Yamaha V4 MotoGP Engine: Track Testing of New Model Begins
Yamaha is gearing up to kick off track testing of its highly anticipated new V4 engine for its MotoGP bike, marking a significant shift from its traditional inline four-cylinder engines. The initial test run, scheduled to take place at Jerez last week, unfortunately had to be postponed, but the excitement and anticipation surrounding this new development remain palpable.
Yamaha, known as the sole MotoGP manufacturer still utilizing inline four-cylinder engines, has been diligently working on the development of this groundbreaking V4 engine as part of its strategy to catch up with competitors following several challenging seasons. The team’s engineers in Iwata have been tirelessly crafting a prototype of the new engine since mid-2024, aiming to introduce a fresh alternative to the tried-and-true inline four-cylinder engine that has powered the YZR M1 throughout the MotoGP era.
The inline four-cylinder engine has proven to be a reliable powerhouse for Yamaha, yielding impressive results over the years, particularly with the likes of Valentino Rossi in 2004 and Jorge Lorenzo in the 2010s clinching multiple titles. Despite Fabio Quartararo’s recent triumph in 2021, Yamaha’s performance has fallen short in securing victories and competing with the dominant Ducati manufacturer in the series.
Reinforcements and Expertise
In a bid to bridge this gap and revitalize its competitive edge, Yamaha has bolstered its ranks with a team of seasoned engineers and technicians, some of whom were recruited directly from rival manufacturers. Additionally, they enlisted the expertise of F1 engine consultant Luca Marmorini, who previously collaborated with Aprilia and advocated for the shift in engine concept.
Earlier this year, outgoing team boss Lin Jarvis confirmed the ongoing development of the new engine, initially projecting a debut no earlier than mid-2025. However, an unexpected acceleration in progress led to rumors of a private test session at Sepang this month, where the new V4 engine would finally hit the track for the first time under the scrutiny of seasoned rider Andrea Dovizioso.
Unforeseen Delays and Future Plans
Despite the best-laid plans, Yamaha faced a setback when factory rider Alex Rins disclosed on Motorsport Network’s ‘Por Orejas’ podcast that the V4 engine’s debut had to be postponed due to unanticipated delays. The team had intended to conduct testing at the KTM test in Jerez but was unable to do so as the engine was not yet ready for track evaluation.
Yamaha has indicated that there are no further tests scheduled for the remainder of the year, hinting that the V4 engine’s official debut may coincide with the upcoming shakedown for testers and rookies at Sepang from January 31 to February 2. With all concessions open, Yamaha’s factory riders, along with the Pramac-Yamaha satellite team, are poised to participate in this crucial testing phase, setting the stage for an exciting new chapter in MotoGP history.
Stay tuned for more updates and exclusive insights into Yamaha’s groundbreaking V4 engine and its journey towards revolutionizing the MotoGP landscape. Subscribe to our real-time news email updates to be the first to know about the latest developments in the world of motorsports.
Germán Garcia Casanova
Motorsport Enthusiast
Yamaha Fan and Amateur Rider