The transition to the new MotoGP era featuring 850cc four-cylinder prototypes is gaining momentum, with Nicolo Bulega leading the charge during private testing at the Jerez circuit. The rider, set to join the Pertamina Enduro VR46 Racing Team, showcased remarkable pace aboard the new Ducati GP27 as track conditions improved on the second day.
This Spanish test serves as a critical development ground for European manufacturers ahead of the official Valencia test on December 1st. Bulega clocked a lap time of 1:39.2 minutes, a competitive benchmark for the new engine configuration. For context, Alex Marquez navigated the same circuit in 1:37.3 minutes during the race back in April 2026, highlighting that the 850cc prototypes are already showing promising potential.
Meanwhile, KTM made a strong impression with Pol Espargaro, who dominated the wet conditions on the first day. Once the track dried, Espargaro finished 0.8 seconds behind Bulega's best effort. Aprilia Racing also maintained its reputation for technical competitiveness; test rider Lorenzo Savadori, who recently extended his contract with the Noale factory, logged a solid 1:39.5 minute lap time.
The paddock is bracing for a massive shake-up, with all 22 riders facing the challenge of adapting to these new machines. While some top-tier stars remain with their current teams—such as Marc Marquez pairing with Pedro Acosta in the Ducati garage, and Marco Bezzecchi continuing his tenure with Aprilia—the pressure to master the 850cc platform will be the defining narrative of the upcoming season.
Development work is now shifting into high gear. Following the Jerez sessions, teams must finalize their configurations before shipping equipment to Malaysia in January. The focus of every manufacturer is now firmly fixed on the Sepang test marathon, which kicks off on January 29th. This tight schedule leaves no room for error as teams prepare for the 2027 campaign.
Read Also
Simak jadwal lengkap MotoGP Portugal 2026 di Portimao dan skenario juara dunia Marc Marquez. Baca analisis mendalam dan jam tayang di sini.
Renovasi Sirkuit Buenos Aires ngebut jelang MotoGP. Simak progres pengaspalan, terowongan baru, dan ambisi F1 di sini.
Dani Pedrosa menaklukkan tantangan balap di atas danau beku Wisconsin melawan mobil Formula 1. Simak analisis teknis performa KTM RC16 di sini.
Continue with Google
Discussion (0)
Join the Discussion!
Sign in easily to start commenting, replying, and interacting with other readers.
Latest Comments
No comments yet. Be the first!