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Aprilia is targeting a broader, more adaptable performance envelope for its RS-GP motorcycle with the introduction of a radical new aerodynamic package, first seen during MotoGP testing at Valencia.
The Italian manufacturer, based in Noale, has been at the forefront of aerodynamic development in recent MotoGP seasons, consistently pushing the boundaries of what is possible within the technical regulations. The Valencia test provided the first public glimpse of their latest innovations, with both Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin taking to the track aboard machines sporting heavily revised fairings.
While the majority of the visible changes were concentrated at the front of the bike, Bezzecchi was also observed experimenting with a large, Formula 1-inspired rear wing during specific runs. The scale of the update underscores Aprilia’s commitment to finding performance gains in all areas, rather than focusing on isolated strengths.
Fabiano Sterlacchini, Aprilia’s technical director, emphasized that the updates reflect a holistic approach to improving the bike’s performance across an entire lap.
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"Basically, one of the characteristics of the aerodynamic development is to ‘stretch the cover’," Sterlacchini explained. "So, for example, it is quite clear that you have a better top speed; that in terms of performance you are not improving the lap time a lot, but it is easier to overtake and to manage the race. But in the meantime, to increase the drag, that is the opposite to what you need for top speed, you can improve your performance during the braking. So, we try to stretch the cover in all the areas to have the right aerodynamic coefficient in every phase of riding."
The Valencia test proved to be a productive outing for Aprilia as a whole. Raul Fernandez, riding for the Trackhouse Racing team, topped the timesheets on a 2025-specification RS-GP. Bezzecchi, who is now officially part of the Aprilia setup, finished a close second, just 0.027 seconds adrift, having conducted back-to-back comparisons between the two different versions of the bike.
Bezzecchi, who concluded the 2023 season with victories in Portugal and Valencia while riding for Valentino Rossi’s VR46 team, offered a measured assessment of the new bike, acknowledging the limited track time available due to inclement weather conditions.
"Well, it’s different, of course, but there’s always not enough time to really understand," Bezzecchi commented. "Of course, we tested many things, but the day was a bit peculiar because of the weather condition. We lost a lot of time, a lot of track time. So, mixed feelings as always in testing. Some positives, for sure, but also many doubts, many negatives, like every time on testing. We will have to really analyze everything well before taking decisions. It was just an appetizer."
Despite the limited running, Bezzecchi suggested that the performance differential between the two iterations of the Aprilia RS-GP was marginal, highlighting the difficulty in extracting definitive conclusions from a short test.
"It was very similar between the two," he stated. "Maybe with the new one it was the best lap time, but anyway, it was like half a tenth slower with the other one. It’s normal at the beginning. I know the bike very well from this season, I think I made 10,000 km on this season’s bike. So, in just 40 or 50 laps with the new bike, it’s impossible to really understand [it]."
During the Valencia test, only Bezzecchi and Martin were entrusted with evaluating the 2026-spec machine. Fernandez and his Trackhouse Racing teammate, Ai Ogura, did not have access to the updated components.
Aerodynamic Innovation in MotoGP: A Brief History
Aerodynamic development has become an increasingly significant factor in MotoGP performance over the past decade. Initially, teams focused on relatively simple winglets to generate downforce and improve stability, particularly under acceleration. However, as regulations have evolved, and with the advancement of simulation technologies like Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), teams have become increasingly sophisticated in their approach.
Aprilia, in particular, has been aggressive in exploring new aerodynamic concepts. Their 2023 RS-GP featured a complex array of fairing elements and wing designs, all aimed at optimizing airflow around the bike and rider. The primary goals of aerodynamic development in MotoGP are multifaceted:
- Increased Downforce: Downforce improves grip, particularly at high lean angles, allowing riders to carry more speed through corners.
- Reduced Wheelie: Aerodynamic elements can be designed to counteract the tendency of the front wheel to lift under acceleration, improving drive out of corners.
- Improved Stability: Aerodynamic forces can help to stabilize the bike, particularly in turbulent air or during braking.
- Reduced Drag: Minimizing drag is crucial for maximizing top speed, which is essential for overtaking and defending positions.
Achieving these goals requires a delicate balance. Generating more downforce often comes at the expense of increased drag, and vice versa. Teams must carefully optimize their aerodynamic packages to suit the characteristics of different circuits and riding styles.
The 2026 Regulations: A Shift in Focus
The 2026 MotoGP season will usher in a new era for the championship, with significant changes to the technical regulations. While the exact details are still being finalized, it is expected that the engine capacity will be reduced from 1000cc to 850cc, and that sustainable fuels will be mandated. These changes will likely necessitate a reassessment of aerodynamic strategies, as teams seek to compensate for any potential loss of power or changes in engine characteristics.
Aprilia’s early focus on aerodynamic development for 2026 suggests a proactive approach to adapting to the new regulations. By exploring innovative concepts now, they hope to gain a competitive advantage when the new rules come into effect.
Aprilia’s MotoGP History: A Team on the Rise
Aprilia’s involvement in MotoGP dates back to 2002, when they entered the championship with a purpose-built four-stroke machine. However, their initial foray was short-lived, and they withdrew from the series at the end of the 2004 season.
Aprilia returned to MotoGP in 2015, partnering with Gresini Racing. The project initially struggled, with the team facing an uphill battle against established manufacturers like Honda, Yamaha, and Ducati. However, in recent years, Aprilia has made significant progress, emerging as a genuine contender for race wins and podium finishes.
- 2021: Aleix Espargaro secured Aprilia’s first MotoGP podium finish in the modern era, finishing third at the British Grand Prix.
- 2022: Espargaro won Aprilia’s first MotoGP race at the Argentine Grand Prix. Maverick Vinales also joined the team, further strengthening their rider lineup.
- 2023: Aprilia continued to build on their success, with both Espargaro and Vinales consistently challenging for podiums and race wins.
The arrival of Trackhouse Racing as a satellite team in 2024 will further expand Aprilia’s presence in MotoGP, providing valuable data and feedback to aid in their development efforts.
The Riders’ Perspective: Bezzecchi and Martin
The feedback from riders like Bezzecchi and Martin will be crucial in shaping Aprilia’s aerodynamic development program for 2026. Bezzecchi, in particular, brings a wealth of experience from his time with the VR46 team, where he demonstrated his ability to extract the maximum performance from the Ducati Desmosedici. His insights into the strengths and weaknesses of rival manufacturers will be invaluable to Aprilia.
Martin, who finished runner-up in the 2023 championship, also brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for aggressive riding. His ability to push the limits of the bike will be essential in identifying areas where the aerodynamic package can be further refined.
The riders will be working closely with Aprilia’s engineers to fine-tune the aerodynamic package to suit their individual riding styles and preferences. This iterative process of testing and refinement will be essential in maximizing the potential of the new designs.
The Road Ahead: Testing and Development
The Valencia test marked the beginning of a long and intensive development program for Aprilia’s 2026 aerodynamic package. Over the coming months, the team will conduct extensive testing at various circuits, gathering data and refining their designs.
The challenge for Aprilia is to strike a balance between developing their 2026 concepts while also remaining competitive in the current championship. This will require careful management of resources and a clear focus on priorities.
However, Aprilia’s commitment to innovation and their willingness to push the boundaries of what is possible suggests that they are well-positioned to succeed in the new era of MotoGP. The radical aerodynamic package unveiled at Valencia is a clear statement of their ambition, and a signal that they intend to be at the forefront of the championship for years to come.
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