Aprilia has confirmed that its new 850cc MotoGP engine is already operational on the test bench, as preparations continue for the major regulation overhaul coming in 2027.
While KTM has so far been the only manufacturer to publicly showcase its 850cc project, including on-track running at Jerez with Pol Espargaro, Aprilia says its own engine development is progressing well behind the scenes.
Aprilia Racing CEO Massimo Rivola revealed that the Noale-based manufacturer is highly satisfied with early results from bench testing, even though the complete 850cc prototype bike is still under development.
According to Rivola, the engine itself is already running and delivering encouraging data, though full focus remains on the current 1000cc project for now. With Aprilia enjoying its most successful MotoGP season to date, including Marco Bezzecchi finishing third in the championship and multiple late-season victories, the priority is still a serious title push in 2026.
This creates a strategic challenge for the team, as resources must eventually be shifted toward the 850cc machine. Rivola acknowledged that Aprilia has a development plan in place, but the timing will depend heavily on how competitive the 2026 campaign unfolds.
Technical director Fabiano Sterlacchini has previously indicated that a major transition toward the 850cc project could begin around March or April 2026.
The new regulations arriving in 2027 will reduce engine capacity to 850cc, introduce Pirelli as the sole tyre supplier, limit aerodynamics, and eliminate ride-height devices—technology Rivola has openly criticised in the past.
