This MotoGP bike has a rider-operated fluidic switch
Aprilia revealed the RS-GP26 in early 2026, and it's turning heads for its rider-operated fluidic switch.
Riders can use their forearms to block airflow on straights, stalling the wings and cutting drag—think McLaren's old-school F1 trick, but all within MotoGP rules.
How does it work?
When riders stretch out on the straight, their arms cover special outlets that shut off downforce from curved fairing sections.
As soon as they lean into a corner, those outlets open up again for max grip.
Aprilia tested this setup with Marco Bezzecchi and Jorge Martin back in February.
Advantages of this tech
This tech is aimed at increasing top speeds without losing corner control—a big deal in racing.
Plus, since teams only get one aero update per season, Aprilia keeps this advantage until new rules take effect.
For now, they've got something nobody else does.