The MotoGP season is getting even spicier with the return of Marc Marquez and the arrival of Brno. It’s hard to be mindful of the huge changes coming to MotoGP in 2027 as less aero and 850cc engines come into play, but we should. There’s an opportunity for a different, read ‘non-Italian’ manufacturer to dominate the grid next year, and you should keep your eye on KTM.
KTM is getting a lot of criticism: they have one of the top prospects in Pedro Acosta, but they can’t take advantage of his talent because the machinery is not good. But the Austrian manufacturer is putting in a lot of work to help ensure its 850cc bikes can compete next year – arguably more work than other MotoGP teams.
The manufacturer will use a private test at Misano this week to develop its 850cc prototype, and Dani Pedrosa and Pol Espargaro will be the test riders. It’s important to note that this will be Espargaro’s first ride on a MotoGP bike since he injured his hand in a Motocross accident in April.
The two-day test at the Misano World Circuit will be the second time the world’s eyes will be on the 850cc KTM, after seeing it for the first time at Jerez earlier this year. This was the first time anyone saw one of the new 850cc prototypes in motion, and now we have KTM to thank for the second development test as well. By all accounts, it looks like KTM is making more mileage on its 850cc prototype than any other brand.
We know that almost all other manufacturers have tested their 850cc prototypes once, and Yamaha is rumored to have done so behind closed doors. But, KTM leads the way in terms of on-track developments. How this will correspond to success in 2027 remains to be seen, but I expect we’ll see a lot more orange at the front of the pack next year.
