Marco Bezzecchi
KTM were the first manufacturer to officially hit the track with their new 850cc machine ahead of the rule changes for 2027.
Pol Espargaro was the lucky man tasked with giving their new bike a run around the Jerez circuit, which his team had exclusive access to.
It’s a strong indication that despite financial woes at times, KTM still intend to press on with their motorsport initiatives.
This year, they improved as the MotoGP season drew on, but yet again failed to secure a victory, leading to a frustrated Pedro Acosta.
What stands out on the MotoGP wage leaderboard? 💰
MotoGP fans liked the ‘angry’ sound of KTM’s new bike and welcomed the changes they have made to it so far.
KTM ‘want to keep’ their current riders for 2027, which would include them retaining Brad Binder, despite him disappointing a little this year.
READ MORE: KTM could soon have the same name as an F1 team thanks to Liberty Media’s MotoGP plan
Pit Beirer left ‘surprised’ that KTM have found perfect solution for no ride height devices in 2027
KTM are ‘resigned’ to losing Acosta next year, with his contract with the manufacturer set to conclude after three seasons in the premier class.
The MotoGP rider market is going to be tricky to follow over the next 12 months, with the majority of the grid without a contract for 2027.
With that in mind, KTM may be trying to convince some that they’re ahead of the game and the place to be in the future by getting their bike on track first.
Pit Beirer has been left ‘surprised’ by the test, which saw the team ride without a ride height device – something which Acosta did a few times this season and enjoyed success with.
“A very important point for me – both riders also had a lot of fun with the 850,” he told SPEEDWEEK. “There are some indications that the new concept devised by all parties involved can also work on the track.
“So even riding without the ride height device worked perfectly, and everyone was surprised at how quickly the guys with the 850 came to very considerable lap times.”
READ MORE: Dani Pedrosa teases exciting new rule change that will make MotoGP less ‘predictable’ in 2027
Why KTM have an excellent team prepared for their 2027 charge
With Espargaro riding their 2027 bike, the Mattighofen outfit also have Dani Pedrosa testing the RC16 for 2026.
The two have plenty of experience, with the latter being considered one of the greatest riders never to have won a championship.
Who is the greatest rider never to win a MotoGP title?
Their sole aim over the next few seasons is to make sure that they can put everything they have ever learned to use and position KTM to be challengers in around 18 months.
They might have a completely different rider line-up by then, but whoever is representing them, they’ll want the strongest bike possible.
Receive racing news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
