Key highlights
- 2025 Yamaha V4 YZR-M1 revealed at Misano
- First-ever Yamaha MotoGP bike to get a V4 engine
- Strong shift in performance expected
Yamaha has taken the cover off its first-ever V4-powered MotoGP bike. The new YZR-M1 will mark its first public debut at Misano this weekend. Read all the details below.
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2025 Yamaha V4 YZR-M1: All details explained
Hopping on the V4 engine bandwagon, Yamaha has unveiled its first-ever V4-powered MotoGP motorcycle, called the V4 YZR-M1. The new bike made its debut last week, and it is going to hit the track for the first time today, as Yamaha’s test rider Agusto Fernandez will hit the track for its first official test.
The new V4 engine marks a significant departure from the old crossplane inline-four engine that has been struggling to compete with the other competitors, like Ducati, who already use the V4 tech. The core area to cover is the inline acceleration, while Yamaha will retain its cornering abilities as always.
Yamaha has also made significant changes to the fairing and tail section. The aero gills are now positioned at the rear, the exhaust is an all-new four-in-two layout, and the bellypan design is now more curved towards the upper side.
As of now, the official MotoGP riders of Yamaha will continue using the 2025 M1 model. However, the V4 engine will make its first debut at the upcoming San Marino GP, where the test rider will ride it through the wild car entry to collect real-time race data and performance stats.
Ironically, this new engine is likely to be used only for the 2026 season. It is because the 1,000cc category is soon going to be capped at 850cc by 2027. This will make a significant change in the history of MotoGP racing.
