Ducati test in Misano: Nicolo Bulega gets back on the 850cc

– Nicolo Bulega is about to make his next appearance on Ducati’s MotoGP prototype for the new regulations starting in 2027. On August 25 and 26, the current Superbike World Championship leader will take to the track in Misano together with Ducati’s test team.

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Originally, Michele Pirro was scheduled for the private test. However, the experienced test rider is out due to injury, so Bulega will take over the development work.

The test at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli is part of the manufacturers’ intensive preparations for the 2027 MotoGP season. Then, a comprehensively revised technical regulation will come into effect, with smaller engines, reduced aero, a ban on devices, and new tires from Pirelli.

Ducati and Yamaha test for two days in Misano

The test teams and their riders play a central role in the development of the new motorcycles. They not only collect data for the prototypes but also provide important insights for the development of the new tires.

Yamaha already completed a two-day test during the summer break in Jerez on July 28 and 29. KTM, Honda, Ducati, and Aprilia were then active on August 5 and 6 in Mugello. At the end of August, the test program continues in Misano. Ducati will take to the track there together with Yamaha on August 25 and 26. Both brands will participate with their respective development teams.

Photo series: The test and reserve riders of the MotoGP teams

Yamaha relies on its two test riders Augusto Fernandez and Andrea Dovizioso. Ducati had originally planned Pirro for the test. However, due to a back injury, the Italian cannot ride. This gives Bulega the opportunity to test the 850cc prototype of the reigning world champions again.

For Ducati, the deployment is another important step in the development of the so-called GP27. The manufacturer had already brought its 850cc prototype to the track for the first time in Misano in April. At that time, Pirro took the first shakedown with the new motorcycle and the Pirelli tires planned for 2027.

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Bulega brings valuable Pirelli experience

That Ducati involves Bulega in the development of the new MotoGP motorcycle is no coincidence. The Italian extended his contract with Ducati last year for another season. In addition to his commitment in the Superbike World Championship, a role as a MotoGP test rider was also agreed upon.

Especially valuable for Ducati is Bulega’s experience with Pirelli tires. In the Superbike World Championship, the two-time vice world champion has been riding with the Italian manufacturer for years and can therefore provide important feedback when it comes to developing the new MotoGP tires for 2027. His speed also makes him an important part of the development program.

Originally, five test appearances were planned for Bulega over the course of this year. Due to Pirro’s injury-related absence, his program is now expanding.

After the appointment in Misano, further tests are already scheduled for Ducati: On September 9, there will be a session in Barcelona, followed by a two-day session in Mugello on September 15 and 16. A test in Jerez is scheduled for October 7 and 8.

The appointment in Jerez could be organizationally challenging for Bulega. Just a few days later, the Superbike season will conclude on the same track. The season finale of the racing series takes place there from October 16 to 18.

Bulega is thus in an extraordinary situation. On the one hand, the Italian leads the Superbike World Championship and is on the verge of the decisive phase in the title fight. On the other hand, he is already working on his future in MotoGP in parallel. The Italian will make the step into the premier class in 2027 and race for the VR46 team. This move has not yet been officially confirmed.

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