Ilmor MotoGP engine update.
On August 18, Crash.net ran a report about McLaren Mercedes F1 engine manufacturer Ilmor building a MotoGP powerplant - and speculated that the 2007 MotoGP engine rule changes would provide the perfect opportunity for such an arrival.
This week's Motorcycle News has revealed further details about the project, confirming that Ilmor intends to enter the premier-class in 2007 - when engine capacity will be reduced from 990cc to 800cc - by offering a 75-degree V4, incorporating pneumatic valves and revving to between 17,000-18,000 rev/min, for teams to lease.
On August 18, Crash.net ran a report about McLaren Mercedes F1 engine manufacturer Ilmor building a MotoGP powerplant - and speculated that the 2007 MotoGP engine rule changes would provide the perfect opportunity for such an arrival.
This week's Motorcycle News has revealed further details about the project, confirming that Ilmor intends to enter the premier-class in 2007 - when engine capacity will be reduced from 990cc to 800cc - by offering a 75-degree V4, incorporating pneumatic valves and revving to between 17,000-18,000 rev/min, for teams to lease.
"We will not make the same mistake as Cosworth did with Aprilia," Ilmor boss Mario Illien told MCN. "We know what it takes to build a motorcycle engine and it is all about power delivery and bottom end power."
Dyno testing of the engine is due to start next spring, with track tests to follow. Eskil Suter, whose company helped design the Kawasaki ZX-RR chassis, is building a chassis for the engine.
Click here to read the August 18 story, which contains further information about the impressive motor racing achievements of the Ilmor company and news of its MotoGP project.
Peter has been in the paddock for 20 years and has seen Valentino Rossi come and go. He is at the forefront of the Suzuki exit story and Marc Marquez’s injury issues.
