Aprilia Targets Enhanced Performance Window with Groundbreaking 2026 MotoGP Aerodynamic Upgrades

Noale-based Aprilia Racing is aggressively pursuing aerodynamic advancements in its MotoGP program, unveiling a radical new aero package during the recent Valencia test, designed to broaden the RS-GP’s performance capabilities and enhance its overall usability on the track.

The Italian manufacturer has emerged as a frontrunner in aerodynamic development within MotoGP in recent seasons. The latest iteration, tested at Valencia, showcased significant modifications to the front fairing of the RS-GP, while also featuring a larger, Formula 1-inspired rear wing, tested specifically by Marco Bezzecchi.

According to Aprilia’s Technical Director Fabiano Sterlacchini, the modifications represent a strategic shift towards optimizing the bike’s performance across the entire lap, rather than concentrating solely on achieving gains in isolated areas.

"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."

Related News :

He further elaborated on the trade-offs involved in aerodynamic development: "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 positive outing for Aprilia, with Trackhouse Racing’s Raul Fernandez setting the fastest lap time aboard the 2025-specification RS-GP. Bezzecchi, meanwhile, concluded the test just 0.027 seconds adrift, conducting back-to-back comparisons between the existing and prototype machines.

Bezzecchi, who ended the 2024 season on a high note with victories in Portugal and Valencia, offered a measured assessment of the new bike, acknowledging that the limited track time due to inclement weather conditions hindered a comprehensive evaluation.

"Well, it’s different of course, but there’s always not enough time to really understand," Bezzecchi stated. "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."

He emphasized the need for thorough analysis before drawing definitive conclusions, adding, "We will have to really analyse everything well before taking decisions. It was just an appetiser."

Bezzecchi noted that the performance of the two Aprilias felt broadly similar but stressed the challenge of gaining a true understanding of the 2026 RS-GP within the confines of a short test.

"It was very similar between the two," he remarked. "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, the 2026-specification bike was exclusively evaluated by Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin. Trackhouse Racing riders Fernandez and Ai Ogura did not have access to the new components at this stage.

Aprilia’s Aerodynamic Development Philosophy

Aprilia’s aggressive pursuit of aerodynamic advancements reflects a broader trend within MotoGP, where manufacturers are increasingly relying on sophisticated aerodynamic solutions to gain a competitive edge. These solutions aim to manipulate airflow around the motorcycle, influencing factors such as downforce, drag, and stability.

Downforce, generated by aerodynamic elements like wings and fairings, increases grip, particularly during cornering and acceleration. However, increased downforce typically comes at the cost of increased drag, which can limit top speed.

Aprilia’s technical director, Fabiano Sterlacchini, alluded to this trade-off in his comments, emphasizing the team’s objective of finding an optimal balance between downforce and drag to enhance performance across the entire lap.

The "Formula 1-style rear wing" tested by Bezzecchi represents a departure from conventional MotoGP aerodynamic designs. The adoption of such a prominent rear wing suggests a focus on maximizing downforce, potentially to improve stability during braking and corner entry.

The Broader Context of MotoGP Aerodynamic Development

Aerodynamic development has become an increasingly critical area of competition in MotoGP. Manufacturers invest significant resources in wind tunnel testing and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations to refine their aerodynamic packages.

The evolution of MotoGP aerodynamics has been rapid in recent years, with increasingly complex and elaborate wing designs appearing on the bikes. These designs have been met with both enthusiasm and criticism, with some observers expressing concerns about their potential impact on overtaking and the overall spectacle of racing.

In response to these concerns, MotoGP’s governing body, the FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme), has introduced regulations aimed at limiting the scope of aerodynamic development. These regulations are intended to strike a balance between promoting innovation and preserving the essence of MotoGP racing.

Aprilia’s Recent Performance and Future Prospects

Aprilia Racing has demonstrated significant progress in recent seasons, establishing itself as a consistent frontrunner in MotoGP. The team’s riders have secured multiple race wins and podium finishes, challenging the established dominance of manufacturers like Ducati and Yamaha.

The signing of Marco Bezzecchi for the 2025 season further strengthens Aprilia’s rider line-up. Bezzecchi, a proven race winner, brings valuable experience and talent to the team.

With its aggressive aerodynamic development program and a talented roster of riders, Aprilia is well-positioned to continue its upward trajectory in MotoGP. The 2026 season, with its revised technical regulations, represents a significant opportunity for Aprilia to further close the gap to its rivals and challenge for the MotoGP World Championship.

The Valencia Test: A Glimpse into the Future

The Valencia test provided a first glimpse of the direction that MotoGP manufacturers are taking with their 2026 development programs. The aerodynamic innovations showcased by Aprilia, along with developments from other manufacturers, suggest that aerodynamic performance will continue to play a crucial role in determining success in MotoGP.

The challenges for the engineers are considerable. They must find the optimal balance between downforce and drag, while also ensuring that their aerodynamic solutions are compatible with the revised technical regulations.

The 2026 MotoGP season promises to be an exciting one, with manufacturers pushing the boundaries of aerodynamic development in their quest for competitive advantage. Aprilia’s radical new aero package represents a bold step in this direction, signaling the team’s commitment to innovation and its ambition to challenge for the MotoGP World Championship.