MotoGP, Sportrik Media - Lorenzo Savadori of Aprilia Racing will conduct the first on-track test of the 850cc RS-GP prototype for the 2027 MotoGP regulations at Jerez, following his wildcard appearance at the Spanish Grand Prix 2026.
Aprilia becomes the latest manufacturer to enter the on-track validation phase of the new 850cc era, joining KTM, Honda, and Ducati, all of whom have already tested their prototypes either publicly or behind closed doors. Ducati’s 2027 machine was recently seen in action with Michele Pirro at Misano, while Yamaha is also understood to have completed initial private running.
Savadori will remain on the current 1000cc RS-GP during Monday’s official test before switching to the 850cc prototype later in the week. This schedule marks Aprilia’s transition from dyno and simulation validation—ongoing since last year at its Noale base—into full track correlation, a critical step in assessing real-world performance variables.
“I will test the 850 here on Wednesday and Thursday. Of course, the engine has been running since last year, but it will be on track for the first time,” Savadori stated in an official team communication.
Beyond engine performance, the test represents the first integration phase of aerodynamics, electronics, and chassis balance under the upcoming regulation framework. Savadori has already gathered baseline data on Pirelli tyres using the current bike, with the Italian supplier set to replace Michelin as the sole tyre provider from 2027. This transition introduces a significant variable, as tyre construction and behaviour will directly influence load distribution, suspension setup, and race strategy.
“I can’t wait to try the new era of MotoGP. We are happy about the data we saw this winter in Noale,” he added.
Despite the increasing focus on the 2027 project, Aprilia has reiterated that development of the current RS-GP remains a priority. The Italian manufacturer has enjoyed a strong start to the 2026 campaign, with Marco Bezzecchi leading the championship after dominating every lap of the opening three grands prix. Team-mate Jorge Martin sits second in the standings despite losing points due to Sprint race errors.
This early-season dominance highlights the effectiveness of Aprilia’s current technical package, particularly in race pace consistency and tyre management. However, with a major regulatory shift approaching, balancing short-term competitiveness with long-term development investment becomes a defining strategic challenge.
“No, no. We are continuing to push also for this year. I will try new parts during the race weekend, then on Monday the new parts will go to Bez and Jorge. So we will continue to push,” Savadori confirmed.
This parallel development approach underlines Aprilia’s intent to remain competitive in the current championship while building a solid technical foundation for 2027. With rivals such as Ducati and KTM already progressing with on-track testing, Aprilia’s rate of adaptation in the coming months will be critical in shaping the early competitive order of the new MotoGP era.
The Jerez debut of the RS-GP 850cc is not only a technical milestone but also an early indicator of Aprilia’s development trajectory ahead of sweeping regulation changes. The outcomes of this test will inform the next phase of development as the season progresses toward a full transition into MotoGP 2027.
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