KTM and Honda will take the next step in their 850cc MotoGP programmes at Monday’s group test at the Red Bull Ring. It is only the second occasion on which current MotoGP race riders are eligible to try the 2027 machines with Pirelli tyres. The test is private, however, so no official lap times will be released. Rider feedback and the information collected inside the teams will therefore matter more than a public timing classification.

Pol Espargaro is handling two KTM assignments. He is developing the manufacturer’s future 850cc machine while also replacing the injured Maverick Vinales at Tech3 on the current 1000cc bike with Michelin tyres. After finishing 16th in Sunday’s Grand Prix, Espargaro told Crash.net that the motorcycle’s behaviour changes substantially between circuits and with different conditions. The team will consequently need to reset the setup for the Red Bull Ring while also learning how its three available tyre compounds work.

The KTM test rider is particularly interested in hearing the judgement of the regular MotoGP riders and establishing how the prototype compares with its rivals. He said KTM had not been far from Ducati on lap time at Mugello and had made a considerable improvement, but described a new circuit as a fresh unknown. KTM is also expected to let Pedro Acosta ride the 850cc bike, as he did at the previous Brno test, despite the Sunday race winner moving to Ducati next season.

Moreira and Zarco set for their Honda 850cc debut

Honda’s test will include a first 850cc/Pirelli run for LCR riders Diogo Moreira and Johann Zarco. Nakagami confirmed that both will try the new machine, and said he would ride as well. The Japanese rider finished 13th in Austria after standing in for Joan Mir, ahead of Honda regulars Luca Marini and Moreira. His main task on Monday will be to support the two LCR riders and find out how they respond to Honda’s new bike.

Moreira and Zarco are contracted to Honda for next season. It is still undecided whether Moreira will move to the factory HRC team alongside Fabio Quartararo. With no official times available from the private test, the manufacturers’ prototype comparisons and the riders’ reactions to the 850cc machine and Pirelli tyres will provide the clearest indication of progress.