Marc Marquez More Interested in Pirelli Than 850cc Bike

Marc Marquez will get his first experience of MotoGP's 2027 technical package during Monday's private test at Brno. However, the reigning world champion admits he is more interested in understanding the new Pirelli tyres than the 850cc motorcycle itself.

MotoGP will enter a new era in 2027 with several major regulation changes, including a reduction in engine capacity from 1000cc to 850cc, reduced aerodynamics, the removal of ride-height devices and the switch from Michelin to Pirelli as the sole tyre supplier.

While much of the attention has focused on the new motorcycles, the Ducati rider believes the tyre change could have a far greater influence on competitiveness.

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"It's difficult to understand what to expect right now, but we'll see. Theoretically, on paper, the 850cc bike will be easier to ride, especially because it has less power and slightly less weight."

"But I'm more interested in understanding how Pirelli works. I think the biggest change will come from the tyres more than the bikes."

Marquez began his MotoGP career during the Bridgestone era at Honda and won two world championships before the series switched to Michelin in 2016. Since then, he has added five premier-class titles on Michelin tyres, including last season's championship with Ducati.

His comments underline the critical role tyres play in modern MotoGP performance. Grip characteristics, tyre degradation and race management strategies could all change significantly once Pirelli replaces Michelin from 2027.

The Brno test will also mark the first opportunity for current MotoGP riders to sample the future technical package. Participation is limited due to the small number of prototype machines available, although riders including Fermin Aldeguer, Marco Bezzecchi, Raul Fernandez, Joan Mir, Luca Marini, Pedro Acosta and Toprak Razgatlioglu are expected to take part.

For Marquez, who is still recovering strength in his right arm and shoulder following surgery earlier this season, a theoretically easier bike would be welcome. Nevertheless, his primary focus remains on what he believes could become the defining factor of MotoGP's next era: Pirelli tyres.