The Dakar is planning to bring twin-cylinder motorcycles back in 2028, making the future motorcycle regulations more significant than the immediate 2027 programme. The Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO) presented its longer-term plans at EICMA 2026, while Dakar director David Castera also set out the framework being prepared for the 2027 event.

The 2027 Dakar is planned around 12 stages between Portugal and Morocco, with the event scheduled for January. The twin-cylinder return is not intended for that edition. It is planned for 2028, when the Dakar is expected to return to Saudi Arabia.

A 450cc ceiling with production-bike roots

The proposed motorcycle formula would allow a maximum displacement of 450cc for the twin-cylinder machines. They are also expected to retain a substantial basis in production models, creating a concept that can be compared with the Stock category introduced for Dakar cars. This is a direction for the regulations rather than a completed rulebook: the technical details of the motorcycle category have not yet been finalised.

The timing gives the proposal added significance. The 2028 edition will coincide with the 50th anniversary of the race created by Thierry Sabine. If the plan reaches the starting line, the twin-cylinder comeback will combine a defined displacement ceiling with a closer relationship to production motorcycles, although the full eligibility framework is still to be set out.