoGP bikes will run on 100% non-fossil fuels, and tyre supplier Pirelli will replace Michelin from 2027. These changes are designed to make the championship more environmentally friendly while keeping the racing exciting.
Honda is not the only company already preparing for the new rules. KTM has also tested an 850cc MotoGP engine earlier. This shows that manufacturers are already working hard to understand how the future bikes will behave on track.
Even though the new engines are smaller, the bikes could still be very fast. Early estimates suggest the machines might initially be around 1.5 to 2.5 seconds slower per lap. However, engineers expect performance to improve quickly as teams continue development.
For Honda, these early tests are very important. They allow the engineers to collect data and learn how the new engine and technology work together. It also helps the team prepare for the big rule change that will reshape MotoGP in 2027.
The first laps of the new Honda prototype are only the beginning. Over the next months and years, the bike will continue to evolve as Honda works to build a competitive machine for the next generation of MotoGP racing.
