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Yamaha Gears Up for V4 Engine Testing in Valencia
Yamaha is set to evaluate its much-anticipated V4 engine during a private test at Valencia this week, specifically on Tuesday and Wednesday, as sources from Motorsport.com reveal.
Despite having the option for factory team riders Fabio Quartararo and Alex Rins to assess the new power unit, it appears the testing responsibilities will be delegated to Augusto Fernandez and Cal Crutchlow instead. This shift comes as a result of Yamaha’s ongoing development work on the V4 engine, a project that has garnered significant attention over the past few months. Initially, the manufacturer had intended for Andrea Dovizioso to play a central role in testing; however, following a domestic accident that resulted in a broken collarbone, he is currently sidelined.
This upcoming test marks a significant milestone, as it will be the first evaluation of the V4 engine on a European track. Earlier in the year, the engine made its initial appearance during a private session in Sepang, Malaysia, albeit in an early developmental state that required substantial refinement, particularly regarding its electronic systems.
Yamaha remains the sole manufacturer in the current MotoGP lineup utilizing an inline four-cylinder engine. However, the call for increased top speed from their riders has compelled Yamaha’s engineering team to explore alternative configurations, prompting a bold shift to a V4 design.
Yamaha’s managing director, Paolo Pavesio, has articulated the company’s cautious approach to introducing the new engine, stating, “If and when the bike with the V4 engine proves superior to our current model, we’ll make the transition. However, it’s unrealistic to anticipate this switch by 2025. We need to be confident that the new bike meets our performance standards before handing it over to the factory riders.”
Complicating matters further, the Motorcycle Sports Manufacturers Association (MSMA) has imposed a freeze on MotoGP power units starting from this season’s opening race and extending until the conclusion of 2026. Nonetheless, Yamaha has obtained authorization to proceed with its V4 project, utilizing the existing 1000cc engine. Looking ahead, regulations indicate a shift to an 850cc engine is expected in 2027.
In support of this initiative, Yamaha has partnered with Marmotors, a firm led by Luca Marmorini, who brings extensive expertise from his previous work in Formula 1 engineering.
This week’s testing was initially scheduled for Jerez, but unexpected flooding in the region has temporarily closed the circuit, which is set to host the Spanish Grand Prix next weekend. Due to regulations prohibiting testing at a venue within 14 days of a race, the testing will instead occur at Valencia, marking the first time since severe flooding forced the cancellation of the usual season-closing event in 2024 that MotoGP prototypes will return to this circuit.
Further Insights on Yamaha’s Evolution
As Yamaha moves forward with its V4 engine project, the implications for both the team and the broader competitive landscape in MotoGP could be profound. The shift may not only address the performance concerns voiced by riders but also help Yamaha regain its competitive edge in a rapidly evolving sport.
Moreover, this transition reflects a broader trend in MotoGP, where manufacturers are continually pushing the boundaries of technology to enhance speed and reliability, ensuring that discussions around engine configurations remain at the forefront of motorsport innovation.
Source
www.motorsport.com