Yamaha are pressing forward with their plans to switch all bikes to the V4 engine for the 2026 MotoGP season.
Tuesday’s post-season test in Valencia is a critical point for them to understand how much work they have to do over the winter.
Jack Miller wants ’25 horsepower’ extra from the V4, if they want to be competing for solid positions next season. This year was a real struggle for him down at Pramac.
Miller was left frustrated after finishing last in the final practice session, feeling that too many riders had chosen not to take part. “There were three bikes out on track,” he said.
The sport can no longer be dominated by one manufacturer in that way, as it takes away from the overall excitement and competitiveness of each race. Fans have long called for greater parity across teams, and this change could start leveling things out.
However, Yamaha fans shouldn’t expect any immediate results when these changes finally do arrive.
Maverick Viñales has expressed his satisfaction with Aprilia’s new bike. On Instagram, he commented on a post: “The moment you feel something good about next season!”
Jorge Lorenzo questions Yamaha’s switch to V4 engines for 2026
Yamaha plans to use the early part of the 2026 season for development before shifting focus towards performance and results with the new V4.
The timing could be an issue, though, as most of the MotoGP rider moves might already be settled by then, potentially leaving Yamaha behind in another way.
Even with limited time on their bike, Toprak Razgatlioglu has a clear sense of what needs to be addressed. The Wildcard entries in 2025 have at least given them a starting point for where to make changes.
Lorenzo told TNT Sports: “It’s strange because they have a lot of experience with the inline four. They are specialised in that. It’s why, probably, they never got the most powerful engine, because the inline four was difficult to get the most [out of] in terms of power.”
“Now, they will have the possibility to fight with the other factories for the top speed. They are clearly at a disadvantage in terms of experience of engines, so it will not be an easy job.”
Yamaha facing uphill battle ahead of Valencia post-season test
Yamaha are moving ahead with plans to introduce the V4 engine across all of their bikes for the 2026 MotoGP season.
The post-season test in Valencia is going to be an important moment for them, giving a clearer picture of how much needs to be addressed over the winter.
Fabio Quartararo has already made it clear that Yamaha needs to bring real improvements, or he’ll start looking elsewhere.
Jack Miller has said they need around 25 more horsepower from the V4 if they want to be competitive next year. It’s been a tough season for him at Pramac, and he knows what needs changing.
If Yamaha falls short again, Fabio Quartararo may decide it’s time to walk away. “I’ll do it,” he warned them not long ago.
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