Ducati recently conducted the shakedown of its 850cc prototype Desmosedici GP under the new technical regulations at the Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. The test was carried out by experienced test rider Michele Pirro as part of the ‘V2 Future Champ DUCATI Academy’ program. This initiative, organized by Ducati and overseen by Pirro, aims to engage clients of the Panigale V2 model who are interested in racing with the bike. The private championship will consist of six rounds, with the first test held in Mugello in May and the final race scheduled in Cremona in September.
During the test, Pirro rode the prototype without ride height devices and with reduced aerodynamics, while technicians from the Ducati test team ensured everything ran smoothly. Pirelli also provided personnel and tires developed for the 2027 season for the test. Although World Superbike championship leader Nicolo Bulega is set to lead the bike’s development, Pirro spearheaded the shakedown to verify the prototype’s readiness. The first official test of the new bike with Bulega is scheduled to take place in the coming weeks.
Meanwhile, Aprilia is the only manufacturer yet to test its 850cc prototype, the RS GP27, alongside KTM, Honda, Yamaha, and Ducati. The Aprilia team plans to conduct a private test at Jerez after the Spanish GP, where other MotoGP manufacturers will also participate. Following the Spanish GP, Jerez will host the first official MotoGP test of the season with 1000cc bikes and Michelin tires, followed by Moto2 and Moto3 testing. The private MotoGP tests will take place after the official testing sessions.
Ultimately, the testing phase for the 2027 MotoGP bikes is critical for manufacturers to fine-tune their prototypes and gain valuable insights for the upcoming season’s competition. The participation of top riders and experienced test teams ensures that each manufacturer maximizes the potential of their machines to be competitive on the track.
