Marco Bezzecchi
MotoGP manufacturers are working hard behind the scenes on their 850cc machines for the 2027 regulation changes. KTM were the first to get the ball rolling.
Despite the company being in woeful financial uncertainty, with their future in MotoGP under threat, KTM were the first factory to begin testing their new bike. Pol Espargaro completed laps on the 850cc machine at Jerez last week.
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MotoGP fans loved how ‘angry’ KTM’s 850cc engine sounded, in what was an encouraging sign for the new technical regulations. It is early days for the Austrians, but the first signs are looking promising.
Pit Beirer says KTM have the perfect solution for no ride height devices in 2027, as Espargaro and Dani Pedrosa rode the bike ‘perfectly’ without it. It is an important step from the team towards the new rules, and their rivals are set to follow suit.
Ducati test rider Michele Pirro admits he was surprised seeing KTM run their 2027 MotoGP bike at Jerez
KTM’s 2027 test came almost out of nowhere and caught many off guard. It highlighted how desperate KTM are to retain Pedro Acosta beyond 2026, with the Spaniard considering his future – it emphasised that the team are committed to building him a winning bike.
The outing at Jerez also caught the champions by surprise. Ducati test rider Michele Pirro admitted that he was taken aback by how quickly KTM have begun testing the 850cc bike.
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“Yes, that was a surprise,” he told Speedweek. However, Pirro sees no cause for concern: “Of course, the other manufacturers have to catch up very quickly. But I think if Ducati decides to go out on the track, then the foundation is already very good.
“The 850 isn’t ready yet, but we might start the first proper test in March and then continue developing it throughout the year,” explained Pirro, who also has to develop the 1000 in parallel with the 850. “It’s a new challenge. I’m proud of it. It’s a new chapter for Ducati.”
READ MORE: Everything to know about KTM from the MotoGP team’s riders to hierarchy
Where do the other MotoGP factories stand with their 2027 bikes?
Naturally, with new regulations, the pecking order could be set for a dramatic shake-up. The manufacturers will be determined to ace the new rules and produce a competitive machine.
Ducati will be the team to beat, as they are likely to have the best bike in 2026. However, that could change in 2027, as ‘rumours’ are suggesting that Ducati already have a problem with their fuel supplier, Shell, and their new techniques.
Honda will be looking to continue their progression after moving up to C concessions for 2026. KTM will want to keep their MotoGP project alive in 2027, while Yamaha will be hoping to find success with their V4 engine.
Aprilia could be in trouble in 2027 as they do not have the budget to work on their 2026 and 2027 bikes simultaneously. Their limited resources could undo the hard work they have put in to catch Ducati in 2025.
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