MotoGP proposal hits major roadblock with final decision expected at Silverstone

The new single-bike proposal in MotoGP, which previously gained momentum ahead of possibly being introduced for the new 850cc era in 2027, now looks unlikely to be agreed. 

This is because all five manufacturers need to be in agreement, and that is currently not the case, according to Autosport. The report mentions Aprilia as one of the brands most in favour of the single-bike rule, which has split opinion ever since it was rumoured as a viable regulation change in 2027. 

The theory behind implementing a single-bike rule would be to cut costs, which it would likely help achieve. That being said, it means riders would be put under a lot more pressure not to make mistakes. It could create a situation where riders spend most of a practice session sitting in pit lane as repairs are being carried out to their motorcycle. Or, if an accident is big enough, or happens shortly before a major session such as qualifying, a sprint race, or even the Grand Prix, then that rider could be ruled out from participating altogether.

Someone who is not in favour of the single-bike regulation is Tech3 KTM boss Guenther Steiner. Speaking about the potential new rule last month, the former Haas F1 team principal said:

“I'm against it, but the manufacturers are for it, it seems. I haven't understood what is really driving this. Because Dorna [MotoGP SEG] is not for it. It's obviously taking away from their show.

“But the manufacturers don't understand; they are taking away from their own show, where they can show their product. You need the same amount of spare parts anyway. Because if you crash, you still need to build the second bike.

“But instead of being in one piece [ready to go], it's in 200 pieces. I hope people come to their senses and realise that it was actually one of these ideas which wasn't very good.”

Specifically, the new rule needs to receive unanimous approval from within the Motorcycle Sports Manufacturers' Association (MSMA).

Without it, and that seems unlikely to happen now, then no change from the current two-bike per rider rule will change. Either way, a final decision is expected at next month’s British MotoGP at Silverstone.

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