The roar of engines at Jerez this week is more than a preview of the 2026 season. Manufacturers are conducting private tests to prepare for 2027’s major technical overhaul, marking the start of a new era in MotoGP racing.
Three manufacturers — Aprilia, KTM, and Yamaha — are running a three-day development session focused on next-generation machinery and tyre testing. Aprilia relies on test rider Lorenzo Savadori to refine the RS-GP, while KTM is expected to use Pol Espargaro or Dani Pedrosa on the RC16. Yamaha, enjoying maximum concessions, is likely to assign test specialists Augusto Fernandez and Andrea Dovizioso for early development rather than factory riders like Fabio Quartararo or Alex Rins.
A key feature of the Jerez tests is tyre development. Teams are evaluating current Michelin tyres, which will retire after the 2026 season, alongside Pirelli compounds, which will become the official supplier in 2027. KTM and Yamaha are already alternating between 2026 bikes and the new 850cc 2027 prototypes, gaining an early advantage in adapting to rule changes. KTM first debuted their RC16 2027 in December, while Yamaha revealed their 850cc prototype in Iwata around the same time.
Aprilia and Ducati have yet to officially launch their 2027 prototypes. Aprilia is primarily refining their 2026 RS-GP, which saw Marco Bezzecchi claim victory at Buriram, but they can also test Pirelli tyres if needed. Ducati has postponed their 2027 debut to a private test at Misano on April 13-14, where Nicolo Bulega will reportedly ride their new prototype. Aprilia also plans to bring the RS-GP27 to Misano, ensuring that all five manufacturers will have tested their 850cc bikes by mid-April.
This series of tests at Jerez and Misano signals an early and intense development race for the 2027 MotoGP season, setting the stage for exciting competition in the years ahead.
