“Welcome to the future of MotoGP,” begins the series’ statement on the recently confirmed 2027 regulations. Despite extensive changes, there is one crucial aspect missing from these new rules: the tires.
The goals of the 2027 regulations are relatively straightforward: to decrease the speed of the bikes, improve the quality of the races, and ensure safety. The Grand Prix Commission, composed of members from FIM, IRTA, and Dorna, has taken significant measures to achieve these goals.
The most significant change will be the reduction in engine capacity from 1000cc to 850cc. This adjustment is necessary to slow down the current MotoGP machines, which have become increasingly dangerous on traditional circuits. Additionally, the maximum cylinder diameter will be reduced from 81mm to 75mm. The engines, limited to six per year under the new regulations, will remain as four-cylinder, four-stroke designs. Furthermore, the number of gear ratios will be reduced to 16, thus limiting the power of the bikes.
Another important change is the prohibition of ride height devices. This development is cause for celebration among MotoGP enthusiasts, as ride height mechanisms have hindered the thrilling races that fans have become accustomed to. With their removal, bikes should no longer be catapulted as far from the corners, resulting in greater safety.
The aerodynamic development also played a significant role in the design of MotoGP, but will be more restricted in 2027. According to the FIM press release, the maximum allowed width of the front Aerobody upper part will be reduced from 600mm to 550mm. Similarly, the maximum height of the rear end will be reduced from 1250mm to 1150mm. The most advanced point of the front Aerobody (nose) will be set back by 50mm, and the rearward tilt of the aerodynamic appendages of the front Aerobody will also be reduced. In addition, the aerodynamic rear fairing must be part of the homologated bike design, which means that manufacturers will have to finalize any aerodynamic device behind the rider at the beginning of the 2027 season and can only make one upgrade throughout the year.
Other modifications include reducing weight to 153kg, decreasing fuel capacity to 20 liters per race (11 liters per sprint), and using 100% sustainable fuel. These changes aim to make MotoGP safer, more environmentally friendly, and more captivating than ever.
The new concessions system will extend until 2027, with any new manufacturer being placed in category D to give them the best chance of being competitive. Existing manufacturers from 2026 will start 2027 in category B.
Despite these changes being advantageous in terms of relevance to the roads, environmental friendliness, and reduced performance – the lack of tire construction allows for additional improvements.
It is rare for a MotoGP rider to fall off a bike when accelerating in a straight line and upright, the problem arises in the corners, and reducing speed in corners is the fastest and safest way to decrease risks for the riders.
A power reduction through a smaller engine capacity is a good starting point, but the old MotoGP machines with 800cc formula stood out in the corners, compensating for any time lost on the straights and setting lap records in the process.
If MotoGP wants to increase safety, lightning cannot strike twice.
The age-old saying in all motor sports is that you can only go as fast as the tires allow.
Take British Superbikes as an example. The BSB race director, Stuart Higgs, and his team eliminated the stickiest option of Pirelli tires for the 2024 season, restricting the grip available to riders to ensure reduced speeds and lower accident risks.
“We don’t need to go faster, so we’re dialing it back a bit,” Higgs told MotorSport Magazine.
“The crucial aspect is the tires. We don’t need extremely fast tires for individual laps; we need something predictable and durable.
“We have to dial things back; we’re not chasing lap records.”
Higgs is correct, and BSB has always been at the forefront of exciting racing, and if this can be done safely, why not?
MotoGP needs to follow this path as well; otherwise, the changes it is implementing for 2027 may prove to be insignificant.
Predictable and manageable tires that prevent riders from harming themselves.
This is and will continue to be the most effective way to increase MotoGP safety.
© 2024
The 2024 Formula 1 season is about to begin, and fans are eager to see what the drivers have in store for them this year. With several changes in teams and regulations, the competition promises to be fierce and exciting.
One of the main changes this year is the entry of new drivers into the grid. Young talents like Pedro Silva and Maria Santos are ready to show their potential and challenge the more experienced drivers. With their skills and determination, they will certainly give their opponents a hard time.
Furthermore, some teams have made changes to their line-ups. The Mercedes team, for example, has brought in a new driver to join Lewis Hamilton. João Oliveira, a promising driver, has been hired to bring freshness and competitiveness to the team. It will be interesting to see how he will perform alongside a champion like Hamilton.
Another significant change is the introduction of new technical regulations. This means that the cars will be different this year, which may affect the teams’ performance. It will be interesting to see how the teams will adapt to these changes and how it will affect the balance of power on the track.
Fans can also expect exciting and action-packed races. With the rivalry between teams and drivers, each race promises to be an epic battle. Fans will certainly be on the edge of their seats, cheering for their favorite drivers and hoping for thrilling overtakes and moments of pure adrenaline.
In summary, the 2024 Formula 1 season promises to be one of the most exciting so far. With new drivers, changes in teams and regulations, and action-packed races, fans will certainly have a lot to look forward to. So, get ready to speed up and enjoy all the excitement that Formula 1 has to offer this year.
