From a press release issued by MSMA:

MSMA to propose a MotoGP rule change from 2007

At the start of the third year of the new era of MotoGP, with continuously growing interest in the series, the Motorcycle Sports Manufacturers’ Association has decided to propose to the GP commission (composed of FIM, Dorna, IRTA and MSMA) a technical rule change for the near future.

In the interests of safety, the manufacturers have unanimously decided that it is necessary to place a limit on the increase in motorcycle performance. This will already start in the year 2005 when fuel tank capacity will be reduced from 24 to 22 litres, but in the long term this measure would not have been sufficient.

For this reason the MSMA has decided to propose a reduction in engine capacity from 990 cc to 900 cc, starting from 2007.

The intention is not to reduce performance but to prevent a continuous improvement in speed and lap times.

It has been proposed also a new weight rule from 2007 which is as follow:

2 Cylinders: 133 kg.
3 Cylinders: 140.5 kg.
4 Cylinders: 148 kg.
5 Cylinders: 155.5 kg.
6 Cylinders: 163 kg.

A possible reduction of the 22 litres fuel tank capacity will be defined during 2005.

MSMA wishes to express its gratitude to FIM, IRTA and DORNA for everything that has been done in the interests of safety in Motorcycle Grand Prix.

Thank you very much.
Takanao Tsubouchi
Secretary General of Motorcycle Sports Manufacturers’ Association