– Ducati has taken another step towards the MotoGP future: The first test of the new 850cc prototype for the rule era starting from the 2027 season has been completed, and it apparently turned out extremely positive.
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“The first impression with the bike was very good,” explained Ducati’s General Manager Gigi Dall’Igna on Wednesday in Jerez. The shakedown, completed by test rider Michele Pirro, primarily served to check the basic functions and prepare the bike for more intensive use. “Everything worked well and the bike is ready for further tests,” Dall’Igna continued.
After KTM, Honda, and Yamaha had already brought their 2027 prototypes onto the track for the first time on April 13 in Misano, Ducati followed suit on April 13.
Next Test for 2027 in Mugello
The next important step is imminent: “We will conduct a test next week,” confirms Dall’Igna. This will take place in Mugello, about 90 kilometers from Ducati’s factory in Borgo Panigale, and will again be ridden by Pirro.
The Italian will work with the currently available complete package for the first time. “He will have the complete package that we currently have: the new engine, the aerodynamics, without auxiliary systems or ride-height devices… practically everything.”
In addition, there are the tires developed by Pirelli for 2027, as well as a new, 100 percent sustainable fuel that Shell is working on and which will be mandatory in the future.
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In the long term, Nicolo Bulega also plays a role in Ducati’s test strategy. The Superbike rider’s contract was already extended last year, including a clause as a MotoGP test rider. He currently dominates WSBK and has celebrated a series of record victories, which is why his deployment on the prototype still has to wait.
However, Ducati sees his experience with the Panigale on Pirelli tires as an important advantage for the 2027 development. At the same time, it becomes clear that Pirro is increasingly reaching his limits given his age – he will soon be 40 years old.
Other Brands Also Planning Further Tests
Parallel to Ducati’s program, other important test dates are coming up. This weekend, MotoGP will be in Jerez. Immediately afterwards, on Monday, the first official in-season test with all teams will follow on the same track. The Moto2 and Moto3 classes will be on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Honda will also test in Mugello next week, but under difficult conditions. With Takaaki Nakagami, only one operational rider is currently available. He has to take over the development of the 1000cc bike after Aleix Espargaro’s injury and simultaneously push forward the 850cc project.
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While Ducati and Honda are focusing on Mugello, Yamaha, KTM, and Aprilia are taking a different approach. They will test on Thursday and Friday in Jerez, directly after the race weekend and the official tests of the following days. The heavily “rubbered-in” track could influence the significance of the results. Regardless, Aprilia will bring its 2027 prototype onto the track there for the first time.
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