Jorge Martin breaks MotoGP record with first-ever 229mph top speed

Aprilia Racing’s Jorge Martin has set a new all-time MotoGP top speed record at Mugello, reaching 368.6km/h (229mph). 

The 2024 MotoGP world champion set the new top speed record during the final practice session of the weekend, moments before the start of qualifying.

Riding his full factory RS-GP26, Martin set the new record whilst travelling down Mugello’s start-finish straight, which is notorious for producing top speed records.

Brad Binder set the previous top speed record at Mugello in 2023, reaching 366.1km/h (227.5mph). That record was then matched by Pol Espargaro in 2024, who was also riding a KTM RC16 at the time.

Martin’s new record will no doubt steal the headlines, however, Trackhouse Aprilia rider Ai Ogura also matched the previous record at the same time that Martin set the new 229mph top speed. 

This underlines just how fast, and consistent, the current MotoGP bikes have become, although top speed records are unlikely to be challenged in the near future when the series moves to 850cc engines from 2027.

Speaking to MotoGP pit lane reporter Jack Appleyard moments after the new top speed was set, Aprilia Technical Director Fabiano Sterlacchini said:

“For sure it’s one of the targets we had! It’s exciting to reach the highest speed ever, and thanks to everyone in the company. "It's a combination of engine and aerodynamics working in synergy, plus the exit from the final corner with the electronics.”

Free practice two was not without a scare for the former Pramac Ducati rider, as Martin carried too much speed into turn one leading to a trip through the gravel, although the Spaniard avoided crashing.

Find the latest motorcycle news on Visordown.com