Yamaha considers both V-engine and in-line cylinders: ‘Both variants need to be looked at’

In three years, MotoGP will have new technical regulations, signaling considerable changes for motorcycles. This work is already underway among manufacturers, because development takes time. Yamaha is no exception and technical director Max Bartolini has addressed the subject.

According to the Italian engineer who spoke to SPEEDWEEK.com, Yamaha has not yet made a decision regarding the final concept of the 2027 motorcycle: “We are discussing new foundations, but there is no final concept yet‘.

Bartolini believes that Yamaha does not necessarily need to move to a V-engine: “I think we would do well to start with the current concept. We use an online engine which, in my opinion, has several positive aspects. The design of the bike is therefore very logical, less complex, and there is no reason to move to a V-engine concept just for the control aspect of the new displacement.‘.

However, both types of engines will be studied, as the technical director assured: “My opinion: the freedom to work in other areas of the motorcycle, including aerodynamics, is greater with an in-line engine. Nonetheless, in a perfect world both variants should be examined in detail, but at this time I cannot provide a definitive answer. But of course we have to have a finalized concept by the start of next season at the latest.‘.

Then, Bartolini also emphasized that the intention behind the new regulations is very clear, but he has some doubts about its realization: “The message behind the new regulations in favor of less speed and more safety is clear – and the aspects adopted are one way of responding to it. But I have doubts whether the real goal can be achieved this way.‘.