Watch: Honda’s 850cc MotoGP machine makes track debut
Takaaki Nakagami gives his first impression of Honda’s 850cc MotoGP prototype.
Honda has released the first footage of its 850cc MotoGP prototype on track.
The machine, built for the new 2027 technical regulations, was ridden for the first time by factory test rider Takaaki Nakagami at Sepang in Malaysia last December.
However, details were kept secret until now.
The video (below) shows Nakagami in action during the rain-affected test, including the engine sound on the straight, as well as his first words about the future machine:
“The first impression is 'super light'. I was a bit surprised, in these conditions. Yeah, quite nice.”
Honda is the second MotoGP manufacturer to reveal footage of its 850cc machine on track, after KTM in early December.
Yamaha is rumoured to have done some initial running behind closed doors, while Ducati and Aprilia are aiming for a 'spring' debut.
Alongside reducing engine capacity, from 1000cc to 850cc, the revised technical rules ban ride-height devices and restrict the size of aerodynamics.
Perhaps most significantly, MotoGP will also switch from Michelin to Pirelli tyres.
Reigning champion Marc Marquez has said he welcomes efforts to reduce the eye-watering top speeds, but feels the smaller bikes might post even faster lap times.
“I think lap times at many circuits will be very similar, or even faster, because you have lower weight and horsepower, but better handling,” he said. “We’ll see how it goes.”
Honda is rumoured to have signed former world champion Fabio Quartararo from Yamaha to headline its 2027 rider line-up.
Peter has been in the paddock for 20 years and has seen Valentino Rossi come and go. He is at the forefront of the Suzuki exit story and Marc Marquez’s injury issues.
